Design for manufacturability, sometimes referred to as “DFM”, simply relates to designing a part or assembly with the manufacturing process in mind. Ultimately, this process prioritizes design functionality and quality while simultaneously finding easier, lower-cost manufacturing solutions. Our manufacturing team will evaluate prototypes and first-time assembly runs based on the following criterions: Documentation, Silkscreen/Masking, Component Layout, Panelization, Fiducials/Tooling and more. We complete a Design for Manufacturability (DFM) evaluation with a 10-point checklist for every new assembly in an effort to optimize the process and minimize potential errors.
How Is Design for Manufacturability Related to Cost?
Making changes to a part or component once full-production has already begun can impose a serious financial burden, exponentially increasing project costs the further along the project is when changes are made. Because of this, design for manufacturability is a crucial step and has the ability to eliminate the need for costly changes before entering full production.
Design Component Parts for Easy Fabrication
Design for Manufacturability exists as a way to think critically about board design and develop solutions that will ease fabrication—in turn saving money (run after run!). While there are many factors that can offer time and cost savings, one key factor is the use of easy-to-source components, as well as alternate flexibility (especially in today’s market). Taking the time with your engineering team to source acceptable alternatives that maintain performance is a worthy investment and one that will pay dividends as our supply chain struggles to keep up with increasing demand.
Design for Improved Assembly
Beyond component recommendations, MPL Design for Manufacturability can assist with quality improvements to your product as well. By reviewing assembly details, such as package orientation, pad geometry, and polarization indicators, we are able to achieve optimally placed components and beautiful solder connections which are necessary to ensure your end customer receives top-quality products each and every time.
Design for Inspection
Lastly, when designing for manufacturability, it is beneficial to consider designing for inspection. By establishing an inspection set-up for each order we manufacture, we are able to guarantee that our customers receive products built the right way. In fact, MPL is noted for our excellent RMA percentage, boasting an impressive 0.01% average rate for the last three years, providing data that backs up our claim to excellence. Discover the quality of our products, made possible thanks to the process of designing for manufacturability, and place an order with MPL today!
