Reverse Engineering
Reverse engineering of Printed circuit boards (sometimes called “cloning”, or PCB RE) is the process of generating fabrication and design data for an existing circuit board, either closely or exactly replicating its functionality
Reverse-Engineering Methods
Destructive RE
Destructive reverse engineering (DRE) is a process where all layers of the board are imaged and subsequently removed by various milling techniques or tools.
Non-Destructive RE
Non-destructive PCB RE (NDRE) mean that the circuit board itself is not destroyed in the process. however, most non-destructive techniques require removing components from the surface of the board.
X-ray Computed Tomography
X-ray computed tomography-based imaging processes have advanced to the point that they are able to capture images of the circuit board well enough to isolate individual layers and the features on each of these layers
Flying Probe Test
Oftentimes a Flying Probe test machine (FPT machine) can also be used to generate data from a circuit board. Unlike destructive methods, with this process the PCB can generally be reused.
X-ray imaging
In addition, a schematic can be merged with the Bill of Materials (BOM) and component Pick and Place data to further enhance its usability in troubleshooting scenarios, or can be used as a base for the design of a brand new PCB. If a destructive RE process has been used or images for all PCB layers have been captured using X-ray imaging
Final outputs and reproduction
Whether the board is reverse engineered using a destructive or non-destructive method, the result is that a netlist is obtained. While the netlist itself cannot be used to create an identical replacement, it can be used to generate supporting data for the board like a schematic.
Legacy product support
Legacy systems need maintenance and replacement parts to operate past their intended life cycle. Demand for parts that are no longer being manufactured can lead to material shortages of parts, called DMS/DMSMS.
Industries We Serve:
Consumer Electronics
Automotive
Aerospace & Defense
Medical Devices
Telecommunications
Industrial Automation
How It Works
Circuit layers
The PCB stack-up design clearly defines each and every layer and its order, there should be physical labels on each layer for their accurate placement.
Soldermask and Solderpaste
solder mask is the material applied to the circuit board to protect it and paste mask is the pattern used to apply the solder paste
Drill files
NC Drill File is also known as numeric control drill file. This indicates a file that regulates all the information relating to via or hole drilling requirements.
Plated and NonPlated Through-holes
The plating on the through holes is copper, a conductor, so it allows electrical conductivity to travel through the board. Non-plated through holes do not have conductivity,
Per-layer Blind
Blind vias are essential for multilayer PCBs, allowing efficient and reliable connections between the various layers without resorting to traditional through-hole vias that span the entire board,
BOM
A PCB bill of materials (BOM) is a comprehensive list that provides information on all the components to be assembled on your board.
PCB Reverse engineering Advantages
One of the primary benefits of PCB reverse engineering is its ability to recreate discontinued or obsolete PCBs. In many cases, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) may no longer provide support or replacement parts for older equipment.
PCBs can develop faults and failures over time due to various reasons, including wear and tear, component degradation, or environmental factors. Understanding the design and components of a PCB through reverse engineering simplifies the diagnosis of faults.
Reverse engineering provides engineers with detailed schematics and a comprehensive understanding of a PCB’s design. This knowledge empowers them to suggest and implement custom modifications or improvements to the PCB
Reverse engineering can provide valuable insights into the inner workings of competitors’ products. Analyzing these products allows engineers to gain a deeper understanding of their design choices and functionality
Our Certifications
PCB Design and Layout
Schematic Design
Translating your circuit design into a schematic that serves as the blueprint for your PCB.Component Selection and Placement
Ensuring optimal layout and selection of components for functionality, cost-efficiency, and reliability.Multi-Layer PCB Design
Designing PCBs with multiple layers to meet the demands of complex, high-performance systems.High-Speed PCB Layout
Handling high-frequency, high-speed signals for applications that require minimal signal loss and noise.Signal Integrity and Power Integrity Analysis
Ensuring robust performance through detailed analysis of signal quality and power distribution.Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
Optimizing designs to reduce production costs, minimize errors, and improve overall manufacturing efficiency.PCB Prototyping
Fast prototyping services to test and validate designs before moving into full-scale production.
Industries We Serve:
- Consumer Electronics
- Automotive
- Aerospace & Defense
- Medical Devices
- Telecommunications
- Industrial Automation
How It Works:
Consultation & Requirements Gathering
Discuss your project goals, requirements, and timelines with our team of experts.
Custom PCB Design Proposal
Receive a detailed proposal that outlines the design process, milestones, and cost estimates.
Design & Development
We bring your concept to life, ensuring the design meets your specifications and industry standards.
Review & Approval
Get a comprehensive design review and make any necessary adjustments before finalizing.
Prototype & Testing
Receive a fully functional PCB prototype for testing and evaluation.
Production Ready
Once validated, your PCB is ready for mass production.
Our Advantages:
Professional Design Team
Our PCB design team consists of experienced engineers who are proficient in design and layout in circuits as well as the best practices of manufacturing and are familiar with a variety of commonly used design software.
One-Stop Solution Service：
We provide one-stop solution services, covering the entire process from concept to final PCB design and product production. This includes shell design, hardware development, software programming, product testing and more.
Rapid Design Delivery
Our powerful design capability ensures the shortest possible time on PCB design. For some projects, we can complete your requirements in as little as 24 hours.
Manufacturing Advantage
Once the design is complete, we can directly proceed with production at our factory, helping you save a lot of time. Our manufacturing services include 3D&CNC, PCB and assembly
Supply Chain Management