I recently came across a review of a company that I thought sounded interesting and decided to look into a little bit more. The company is ExpressPCB and they specialize in creating customized printed circuit boards.

One thing I have often wondered (but never looked in to) is how people who come up with a new product idea get those fancy little boards designed for their project. ExpressPCB is a company that answers this question. My FM Code Keyer would probably look a lot more professional and enticing if I had used a company like this to create a printed circuit board for me rather than a blank project board and small wire to connect things together.

One drawback (the one that would have kept me from using them for my code keyer) is the price. I understand that they need to cover costs and make money and I do not know what kind of overhead is involved or equipment needed to create printed circuit boards, but the prices seem a bit high for someone who is experimenting and building stuff for his or her own personal use.

If you have an idea that you are thinking about marketing (either by building and selling or selling as a kit) this may be a site you would be interested in checking in to. The software is free and you can create the design without spending any money or agreeing to anything. The only time it costs you money is when you decide to place an order for a board.

Note: I am in no way connected with ExpressPCB and had not heard of them until shortly before writing this article. I received no compensation for writing this article and simply found them to be something that someone may find useful.