Top PCB Manufacturers in the U.S. & Their Specialties

Choosing the top PCB manufacturers in the USA is more than just picking names from a list. It’s about understanding the essential qualities that truly distinguish these frontrunners. From the quality of the PCBs produced to the adherence to standard specifications and the efficiency of their production timescales, every aspect of the selection process is crucial.

Here are some of the qualities to look for in a top PCB manufacturer:

1. Quality of the PCB: The highest-performing PCB manufacturers uphold superior quality standards in all aspects of production. They employ rigorous quality control measures, ensuring the finished product meets and often surpasses industry expectations.
2. Ability to meet PCB requirements: The ability to understand and fulfill unique customer specifications is a significant factor. Top manufacturers possess the capabilities and resources to cater to various PCB needs, from simple designs to complex, multi-layered structures.
3. Adherence to PCB specifications: Besides meeting unique requirements, adherence to standard PCB specifications is critical. Compliance with these specifications ensures consistency and reliability in the PCBs produced.
4. Cost of production: While quality is paramount, PCB costs and pricing are equally crucial. The best manufacturers balance the need for superior quality with cost-effective production methods, providing customers with high-value, affordable products.
5. Lead times/timescale: Time efficiency is vital in PCB manufacturing. Maintaining rapid production times without compromising quality differentiates top-tier manufacturers from the rest.
6. No affiliation with brokerage firms: Independence from brokerage firms gives manufacturers more control over their production processes and timelines. It ensures that all manufacturing takes place within their own facilities, enabling a stronger commitment to quality and timely delivery.
7. Collaboration process: Top manufacturers place a strong emphasis on collaboration. They work closely with their customers, providing regular updates, incorporating feedback, and ensuring the final product aligns perfectly with the client’s expectations.
8. Board testing: Rigorous board testing procedures ensure each PCB meets the highest performance standards. Such testing includes examining for faults, validating design specifications, and confirming durability under various conditions.

Let’s dive deeper into the profiles of three major U.S.-based PCB manufacturers known for consistently displaying a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service.

TTM Technologies

• Description and history: TTM Technologies, Inc. is a global technology solutions giant and a leading PCB manufacturer, with its headquarters in Santa Ana, CA. Known for advanced PCBs and backplanes, TTM stands for “time-to-market,” signifying a commitment to rapid delivery of technologically advanced solutions. TTM is a publicly traded company.
• Employees and facilities: Around 17,000 employees, including about 1,600 engineers and technology professionals across 24 manufacturing sites worldwide and approximately 250 salespeople stationed in major markets globally
• Locations: Headquartered in Santa Ana, CA, with an impressive 24 manufacturing sites across the globe
• Year of establishment: 1998
• Specialties and areas of expertise: TTM is a leading supplier of aerospace and defense PCBs, custom assemblies, microelectronics, and other engineered solutions. They produce a variety of PCBs, including ceramics, high-density interconnect (“HDI”), rigid-flex, flex, RF/microwave, thermal management solutions, and conventional.

Summit Interconnect

• Description and history: Formed in 2016, Summit Interconnect has rapidly grown to be a leading North American PCB manufacturer. Their mission revolves around innovative and high-quality PCB solutions.
• Employees and facilities: Over 1,250 employees scattered across various departments, including production, engineering, quality, finance and administration, and sales and marketing
• Locations: Headquartered in Anaheim, CA, with additional locations in Chicago, IL; Toronto, ON; Denver, CO; and other California cities including Santa Clara, Orange, Santa Ana, and Hollister
• Year of establishment: 2016
• Specialties and areas of expertise: High-density rigid PCBs, rigid-flex, flex, and RF/microwave; cater to the semiconductor / automated test equipment markets

APCT

• Description and history: APCT was formed by President/CEO Steve Robinson in 2008 when he acquired Advanced Printed Circuit Technology. With roots in the PCB industry since 1971, Steve built APCT on his values, making it the second-largest PCB manufacturer in North America.
• Employees and facilities: APCT operates across 390,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space with over 900 employees.
• Locations: Headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, with six other manufacturing sites in Southern California; Wallingford, CT; Aurora, CO; Chandler, AZ; and Maple Grove, MN, plus a global supply chain network with facilities in Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, China, and Hong Kong
• Year of establishment: 2008
• Specialties and areas of expertise: Production of high-speed, high-reliability rigid and rigid-flex PCBs

These top PCB manufacturers in the USA have set high benchmarks in the industry with their quality standards and innovation. In the next section, we’ll discuss how Cirexx International stands tall among these industry leaders.

Cirexx International

Cirexx International, headquartered in the heart of Silicon Valley in Santa Clara, CA, stands out in the PCB manufacturing industry with its unique blend of cutting-edge technology, deep engineering experience, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

• Description and history: With over 40 years of experience, Cirexx International is a leading provider of complex PCB products. The company prides itself on manufacturing the highest quality PCB projects for virtually every technology company. Their expertise includes flexible circuits, rigid-flex circuits, microwave and radiofrequency technologies, rigid HDI technology, hybrid PCBs, and specialty materials.
• Employees and facilities: Cirexx employs 150 professionals averaging over 24 years of experience and operates from a state-of-the-art PCB manufacturing facility. This ensures their ability to handle complex projects while maintaining an efficient, fast process
• Locations: Located near the Mineta San Jose Airport in Santa Clara, CA and in close proximity to the world’s center of technology manufacturing and layout, Cirexx is able to stay at the forefront of PCB manufacturing trends
• Year of establishment: 1980
• Specialties and areas of expertise: Cirexx provides a complete line of services — from PCB layout to fabrication and assembly, all under one roof, ensuring seamless coordination at all stages of the manufacturing process. They also offer turn-key solutions, providing end-to-end support. Notably, Cirexx is renowned for its quick turnaround times, with the capacity to execute orders in as little as 24 hours. This unique offering enables clients to expedite their projects without compromising on the quality of the finished product.
• Commitment to quality and value: Cirexx is committed to delivering superior value through innovative solutions that minimize costs and reduce manufacturing time. Their dedication to superior quality is evident in their industry-leading products, delivered on time at competitive prices. The success of their customers and industry recognition underlines their continuous quality improvement efforts.

Cirexx’s ambition to be the partner of choice for PCB layout, fabrication, and assembly services, combined with its commitment to total customer satisfaction, highlights its strength as a leader in the PCB manufacturing industry.

Choosing a U.S.-based PCB manufacturer provides many benefits to your business by not only enhancing your product’s quality but also contributing positively to the local economy and ensuring a smoother manufacturing process. Here are the key benefits:

• High-quality standards and control: U.S. manufacturers adhere to stringent quality control measures, ensuring PCBs are produced to the highest standards. This means fewer defects, leading to less downtime and lower costs in the long run.
• Shorter supply chains: Domestic production makes the supply chain significantly shorter, leading to faster delivery times and improved efficiency, getting your products to market quicker.
• Regulatory alignment: U.S. manufacturers are more likely to be in line with U.S. regulatory standards. This reduces the risk of non-compliance, potential legal issues, and the associated costs.
• Stable supply chains: The stability of U.S. supply chains minimizes the risk of disruptions, ensuring consistent and timely delivery of your products.
• Enhanced customer service and support: U.S.-based manufacturers often provide better customer service and technical support, due to geographical proximity and language compatibility. This can be invaluable when addressing technical issues or modifying your product.
• Economic benefits: Choosing a U.S. manufacturer supports the local economy and contributes to job creation. This can also improve your company’s image, as many customers value businesses that support their local economies.
• Better communication and collaboration: U.S.-based manufacturers eliminate language barriers, cultural misalignments, and time zone differences that can impede communication and collaboration.
• Technological innovation: U.S. manufacturers, especially those based in tech hubs such as Silicon Valley, are often at the forefront of technological innovation and advancements. This means that your PCBs will be made using the latest, most efficient techniques.
• Vast experience: Many U.S. manufacturers have a longer history of PCB production than their international counterparts. For example, Cirexx was established in 1980, long before China emerged as a significant player in the PCB industry post-2000. This experience often translates to a more refined and reliable production process.

By choosing a U.S.-based PCB manufacturer, you can enjoy all these advantages, ensuring high-quality products, better efficiency, fewer regulatory hurdles, and a more seamless manufacturing experience overall.

Making the Right Choice: A Comprehensive PCB Solution

Throughout this guide, we’ve highlighted the critical role of PCB manufacturers in bringing your innovative electronic solutions to life. Choosing the right manufacturer can significantly impact the quality of your products, the efficiency of your supply chain, and your overall business success.

Selecting a top-tier, U.S.-based PCB manufacturer carries numerous benefits, from superior quality control to better alignment with regulatory standards. Furthermore, you’re supporting local economic growth and gaining the advantage of more efficient communication and collaboration. With a commitment to innovation and decades-long experience, companies like Cirexx offer a wealth of expertise that can help elevate your products to new heights.

We encourage prospective customers to consider Cirexx International for their PCB needs. With our 40-year history, deep engineering expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we stand ready to be your trusted partner in PCB manufacturing.

As you prepare to select your next PCB solutions provider, equip yourself with the right set of questions to assess their suitability. Our guide — 10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing Your Next PCB Solutions Provider — will empower you with the necessary insights to make an informed decision.