What is Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS)?
EMS stands for Electronics Manufacturing Services. EMS companies are the ones that design, manufacture, test, distribute, and provide return/repair services for electronic components and assemblies for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The idea behind EMS is that OEMs can improve their operational efficiency by outsourcing parts of their manufacturing processes. This way, OEMs can focus on their core competencies such as R&D, while the EMS company handles the manufacturing and sometimes even the design of the electronic components and systems.
What does an EMS typically offer?
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Design and Prototyping | Development of product designs and creation of prototypes |
| PCB Assembly | Assembly of printed circuit boards using SMT and THT |
| Testing and Validation | Ensuring product functionality and reliability |
| Logistics | Packaging and distribution of finished products |
| After-Sales Support | Repair and maintenance services |
What Certifications Should a Reliable EMS Provider Have?
Certifications are critical indicators of an EMS provider’s quality and reliability. Here are some key certifications to look for:
- ISO 9001: This certification relates to quality management systems and is essential for companies focused on meeting customer quality and regulatory requirements.
- ISO 14001: Related to environmental management, ensuring the company minimizes harmful effects on the environment.
- ISO 13485: Specifically for the design and manufacturing of medical devices.
- AS9100: Pertaining to the aerospace industry, incorporating all ISO 9001 requirements with additional quality system requirements established by the aerospace industry.
- IPC-A-610: The Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies, an important standard for electronic assemblies.
What is the Difference Between EMS and Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM)?
The main difference between EMS and OEM lies in the scope of their operations and their roles in the production and design process:
- EMS (Electronics Manufacturing Services): These are service providers that manufacture, test, distribute, and provide repair services for electronic parts and assemblies for OEMs. EMS providers typically do not own the brand of the products they manufacture; they are a third-party service provider working on behalf of the OEM.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): An OEM refers to a company that designs and manufactures products that it sells under its own brand name. OEMs may design their products and outsource the manufacturing to an EMS, or they may manufacture them internally.
For more in-depth insights and expert guidance on electronics manufacturing services, please contact us via the website We support any form of OEM customization requirements, hold industry-leading certifications, and use state-of-the-art technology to deliver products that not only meet but exceed expectations.
