GCD Printlayout, which specializes in PCB design and assembly production, celebrated its foundation in 1993 this year. While five-digit zip codes were being introduced in Germany, the Hubble telescope was being serviced for the first time and blue LEDs were being mass-produced for the first time, the company began its PCB design and assembly production activities in a "cosy attic atmosphere".
According to Managing Director Ernst Keller, the company developed in leaps and bounds in the first ten years and was soon able to leave the makeshift attic. However, the pragmatic and down-to-earth approach remained the compass. In 1997, the company was certified according to ISO 9001. By 2001, GCD already had 25 employees and required a significant expansion of its premises. With 'Mentor Expedition', a further EDA system was introduced to ensure delivery capability for existing and new customers. 2003 was a year of upheaval for the company when the first ATE (Automated Testing Equipment) designs were launched on the market - still a defining part of the company today. 2005 saw the launch of the company's own assembly production, which became GCD's second mainstay. The growing number of employees necessitated the move to Henri-Dunant-Straße 12, where production, PCB layout and administration are still united under one roof today.
In terms of technology, a new simulation tool was added with 'Hyperlynx'. Cadence Allegro' expanded the EDA expertise, and in production, a new SMD placement machine and the computer-aided optical inspection system were added to minimize production errors for small series and prototypes.
Assembly line at GCD
GCD remains specialized in PCB design and assembly production
Successful despite a difficult market environment
In 2013, the international year of the Quinoa, the market environment in Germany was bumpy - manufacturers such as Loewe and Praktiker had to close their doors. However, CGCD managed to find the right mix for employees and customers alike in order to remain successful on the market. Production was expanded with new tray changers and the automatic optical inspection system was modernized. Shorter and more effective inspections lead to better products on the market. In 2018, the now 40 employees completed the 15,000th project since the company was founded - and now, in the anniversary year 2023, even the 17,500th. "It's always great to see how new colleagues get involved in the company, support the tried and tested, but also implement new ideas," emphasizes Ernst Keller. "This is the only way we have been able to survive over time. The SMD production line was further expanded. The 1,000th ATE design is created in the layouting area. Many employees have been involved in this over the decades, and both the management and our customers would like to thank them."
GCD is also keeping an eye on sustainability. In 2022 and 2023, a 54 kW solar system and 10 wallboxes for employees were installed to cover electricity requirements in a renewable and ecological way. Ulrich Meier, Head of ATE, also points out the continuous growth of the GCD family: "In July, we welcomed our 21st layouter to the company."
Like many other companies, GCD is also facing a generational change after 30 years. A first step was taken with the departure of Robert Körner in 2021 and the simultaneous assumption of power of attorney by Daniel Keller. Annette Trübenbach also joined the management team after more than 25 years with the company. The company is now well positioned for the future in terms of personnel and expertise.
Daniel Keller (authorized signatory)
The management team consists of Ernst Keller and Annett Trübenbach
Ulrich Meier, Head of the ATE division
