EasyEDA to JLCPCB: Complete Guide to PCB Manufacturing & SMT Assembly

I’ve been designing PCBs professionally for over eight years now, and the EasyEDA JLCPCB workflow has genuinely transformed how I approach prototyping. What used to cost hundreds of dollars and take weeks can now be done for a fraction of the price in just days. This guide covers everything you need to know about going from schematic to assembled boards using this powerful combination.

Why the EasyEDA and JLCPCB Integration Matters

Before diving into the technical details, let me explain why this particular workflow is so popular among hobbyists and professionals alike. EasyEDA and JLCPCB are sister companies (along with LCSC for component sourcing), which means the integration between design software and manufacturing is seamless. When you design in EasyEDA using components from the LCSC library, those same components are available for JLCPCB SMT assembly without any translation headaches.

The typical workflow looks like this:

1. Design schematic in EasyEDA using LCSC/JLCPCB library components
2. Convert to PCB and complete layout
3. Generate Gerber, BOM, and CPL files
4. One-click order to JLCPCB
5. Receive assembled boards in 5-10 days

No other EDA-to-manufacturer pipeline I’ve used comes this close to being truly turnkey.

Understanding the Complete EasyEDA to JLCPCB Workflow

Step 1: Setting Up Your EasyEDA Project Correctly

The key to a smooth EasyEDA to JLCPCB experience starts at the schematic stage. Here’s what I’ve learned after dozens of orders:

Always use JLCPCB/LCSC library components when possible. This is critical. When you search for components in EasyEDA’s library, look for the “JLCPCB Assembled” filter. These components have verified footprints and LCSC part numbers already attached, which eliminates guesswork later.

To find assembly-ready components:

1. Open the Library panel in EasyEDA
2. Click on “LCSC” or “JLCPCB Assembly” filter
3. Search for your component
4. Verify stock availability before placing

Check part availability before you commit to a design. There’s nothing worse than finishing a layout only to discover that key component is out of stock or not available for assembly.

Step 2: Understanding JLCPCB Part Categories

This is where many first-time users get surprised by costs. JLCPCB SMT assembly pricing depends heavily on which part categories you use.

Part Category	Description	Extra Fee	Best For
Basic Parts	Common components always loaded in machines	$0 per type	Resistors, capacitors, common ICs
Extended (Preferred)	Popular but not pre-loaded	$0 (Economic PCBA)	Common semiconductors
Extended Parts	Less common components	$3 per unique type	Specialty ICs, connectors

Pro tip from experience: Each unique Extended part adds $3 to your order. If your design uses 10 different Extended resistor values, that’s $30 in fees alone. I always try to consolidate to Basic parts where possible. For example, if my circuit needs 3.9kΩ but only 4.7kΩ is Basic, I’ll check if 4.7kΩ works for my application.

JLCPCB Basic Parts: What’s Actually Available

Here’s a quick reference of what you can typically find as Basic parts:

Component Type	Common Basic Options
Chip Resistors	0402, 0603, 0805 in E24 values
MLCC Capacitors	0402, 0603, 0805 common values
LEDs	0603, 0805 red, green, blue
Transistors	MMBT3904, MMBT3906, 2N7002
Diodes	SM4007, SS14
Voltage Regulators	AMS1117 series
Op-Amps	LM358, LM324

For anything not in this list, check the JLCPCB Parts Library directly rather than relying on EasyEDA’s database, as it’s more frequently updated.

Designing for EasyEDA SMT Assembly Success

PCB Layout Considerations

When laying out your PCB for JLCPCB assembly, keep these guidelines in mind:

Minimum component spacing: JLCPCB recommends at least 0.3mm between components for their pick-and-place machines.

Fiducial marks: While JLCPCB can add these automatically, I prefer adding them myself for better placement accuracy. Place at least two fiducials diagonally opposite on your board.

Process edges (rails): For small boards (under 70mm on any side), consider adding 5mm breakaway rails. This gives the pick-and-place machines something to grip.

Single-sided assembly (Economic): JLCPCB’s Economic PCBA service only assembles one side. If you need both sides assembled, you’ll need Standard PCBA service.

Component Orientation and Footprints

One of the most common issues with EasyEDA JLCPCB orders is component rotation. Here’s how to avoid problems:

1. In EasyEDA, always verify your footprint orientation matches the component datasheet
2. The “dot” or “band” on the 3D preview should match your schematic symbol’s pin 1
3. Use the CPL preview in JLCPCB’s ordering system to verify all rotations before confirming

JLCPCB’s preview system shows component orientation with a red dot indicating pin 1. I’ve caught rotation errors this way multiple times that would have resulted in non-functional boards.

Generating the Required Files for JLCPCB

The Three Essential Files

To order PCBs with assembly, you need three files:

File Type	Purpose	Generated From
Gerber (ZIP)	PCB manufacturing data	PCB Editor
BOM (CSV)	Bill of Materials with LCSC part numbers	Schematic/PCB
CPL/PNP (CSV)	Component Placement List	PCB Editor

Generating Gerber Files in EasyEDA

In EasyEDA Standard:

1. Open your PCB design
2. Go to Fabrication → PCB Fabrication File (Gerber) or click the Gerber icon
3. Review the preview to ensure all layers are correct
4. Click Order at JLCPCB for direct submission, or Download Gerber for the ZIP file

In EasyEDA Pro:

1. Open PCB design
2. Go to Export → PCB Fabrication File
3. Configure export settings (default is usually fine)
4. Click export

Always verify your Gerber before ordering. Use JLCPCB’s online Gerber viewer or a tool like gerbv to check that all layers align correctly and nothing is missing.

Generating BOM Files Correctly

The BOM tells JLCPCB which components to place. Here’s the critical part: every component needs an LCSC part number.

To export BOM in EasyEDA:

1. Open your schematic (not PCB)
2. Go to Fabrication → BOM or click the BOM icon
3. Review the LCSC Assembly column – all entries should show “Yes”
4. For any missing part numbers, click the assign icon to search LCSC
5. Export as CSV

BOM Format Requirements:

Column	Required	Description
Comment	Yes	Component value (10K, 100nF, etc.)
Designator	Yes	Reference designator (R1, C5, U3)
Footprint	Yes	Package type (0603, SOT-23)
LCSC Part #	Yes	LCSC component number (C25804)

Generating CPL/Pick-and-Place Files

The CPL file tells the assembly machine exactly where to place each component:

1. Open your PCB design
2. Go to Fabrication → Export Pick and Place File
3. Select CSV format
4. Ensure coordinates are in millimeters

CPL Format Requirements:

Column	Description
Designator	Component reference (R1, U3)
Mid X	X coordinate in mm
Mid Y	Y coordinate in mm
Rotation	Angle in degrees
Layer	Top or Bottom

Ordering Process: From EasyEDA to JLCPCB

Method 1: Direct One-Click Order (Recommended)

The easiest way to order is using EasyEDA’s built-in integration:

1. In EasyEDA, after generating Gerber, click Order at JLCPCB
2. Your Gerber uploads automatically
3. Configure PCB options (color, thickness, quantity)
4. Enable SMT Assembly toggle
5. BOM and CPL files upload automatically when using this method
6. Review component matching
7. Complete checkout

This method eliminates most file format issues since EasyEDA and JLCPCB use the same data.

Method 2: Manual Upload

If you need more control or are working with exported files:

1. Go to jlcpcb.com and click Quote Now
2. Upload your Gerber ZIP file
3. Configure PCB parameters
4. Scroll down and enable SMT Assembly
5. Select assembly side (Top, Bottom, or Both)
6. Choose Economic or Standard PCBA
7. Upload BOM file
8. Upload CPL file
9. Review and confirm parts
10. Complete checkout

JLCPCB SMT Assembly: Economic vs Standard

Feature	Economic PCBA	Standard PCBA
Setup Fee	~$8	~$28
Assembly Side	Single side only	Both sides
Board Quantity	2-30	2-10,000+
Extended Part Fee	$3/type	$3/type
Preferred Extended Fee	$0	$3/type
Turnaround	3-5 days	3-7 days
Best For	Prototypes	Production runs

For most hobby projects and prototypes, Economic PCBA is the clear winner. I only use Standard when I need double-sided assembly or quantities over 30.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

“Component Not Found” Errors

Problem: JLCPCB can’t match your BOM entry to their library.

Solutions:

• Verify the LCSC part number is correct (format: C######)
• Check if the part is in stock at jlcpcb.com/parts
• Search for alternative parts with similar specifications
• Remove the component from assembly and solder it manually

Rotation Errors in Preview

Problem: Components appear rotated incorrectly in JLCPCB’s preview.

Solutions:

• Note the required rotation offset
• Modify the CPL file’s rotation column
• In EasyEDA, adjust the footprint rotation before export
• For ICs, verify pin 1 orientation matches datasheet

Minimum Order Quantities

JLCPCB has minimum order quantities for components:

Component Type	Typical Minimum
Resistors, Capacitors	40 pieces
Diodes, Inductors	20 pieces
ICs	10 pieces

Tip: If you’re ordering 5 boards but need 40 resistors of one value, consider ordering 10 boards instead. The marginal cost increase is often less than paying for unused components.

Out-of-Stock Components

Options when a part is unavailable:

1. Wait for restock (check expected date)
2. Select an alternative from JLCPCB’s library
3. Use Global Parts Sourcing (adds time and cost)
4. Remove from assembly order and solder manually

Cost Optimization Strategies

Reducing Extended Part Fees

The $3 per Extended part fee can add up quickly. Here’s how I minimize it:

Consolidate values: Instead of using 3.3kΩ, 3.9kΩ, and 4.7kΩ resistors, see if you can standardize on one or two values.

Use Basic alternatives: Chinese manufacturers like CJ (Changjiang) make pin-compatible alternatives to popular ICs that are often Basic parts. The CJ431 (TL431 equivalent) is a great example.

Check both categories: Sometimes the same component exists as both Basic and Extended under different manufacturer names.

Panel Pricing

For small boards, JLCPCB’s panelization can reduce per-unit costs:

• Boards under 100x100mm: Special $2 pricing for 5 pieces
• Panelized boards: Pay standard pricing based on panel size
• For assembly, panel size limit is 250x250mm

Shipping Optimization

JLCPCB offers various shipping options. For non-urgent orders, combining with other purchases can reduce per-order shipping costs significantly.

Real-World EasyEDA to JLCPCB Example

Let me walk you through a recent project to illustrate the complete workflow:

Project: ESP32-based sensor node with power supply, sensors, and USB interface

Design phase:

• Total components: 45
• Basic parts: 38 (resistors, caps, LEDs, voltage regulator)
• Extended parts: 7 (ESP32 module, sensor ICs, USB connector)

Cost breakdown:

Item	Cost
PCB (5 pcs, 50x40mm, 2-layer)	$2.00
SMT Assembly Setup	$8.00
Assembly Fee (~180 joints × $0.0017)	$0.31
Basic Parts	$1.24
Extended Parts (7 × $3 fee)	$21.00
Extended Part Components	$8.45
Stencil	$0 (included)
Total before shipping	$41.00

For 5 fully assembled boards with a custom design, that’s excellent value. The same order at a traditional assembly house would easily cost $200+.

Essential Resources and Links

Here are the official resources you’ll need:

Resource	URL	Purpose
EasyEDA Download	easyeda.com/page/download	Desktop client
EasyEDA Pro Editor	pro.easyeda.com/editor	Online editor
JLCPCB Order Page	jlcpcb.com/quote	Order PCBs
JLCPCB Parts Library	jlcpcb.com/parts	Search available components
JLCPCB SMT Assembly	jlcpcb.com/smt-assembly	Assembly service
EasyEDA Documentation	docs.easyeda.com	Standard edition docs
EasyEDA Pro Docs	prodocs.easyeda.com	Pro edition docs
JLCPCB Help Center	jlcpcb.com/help	FAQs and guides
Gerber Viewer	jlcpcb.com/quote (after upload)	Verify Gerber files
OSHWLab	oshwlab.com	Open source project sharing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use components not in JLCPCB’s library?

Yes, you have several options. You can use JLCPCB’s Global Parts Sourcing service where they’ll procure components from authorized distributors (adds time and handling fees). Alternatively, you can consign your own parts to JLCPCB’s inventory for future orders. The simplest option is to have JLCPCB assemble everything except those parts, then solder them yourself.

What’s the minimum order quantity for assembled boards?

For Economic PCBA, you can order as few as 2 assembled boards (out of a minimum 5 PCB order). For Standard PCBA, the minimum is also 2 assembled boards. However, ordering fewer assembled boards than your PCB quantity means you’ll need to manually populate the remaining boards.

How long does JLCPCB assembly take?

Typical turnaround times are 3-5 business days for Economic PCBA and 3-7 days for Standard PCBA after payment confirmation. Add shipping time based on your selected carrier. I usually receive complete orders in 7-12 days to the United States using standard shipping.

Does JLCPCB support through-hole assembly?

Yes, JLCPCB offers through-hole technology (THT) assembly using wave soldering. There’s an additional hand-soldering labor fee of $3.50 plus per-joint costs. THT assembly can be combined with SMT assembly in the same order.

What happens if a component becomes unavailable after I order?

JLCPCB will contact you with options: wait for restock, select an alternative component, or proceed without that component (with a partial refund). They won’t substitute components without your approval.

Advanced Tips for Experienced Users

Working with Multi-Board Projects

When your project involves multiple PCBs (like a main board and a daughter board), here’s how to handle the workflow efficiently:

Separate orders for different designs: JLCPCB charges a “different design” fee if you include multiple distinct PCBs in one order. For prototyping, I typically order each board separately to avoid confusion with BOM and CPL files.

Panelization for identical boards: If you need many copies of the same board, JLCPCB can panelize them for you, or you can create your own panel in EasyEDA. The key rules for SMT panelized boards:

• Maximum panel size: 250×250mm
• V-groove or tab-routed separation
• Fiducials on the panel frame, not just individual boards
• Same component orientation across all boards for efficient pick-and-place

Handling Special Components

Some components require extra attention in the EasyEDA to JLCPCB workflow:

BGA packages: JLCPCB can assemble BGA components, but they require X-ray inspection to verify solder joints. This adds to processing time and cost. Always verify your BGA is in their parts library before designing around it.

QFN/DFN packages: These leadless packages are tricky because the thermal pad underneath must be properly designed. In EasyEDA, ensure your footprint includes the correct thermal pad dimensions and that it’s connected to the appropriate net (usually ground).

Fine-pitch components: For components with 0.4mm pitch or finer, consider adding local fiducials near the component for better placement accuracy.

Connectors: Many connectors require hand soldering. Even surface-mount connectors often have through-hole mounting tabs that JLCPCB won’t populate. Factor in manual soldering time for these.

DFM Analysis: Catching Problems Before Production

JLCPCB provides a free Design for Manufacturing (DFM) analysis after you upload your Gerber files. Don’t skip reviewing this report. It catches issues like:

• Trace widths that are too narrow for the selected copper weight
• Drill holes that are too small
• Silkscreen over pads
• Solder mask bridges between fine-pitch pads
• Missing or incorrect board outline

I’ve learned to always run EasyEDA’s built-in DRC (Design Rule Check) with JLCPCB’s design rules loaded before exporting. This catches most issues before they even get to the quote stage.

Version Control and Design Iteration

Professional PCB development rarely involves a single design spin. Here’s my approach to managing revisions:

Naming conventions: I name my Gerber exports with the project name and revision (e.g., SensorNode_v1.2_Gerber.zip). This makes it easy to track which files correspond to which JLCPCB orders.

Change documentation: Before ordering a new revision, I export the BOM and compare it against the previous version. EasyEDA Pro has built-in comparison tools, or you can use a simple diff on the CSV files.

Order notes: JLCPCB allows you to add notes to your order. I always include the revision number and any special instructions for the production team.

Understanding JLCPCB’s Manufacturing Process

Knowing what happens after you click “order” helps you design better boards and set realistic expectations.

PCB Fabrication Timeline

Stage	Typical Duration	What Happens
File Review	2-4 hours	Engineers check Gerber validity
Inner Layer Processing	4-8 hours	For 4+ layer boards
Drilling	2-4 hours	Through-holes and vias
Plating	8-12 hours	Copper deposition
Outer Layer	4-8 hours	Traces and pads
Solder Mask	4-6 hours	Green (or other color) coating
Silkscreen	2-4 hours	Component markings
Surface Finish	2-4 hours	HASL, ENIG, or other
Routing/V-Cut	2-4 hours	Separate boards from panel
Testing	2-4 hours	Flying probe or electrical test

SMT Assembly Timeline

After PCB fabrication, assembly adds these stages:

Stage	Typical Duration	What Happens
Kitting	2-4 hours	Gather all components
Solder Paste	1-2 hours	Apply via stencil
Pick and Place	1-4 hours	Machine placement
Reflow	30 min	Solder melting in oven
Inspection	1-2 hours	AOI (Automated Optical)
X-Ray (if needed)	1-2 hours	For BGA/QFN parts
Touch-up	Variable	Fix any issues

Understanding this process helps explain why “assembly” adds 2-3 days to your order.

Troubleshooting Common EasyEDA SMT Assembly Errors

“No SMD Parts Found” Error

This frustrating message usually means:

1. Wrong layer selected: You chose “Top” assembly but all SMD parts are on the bottom layer (or vice versa).
2. Through-hole only design: If your board only has THT components, you need to select THT assembly, not SMT.
3. CPL coordinate mismatch: The coordinates in your CPL file don’t match any pads on your board.

Fix: Re-export your CPL file ensuring you select the correct layer. In EasyEDA, double-check that component footprints are actually on the layer you think they are.

Price Discrepancies Between Quote and Checkout

If the final price is higher than expected:

1. Minimum order quantities: You may be paying for more components than you need.
2. Extended part fees: Each unique Extended part adds $3.
3. Feeder loading fees: Some rare components require special handling.
4. Component price changes: LCSC prices fluctuate; the BOM dialog shows estimates.

Solution: Review the detailed cost breakdown in the checkout process. JLCPCB itemizes every charge so you can identify unexpected costs.

Assembly Side Confusion

Problem: Components appear on the wrong side in preview.

Cause: The CPL file’s “Layer” column doesn’t match where you designed the components.

Solution: Check your footprint properties in EasyEDA. Each footprint should clearly indicate whether it’s on the Top or Bottom layer. Re-export the CPL file after verifying.

Comparing JLCPCB Assembly to Alternatives

While JLCPCB SMT assembly is my go-to for most projects, it’s worth understanding how it compares to alternatives:

Service	Setup Fee	Per-Joint Cost	Turn Time	Best For
JLCPCB	$8	$0.0017	3-5 days	Prototypes, small runs
PCBWay	$30+	~$0.002	3-5 days	Complex boards
Seeed Fusion	$15	~$0.0015	5-7 days	Maker projects
Hand Assembly	$0	Your time	Variable	Learning, urgent repairs

For most hobbyists and small-run production, JLCPCB’s pricing and EasyEDA integration make it hard to beat.

Quality Expectations and What to Inspect

When your assembled boards arrive, here’s what to check:

Visual inspection:

• All components present and properly oriented
• No solder bridges between pins
• Components seated flat (not tombstoned)
• Clean flux residue (JLCPCB uses no-clean flux)

Electrical testing:

• Power supply rails at correct voltage
• No shorts between power and ground
• Basic functionality test

Common issues I’ve seen:

• Occasional tombstoned 0402 components (usually still functional)
• Slightly off-center placement (within spec but visible)
• Flux residue around fine-pitch ICs (cosmetic only)

In over 50 assembly orders, I’ve had exactly two boards arrive with actual defects. JLCPCB’s customer service resolved both quickly with refunds.

Final Thoughts

The EasyEDA JLCPCB workflow has democratized PCB manufacturing in ways that weren’t possible even five years ago. For hobbyists, it means professional-quality boards are accessible at hobby budgets. For professionals, it means faster iteration cycles and lower prototyping costs.

My biggest advice for newcomers: start simple. Order a basic board with only Basic parts for your first assembly order. Get comfortable with the process before tackling complex designs with dozens of Extended parts. The learning curve isn’t steep, but understanding the quirks of BOM/CPL generation and part selection will save you money and frustration.

The integration between EasyEDA and JLCPCB continues to improve. Features like automatic file generation, one-click ordering, and real-time inventory checking make this workflow more seamless with each update. If you’re not already using this combination for your PCB projects, I highly recommend giving it a try on your next design.