by ADL Technology ADL Technology

PCBAs being prepared for coating.

Using PCBs to Extend Functionality

Printed circuit boards are increasingly found in unexpected places.  With a little creativity on the part of an OEM, the potential to enhance an existing product line with the addition of electronics is unlimited and can expand the functionality to support better tracking, productivity and security.  If you’re thinking of adding electronics to your product, we can help guide you through the PCB design process, and manufacture it for you, as well.

At ADL, we design and build PCB assemblies (PCBAs) that come in all shapes and sizes. These PCBAs can range in size from a thumbnail to a clipboard, and add functionality such as wireless connectivity, environmental sensing, LED lighting, and a host of other features.  If you need help with final product assembly, we can support you there, as well.

ADL supports wave solder, selective solder, and hand solder processes.

PC Boards for Smart Medical Carts

One of our more challenging projects was a collaborative effort to design a PCB for a customer who builds carts that control and track the distribution of medicines in hospitals and nursing homes.  The PCB serves as the brain for the cart, which includes an integrated monitor, keyboard, locking system, and keyless card-swipe access.  Software on the board allows medical professionals to track and dispense a wide variety of medications and supplies.  This moveable station not only keeps critical medical supplies safe, but it also provides support for electronic record-keeping.

Inventory Control and Asset Tracking for Any Industry

While it is proving to be a valuable asset to medical providers, the application of this technology has great potential beyond the healthcare industry.  It could be adapted to any environment where items need to be carefully tracked and distributed due to their high cost, small size, risk of theft, or need to be tightly controlled for legal reasons.

Most of our customers require “mixed technology” boards – those that contain both through-hole and surface-mounted components.

Applications of smart distribution systems could include:

  • Personal protective equipment
  • Work-related tools and equipment
  • Food and beverage vending
  • Electronics vending
  • Manufacturing components

Inventory control is a rapidly evolving space where electronics can help companies provide cost-effective ways of tracking items.  How might your product be enhanced by the addition of electronics?

Contact us today!

Use our online form or call us: (614) 345-9040.