Straight answers to the questions buyers and engineers ask most before their first order. If yours is not here, call (734) 391-0080 or contact us.
(What to send, how fast we respond)
(Standards, inspection, traceability)
(Lead times, packaging, visits)
A bill of materials with manufacturer part numbers, Gerber or ODB++ files, an assembly drawing or placement file, quantities (including prototype quantity if any) and your target date. Tell us whether you will supply parts (kitted) or want us to buy them (turnkey). Details: what electronics manufacturers actually need in an RFQ.
A drawing or wire list with wire gauge, length, color, connectors and terminals, any labeling or sleeving requirements, and quantity. If you only have a sample, we can build a drawing from it as part of our design support.
No. We build prototype quantities of one and recurring production lots on the same lines. Pricing steps down with quantity, and we will show you the breaks.
Lead time is driven mostly by component availability, which we confirm at quote. Assembly time starts once boards and parts are received; quick-turn prototypes and same-day harness builds are available when material is on hand. Your quote states an estimated lead time.
Turnkey (we buy everything) gives you one purchase order and one supplier managing availability and alternates. Kitted (you supply parts) can make sense if you already hold inventory or have negotiated pricing. Many customers start kitted and move to turnkey as volumes grow.
Boards are built and inspected to IPC-A-610 Class 2 or Class 3 as specified on your drawing; cables and harnesses to IPC/WHMA-A-620. IPS is ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 certified. 3D solder paste inspection and 3D AOI are standard on our SMT process, with X-ray for hidden joints. See Class 2 vs Class 3.
Yes. IPS Assembly is ITAR registered with Enhanced JCP certification, CAGE Code 9VP58, and has delivered 46 unique NSNs with a 100% on-time record on DoD orders as of September 2026. See the IPS Defense Business Unit (DBU).
Yes. A first article inspection is part of every new build, and a formal FAI report is provided when required by your drawing or contract.
Yes. DFM review and BOM validation are part of our new-product introduction process, and larger engineering tasks are quoted as NRE. See Design Support & DFM.
ESD-safe materials, protective foam and labeled cartons as standard; MIL-STD-129 labeling and ASTM D3951 packaging for government orders; custom packaging to your spec. Read about our packaging standards.
Yes. Customers are welcome to visit our Livonia, Michigan facility and tour the floor. Contact your IPS representative or call (734) 391-0080 to schedule.
Yes — component replacement, BGA rework, trace repair, ECO implementation, conformal coating rework and harness re-termination. See Repair & Rework.
