4 layer prototypes?

[ToBeFrank]

I need to make my design smaller, and the only way to do that is with a 4 layer pcb. I've seen the threads about where to get pcb prototypes made cheaply, but cheap appears to only apply to 2 layer boards. Everywhere I've looked it's at least $200 for a small 4 layer prototype. Where do you guys get your 4 layer prototypes made and what do they cost if you don't mind me asking?

[sacherjj]

You will want to jump on the DorkbotPDX order.  http://dorkbotpdx.org/wiki/pcb_order

Next 4 layer board order goes in on June 20th.  $10 per sq/inch for 3 boards.  Any color as long as you like purple.     I haven't received my 2 layer boards from the order yet, but everyone seems to love the quality of the boards.  They are pretty high spec.

This doesn't make sense for large boards, but is a great service for getting small boards prototyped.

[slburris]

You didn't say what the total area of your board is and what qty
you want. 

In my experience, no one PCB maker has the best prices -- it really
depends on a lot of factors.

What are your trace/space requirements?

Scott

[ToBeFrank]

You didn't say what the total area of your board is and what qty
you want.

Definitely will be smaller than 6 square inches, hopefully I can get it smaller than that. First run will be a prototype so quantity can be as small as 1, but basically whatever is cheapest.

What are your trace/space requirements?

I've generally been designing for maximum compatibility with manufacturers so I haven't needed minimums. I suppose if I really get cramped for space I should look at 6/6.

[mikeselectricstuff]

You didn't say what the total area of your board is and what qty
you want.

Definitely will be smaller than 6 square inches, hopefully I can get it smaller than that. First run will be a prototype so quantity can be as small as 1, but basically whatever is cheapest.

What are your trace/space requirements?

I've generally been designing for maximum compatibility with manufacturers so I haven't needed minimums. I suppose if I really get cramped for space I should look at 6/6.

I don't recall ever seeing a 4 layer service with rules bigger than 6/6

[gregariz]

www.batchpcb.com

sparkfun set this up iirc. its $8 sq/in. I used them alot and a 4 layer job some time ago and they were good.Only issue can be that the 4 layer panel doesnt fill up fast so you may have to wait. Otherwise panelize a job yourself and send it directly into goldphoenix.biz (this is who batch use iirc) and I suspect you may come out with the entire panel for about 200 but it will depend on screens colors and tolerances.

[slburris]

When you get up to qty 10, you can get boards for $23.70
each from pcbex.com.  6 mil trace/space 10 day turn.

I've ordered two layer boards from them, but not four layer.
They have a US office and the boards and made and shippped
to you from China.

Scott

[onemilimeter]

When you get up to qty 10, you can get boards for $23.70
each from pcbex.com.  6 mil trace/space 10 day turn.

I've ordered two layer boards from them, but not four layer.
They have a US office and the boards and made and shippped
to you from China.

Quite attractive...