MacroFab Platform Release - December 7, 2023

File Manager and Mechanical BOM Items

We are excited to announce two new features to the MacroFab platform!  

PCB File Manager and Mechanical BOM items

Read about both below and on their feature guides.

File Manager

The MacroFab file manager gives you a place to upload and manage files that contain information about your design but do not fall into one of the standard file formats (Gerbers, ODB++, BOM xlxs, XYRS).

You can now upload and store PDFs, images, and other files communicating manufacturing data to your PCB.  All of the PCB files are secure and can only be viewed by users who can view your PCB design.  The file manager provides several benefits including:

1. Communicating extra design information such as rigid-flex board layouts, manufacturing notes, and other specifications
2. Providing a secure place to store and communicate ITAR restricted and other sensitive design data
3. Reducing the risk of replaced information being used

Click below to read the full File Manager guide.

Link to the File Manager Guide

Mechanical BOM Items

Mechanical BOM (MBOM) items are items on the BOM that have no placement data and are not placed by soldering.  These items are typically associated with "secondary assembly" and can include things like conformal coating, housings, and screws.

Feature Highlights

1. You can now can view and add MBOM items to a PCB
2. When MBOM items are created, they can be used on your other PCBs
3. MBOM items can contain multiple acceptable parts
4. MBOM items can be viewed alongside the EBOM items to give a complete picture of the BOM

How can I order projects with MBOM items?

Secondary assembly and orders with mechanical items can be placed through MacroFab's RFQ process.  MBOM items cannot be included on orders placed on the platform at this time.

Link to the Mechanical BOM Guide