PC board repair is a job that combines an extensive knowledge of computers with a fine attention to detail. A computer circuit board is the most important part of a central processing unit (CPU) or other electronic unit. The circuit board is like the brain of the computer, in that it makes sure all functions are powered and working properly.

Tech-savvy people can train to repair printed circuit boards for computers and electronics through many resources. If you want to learn to repair a PCB, some previous computer skills are required. If you have that part down, look for printed circuit board repair education and training opportunities through:

1. Training classes that provide instructions for electronic circuit board repair.

2. Instructional videos and self-guided training courses.

3. Online training courses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Attend training classes for repairing printed circuit boards

Training classes that provide hands-on experience can benefit those who seek jobs as service technicians. These classes are provided by vocational schools, professional organizations and distributors of products that contain printed circuit boards. The most common products with printed circuit boards are computers, printers and robots.

I recommend: ThyssenKrupp Elevator provides technician training for installation and repair of PCB board in its elevators and other large equipment. PCB Repair offers classes each month to teach up to 10 students repair and reworking techniques in printed boards and electronic assemblies.

Learn PCB repair skills through repair kits and DVD courses

If you want a self-guided learning experience, DVD and CD-ROM training kits are available. You can also find training kits with practice boards and tools. The courses cover the basics of computer repair, though some teach advanced repair topics. These courses do not always offer the certification you need to become a technician, but the courses can be used as training supplement certification tests.

I recommend: Engineering Lab offers a circuit board repair training kit that lets you practice common repair techniques. The Cleveland Institute offers a four CD course that teaches skills you need to master repairing a computer motherboard.

Take online courses to learn about printed circuit board maintenance

If you want a combination of traditional training and self-guided resources, an online course will meet your needs. An online course for printed circuit board repair will teach you the skills you need to repair any type of circuit board. Most online courses also offer technician certification.

I recommend: Penn Foster Career School offers a PC maintenance and repair training program that covers all aspects of PC repair, including PCB board repair. NetCom Information Technology offers online courses for CompTIA A+ certification, which is recognized throughout the technology industry.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  There are a number of different CompTIA A+ certification types. Those that provide certification to work on systems and PC board repairs are A+, CCT+ and Convergence+.

While you may be tempted to simply replace your printed circuit boards when something goes wrong, it's often more effective to look to experts to repair printed circuit boards. Many computer hardware companies offer the service, as well as some printed circuit board manufacturers. Most of these companies provide an evaluation and an estimate upfront before accepting the job.

Occasionally, the reason for PC board repairs may be obvious, such as a crack or chip in the board's surface. In these cases, it is sometimes possible to do the printed circuit board repair yourself with a toolkit, PCB repair tools or spare parts.

1. Determine what type of PC board you have. You'll need to know the make, model and manufacturer of the board that needs PCB repair.

2. Check your PC board's warranty information. If your product is still under warranty, most manufacturers will repair or replace it for free.

3. Send your PC board in an anti-static bag. Electric static can seriously damage the delicate circuits on the board.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Request an evaluation for your printed circuit board repair

You can do this online or by phone at most websites, or occasionally in person if the repair company is local. Be sure to provide the make, model and manufacturer of your board, as well as a short summary of how it stopped working and what exactly the problem is. Many companies list the brands they can repair, but most are willing to fix discontinued or unsupported models as well.

I recommend: Contact Advanced Video Technology USA or call Logic Level Tech to ask for a quote on your PCB board repair.

Check what kind of warranty the repair shop offers

Some places will offer to exchange your board with a similar working model if it cannot be repaired, or guarantee that your PC board repair will be completed within a certain time-frame. If you're unclear on the company's policy or if it is unlisted, make time to discuss your concerns with a company representative.

I recommend: Take advantage of ACS Industrial Service's warranty by buying directly from them. Or, let Industrial Electronic repair your printed circuit board, which is backed by their service guarantee.

Attempt the PC board repair yourself

Although this is not an option for everybody, those who know a bit about repairing printed circuit boards can find plenty of PCB repair tools and step-by-step instructions on how to complete many types of repairs. However, this does require you to have identified the problem. In addition, courses and tutorials are available to help you learn more.

I recommend: Purchase a PCB repair kit from Business Electronics Soldering Technologies or check out instructions produced by the Circuit Technology Center to guide you through the repair of printed circuit boards.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you need your PCB board repair done in a hurry, some places offer 48-hour service or rush delivery. Calling during business hours instead of emailing often allows you to negotiate a quicker evaluation and return.

Electronic circuit board repair is a service that touches many different industries throughout the world. Any business that uses computers, and that is most businesses, may have a need for PC board repairs at one time or another. Printed circuit board repairs save the cost of purchasing new electronics and therefore are valuable to the bottom line of many businesses.

Take the time to learn some of the basics associated with electronic circuit board repair so that you'll know if your office machines can be salvaged by having repair work performed when they break down. Here are some resourceful links to help get you started. Think of this as "printed circuit board repair for beginners."

1. Find how to repair printed circuit or other PC circuit boards by receiving training or reading informational guides.

2. Locate electronic circuit board repair software that diagrams various PC circuit boards.

3. Find companies that specialize in PC board repair and have a consultation.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn about PCB repair through training and guides

There are many informational online guides and training courses that offer a step-by-step approach on how to repair and fix circuit boards that have gone on the fritz. Take the time to learn about these various guides and see how you might integrate their knowledge with the machines that you have in your office.

I recommend: Visit the website for Circuit Rework.com and BEST for informational guides and training regarding circuit board repair.

Educate yourself on the different diagrams associated with electronic PCB repair

There are many software programs that provide the diagrams of circuit boards so that technicians may complete electronic PCB repair. Knowing where to locate the diagrams for the makes and models of your office equipment machinery will allow you to have your machines fixed in a timely manner, limiting the time that your office and its operations are 'down.'

I recommend: Visit the websites for the companies Express PCB and Free PCB for downloadable software programs that detail various circuit boards on the market.

Contact companies that focus on PC board repair for a free consultation

There are many companies that provide technicians on an 'as needed' basis to companies who suddenly find themselves in need of PC board repair. Take the time to have a consultation with a few of these companies so that you'll know who to call when their services are needed. This way, you'll feel comfortable with the contractor you are hiring.

I recommend: Both ACS Industrial and Scope Systems are companies that specialize in providing technicians and solutions for printed circuit board maintenance. Contact these companies and have a consultation regarding what services they might provide your company.