Files Requested for PCBA

Every PCBA order starts with a file review. Three PCB files carry the information a factory needs to build your board: the Gerber data that defines the bare board, the Bill of Materials that defines what goes on it, and the pick and place file that tells the machine where each part sits. Missing or inconsistent data in any one of the three is the most common reason an assembly order stalls before production.

This page lists the PCB file types PCBgogo requests, the accepted formats for each, and the details of engineering checks during DFM review.

PCB File

When ordering PCB assembly services, you need to provide the necessary PCB design files, including Gerber files (RS-274X), Altium Designer .PcbDoc files, Protel .PCB files, EAGLE files, and more. These files are used for PCB fabrication, assembly preparation, stencil generation, and post-assembly testing to ensure your boards meet the required specifications.

Online Gerber Viewer

Bill of Materials (BOM)

BOMs usually include the standard default fields such as reference designator, silkscreen legend, specification, manufacturer, and manufacturer part number. It is also highly desirable to include supplier part numbers such as Digikey, Mouser, or RS.

Download BOM List Template

Pick & Place Machine Placement Data

It is essential to send the pick & place machine component placement data. This data is used by the automatic PCBA machine during production.

The file should include columns for:

   ★ Surface Legend (top or bottom)
   ★ X/Y coordinate of the centre of the part (centroid data)
   ★ Part number
   ★ Rotation (theta)

In order to assemble your PCB smoothly, you could also provide supporting documents such as a 3D design file or schematics to guide our PCBA process.

Download Pick & Placement Template

FAQ: PCB Files for Assembly

What files are needed for PCB assembly?

Three PCB files are required: a Gerber or native PCB design file, a Bill of Materials with manufacturer part numbers, and a pick and place file with centroid coordinates. A schematic or assembly drawing is recommended for boards with polarity-sensitive or non-standard parts.

What PCB file format does PCBGOGO accept?

PCBgogo accepts Gerber RS-274X, ODB++, IPC-2581, Altium Designer .PcbDoc, Protel PCB, and EAGLE files. Gerber RS-274X is the recommended format because it contains embedded aperture information and is widely supported by PCB manufacturers.

Can I send only Gerber files without a BOM?

Gerber files alone are enough for bare board fabrication and stencil production. Assembly also needs the BOM and pick and place data, since Gerber data contains no component identity or placement information.

How do I generate a pick and place file?

Most EDA tools export it from the assembly or fabrication output menu. In Altium, it is Assembly Outputs, then Generate Pick and Place Files; in KiCad, it is File, then Fabrication Outputs, then Component Placement. The export must include the reference designator, X/Y centroid, rotation, and layer side.