Concept Design & Feasibility
Requirement Analysis: Understanding the project needs and constraints.
Technology Research: Evaluating existing technologies and components.
System Architecture: Designing high-level hardware architecture.
Schematic Design
Component Selection: Choosing appropriate ICs, resistors, capacitors, and other components.
Circuit Design: Creating schematics using KiCAD.
Power Management: Designing for efficient and reliable power distribution.
PCB Layout & Design
PCB Design: Translating schematics into a physical PCB layout.
Signal Integrity Analysis: Ensuring high-speed signals function without interference.
DFM/DFT Analysis: Designing for manufacturability and testability.
Prototyping & Fabrication
Prototype Development: Assembling prototypes for initial testing.
Fabrication: Partnering with PCB manufacturers for production.
Assembly: Assembling components on the PCB (SMT or through-hole).
Manufacturing Support
BOM Optimization: Cost-effective component selection and sourcing.
Mass Production: Scaling prototypes to large-scale production.
Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality in manufacturing.
Testing & Validation
Hardware Debugging: Identifying and fixing issues in the prototype.
Compliance Testing: Ensuring adherence to industry standards (e.g., FCC, CE).
Environmental Testing: Testing hardware under extreme conditions.
Post-Production Support
Maintenance & Updates: Hardware redesigns for obsolescence or new features.
End-of-Life Management: Assistance with transitioning to new designs.
Firmware & Integration
Firmware Development: Writing low-level software to interact with hardware.
Hardware-Software Integration: Ensuring seamless operation between firmware and hardware.