Practical Answer - AI Hardware Supplier Control

How to Control CAD, STP, Gerber, BOM, and Test Files in China Manufacturing

Last updated: July 2026

The files that make manufacturing portable are often the same files that make supplier lock-in or unauthorized production possible.

In short

CAD, STP, Gerber, BOM, tooling, and test files should be controlled through staged disclosure, recipient identification, ownership language, access logs, delivery obligations, return or deletion terms, and subcontractor flow-down restrictions.

The Direct Answer

Create a file-control map before sharing. List each technical asset, who owns it, who receives it, why they need it, whether they can copy or forward it, and what must happen when the project ends or moves suppliers.

Build a File-Control Map

For AI hardware and electronics, the risk is rarely one file. It is the bundle: enclosure CAD, STP files, PCB Gerbers, BOM, firmware, production test procedures, fixture files, tooling drawings, and supplier-specific notes.

A file-control map turns that bundle into a manageable checklist before disclosure.

CAD and STP files for enclosure, mechanical design, molds, fixtures, or assembly.

Gerber files, PCB stack-up, component placement, and board test records.

BOMs, AVL information, component substitutes, and supplier-source notes.

Firmware, flashing tools, test scripts, logs, and production QA records.

Match File Access to Contract Controls

File control should appear in the agreement, invoice, PO, and handoff checklist. If the supplier must receive a file, the agreement should say what the supplier may do with it and whether it must be returned, deleted, or delivered in updated form.

This is a core topic for /services/ai-hardware-supplier-control-package-china/, with related baseline review available through /services/china-supplier-control-review/.

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Request a Supplier Control Review

We review the supplier path, technical assets, agreement gaps, access boundaries, and handoff risks before deeper China prototype or OEM work.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns CAD, STP, Gerber, BOM, and test files in China manufacturing?

Ownership depends on the contract, development records, invoices, and facts. Do not assume payment alone controls every file. State ownership, delivery, permitted use, and return or deletion obligations in writing.

Should I share all files with one supplier?

Not automatically. Share only what the supplier needs for the current stage, and keep a record of what was shared, with whom, and under what terms.

What happens if I need to switch suppliers?

The handoff is much easier if file delivery, updated CAD or Gerber access, tooling transfer, test records, and deletion obligations were agreed before the relationship became strained.

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