What to send
- Any file set you have (we accept everything): Gerbers (RS‑274X) + Excellon drill, ODB++, IPC‑2581, or native Altium/KiCad exports.
- BOM (bulleted list or spreadsheet): MPNs, RefDes, Qty/board, DNPs, simple description if available.
- Centroid / Pick‑and‑Place (if available): X‑Y, rotation, side; no strict format required.
- Assembly / Fab notes: add a README.txt or drawing for any special instructions.
- Quantities & timing: target build quantity and whether standard 2–3 weeks is OK or if you need an expedite.
- Questions/risks: list anything you’re unsure about – we’ll help triage.
- Where to send: [email protected] (NDA available on request).
Not sure what Gerber files are? No problem. If you’re missing manufacturing or engineering files – or aren’t sure what they are – email or call us. Our engineering team can start from whatever you have, clean up gaps, and hand back a production‑ready file set at the end. No more stressing.
Accepted data formats
We’re a designer‑led CM and keep intake flexible:
- Gerbers (RS‑274X) and Excellon/NC drill
- ODB++ or IPC‑2581
- Native EDA: Altium and KiCad projects/exports
Zip optional. A single .zip helps, but it’s not required. Send what you have; we’ll connect the dots and follow up with questions if anything is unclear.
Recommended (not required) folder idea: /Gerbers, /Drill, /XY, /BOM, /Docs with file names like project_revX_YYYYMMDD.*
BOM (Bill of Materials): simple is fine
If you don’t have Excel (template below if you need), bullet points are OK – it may just add a little time to the quoting process. If you do have a sheet, include:
- Manufacturer Part Number (MPN)
- Reference Designators (e.g., R1, R2, C5)
- Qty per board
- DNP/DNI flags (parts not to place)
- Description/value (e.g., 10k 1% 0603) (nice-to-have)
- Optional: approved alternates, lifecycle/lead‑time notes, RoHS/lead‑free.
We’ll also provide a BOM risk readout during quoting (hard‑to‑procure, long lead, high MOQ/cost items) and propose substitutions if needed – no extra fee.
Pick‑and‑place / centroid
We don’t enforce strict unit/datum/rotation rules – our software is flexible. If you’re choosing, mm units and a lower‑left datum works well. If not sure, just send what you export and we’ll align.
Assembly & fabrication notes
Put special instructions in your assembly/fab notes or a README.txt – avoid email threads, so nothing gets lost if there is a reorder. Examples:
- Lead‑free vs leaded requirements
- Non-washable components
- Special mounting such as screws or standoffs
- Conformal coat keep‑outs / masking; staking/adhesives
- Cleaning preference (no‑clean vs wash)
- Labels, barcodes, serialization
Panelization & rails
We accept single boards or panels, but we prefer to panelize for you. However, if you must submit a panel:
- Add minimum 5 mm rails around all four edges
- If a component overhangs, provide 5 mm beyond the overhang
- Include 1mm diameter fiducials in the corners if you have a house standard; otherwise leave it to us – we’ll make it production‑friendly
When in doubt, send singles and let Henway panelize.
Test & programming
- AOI is standard – no files needed from you.
- Programming & functional test are available and often subsidized because they improve quality; in low volume we may include ~1–2 minutes per unit at no charge. This is usually enough time for a quick power-on test, checking rails, and programming a processor.
- Custom fixtures (ICT/functional): call us for a consult. Typical NRE is ~$4k and comes with a bed-of-nails fixture, but it can vary up or down based on coverage and complexity.
Early‑stage files welcome
Not sure where to begin? Send what you have and include a short question list. We’ll run Light DFM and, if needed, a deeper Gap Analysis (hourly) to compare your requirements to what’s in the schematic/PCB/firmware, highlight differences, and – on request – close the gaps.
Revisions & change control
Changes can happen anytime. Email us quickly if you notice something and we’ll work with you on next‑step options and update cost/lead‑time impacts if applicable.
How to submit
- Email [email protected] with your files (or links), quantities, and timing (standard 2–3 weeks or expedite).
- Tell us if you’d like to start with an NDA – we’ll send one right away or take a look at yours.
- Prefer a quick conversation? Ask to schedule a call, and we’ll help you make sense of everything.
FAQ
Do I need perfect files to start? No. Send what you have. We reconstruct and clean manufacturing/engineering files as part of the process.
Is a .zip required? Helpful but not required. We’re skilled at interpreting mixed file sets.
Will you panelize for me? Yes – often the best choice. If you submit panels, use 5 mm rails on all sides; we’ll advise on any extras.
How fast can you build? Standard is 2–3 weeks. Expedited turns are often possible (PCB fab costs may rise; we typically don’t add assembly labor premiums).
Can you suggest alternates for hard parts? Yes – we’ll provide a BOM risk report and propose substitutes at no extra fee.
Ready to get started? Email [email protected] with your files and timing. If you’re unsure where to begin, ask to schedule a quick call – we’ll take it from there.