Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1401769
AUGUST 2021 I PCB007 MAGAZINE 51 My suggestion is to look at the factors that are in the control of the OEM: • Technology of the PCB (layer count, lines and spaces, via structure) • Size of the PCB • Choice of laminate (for example, what is the necessary T g ?) • Surface finish (is ENIG always the best choice) In many cases, none of these cost factors can be utilized (see Figure 4). e reasons vary, but if design factors cannot be considered what is le? e remaining options that the OEM can consider are as follows: • Increase the minimum order size – PCB costing decreases with volume • Consider a VMI (vendor managed inventory) program – Six months is a reasonable stocking period • Consolidate freight – is may be difficult without the assistance of a logistics supplier or supply chain manager • e last item in the toolbox is oen the first choice in the U.S. – Beat the supplier up by threatening to move the business I would caution that while this option is very popular in business schools, the PCB is not a commodity, and it does not move between suppliers without collateral costs. If changing vendors is under consideration, I have a series Figure 4: A summary of the overall situation.