MacroFab Blog
Updated Nov 2024
At MacroFab, we provide PCBA manufacturing on demand and related services to tech companies across industries. Engineers and developers consistently tell us they want to focus on their designs, businesses, and customers—not on sourcing parts or managing assembly logistics. That’s why MacroFab has reworked the manufacturing process to meet the specific needs of today’s innovators.
Using our connected technology platform and North American factory network, MacroFab delivers the manufacturing capacity you need to produce high-quality PCBs, whether you’re prototyping or scaling for full production.
What Is Manufacturing on Demand?
Manufacturing on demand, also known as cloud manufacturing or custom manufacturing, is a modern production approach where goods are created based on actual needs and specific order quantities. Unlike traditional methods that rely on large batch production and inventory storage, manufacturing on demand focuses on flexibility, reducing waste, and aligning production schedules with customer requirements.
This model often integrates advanced technology platforms with a network of factories in a marketplace model, enabling businesses to upload designs, receive quotes instantly, and produce products tailored to their exact specifications. This ensures quick turnarounds, cost efficiency, and adaptability for projects ranging from prototypes to large-scale production.
MacroFab’s manufacturing-on-demand solution leverages a connected technology platform and a North American factory network to deliver the capacity, precision, and speed required to produce quality results at any scale.
A Modern Solution for Manufacturing on Demand
Traditional PCBA manufacturing often relies on overseas production, inefficient communication, and limited visibility into order progress. MacroFab offers a faster, more efficient alternative:
- Instant Quoting and Real-Time Tracking: Traditional methods often require days for quotes and provide little transparency. MacroFab delivers pricing in minutes and allows you to track every step of production.
- Scalable Production Capacity: Many providers struggle with both small and large orders. MacroFab’s North American factory network ensures you can handle any project size, from prototypes to full-scale production.
- End-to-End Integration: Unlike disconnected workflows that involve multiple vendors, MacroFab’s platform connects design, manufacturing, and delivery into one cohesive process.
This approach saves time, improves efficiency, and gives engineers the flexibility they need to develop new products.
Effortless PCB Prototyping and Iteration
Prototyping is often delayed by high minimum order requirements, slow production timelines, and high costs. MacroFab addresses these challenges with features designed for fast and affordable prototyping:
- Low or No Minimum Order Requirements: Traditional manufacturers often require large orders, forcing you to spend more than necessary. MacroFab lets you order exactly what you need.
- Aggregated Small Runs:Many providers deprioritize small orders, causing delays. MacroFab combines smaller orders into larger production runs, reducing costs and lead times.
- Seamless Transition to Production: Prototyping with one manufacturer and scaling elsewhere can slow progress. MacroFab lets you move directly to production within the same platform.
This process ensures faster development cycles and allows you to refine your designs without unnecessary delays.
Simplified Sourcing and Assembly
Traditional sourcing often requires managing multiple suppliers, tracking inventory manually, and handling part shortages. MacroFab makes sourcing and assembly easier and more reliable:
- Automated Component Sourcing: Instead of manually coordinating with suppliers, MacroFab’s platform finds the best options for your parts, providing sourcing alternatives and resolving supply issues before they affect your project.
- House Parts Program: Many manufacturers require you to source commonly used components independently. MacroFab keeps popular parts in stock and offers them at competitive prices, saving time and money.
- Inventory Management: With traditional processes, you’re often responsible for tracking parts yourself. MacroFab manages inventory for you, so you can stay focused on your designs.
MacroFab reduces the effort required to manage sourcing and assembly, keeping your projects on schedule.
PCBA Manufacturing Built for Engineers
MacroFab is built for engineers and developers who need reliability, speed, and flexibility in their manufacturing process. Here’s how we compare to traditional methods:
- Connected Technology Platform: Traditional manufacturing often relies on manual processes and limited updates. MacroFab’s platform offers real-time tracking, instant quotes, and a fully integrated workflow.
- North American Factory Network: Overseas production can lead to longer lead times and variable quality. MacroFab’s network provides faster turnarounds and dependable results closer to home.
- On-Demand Scalability: Traditional manufacturers may require upfront commitments to large runs. MacroFab supports projects of any size and scales as your needs grow.
This system provides the tools engineers need to create reliable products without delays.
Why Choose MacroFab?
MacroFab stands out among manufacturing on demand companies by combining advanced technology with reliable manufacturing capacity. Compared to traditional PCBA manufacturing, MacroFab:
- Accelerates Prototyping and Iteration: Traditional processes are slow and rigid. MacroFab enables fast, flexible development cycles.
- Simplifies Supply Chain Management: Managing suppliers and inventory can be a hassle. MacroFab handles sourcing, inventory, and production in one system.
- Supports Smooth Scaling: Scaling from prototypes to production is often complex. MacroFab’s factory network ensures a seamless transition.
With MacroFab, you can develop your products confidently and scale efficiently.
MacroFab redefines PCBA manufacturing with on-demand services that fit your needs. Our connected platform and factory network make it easy to produce high-quality PCB assemblies, from initial prototypes to large-scale production runs.
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MacroFab offers comprehensive manufacturing solutions, from your smallest prototyping orders to your largest production needs. Our factory network locations are strategically located across North America, ensuring that we have the flexibility to provide capacity when and where you need it most.
Experience the future of EMS manufacturing with our state-of-the-art technology platform and cutting-edge digital supply chain solutions. At MacroFab, we ensure that your electronics are produced faster, more efficiently, and with fewer logistic problems than ever before.
Take advantage of AI-enabled sourcing opportunities and employ expert teams who are connected through a user-friendly technology platform. Discover how streamlined electronics manufacturing can benefit your business by contacting us today.