Box building

One of the topics often discussed is box building. What exactly are we dealing with? What is box building? What is worth knowing about box building? We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the text below you will learn the most important information. 

Box building –what are we talking about?

What exactly is box building? What hides under this name? To put is simple, box building is a process that includes other assembly work related to electromechanical assembly, but not related to the production of the printed circuit board. Very often box building is called "systems integration".

Box building – the process

The construction process usually concerns the “ box” and never looks the same. Each project is based on the individual construction of the "box" and may include different levels of complexity at each stage of work. For example, one step may involve simply placing the circuit board assembly in the enclosure, and the next step may involve more complex tasks of connecting the circuit board to a display or user interface.

Most often, the box building assembly process includes the installation of subassemblies, the installation of other components, wiring or bundling of cables, as well as the production of casing.

Box building - assembly services

Suppliers of electronic production services (EMS) can also provide production services or assembly of the boxing itself. These services may include system-level assembly, product and semi-finished assembly as well as packaging and labelling. However, this is not the end, because most often it  also requires the check of our box, i.e. to carry out all necessary tests to check functionality and safety. It is also worth mentioning that assembly services can also include software installation, product configuration, storage, order processing, after-sales service, and even any type of repair.

Box building – tips that can reduce assembly time

It has to be mentioned that there are several ways to shorten the time of box building and ensure higher quality of electromechanical assembly. What are we talking about? To improve the box building assembly, it is advisable to provide the contract manufacturer with as much detail as possible regarding the complete assembly of the product. This will help him design the assembly process. You must bear in mind that it is done to provide a product that will be repeatable and will serve the customer well.

First of all, you must include the clues about the dimensions of the product. Providing the manufacturer with information about the size and weight of the unit will make it easier for him to decide how to proceed throughout the entire process of building the "box".

It is also important to provide a precise list of materials (BOM), because this will make it easier for contractors to understand which components and materials are key and which must be sourced. What you want to check on tests is also important. It is advisable to determine what tests should be carried out during electromechanical assembly, so that both parties can be sure that the delivered product has been assembled in accordance with the guidelines and is fully functional.