Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) repairs can be complex to navigate. PCBs are the backbone of the electronics industry, found in everything from smartphones to satellites. Despite their robust design, PCBs are not immune to damage. Whether due to regular wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or accidental damage, PCBs sometimes require repair.

Things to Know Before Getting Repairs

• What is the base Material on your PCB?
• How many layers does it have?
• Is there software embedded on your PCB?
• Has your PCB been damaged by heat? Is it blistering or showing traces of damage?
• Does your board repair company use the latest in solder and flux techniques?
• Are power chips that generate heat properly heat sunk?
• Is your board delaminating, causing a separation between layers?
• Does your board repair company have the necessary equipment? Ask about oscilloscopes, curve tracers, frequency generators, soldering & desoldering equipment, test equipment, cleaning equipment, and electrostatic safety equipment to properly repair and test your PCB.

Now that you’re informed and prepared regarding what to do first, here are steps you can take to proceed with getting proper printed circuit board repairs completed:

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before seeking repair, it’s crucial to assess the damage. Look for visible signs like burn marks, broken connections, or damaged components. Sometimes, the issue might be more subtle, like a malfunctioning circuit or intermittent errors. If you’re not familiar with electronics, consider consulting with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately.

Step 2: Find a Reputable Repair Service

Once you’ve identified the problem, the next step is finding a reliable PCB repair service. Look for a service provider with experience in repairing boards similar to yours. Check their credentials, customer reviews, and ask for referrals if possible. The expertise of the repair service is crucial for a successful repair.

Step 3: Get a Quote

Before sending your PCB for repair, obtain a quote. This should include the cost of the repair, parts, and return shipping. Be wary of services offering extremely low prices as this could indicate subpar work.

Step 4: Ship Your PCB Carefully

If the repair service is not local, you’ll need to ship your PCB. Package it carefully to avoid further damage during transit. Use anti-static bags and ample cushioning material. Ensure the package is securely sealed and properly labeled.

Step 5: The Repair Process

Once your PCB arrives at the repair facility, technicians will perform a thorough inspection. They’ll confirm the initial diagnosis and might uncover additional issues. The repair process can involve soldering, replacing components, and fixing traces.

Step 6: Testing and Quality Assurance

After repairs, the PCB undergoes rigorous testing. This ensures that all repairs are successful and the board functions as intended. Quality assurance is a critical step in the repair process.

Step 7: Return and Follow-up

Once your PCB passes all tests, it’s shipped back to you. After receiving the repaired PCB, test it in its original environment to ensure it’s working correctly. Most reputable services offer a warranty on their repairs, so keep this in mind if issues arise post-repair.

How SemiGroup Can Help

We’re a full-service company that reconditions semiconductor equipment. PCB repair can be complex and SemiGroup has seen it all. Our field service engineers perform on/off-site training, upgrade installations, process evaluation and consulting, system commission and decommissioning, and preventative maintenance.

Our experienced engineers & technicians are trained and certified in semiconductor OEM parts & systems refurbishment. All our parts and systems go through the same rigorous testing you would expect from an OEM.

We’re proud to offer high-quality replacement parts as well as refurbishment services to prolong the life of your manufacturing equipment. Call 1-888-SEMIGROUP or email parts@semigroup.com. Visit our online shop to browse printed circuit board parts and repair services.

NOTE:  As of January 2024, SemiGroup is increasing its warranty to an industry leading 2 YEAR WARRANTY.