IPC-1720 Standard Explained: What Electronics Manufacturers Need to Know

If you’ve been working in electronics manufacturing for any length of time, chances are you’ve encountered IPC-1720 during a supplier qualification process. Maybe an OEM customer asked you to complete one, or you’re an OEM yourself trying to streamline your supplier audits. Either way, understanding what IPC-1720 actually covers—and why it matters—can save you significant time and headaches down the road.

I’ve filled out more IPC-1720 forms than I care to count over the years, and I’ve seen companies struggle with this document simply because nobody explained what it’s really for. So let’s break it down from an engineer’s perspective.

What Is IPC-1720?

IPC-1720, officially titled the Assembly Qualification Profile (AQP), is a standardized form developed by the IPC OEM Council. The current revision is IPC-1720A, released in July 2004.

The purpose is straightforward: it provides a structured way for electronics assembly manufacturers to document their capabilities, equipment, processes, and quality systems. When an OEM needs to evaluate a potential EMS (Electronics Manufacturing Services) provider, the IPC-1720 gives them a consistent format to compare apples to apples.

Think of it as a comprehensive questionnaire that captures everything an OEM might want to know about your manufacturing operation before placing an order—or before conducting an on-site audit.

Why IPC-1720 Was Developed

Before IPC-1720 existed, OEMs had their own proprietary qualification forms. One customer might ask about your reflow capabilities in a 50-page document, while another wanted the same information structured completely differently. Manufacturers were spending enormous amounts of time filling out redundant paperwork.

The IPC OEM Council recognized this inefficiency and created a universal profile that both parties could use. The idea was simple: if everyone uses the same format, audits become simpler, less frequent, and less painful for everyone involved.

Who Needs IPC-1720 Compliance?

IPC-1720 is relevant for several groups in the electronics supply chain:

If you’re an EMS company targeting aerospace, medical, or automotive OEMs, expect to complete IPC-1720 as part of the initial qualification process. Many large OEMs—particularly those in regulated industries—require it as standard practice.

IPC-1720 Document Structure: What’s Inside

The IPC-1720A form is divided into nine main sections. Here’s what each covers and what you should prepare before filling it out:

Section 1: Company and Site Description

This section captures your basic company information and site-specific details. If you operate multiple facilities, you’ll need to complete Section 1.2 (Site Description) for each manufacturing location.

Key information required:

• Legal company name and physical address
• Management contacts (CEO, engineering director, quality manager)
• Employee breakdown by department
• Corporate structure (public/private, parent company if applicable)

Section 2: Site Capability Snapshot

This is where things get technical. Section 2 breaks down into several subsections covering your actual manufacturing capabilities:

Section 3: Master Equipment Listing

A detailed inventory of your production and test equipment. For each piece of equipment, you’ll document:

• Equipment name and manufacturer
• Model number
• Equipment limits and accuracy
• Calibration frequency
• Special remarks (capabilities, condition)

This section takes time to compile accurately. Don’t shortcut it—OEM engineers will compare your equipment list against their product requirements.

Section 4: Technology Profile Specifics

Section 4 digs deeper into your technical capabilities. Topics include:

• Placement equipment alignment methods
• Component verification systems
• Solder paste inspection capabilities
• Thermal profiling methods
• Reliability testing equipment

Section 5: Quality Profile

Perhaps the most important section for OEM quality engineers reviewing your AQP. This section documents your Total Quality Management (TQM) programs and their deployment status.

The format uses a status matrix where you indicate whether quality initiatives are:

• Applicable to your operation
• Started but not deployed
• Approach developed
• Deployed
• Results being measured

Section 6-9: Additional Documentation

The remaining sections cover:

• Section 6: Manufacturing history and customer references
• Section 7: Previous audit results and findings
• Section 8: Financial review information
• Section 9: Electronic editing guidelines for the AQP form itself

IPC-1720 vs. ISO 9001: Understanding the Difference

A common question I hear: “We already have ISO 9001 certification. Why do we need IPC-1720?”

They serve different purposes. ISO 9001 certifies that you have a quality management system in place. IPC-1720 documents your specific manufacturing capabilities.

Here’s the practical reality: having ISO 9001 actually helps with IPC-1720 compliance. The IPC standard notes that “conscientious maintenance of this document and/or registration to ISO 9000 requirements should satisfy the major concerns.” In other words, your ISO documentation provides much of what you need to complete the AQP.

Many OEMs will accept a current IPC-1720 in lieu of extensive pre-qualification audits if you also hold ISO 9001 certification. The combination demonstrates both systematic quality management and documented technical capability.

How IPC-1720 Fits Into Broader IPC Qualification Programs

IPC-1720 is a self-declaration document. You fill it out, maintain it, and provide it to customers on request. But IPC also offers formal qualification programs that involve third-party audits:

IPC Validation Services Programs:

• QML (Qualified Manufacturers List): Qualifies your assembly processes to IPC standards like J-STD-001 and IPC-A-610
• QPL (Qualified Products List): Qualifies specific products and the manufacturing sites that produce them
• IPC-1791: Trusted Electronic Designer, Fabricator and Assembler qualification

These programs involve on-site audits and are valid for three years. They’re more rigorous than maintaining an IPC-1720, but many OEMs now require QML listing for certain product categories.

The IPC-1720 can serve as preparation for QML qualification. If your AQP is thorough and accurate, you’re essentially pre-auditing yourself.

Read more IPC Standards:

IPC-7092: Complete Guide to Embedded Components in PCB Design

IPC-7091: Complete Guide to 3D Component Design & Assembly Standard

IPC-6903: Complete Glossary of Additive Circuitry & Flexible Hybrid Electronics Terms

IPC-6901: Printed Electronics Categories, Levels & Performance Criteria by Application

IPC-6018 Explained: Microwave PCB Requirements, PTFE Materials & Impedance Control

IPC-6017 Complete Guide: PCB Embedded Passive & Active Circuitry Requirements

IPC-6015 Explained: MCM-L Organic Substrate Specification for Multichip Modules

IPC-6013 Complete Guide: Flex & Rigid-Flex PCB Types, Classes & Acceptance Criteria

IPC-6012 Complete Guide: Rigid PCB Qualification, Class 2 vs Class 3 & Acceptance Criteria

IPC-6011 Explained: The Foundation for IPC-6012 & PCB Performance Standards

IPC-4921: Substrate Classification, Testing & Specification Sheets for Printed Electronics

IPC-4781 Guide: Silkscreen Ink Types, Testing & Qualification for PCBs

IPC-4761 Explained: Via Tenting, Plugging, Filling & Capping Guide

IPC-4591: Functional Conductive Materials Standard for Printed Electronics

IPC-4204 Explained: Complete Guide to Flexible Copper Clad Laminates for Flex PCB Fabrication

Step-by-Step: Completing Your IPC-1720 Form

Based on my experience, here’s a practical approach to completing the IPC-1720 efficiently:

1. Gather Your Documentation First

Before opening the form, collect:

• Current organization chart
• Equipment inventory list with calibration records
• ISO certificates and audit reports
• IPC certification records (J-STD-001, A-610, etc.)
• Customer approval letters
• Recent audit findings and corrective actions

2. Assign Section Owners

The IPC-1720 touches multiple departments. Assign owners:

• Sections 1-2: Quality manager with input from operations
• Section 3: Maintenance or engineering (equipment list)
• Section 4: Process engineering
• Section 5: Quality assurance
• Sections 6-8: Quality manager with finance input

3. Be Accurate, Not Aspirational

A mistake I’ve seen repeatedly: manufacturers document capabilities they’re “working toward” rather than current state. OEMs verify these claims during audits. Overstating capabilities damages credibility and can disqualify you from consideration.

If you don’t have X-ray inspection capability, don’t claim it. If your finest pitch placement is 0.4mm, don’t write 0.3mm because you think you could probably do it.

4. Keep It Updated

The IPC-1720 should be a living document. Update it when you:

• Add new equipment
• Achieve new certifications
• Expand capabilities
• Change key personnel

Many companies review and update their AQP quarterly or semi-annually.

Common Mistakes When Completing IPC-1720

Having reviewed hundreds of supplier AQPs over the years, these errors come up repeatedly:

Incomplete equipment lists: Missing calibration dates, vague model descriptions, or omitting key inspection equipment. OEM engineers specifically look for AOI, SPI, and X-ray capabilities—don’t bury these in generic lists.

Outdated certifications: Listing expired ISO certificates or lapsed IPC trainer certifications. This is an immediate credibility hit. Before submitting any AQP, verify all certification dates are current.

Misunderstanding assembly classifications: Confusing Class 1/2/3 designations or incorrectly categorizing your typical product mix. Know the difference: Class 1 is general electronics, Class 2 is dedicated service, Class 3 is high-performance/high-reliability.

Ignoring Section 5: The quality profile section requires honest self-assessment. Claiming 100% deployment on everything raises red flags for experienced reviewers. Some initiatives genuinely should be “in progress”—that shows realistic continuous improvement.

No version control: Multiple versions floating around with no clear “current” document creates confusion during audits. Implement document control with revision dates and approval signatures.

Generic responses: Copy-pasting standard language without tailoring to your actual operations. Experienced OEM engineers can spot boilerplate immediately. Specific details about your equipment, your processes, and your quality metrics are far more valuable.

Omitting limitations: Every manufacturer has limitations—maximum board size, minimum component pitch, or specific technologies not supported. Documenting these honestly prevents mismatched quotes and customer disappointment later.

Practical Tips From the Shop Floor

After years of working with IPC-1720 on both the supplier and OEM sides, here are some practical recommendations:

Take photographs of your equipment: Include them as appendices to your IPC-1720 when submitting to customers. Visual documentation of your SMT lines, inspection equipment, and cleanroom facilities adds credibility.

Document your technology roadmap: If you’re planning equipment upgrades or capability expansions, note these in Section 2.7 (Services). OEMs making long-term supplier decisions appreciate knowing your investment direction.

Reference specific customer successes: In Section 6 (Manufacturing History), don’t just list customer names—describe the types of products manufactured, volumes achieved, and any quality metrics you can share publicly.

Maintain a separate “quick reference” version: The full IPC-1720 can run 40+ pages. Create a 2-3 page executive summary for initial customer conversations, with the full document available on request.

Train your sales team: Ensure they understand what’s in your IPC-1720 so they don’t make capability claims that contradict your documented profile. Alignment between sales messaging and actual capabilities prevents embarrassing corrections later.

IPC-1720 and Related IPC Standards

The IPC-1720 references and relates to several other IPC standards. Familiarity with these helps you complete the form accurately:

Useful Resources for IPC-1720 Implementation

Here are the official resources and where to access them:

Official IPC Sources

• Purchase IPC-1720A: IPC Store – Available as Microsoft Word template for electronic completion
• ANSI Webstore: IPC 1720A-2004 – PDF format
• Engineering360 Standards: IPC-1720 Reference – Standard overview and history

IPC Validation Services

• QML Company Listings: IPC Validation Services
• J-STD-001/610 Qualified Manufacturers: QML Directory
• Validation FAQ: IPC FAQ Page

IPC Standards Resources

• IPC Standards Tree: Downloadable PDF showing relationships between all IPC standards
• IPC Certification Programs: Electronics.org Certifications
• Recently Released Standards: IPC Updates

Frequently Asked Questions About IPC-1720

Is IPC-1720 certification mandatory for electronics manufacturers?

No, IPC-1720 is not a mandatory certification—it’s a standardized capability profile document. However, many OEM customers require it as part of their supplier qualification process. If you’re targeting aerospace, medical device, or automotive electronics customers, expect to complete one.

How often should we update our IPC-1720 Assembly Qualification Profile?

Best practice is to review and update your IPC-1720 at least semi-annually, or immediately after significant changes like new equipment installation, personnel changes in key positions, new certifications, or capability expansions. Many companies conduct quarterly reviews to ensure accuracy.

What is the difference between IPC-1720 and IPC-1730?

IPC-1720 is designed for electronics assembly manufacturers (EMS/CM companies), while IPC-1730 covers laminate manufacturers. Both follow similar formats but address different stages of the supply chain. If you fabricate bare boards, you’d use IPC-1730. If you assemble populated PCBAs, you’d use IPC-1720.

Can IPC-1720 replace on-site customer audits?

Partially. A thorough, well-maintained IPC-1720 combined with ISO 9001 certification can reduce the frequency and depth of customer audits. However, most OEMs still conduct on-site audits for new supplier qualification or high-reliability products. The IPC-1720 helps streamline these audits by providing baseline documentation in advance.

How much does the IPC-1720 standard cost?

The IPC-1720A standard is available from the IPC Store. IPC member companies receive discounts on standard purchases. The document comes as a Microsoft Word template, allowing electronic completion and easy updates. Contact IPC directly for current pricing, as member and non-member rates differ.

Benefits of Maintaining a Current IPC-1720 Profile

Beyond satisfying customer requirements, there are tangible business benefits to maintaining an accurate IPC-1720:

Faster Customer Onboarding

When a new OEM customer requests qualification documentation, you’re not starting from scratch. A current IPC-1720 can be provided immediately, cutting weeks off the qualification timeline. In competitive bid situations, this responsiveness matters.

Internal Process Clarity

The exercise of documenting capabilities forces internal alignment. I’ve seen cases where sales teams quoted capabilities that manufacturing couldn’t actually deliver. A well-maintained IPC-1720 becomes the single source of truth that prevents these disconnects.

Audit Preparation

Whether it’s a customer audit, ISO surveillance audit, or QML qualification audit, the IPC-1720 provides ready documentation. Auditors appreciate organized, pre-documented information—it makes their job easier and reflects well on your organization.

Competitive Differentiation

In the EMS industry, technical capability claims are common. A detailed, verifiable IPC-1720 backed by actual equipment lists and certification records differentiates you from competitors making vague claims. OEM procurement teams notice the difference.

Industry Trends Affecting IPC-1720 Usage

The electronics manufacturing landscape continues evolving, and these trends affect how IPC-1720 is used:

Increased Supply Chain Scrutiny

Post-pandemic supply chain disruptions have made OEMs more careful about supplier qualification. Requests for IPC-1720 documentation have increased as companies seek to qualify backup suppliers and reduce single-source dependencies.

Digital Transformation

While IPC-1720A is distributed as a Word template, many companies now maintain their capability data in ERP or quality management systems. The challenge is keeping the formal IPC-1720 synchronized with these internal systems.

Traceability Requirements

Industries like automotive and aerospace increasingly require component-level traceability. Section 4 of IPC-1720 addresses material management systems, and OEMs pay close attention to these responses when evaluating suppliers for high-reliability applications.

Sustainability Documentation

Though not explicitly covered in the current IPC-1720A revision, many OEMs now request environmental management documentation alongside capability profiles. Companies maintaining IPC-1720 should anticipate adding ISO 14001 environmental certification information to their profiles.

Final Thoughts

IPC-1720 isn’t glamorous paperwork—it’s a practical tool that serves both EMS providers and their OEM customers. For manufacturers, it’s an opportunity to document capabilities in a format customers recognize and trust. For OEMs, it provides consistent supplier data that simplifies qualification decisions.

The key to getting value from IPC-1720 is treating it as a living document rather than a one-time form completion. Keep it accurate, keep it current, and use it as a foundation for continuous improvement discussions with your quality team.

If you’re just starting the supplier qualification journey, completing your first IPC-1720 is an excellent exercise. It forces you to document what you actually do—not what you think you do—and that clarity benefits everyone.

For companies serious about winning business from major OEMs, the IPC-1720 Assembly Qualification Profile is table stakes. Master it, maintain it, and use it as a competitive advantage rather than viewing it as administrative burden.

This article provides general guidance on IPC-1720 implementation. For official standard requirements and current pricing, consult the IPC directly at www.ipc.org.