A new generation of computers is already here. Anyone looking for smartphones will realize that it is possible to buy low-end options for less than $30 that otherwise download apps and browses the web nearly as seamlessly as more expensive devices. All this is driven by advancements in computer board manufacturing techniques that rely on precise and versatile robots. It is actually possible to make small orders, although it pays to calculate the PCB assembly cost.
Believe it or not, it is possible for a company to custom build their own computer. This happens all the time as the Raspberry Pi itself is a custom job that simply scaled up with its popularity. It is now possible to have a single board computer custom ordered, and there are small and medium-sized plants that have the capacity to deliver. For less demanding orders, such as making radios or security devices, you can also order custom electronics.
How much does it PCB assembly cost? This depends on the scale, the parts, and how well designed the digital blueprint has become. A Raspberry Pi, for instance, costs around $40. Generic competitors have been made for the same price on a much smaller scale. Achieving this level of cost efficiency would require a substantial amount of engineering to get a lot of parts on the same board.
The good news is that many of these parts are interchangeable and do not depend on a particular manufacturer or operating system. Specialized software helps to create blueprints for PCB electronics, and the industry has expanded to the point that creating custom computers and other gadgets is routine. Even multifunctional flashlights are created with this technology.
The cost goes down in the later phases of developing a product. During the prototype phase, the cost per unit tends to be fairly high. Once the finished blueprint is developed, it can be moved to a facility with faster machinery. Prices will vary depending on the manufacturer and the country, and simpler devices have a wider range of suppliers.
Having a robotic arm apply printed circuits and soldiering parts is not terribly expensive, although the devices themselves might be expensive. Processors range from a few to over a hundred dollars, while accessories such as wifi and optical sensors can increase the price. The final cost per unit includes software, shipping, and research fees. Some suppliers might become unavailable due to changes in trade status.
Leave a Reply