RBB Systems experts in High-Mix, Low Volume

In the Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) industry, the term high-mix, low-volume (HMLV) refers to contract manufacturers (CMs) or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that frequently switch production between assemblies and processes. This contrasts sharply with low-mix, high-volume (LMHV) operations, where production runs can last weeks or even months between changeovers. HMLV shops are known for their agility, rapidly converting production lines to different assemblies—sometimes in a matter of hours or minutes—and doing so frequently, often several times a week or even within a single shift. LMHV, on the other hand, is a completely different beast, focusing on long, uninterrupted production runs..

Both business models are well-established in the industry, each serving its own purpose. However, for growing clients who face unpredictable demand and require a fast, flexible provider for their printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and control panels, a third alternative has emerged: RBB.

RBB is like an HMLV shop on steroids. We build hundreds of unique assemblies annually, and it’s not uncommon for us to introduce multiple new assemblies in a single week. Rarely do we run a batch large enough to consume an entire shift of production time. But when we do, we “swarm to the need,” reconfiguring our workforce on the fly to keep things moving efficiently. No matter the size or complexity of the order, we take it in stride, ensuring that every client receives the same level of attention and care.

At RBB, we thrive on creatively responding to market uncertainties, rush orders, expedited requests, and pushouts. Our ability to adapt quickly and efficiently has earned us recognition, including Technology, Customer Service and Best Overall Awards for our company size from Circuit Assembly Magazine for the past three years. The more jobs we have in the hopper, the better—it allows us to solve client challenges daily, delivering solutions that go beyond the ordinary
Let’s take a closer look at how RBB compares to traditional HMLV and LMHV models:

RBB Systems' Expertise in Custom Integration

Box-build assemblies and industrial control panels are key to delivering integrated, ready-to-use solutions. These systems often have greater complexity than standard PCB assemblies because they involve not just the board but also enclosures, wiring, cable harnesses, mechanical integration, and final testing. Meeting specific customer needs with box-build solutions requires a high degree of flexibility and customization. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of this process, particularly in regard to the influence a company like RBB has on design, component selection, and assembly.

At RBB, we don’t design or build panels or box builds ourselves; rather, we build to our customers' specifications. Most of the time, our customers provide all or most of the parts required for the assembly. We can suggest substitutions to the bill of materials (BOM), but we will not make changes to the build without customer approval.

In this blog, we’ll discuss  why Box-build assemblies and industrial control panels are key to delivering integrated, ready-to-use solutions With solutions, benefits, and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency. 

Driving Innovation in Manufacturing:

Electronic assembly is a critical process when manufacturing modern devices. Inventive assembly technologies are needed as demand for smaller, faster, and more efficient electronics continues to grow. In recent years, the manufacturing process has been changed by advancements in electronic assembly technologies such as surface mount technology (SMT), automated assembly, and advanced soldering techniques.

Production speeds, precision, and the ability to integrate smaller, more complex electronic devices have been increased by these technologies to meet the changing needs of many industries.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top practices from leading assembly manufacturers and highlight real-world examples of success stories that can inspire others in the industry. With solutions, benefits, and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency. 

WOOSTER, OH— January 2025 — RBB, a trusted leader in electronics manufacturing since 1973, is helping manufacturers achieve precision, reliability, and efficiency with its Custom Industrial Control Panels. Designed to meet the diverse and complex needs of modern manufacturing, RBB provides turnkey and labor-only solutions, ensuring customers receive high-quality, fully compliant control panel assemblies.

Wooster, OH— February 2025 — RBB, a trusted leader in electronics manufacturing since 1973, is proud to announce the acquisition of the Fancort Industries PHM1-1 Hot Bar Solder Machine, enhancing its ability to tackle complex soldering applications with precision and reliability.

The new PHM1-1 Hot Bar Solder Machine provides precise, high-quality soldering capabilities, allowing RBB Systems to efficiently manage intricate assemblies and challenging builds. Initially acquired to assist a valued client with a demanding project, the addition of this equipment demonstrates RBB’s commitment to “moving heaven and earth” to meet customer needs.

Driving Efficiency and Innovation:

Today, assembly manufacturers are being asked to deliver products where the focus is on efficiency and innovation. Leading manufacturers are adopting best practices to bring production processes up to speed, adopt modern technologies, and build a culture of continuous improvement to remain competitive. Not only do these strategies help improve product quality, they also increase customer satisfaction and culminate long-term business success. 

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top practices from leading assembly manufacturers and highlight real-world examples of success stories that can inspire others in the industry. With solutions, benefits, and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency. 

RBB Celebrates the Retirement of Wayne Reising, Longest Serving Team Member

Wooster, OH – January 2025 – RBB, a leading provider of custom electronics manufacturing, announces the retirement of Wayne Reising, Industrial Control Panels Assembly Specialist, after an extraordinary career spanning 47 years and 7 months. Reising holds the distinction of being RBB's longest-serving employee, leaving a legacy of dedication, excellence, and mentorship that has shaped the company’s culture and operations for nearly half a century.

 USA Manufacturing Benefits:

When sourcing circuit board assembly and components, manufacturers are faced with a critical decision: should they opt for overseas suppliers to cut costs, or should they choose the reliability and high standards offered by domestic manufacturers? 

At RBB, we believe in the inherent advantages of choosing a USA-based manufacturer, and we are proud to offer services that exceed what offshore manufacturers can provide.

This blog will explore the many benefits of partnering with a USA-based company in the electronics manufacturing industry. With solutions, benefits, and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency. 

Prototyping to Production:

Every electronic assembly project follows a carefully orchestrated path from early concept to final product. With the ever-increasing demand for high-quality electronic assemblies, companies require trusted partners that can navigate the complexities of prototyping, component sourcing, assembly and testing with precision and skill.

RBB’s extensive experience in electronic assembly services make us a trusted resource for these needs, especially when delivering unique assemblies and handling new market demands

This blog will explore navigating the assembly process from prototyping to production in the electronics manufacturing industry. With solutions, benefits and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency. 

Better Service and Results:

In today’s competitive market, businesses are always on the lookout for ways to cut costs and still get high-quality results. While this is true of many things, it is not the case for circuit board assembly, and a low price does not mean that you are getting the best value. At RBB, we believe that true value goes far beyond the initial cost, and we strive to provide our clients with a level of service that ensures long-term success.

This blog will explore the real meaning of value in the electronics manufacturing industry with solutions, benefits and RBB's core value of "Always Better" and our unwavering commitment to providing maximum customer benefits. At RBB, we constantly assess our manufacturing processes and seek ways to enhance each task's efficiency.