How do I choose a microcontroller or single-board computer for a robotics prototype?

Match the controller to your project's compute needs, I/O count, and communication interfaces (GPIO, PWM, UART, SPI, I2C, CAN). Consider power budget, real?time requirements, available development libraries and community examples (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi families), and confirm part availability and datasheets on the product page before ordering.

What should I check when selecting motors and motor drivers for robots?

Select motors based on required torque, speed, voltage and continuous vs stall current, and pair them with drivers rated for the motor's peak current and control method (brushed, brushless, stepper). Review datasheets for torque curves and cooling needs, and account for gearing, feedback sensors and the controller interface when planning your drivetrain.

Can I collect orders from a Communica branch and obtain a VAT invoice for institution purchases?

Yes — branch collection is available from the Samrand head office and branches in Pretoria (CBD) and Cape Town; choose the branch pickup option at checkout and present your order reference and ID on collection. VAT invoices can be issued for business or educational purchases; request invoice details at checkout or via the sales channel used for your order.

What are typical lead times for out?of?stock components and how do backorders work?

Many items are stocked locally, but specialist components may have supplier lead times; the product page normally shows current stock status and any estimated ETAs. For procurement or bulk needs you can request a quote or backorder option to confirm delivery timelines and minimum quantities.

Does Communica support educational or classroom robotics kits and bulk procurement for tertiary institutions?

Communica offers component kits, development boards, 3D printing supplies and test equipment suitable for classrooms and labs, and can provide bulk quotations and VAT invoicing for institutions. Check the education requirements when requesting a quote to ensure kit content, quantities and delivery or branch pickup options meet your curriculum needs.

What types of robotics and prototyping components does Communica stock?

Communica stocks microcontrollers and development boards, sensors, motors and drivers, power supplies, connectors and enclosures, 3D printing consumables, tools, and test & measurement equipment from a wide range of global and maker brands. Product availability can be checked on the online catalogue or by contacting your local branch.

How can I check stock availability and estimated lead times for parts?

Check the product page on communica.co.za for current stock indications and lead-time notes, and contact the Samrand head office or your nearest branch for confirmation on backorders or import lead times. For larger or time-sensitive orders, request a formal quote or lead-time confirmation from sales so you have a documented delivery estimate.

Can I collect my order from a Communica branch or do you only ship?

You can choose branch collection (Samrand, Pretoria CBD, Cape Town) or courier delivery at checkout; branch trading hours and collection details are listed on the Branches & Trading Hours page. For branch collection request a VAT invoice or packing slip at pickup.

Do you support educational and bulk procurement for robotics courses or labs?

Yes — Communica supplies schools, universities and industry with component kits and larger quantities; departments should contact the sales team with a parts list and delivery requirements to obtain volume quotes, lead times, and VAT-compliant paperwork. Early engagement helps manage stock allocation and import lead times for semester planning.

How do I choose the right motor and driver for a mobile robot prototype?

Match motor voltage and continuous/peak current ratings to the driver specification and battery system, and select torque and RPM based on robot weight, wheel diameter, and required acceleration; include a safety margin for stall current and thermal dissipation. Review datasheets, estimate your power budget, and confirm component availability or compatible alternatives with Communica before finalising the design.

Double sided boards in stock South Africa - fast local PCB supply for makers

Find double-sided PCBs in stock at Communica South Africa. Local pickup, student/education invoicing, spec guidance and small-run options for makers and engineers.

Published:June 14, 2026

4 min read

Image supplied by 123RF

Local stock ready

Same-day or next-day pickup from Samrand, Pretoria and Cape Town branches.

Specs & compatibility

Copper weight, PTH sizes and thickness guidance for reliable assembly.

Procurement support

VAT invoices, quotes for education and small-run fabrication advice.

Why choose local double-sided PCBs from Communica

Need reliable double-sided printed circuit boards without long import delays? Communica stocks a range of ready-made double-sided boards and supports small-batch fabrication choices that get you from schematic to soldering bench quickly. For South African makers, students and technicians the real benefits are immediate availability, branch pickup and VAT-compliant invoices for education or procurement.

What we stock and who it's for

From prototyping copper-clad blanks to pre-drilled, plated-through double-sided boards and breakout boards for popular modules, our selection covers common sizes and thicknesses used in hobby, teaching labs and low-volume production. If you build microcontroller projects, motor drivers or sensor arrays, these boards save time compared with hand-wiring.

Quick specs at a glance

Below is a compact comparison to help you choose the right board type for your project.

Type	Typical use	Copper	Thickness
Blank double-sided PCB	Custom etch / prototyping	1 oz per side	1.6 mm
Pre-drilled plated-through	Component-dense projects	1-2 oz	1.6 mm / 0.8 mm options
Breakout double-sided	Modules & headers	1 oz	1.0-1.6 mm

Specification callouts to check

Trace width and spacing - ensure your design rules match board copper weight.
Plated-through hole (PTH) size - important for component leads and vias.
Substrate thickness - affects mechanical rigidity and connector mounting.
Soldermask and silkscreen options - useful for assembly clarity in labs.

If you want to compare categories or view full stock ranges, see our Collections and All Products listings for immediate availability. To understand the company and support options, visit our About Us page.

Accessory bundles and compatibility guidance

When buying double-sided boards consider pairing with soldermask-friendly solder, appropriate flux and a reliable drill or reamer for PTH cleanup. For common modules (Arduino, Raspberry Pi hats, sensor shields) choose breakout boards with compatible header pitch and pad layout - many of our pre-drilled boards are designed to be compatible with widely used module footprints.

Availability, lead times and local logistics

We maintain local stock in Samrand (head office) with additional availability in Pretoria CBD and Cape Town branches. Most popular blank and plated-through double-sided boards are available for same-day collection or next-day dispatch depending on branch stock. For precise branch hours and collection options check Branches & Trading Hours.

Ordering options and procurement support

Students and educators can request VAT invoices for institutional purchases; procurement teams can request quotes for repeat orders. For non-standard sizes or small fabrication runs, Request a Quote and we will advise on lead times and minimums. Many customers choose to Check Stock in Samrand first, then collect to avoid courier delays.

Practical wiring and layout notes

Double-sided layouts let you route power on one side and signals on the other. Keep these practical rules in mind:

Place high-current traces wide and short; use thicker copper or parallel traces where possible.
Use vias to transition traces between layers; keep via annular rings large enough for reliable soldering.
Group decoupling capacitors close to IC supply pins; route short traces to vias when moving to the opposite side.

Simple wiring diagram (top/bottom view):

Top layer:    +----+     Bottom layer:   +----+               | IC |------|Plane|                 | Gnd|               +----+      +----+                 +----+Via connection:  o   (via carries signal between layers)

Troubleshooting and practical fixes

Common assembly issues and quick remedies:

Cold solder joints - reflow with hotter iron and fresh flux; avoid excessive heat on plated-through holes.
Mis-drilled holes - ream gently or use jumper wires if pad integrity is compromised.
Shorts between traces - cut with a hobby knife and bridge missing connections with solder or wire.

If you need compatible parts and tools, browse our category pages or explore brands we carry on the Shop by Brand page to find suitable solder, flux and prototyping gear. For immediate browsing use the homepage to navigate product categories quickly.

Final summary - why act now

Choosing locally stocked double-sided boards in South Africa at Communica reduces lead time risk, simplifies procurement and gives you on-the-shelf options for teaching labs, prototyping and low-volume production. Whether you want to Buy Double-Sided Boards, Compare Specs or Request a Quote, our branch network and procurement support make the process straightforward. Order or enquire today to secure stock for your next build and avoid overseas delays.

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Well organised store, excellent system of service and short waiting period. Staff (Nicole) was very helpful and passionate about the company, it very ...

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I had a fantastic experience at Communica, thanks to the exceptional service provided by Rehaan in sales and Nicole at the cashier. Rehaan was incredi...

Got assisted by a very patient and diligent gentleman by the name Sydney. He was patient in getting me what I needed from the little information I gav...

The kind gentleman right behind the turnstiles at the entrance sales counter helped me immediately as I walked in, Sydney, I think. I needed 8 packs o...

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Good service good people great customer care never disappoint me when I'm looking for anything in need always smiling and welcoming...this time when I...

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Online support and communication is next level - great communication, fast response - very helpfull, recomended supplier - online payment was no hasse...

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Rehaan was the sales representative that helped us. He was friendly and helped us with in seconds. We where very pleased with the service and the expe...

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Online service is extremely great.. Had an amazing chat with one of the online chat consultants. Gave me info I needed, and we talked about my passion...

Lovely lady serving me named Nicole and I got very good assistance from Leburu on th floor whom directed me toward the correct goods. Will visit again...

I met Leburu and Nicole at the shop, Leburu took me to the right place with a great smile, then took me with my stuff to cashier Nicole where I paid a...

Leburu and nicole were both very helpful my boss send me to get few items as I wasn't very familiar with the items Leburu and my boss spoke with each ...

Ordered online. Got my order in less than 24 hrs. I was updated all the time on the progress. I have never seen service like this. Thanks and well don...

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Electronic supply store if you like tinkering it's got the goods the tills are slow so don't expect a in and out visit especially if there is two or m...

Double sided boards in stock South Africa - fast local PCB supply for makers

Local stock ready

Specs & compatibility

Procurement support

Communica South Africa

Why choose local double-sided PCBs from Communica

What we stock and who it's for

Quick specs at a glance

Specification callouts to check

Accessory bundles and compatibility guidance

Availability, lead times and local logistics

Ordering options and procurement support

Practical wiring and layout notes

Troubleshooting and practical fixes

Final summary - why act now

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Why Choose Communica?

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