First Article Inspection (FAI) is one of the most effective ways to ensure every production batch starts correctly.

What Is First Article Inspection?

FAI is a complete inspection of the first assembled board before mass production begins.

It verifies that the PCB or PCBA fully matches the latest drawings, BOM, Gerber files, and any special customer requirements.

Why FAI Is Important for Global Buyers

1. Confirms the design is 100% correct

During FAI, we check:

PCB structure and stack-up

Correct components and material numbers

Polarity and orientation

Solder joints according to IPC standards

Markings, labels, coating, and special instructions

FAI ensures every key detail is verified before moving into full production.

2. Prevents costly mistakes

FAI helps detect issues early, such as:

Wrong or mismatched components

Solder bridges or insufficient solder

Missing or reversed parts

Pad-to-component mismatch

Functional issues or IC programming errors

Catching problems at the beginning saves time, materials, and prevents expensive rework.

3. Speeds up mass production

Once the first article is approved, the entire production run becomes more efficient.

FAI ensures:

SMT programs are accurate

Stencil and solder paste printing work properly

AOI settings are correct

All engineering files match the latest version

With a confirmed FAI, mass production runs faster and with fewer interruptions.

4. Ensures consistent quality for repeat orders

FAI records serve as a reliable reference for future batches.

This helps maintain the same quality level across different order quantities, time periods, or production cycles.

5. Builds trust and transparency for overseas customers

FAI provides:

High-resolution photos

Measurement and test data

AOI inspection results

Solder joint quality confirmation

Labeling and packaging checks

For customers far from the production site, FAI is one of the most direct and reassuring quality-control tools.

6. Helps meet IPC and industry standards

FAI supports compliance with:

IPC-A-610

IPC-6012

ISO 9001

RoHS / REACH

UL requirements

This is especially important for applications in medical, industrial, telecom, and other high-reliability sectors.

Our FAI Process at PCBAMake

Engineering file review (Gerber, BOM, pick-and-place data)

SMT program and stencil preparation

First article assembly

Visual inspection + AOI + dimensional checks

Functional testing (if required)

FAI report submission

Mass production begins after customer approval

Conclusion

By inspecting the first assembled board, customers receive clear and reliable confirmation before any large-scale production begins.

With our own SMT lines and one-stop PCB/PCBA manufacturing services, PCBAMake delivers consistent and dependable results for global customers.