Concepts
Key concepts and features
CircuitHub is an online platform designed to simplify and streamline PCB manufacturing and assembly process. It combines powerful automation with real-time data, making it easier for engineers, designers, and businesses to turn their electronic designs into fully assembled boards in as short as 3 days! Below are the core concepts that define how CircuitHub works.
Project import
CircuitHub allows users to upload their PCB design files directly to the platform. A standard project upload includes:
- Original EDA or exported IPC-2581 files
- Bill of Materials (BOM) (listing all components required)
Once uploaded, CircuitHub automatically parses the design and matches the components in the BOM with available inventory. Users can review part selections, make substitutions, and mark components as "Do Not Place" (DNP) when needed.
Board viewer
After importing your board, you will instantly be able to view it on the platform along with its corresponding BOM.
BOM table
On the project page, you can view all BOM lines, the approved parts chosen for each line, and details on how each part will be sourced.
We will either purchase the required parts for you based on the order quantity, or you can consign the parts by shipping the necessary quantity to us.
Instant and accurate quotes
Pricing on CircuitHub is dynamic and depends on several factors:
- Component costs based on real-time inventory availability
- PCB fabrication costs depending on complexity and materials
- Assembly costs based on labor and machine time
- Lead time selections offering standard and expedited options
You can get an estimated cost without finalizing your part selection and sourcing. However, a detailed, order-ready quote requires full BOM reconciliation. Note that although we do not have a cut off time, lead times are calculated based on mid-day (12:00) EST as the end of the day.
Consignment & custom requirements
CircuitHub allows users to:
- Supply their own parts (consignment) for assembly
- Request additional bare PCBs along with an assembled order
- Specify custom assembly instructions for unique requirements
Order placement
Once an order is placed, CircuitHub begins the manufacturing process:
- PCB Fabrication: The board is manufactured based on user-specified materials, layers, and impedance requirements.
- Component Sourcing: Components are sourced from trusted distributors such as Digi-Key and Mouser, ensuring part authenticity.
- Assembly Process: Using automated pick-and-place machines, components are soldered onto the PCB using either reflow or selective soldering techniques.
Support & issue handling
CircuitHub's integrated issue handler system ensures that any manufacturing concerns, missing parts, or discrepancies are addressed promptly. Users receive notifications for order updates, part substitutions, and potential delays.
Order BOM substitutes
When you place an order, we check market availability to ensure your chosen parts are in stock with our approved vendors. However, due to supplier data updates or delays between ordering and purchasing, some parts may become unavailable.
To avoid delays, we suggest pre-approved substitutes when needed. If a part is out of stock, our team will propose an alternative through our internal issue system. Once you approve, we proceed with the substitute to keep assembly on track.
This ensures minimal disruptions, reliable sourcing, and full transparency while keeping your project moving forward.
Shipping & logistics
CircuitHub provides multiple shipping options:
- Standard shipping for cost-effective delivery
- Expedited options for quick-turn prototypes
- Custom shipping accounts allowing users to use their preferred courier
PCBs are packaged securely to prevent damage, and users receive tracking details once the order is shipped.
Conclusion
CircuitHub is designed to make PCB manufacturing and assembly efficient, accurate, and accessible. From instant quoting and automated component matching to high-quality manufacturing and logistics, it offers a seamless experience for hardware developers.