Question 1

What batch sizes does CME manufacture – from prototype to series?

Accepted Answer

CME manufactures flexibly from single prototypes through small series (10–500 units) to series production of several thousand units per month. By combining development and manufacturing under one roof, a seamless transition from prototype to series is possible – without changing suppliers and without information loss. The same production lines that assemble your prototypes also handle series production.

Question 2

How does an EMS manufacturing inquiry work at CME?

Accepted Answer

You send us your manufacturing documents (Gerber data, bill of materials/BOM, assembly drawing) and the desired quantity. We check the documents for manufacturability (DFM check), provide a binding quote, and create a transparent offer. After order placement, we procure components, set up production, and deliver on schedule. If needed, we conduct a DFM review upfront and suggest optimizations that reduce costs and manufacturing risks.

Question 3

Can CME also manufacture third-party designs – or only in-house designs?

Accepted Answer

CME manufactures both in-house developments and third-party designs. You can commission CME exclusively as an EMS manufacturing partner without any development having taken place with us. Conversely, you can also commission only the development at CME and have manufacturing done by another EMS partner. You have complete freedom of choice: development only, manufacturing only, or both from a single source.

Question 4

How quickly can CME manufacture prototypes?

Accepted Answer

Prototype lead times depend on component procurement. When all components are available, we assemble and solder prototypes within a few working days. For development projects running at CME, prototype manufacturing is particularly fast because development and manufacturing are at the same location with no handover losses. For urgent projects, we offer express manufacturing by arrangement.

Question 5

What manufacturing documents does CME need for a quotation?

Accepted Answer

For a reliable quotation, we need: Gerber data (or ODB++), a bill of materials (BOM) with manufacturer part numbers, the assembly drawing (pick-and-place data), and the desired quantity. Additionally helpful are details about special requirements such as potting, conformal coating, functional testing, or special packaging. If individual documents are still missing, we are happy to assist with preparation.

Question 6

What assembly technologies does CME offer?

Accepted Answer

CME offers the full range of modern assembly technologies: SMD assembly down to 01005 and 0.4 mm pitch (BGA, QFN, LGA, fine-pitch), THT assembly (manual and automated), selective soldering for mixed assemblies, vapor phase soldering for particularly uniform solder joints, and manual assembly for special components. Every soldering process is secured by 100% AOI (Automated Optical Inspection).

Question 7

How does CME ensure quality in electronics manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

Quality assurance is integrated into every manufacturing step: 100% AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) after every soldering process, Manual Optical Inspection (MOI) by IPC-certified inspectors for complex assemblies, end-of-line functional testing, and complete traceability via our MES system. CME is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified and works to IPC-A-610 and IPC J-STD-001 standards. Every assembly is traceable from incoming goods to shipping.

Question 8

Does CME also offer potting and conformal coating?

Accepted Answer

Yes, CME offers both potting and selective conformal coating as part of module assembly. For potting, we work with PU, epoxy, or silicone – material selection is based on the thermal and mechanical requirements of your application. Conformal coating is applied by spraying or flooding with subsequent UV inspection. Both processes protect your electronics against moisture, vibration, chemicals, and creepage currents.

Question 9

What does traceability mean at CME – and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Traceability means complete tracking of every assembly from incoming goods to shipping. At CME, all production equipment is networked in a central manufacturing database (MES). Every batch, serial number, and installed component is documented and exportable – for your own quality documentation or for regulatory authorities. This is particularly important for safety-critical industries such as automotive, medical technology, and industrial automation.

Question 10

Does CME also perform functional tests and electrical testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, CME offers end-of-line functional tests for 100% inspection of all series units before shipping. Depending on requirements, volume, and layout complexity, we use manual testing or bed-of-nails adapters (ICT). All test protocols and results are archived for complete quality documentation. For development projects running at CME, our engineers develop the test specification and test adapters alongside.

Question 11

What is a DFM review and why does CME offer it?

Accepted Answer

DFM stands for Design for Manufacturing – designing electronics for manufacturability. CME checks your layout for manufacturability already in the development phase: Are pads correctly dimensioned? Are there critical clearances? Are components machine-placeable? Through direct feedback between development and manufacturing at the same location, we reduce iteration loops, costs, and time-to-market. A DFM review is standard at CME – not an extra charge.

Question 12

Does CME also handle component procurement?

Accepted Answer

Yes, CME handles complete component procurement on request. We work with established distributors and have long-standing supplier relationships that enable short procurement times even in tight market conditions. Alternatively, you can also supply components yourself. In case of component obsolescence, we proactively support the search for alternative types and assess their impact on manufacturing.

Question 13

Does CME also offer cable assembly and final assembly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in addition to PCB assembly, CME also offers custom cable assembly and complete final assembly. We manufacture wire harnesses per schematic with all common connector systems (TE, Molex, JST, Deutsch, etc.) and perform 100% electrical testing for continuity, insulation, and correct pin assignment. Final assembly includes housing assembly, fastening, labeling, and packaging – all from a single source.

Question 14

Can CME also manufacture thermally demanding assemblies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, thermally demanding assemblies are a specialty of CME. Through the close integration of development and manufacturing, we understand the thermal challenges of power electronics, motor controllers, and high-current applications. We master vapor phase soldering for particularly uniform and void-free solder joints, potting with thermally conductive materials, and processing of components with high power dissipation (SiC, GaN, IGBT).

Question 15

How does CME handle component obsolescence?

Accepted Answer

CME proactively monitors the availability of components used in your assemblies. In case of obsolescence, we inform you early and suggest alternative types. Since development and manufacturing work under one roof, our engineers can immediately assess the impact of a component change on circuit, layout, and manufacturing – including simulation and validation. This helps you avoid costly production interruptions.

Question 16

Where is CME manufacturing located and what are the advantages of the Germany location?

Accepted Answer

All manufacturing is located at the CME site in Dortmund, Germany. A German manufacturing location offers decisive advantages: short communication paths without language barriers, protection of your intellectual property under German and EU law, no customs issues within the EU, fast response times for changes, and the ability to combine development and manufacturing at one location. Made in Germany is a quality mark for many industries.

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