AUSTIN, TX ― October 2021 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, is pleased to announce its 17th year in business. Kodiak strives to nurture long-term relationships with its staff and partnerships with its customers.
The privately held company was formed in 2004 with a small team of experienced engineers and operators. When Kodiak was started, there were 17 employees in a 20,000 ft2 facility. Today, 16 of them are still with the company, with one retired. Kodiak now has 76 employees that operate its 60,000 ft2 facility. The company still has several of its original customers to this day.
“We are both proud and excited to be celebrating 17 years of manufacturing our customers’ products,” stated Michael Harlow, Vice President, Kodiak Assembly. “It’s especially humbling that so many of our customers and employees have been with us from the beginning. Building and maintaining those relationships has been paramount to our success.”
Over the last 16 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, Network Servers, LED Lighting, Energy Management & Storage, Oil and Gas, Industrial controls, Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions, Security /Access Controls and Microprocessor Embedded Computer Assemblies.
AUSTIN, TX ― September 2021 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LLLP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, announces that it has successfully completed its ITAR registration.
“At Kodiak we are constantly striving to be ahead of the pack in the EMS field,” commented Mike Harlow, Vice President of Kodiak. “An ITAR registration is a mark of a high-quality manufacturing facility. Having an up-to-date ITAR registration means that we can ensure the quality and consistency of our facility and processes. It also allows us to produce sensitive products for the DoD and other government agencies where restricted information can be stored in a safe and secure environment.”
Over the last 16 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, Network Servers, LED Lighting, Energy Management & Storage, Oil and Gas, Industrial controls, Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions, Security /Access Controls and Microprocessor Embedded Computer Assemblies.
AUSTIN, TX ― June 2021 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LLLP, a leading contract electronics manufacturer, announces that it successfully provided its services to keep an Austin, TX-based network appliance manufacturer’s production continuing without interruption.
In 2020, the customer was notified that its current contract manufacturing (CM) partner was closing due to unforeseen circumstances in a very short time period. The customer needed to qualify a new CM quickly to keep production moving forward.
Kodiak Assembly Solutions was chosen for the task. It was able to transfer material from the previous CM in a timely manner and quickly build prototype units for customer qualification. Just as the qualification was completed, the customer booked a large order that included component procurement (some at 16-20 week lead time), manufacturing, assembly and test, all to be shipped prior to year-end. Vice President Mike Harlow said that through team-oriented communication on a weekly basis, Kodiak Assembly Solutions was able to compress supply lead-times to a point where the job was completed before the Christmas holidays.
The customer was pleased and added, “As a new engagement, Kodiak Assembly Solutions did a fantastic job of communicating throughout the process of procurement (expediting), assembly and test to produce a 100% quality product in time for a significant positive impact on year-end revenue.”
Over the last 16 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high-quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin. Its expertise and flexibility allow for the effective production of a great variety of products. Additionally, Kodiak Assembly is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
AUSTIN, TX ― September 2020 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, announces that it was awarded a 2020 Global Technology Award in the category of Contract services < $15 million. The award was announced during a Virtual Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020.
“We are honored to be recognized with this award from Global SMT & Packaging magazine,” stated Michael Harlow, Vice President of Sales, Kodiak Assembly Solutions. “Operating an electronics manufacturing company in 2020 has been especially challenging. We feel very fortunate that we have been able to continue operations and support our customers during the pandemic.”
Over the last 15 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, Network Servers, LED Lighting, Energy Management & Storage, Oil and Gas, Industrial controls, Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions, Security /Access Controls and Microprocessor Embedded Computer Assemblies.
Premiering in 2005, the Global Technology Awards program is an annual celebration of product excellence in electronics surface mount assembly. Premier products based on the finest examples of creative advancement in technology are chosen by a distinguished panel of industry experts.
AUSTIN, TX ― August 2020 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, an award-winning leading contract electronic manufacturer, is currently manufacturing PCBAs for Tx-Watt Amps.
Tx-Watt Amps prides itself on producing no-holds barred, boutique amps without sacrificing quality to cut costs. This basic idea goes hand-in-hand with Kodiak Assembly’s award-winning reputation for the highest quality manufacturing.
After Tx-Watt Amps Owner Jack Kay toured the Kodiak Assembly facility, and bonded over a love of guitar with Kodiak VP Mike Harlow, the companies decided to team up. Not only did Kay want to keep his amps made in the USA, but he also respected the atmosphere of community and teamwork at Kodiak.
“I’ve been playing music since the 60s,” commented Kay. “I was always unpleasantly surprised in the lack of quality in commercially made amplifiers. I decided to start a business creating amps with sound and tone being the main focus, without skimping on high-quality parts and assembly. It took about 30 years for my idea to become reality, but now at Tx-Watt we are creating high-quality amps using the best of the best materials. This is what led us to choosing Kodiak Assembly as our partner. Not only do they provide the best, Made in the USA product, but it’s always on time and on budget, which is a rare find. It’s also appealing that our production is scalable, so whether we need 50 units or 5,000 units, Kodiak can support us.”
Over the last 15 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high-quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers SMT, assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
For more information about Tx-Watt Amps, visit www.tx-watt.com.
AUSTIN, TX ― November 2019 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, announces that it was awarded a 2019 Global Technology Award in the category of Contract services < $15 million. The award was presented to the company during a Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019 ceremony that took place during productronica in Munich, Germany.
“We are proud and honored to be presented with this award,” stated Michael Harlow, Vice President / Sales, Kodiak Assembly. “Since creating Kodiak in 2004 it has always been our goal to deliver the best overall value to our customers. We will continue to focus on our customers’ manufacturing needs and remain a strategic manufacturing partner for them.”
Over the last 15 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers SMT, assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, communications, LED lighting, medical and biotechnology, oil and gas, industrial controls, radio frequency (RF) solutions, security, and microprocessor embedded computer assemblies.
Premiering in 2005, the Global Technology Awards program is an annual celebration of product excellence in electronics surface mount assembly. Premier products based on the finest examples of creative advancement in technology are chosen by a distinguished panel of industry experts.
When looking for a printed circuit board manufacturer, the
first thing that needs to be addressed is if a single or multi-layered PCB is
necessary. Many points come into play when deciding on your need, depending on
the circuit boards use. Technology like computers, microwaves, air conditioners
and cell phones are common items that use this form of PCB. Multi-layered
circuit boards can also be found in medical technology like x-ray equipment and
heart monitors.
What is a Layered
PCB?
A multi-layered PCB basically expands upon the technology
that is used with a double-sided printed circuit board. A multi-layered board is
made with three or more layers of conductive copper foil and can be put
together by joining double-sided printed circuit boards with insulating layers,
allowing for more area for wiring. They can be anywhere between 3 to over 20
layers because of their multiple conductor patterns. Using these multilayer
boards lets the manufacturer put the same amount of power in less space. A lot
of companies also prefer these multi-layered boards because they offer a higher
signal intensity.
The Benefits of
Multi-Layered Printed Circuit Boards
Besides more wiring area, there are numerous other benefits of
using a multi-layered printed circuit board. Since these are a layered design,
it allows them to be smaller than other PCBs, but still have the same
functioning capabilities. Along with being smaller in size, they are
lighter-weight as well because there is no need for multiple connectors.
Since a multi-layered PCB is designed to work on its own, it
uses a single connection point, meaning it only needs to include one single
point of connection in the overall technology product.
Multi-layered PCBs are more powerful and have the ability to
have more capacity and faster speed. With the use of the insulating layers, the
circuit boards have increased durability because of the protective materials
and can also have better flexibility depending on the design and construction.
Since more thought, design and planning go into the making of a multi-layered
board they are a reliable and high-quality piece of technology.
Where Are
Multi-Layered PCBs used?
Many industries are starting to prefer the use of a multi-layered
circuit board for their tech products. The automotive industry uses these
boards for the computers inside of cars, GPS systems and even electric
vehicles. Space and medical research facilities and companies need these
layered boards for their protective layers and ability to use flexible
materials. The telecommunications and electronics industry heavily use the PCBs
for their small, space-saving size and durability.
Useful in high-speed circuits, multi-layer PCBs are
beginning to be widely used in the military because of their low weight and
functionality. Because of their durability, these boards are also used in
industrial markets.
By using a multi-layered printed circuit board, you are
ensured of a durable, high-quality product, simply by the nature of the
technology’s design. As a leader in PCB manufacturing services, allow Kodiak
Assembly Solutions is ready to take on your projects with our layered PCB
services. We offer effective solutions for every level of production, and
manage the process from design to manufacturing in market spaces ranging from
radio frequency solutions to the biotechnology industry.
Let us guarantee high-quality results in every step of the process from prototyping to high volume production! Contact Kodiak Assembly Solutions today for expertise in layered printed board manufacturing.
Since its appearance in the 1980’s, surface mount technology (SMT) has become an integral part of the electronics manufacturing process. Many companies are choosing SMT over through-hole technology is because of the ability to size down. SMT technology allows for smaller components to be used on the circuit board, meaning components can also be now placed on the back of the board of closer together since there are no wires connecting them. There are many additional benefits of using SMT, which we delve into below.
SMT is Quick and Efficient
Ensuring that the system is ready for production isn’t hard
for a skilled technician and doesn’t take much time to complete. SMT also
allows for more flexibility on design and allows space to be saved on the
circuit board. Not only is it able to be placed on either side of the board,
this also allows manufacturers to use very small electronic devices. Having a
high component density SMT can even carry more connection on the individual
components.
Production speed is increased because SMT uses an assembly
technique that give a faster automated assembly time. This method is also the most used since SMT
has the ability to self- correct during production, meaning the lines don’t
need to be stopped to fix a small problem.
SMT is Cost Effective
Because of the smaller size and less materials needed, using SMT can usually result in a more cost-effective way to get the job done. With this controlled manufacturing process there is reduced material handling and board costs. Since fewer holes also have to be drilled SMT can use a premade circuit board that requires less customization, saving even more money and time. These boards allow for more space because of the smaller components, many can also decrease their layer counts, adding even more ways to cut down production costs.
SMT Provides Better Stability and is Environmentally Friendly
SMT gives better resistance against vibration and shock
because of its lower component mass. This technology can hold up against the
usual vibrating conditions seen in circuit board manufacturing. When put in
finished devices this can make a device less likely to receive damage if
dropped or shaken too hard.
This manufacturing process even ensures that less radiation
is admitted because of its smaller radiation loop area, making it more
environmentally friendly than its counterparts.
With SMT capability you are offered an efficient and
cost-effective way to get the job done. As a leader in PCB manufacturing
services let Kodiak Assembly Solutions take on the projects as leaders in the
Industry with our SMT services. We offer
flexibility for high amounts of customer requirements and created an effective
solution for all levels of production, from prototyping to ramping for high
volume production in SMT.
As consumers, we’re often driven by motivators that lead us to get more for less. However, while many of us have grown up with or grown into this way of thinking, getting more of an item doesn’t mean much if it’s poor quality. For example, if you could get 50 items for $50 but they were of poor quality versus getting one or two items for $50 that were high-quality products, which would you choose? Quality, right?
Learn how choosing quality can save your company time, money, and maintain a positive relationship with customers:
1. Saving time by choosing quality products from the start
Although many U.S.-based companies have turned to overseas or foreign manufacturers to develop a high quantity of products at a cheaper cost, they sometimes find themselves sacrificing quality for quantity. Oftentimes, this is due to companies seeking to have products built or developed for a much lower cost.
One main concern with choosing to manufacture overseas or in a foreign country is the longer shipping times. Though this is commonplace with items in other countries, it matters more so when the products arrive in poor condition or quality. After waiting a considerable period of time for the products to be shipped and then waiting months for product errors to be corrected means a company will spend a considerable amount of time and ultimately, money, awaiting products that could be just mediocre in quality.
2. Maintaining a positive relationship with your customers
Sometimes, choosing quality isn’t singularly about choosing products that will sell. Choosing high quality can build and maintain a positive relationship between a company and its customers. When consumers buy a product that is poor quality, or even average quality, they may not receive a positive impression of the product or the company and may not be likely to buy that product or from the company again. However, maintaining a higher level of quality can encourage or persuade customers to purchase that product a second, or third time.
3. Produce a higher ROI by avoiding returns and complaints
Just as we touched on earlier, choosing a manufacturer that does not have quality-centered processes can lead to receiving products of lesser quality than anticipated. Studies have concluded that high-quality products will obtain more repeat purchases from customers, instead of returns or complaints about products. Companies lose money when products are returned and they lose value when consumer complaints appear online – through reviews, website product ratings, and on social media.
All of these can have an equal effect on the value, but it can be minimized as much as possible by choosing a manufacturer that produces high-quality products as a result of its quality-centered processes.
4. Achieve better marketing value with aesthetics or high-quality features
You can usually recognize a higher quality product by the way it looks, feels, and how it sounds, tastes, or smells. In many ways, it’s been proven that aesthetics also matter when it comes to selling products. How higher quality products are made and what they are made of makes all the difference in how they will sell. Good design and good build are two attributes that have an impact on purchasing decisions.
When choosing a manufacturer to develop products your company plans to take to market, quality is an important factor to consider. At Kodiak Assembly Solutions, our quality commitment policy is to provide electronic manufacturing services which comply with customer requirements. We do this by understanding the needs of our customers and satisfying those needs while continuously focusing on improving our processes and procedures. Take a look at our quality commitment and our quality-centered processes here.
It’s the busiest time of year for consumer shopping, but the continued electronics component shortage might throw a wrench in any plans to snag gifts off the shelves of your favorite store this holiday season.
MLCC Shortage Could Cause Some Shelves to Sit Empty
Feel like the popular electronics are selling out faster than ever? As the passive component shortage continues to weigh heavily on manufacturing and electronics, MLCC (multi-layered ceramic chip capacitors remains one of the top sought-after components. The MLCC shortage alone led to a limited supply of consumer products on store shelves, putting companies and consumers in a bind during the busiest shopping season of the year.
Market Demand from Last Christmas Prompted Current State
In late 2017, market demand for several electronics components surged and soon this demand exceeded supply – just as the holiday season commenced. Since then, the increase in demand combined with limited overall production capacity resulted in a component shortage that worsened throughout 2018. Major contributing factors included electronics such as popular computers and consoles, mobile phones, and automobiles.
Manufacturers rushed to meet demand – especially for the continuously evolving and technologically-advanced features in automobiles, including the shift toward technology that focuses on self-driving, or autonomous, vehicles, ADAS, vehicle-to-vehicle communications, onboard safety, convenience, environmental features, and continued interest in electric vehicles.
The demand continued to deplete supply, leaving manufacturers and companies who did not hold a large share of supply – companies like Samsung and Apple, who purchase a vast majority of this supply for mobile phones that change every year – wondering whether they’d be able to meet consumer demand.
As a result, manufacturers have begun to build more capacity for production, but others, wary of what has transpired during a similar situation in the past, have remained hesitant. Some manufacturers have even increased prices or have labeled many products and parts as “TBD” pricing – simply because they don’t know the true cost until it arrives.
Although the shortage is still going on, the outlook for automotive electronics remains robust, with forecasts revealing increases in sales for 2018 and 2019.
High demand and tight supply continue to loom over the industry. Lead times remain long, but the shortage shouldn’t last forever. For now, ensure you’re up to date on what’s happening with the component shortage and don’t try to wait it out. The decisions your company makes now will impact longevity and success.
AUSTIN, TX ― October 2021 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, is pleased to announce its 17th year in business. Kodiak strives to nurture long-term relationships with its staff and partnerships with its customers.
The privately held company was formed in 2004 with a small team of experienced engineers and operators. When Kodiak was started, there were 17 employees in a 20,000 ft2 facility. Today, 16 of them are still with the company, with one retired. Kodiak now has 76 employees that operate its 60,000 ft2 facility. The company still has several of its original customers to this day.
“We are both proud and excited to be celebrating 17 years of manufacturing our customers’ products,” stated Michael Harlow, Vice President, Kodiak Assembly. “It’s especially humbling that so many of our customers and employees have been with us from the beginning. Building and maintaining those relationships has been paramount to our success.”
Over the last 16 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, Network Servers, LED Lighting, Energy Management & Storage, Oil and Gas, Industrial controls, Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions, Security /Access Controls and Microprocessor Embedded Computer Assemblies.
AUSTIN, TX ― September 2020 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, a leading contract electronic manufacturer, announces that it was awarded a 2020 Global Technology Award in the category of Contract services < $15 million. The award was announced during a Virtual Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020.
“We are honored to be recognized with this award from Global SMT & Packaging magazine,” stated Michael Harlow, Vice President of Sales, Kodiak Assembly Solutions. “Operating an electronics manufacturing company in 2020 has been especially challenging. We feel very fortunate that we have been able to continue operations and support our customers during the pandemic.”
Over the last 15 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers PCB assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
Kodiak has extensive experience in a number of key electronic markets, including: IoT- Internet of Things, Network Servers, LED Lighting, Energy Management & Storage, Oil and Gas, Industrial controls, Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions, Security /Access Controls and Microprocessor Embedded Computer Assemblies.
Premiering in 2005, the Global Technology Awards program is an annual celebration of product excellence in electronics surface mount assembly. Premier products based on the finest examples of creative advancement in technology are chosen by a distinguished panel of industry experts.
AUSTIN, TX ― August 2020 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LP, an award-winning leading contract electronic manufacturer, is currently manufacturing PCBAs for Tx-Watt Amps.
Tx-Watt Amps prides itself on producing no-holds barred, boutique amps without sacrificing quality to cut costs. This basic idea goes hand-in-hand with Kodiak Assembly’s award-winning reputation for the highest quality manufacturing.
After Tx-Watt Amps Owner Jack Kay toured the Kodiak Assembly facility, and bonded over a love of guitar with Kodiak VP Mike Harlow, the companies decided to team up. Not only did Kay want to keep his amps made in the USA, but he also respected the atmosphere of community and teamwork at Kodiak.
“I’ve been playing music since the 60s,” commented Kay. “I was always unpleasantly surprised in the lack of quality in commercially made amplifiers. I decided to start a business creating amps with sound and tone being the main focus, without skimping on high-quality parts and assembly. It took about 30 years for my idea to become reality, but now at Tx-Watt we are creating high-quality amps using the best of the best materials. This is what led us to choosing Kodiak Assembly as our partner. Not only do they provide the best, Made in the USA product, but it’s always on time and on budget, which is a rare find. It’s also appealing that our production is scalable, so whether we need 50 units or 5,000 units, Kodiak can support us.”
Over the last 15 years, Kodiak Assembly has established a reputation for its high-quality, first pass yields and on-time deliveries. The company offers SMT, assembly, test and system integration capabilities out of its world-class facility in Austin.
Kodiak Assembly’s expertise and flexibility allow the company to facilitate the effective production of a great variety of products. The company is built around the idea of being able to quickly begin production of high-quality electronic products while also sticking to the most demanding schedule.
For more information about Tx-Watt Amps, visit 
