Printed Circuit Board Repair

Consider electronic circuit board repair before trashing your broken hardware
By Leah Kuriluk 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.

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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.

• 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.