PCB Assembly and Design for Manufacturing with Duane Benson of Screaming Circuits
Duane Benson, Director of Marketing at Screaming Circuits, explains the PCB assembly process, contrasting their prototype/small-volume model with parent company Milwaukee Electronics' high-volume contract manufacturing. He details the workflow from programming and solder paste deposition to reflow, inspection, and rework, while highlighting common Design for Manufacturing (DFM) pitfalls like open vias and incorrect QFN footprints. The discussion covers the infeasibility of home PCB prototyping, the cost-benefits of US-based assembly, and critical tips for ensuring component availability and accurate footprints.