Technical Questions

What is required for a successful file upload?

Your zip file must include at minimum 2 copper layers, a drill file, 2 soldermask files and an outline file.

For DK Red boards, missing or empty drill files will result in a rejection.

What Gerber File formats are accepted in PCB Builder?

PCB Builder currently accepts the following formats:

• Silkscreen - .gbr, .gbo, .gto, .sst, .ssb, .legend, .silk
• Paste - .gbr, .gtp, .gbp, .gpt, .gpb, .paste
• Soldermask - .gbr, .gts, .gbs, .smt, .sm_, .smb, .mask, .solder
• Pad - .gbr, .gpb, .gpt
• Drill - .drl, .drd, .xln, .drill
• Drill Drawing - .gd, .dd
• Mechanical - .gm
• Outline - .gbr, .gko, .outline, .profile
• Copper - .pho, .copper, .physical_layer, .Layer

We also accept KiCad native files - .kicad

We do not currently accept Gerbers from PADS at this time.

What is the minimum and maximum size board I can order?

This varies between suppliers within the builder. Visit our Technical Specs page which gives each suppliers min and max for the width and length.

How do I assign layers?

Once your Gerber Files have been uploaded, you will be able to assign each file to a board layer, drill file, etc. via multiple drop-down menus.

Will there be a DFM check?

Yes, these PCB Builder suppliers/programs perform a DFM check on submitted orders:

Are Stencils available to order?

Stencils are not available at this time.

Do you handle internal cutouts?

We are not doing internal cutouts at this time.

What if I have a technical question?

Please submit your questions on our TechForum page here: https://forum.digikey.com/c/design-tools-and-resources/dkred/74

Ordering Questions

Do I have to log in to receive a price?

Uploading a file does not require a login. However, to place an order you'll need to either login to an existing myDIGIKEY account or register as a new user.

Can I get a formal quote on a PCB?

Formal quotes are not available at this time.

What is ITAR?

The International Traffic in Arms Regulations, or ITAR, is a set of government rules that control the export and import of defense-related articles, services, and technology on the U.S. Munitions List (USML).

What is the difference between turnaround days and ship time?

Turnaround days is the time required in business days for the board house to fulfill the needs and requirements necessary to build your order.

Ship time is the time required to ship the finished product to you via your chosen shipping method.

Can I have my purchasing agent resume and finish the order?

Yes we have added a share button which creates a unique URL of your design and specs, which you can share out to a secondary person.

Can I reorder a previous purchase?

Unfortunately, this feature is currently not available.

When can I expect the board to be processed?

Processing time ranges from 2 to 10 business days. If you are in need of a shorter processing time, please select a board house option that features a "Quick Turn" or "QT" service within their shop name. Express shipping is also available for many suppliers.

How do I view submitted order?

You can view your current and previous orders by logging into myDIGIKEY and visiting "Order History".

Will a board house contact me if there is a problem?

If the board house has questions you will receive an email notification with a link for correspondence with the board house.

What happens if a board house rejects my order?

If your board is rejected, please correct the file and re-upload. This is done to help protect you from any significant issues relating to board layouts, quantities, or other potential issues and help us find you the right solution for your design.

DKRed Questions

What is DKRed?

DKRed is a set of defined board options that offers a premium product at a low cost. To learn more about the board parameters, visit the DKRed homepage.

What happens if I place silkscreen where there is no soldermask?

For DKRed orders, silkscreen will not be printed where soldermask is not present.

How do I enable the DKRed Program?

Toggle the DKRed option at the top of the “Options and Specifications” section of the PCB Builder page. Toggling this option will set the DKRed board parameter options for you.