At Thomas Instrumentation, we offer the best of both worlds—combining the capabilities of an Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider with the engineering expertise of an Electronics Design & Manufacturing (EDM) firm. Unlike traditional EMS providers that simply build to spec, we support your product throughout its entire lifecycle with advanced engineering, design, prototyping, software development, and full system integration. By choosing Thomas Instrumentation, you’re not just getting manufacturing—you’re getting a strategic partner who ensures your product is optimized, reliable, and ready for market success.
Although EMS is a widely searched term, it does not fully describe what we do at Thomas Instrumentation. Unlike most EMS firms that only manufacture PCBs, we offer PCB design and software development—a critical distinction that sets us apart. Even many traditional EDM firms do not provide software development, making Thomas Instrumentation unique in the industry.
What EMS Providers Typically Offer
- EMS providers specialize in PCB assembly and production. While some larger EMS firms offer additional services, most focus on:
- PCB Assembly (PCBA): Includes Surface Mount Technology (SMT), Through-Hole Technology (THT), and mixed technology assembly
- Component Procurement & Supply Chain Management: Sourcing electronic components and managing production logistics
- Testing & Quality Assurance: Performing In-Circuit Testing (ICT), Functional Testing, and Environmental Stress Testing
- Final Product Assembly & System Integration: Assembling electronic products, but typically without extensive design or software support
- Aftermarket Services & Support: Repair, rework, and lifecycle management
Most EMS firms do not provide PCB design or software development, meaning companies that need these services must find an additional partner to handle design before handing off production to an EMS provider.
How Thomas Instrumentation Fits into the EDM & EMS Categories
Unlike standard EMS providers, Thomas Instrumentation offers end-to-end product development and lifecycle support under one roof. We handle everything from PCB design and prototyping to embedded software development, full-scale manufacturing, and ongoing engineering support. This comprehensive approach eliminates the need to work with multiple vendors and ensures a seamless transition from design to production while maintaining and optimizing products throughout their lifecycle.
Key Services Thomas Instrumentation Offers as an EDM & EMS Partner
- PCB Design & Prototyping – Creating efficient circuit layouts and optimizing designs for manufacturability.
- Embedded Software & Firmware Development – Writing the software and firmware required for modern electronic devices.
- System-Level Product Development – Integrating hardware and software for complete electronic solutions.
- Custom Engineering Solutions – Tailoring designs to meet industry-specific requirements.
- Lifecycle Product Support – Engineering diagnostic support for in-field issues, design upgrades, part substitutions during supply chain disruptions, and more.
When to Choose EMS vs. EDM
If a company already has a fully designed PCB and only needs assembly and production, an EMS provider can be the right fit. However, if a company needs PCB design, software development, system integration, or ongoing engineering support, then an EDM firm like Thomas Instrumentation is the better choice.
Many businesses search for EMS, but in reality, they need EDM—or a hybrid approach that offers both. Thomas Instrumentation provides PCB design, software development, and engineering support alongside manufacturing, ensuring that products are not only designed and maintained for optimal, long-term performance but also adaptable to evolving challenges such as part obsolescence and supply chain issues.
Why Companies Choose Thomas Instrumentation
Many businesses approach Thomas Instrumentation thinking they need EMS, only to later realize the additional value of our onsite engineering team, which supports system diagnostics, design upgrades, part substitutions during supply chain disruptions, and much more. Unlike traditional EMS firms that only handle manufacturing, we provide a full-service solution that assists clients in supporting, adapting, and evolving their product over its lifetime.
Looking for the Right Electronics Manufacturing Partner?
Whether you need EMS or EDM, Thomas Instrumentation can help. We do everything a traditional EMS provider does—plus engineering expertise and lifecycle support that ensures your product remains optimized, reliable, and future-proof. Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how our comprehensive design and manufacturing capabilities can bring your product to market faster and more efficiently.
