Hi,

This is a continuation of the GerbMerge thread, I just wanted to share some
of my findings so far. To give you some background on the project: I have
three PCB designs, each board is 3x4 inches, double sided. I would strongly
prefer to have the boards by December 21, 2005 (in 12 days).

Some people suggested Olimex, citing low cost and free panelizing as the
main advantage. However, the dimensions are 6.3" x 3.9" -- enough space for
only one 3x4 board. Moreover, since they are in Bulgaria, I'll pay ~$25 for
Global Express and still won't get the boards until after Christmas. Having
had previous experience with them, I must also add that while the quality is
acceptable, Olimex's boards are no match for Advanced Circuit's.

So today I called Advanced Circuits, and here's what I found out:

- If I submit a panelized design, there will be an extra charge of $50.
- They can also panelize the boards for me, for a flat fee of $50.
- Maximum size is 60 sq. in., they said they can do 4 x 15" (5 boards). The
girl in tech support said they can do other dimensions as well, as long as
the area is rectangular and doesn't exceed the maximum size. Of course -- no
internal routing, no scoring, no mouse bites, no slots or overlapping drill
hits.

Assuming I submit the files tomorrow, they'll ship the boards next Friday.
It's interesting to note that even if I submitted the files first thing in
the morning, or even the night before, that whole day is considered "Day 0",
and is not included in the 5-day lead time.

Perhaps someone will find the information useful..

Best regards,

Vitaliy

P.S. AC also offer 24-hour technical support -- a big plus when you're
facing a deadline.
P.P.S. I am not a compensated endorser for Advanced Circuits. 

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