Innovation in PCB Circuit Design: Prototyping

Circuit design has changed significantly over the years, as with most industries where innovation and technology step in and help provide a better way forward. For companies that need prototyping for circuit boards, there are several options available today. Fortunately, the biggest advantage is that prototypes of single boards are now available, saving companies thousands of dollars on parts that might not be ready for mass production

Visual Models

This is the first step in prototyping any project. It is just a physical product that is designed to look like the PCB concept that was presented. It shows the structure of the components and the board itself, helping engineers to find design flaws or make visual improvements. This is the best way for a team to look at a PCB and see whether it is cost-effective and whether the design is functional. It’s much easier than trying to visualize something in the mind based on a description on paper.

Visual models ensure that the PCB components fit together, that the design works, and that the size is ideal for the project in question. There may even be a few visual models made until the design is proven to be the best choice and it is decided that the project can move forward. All that matters is that it is done correctly, whether that takes one prototype or two dozen.

Proof-of-Concept

The proof-of-concept prototype is another important step that is often overlooked. This is a step that tests the basic functions of the idea and the concept of the PCB on a general level. Essentially, it ensures that the idea itself will work before moving forward and integrating a bunch of components or adding to the expense of development without knowing whether the end product will produce the desired result.

By replicating the primary function of the PCB, this process allows the engineers and design team to test the viability of the project. This is where they can make necessary changes and update various aspects of the design so that it can be approved to be turned into a working model for testing. Skipping this step and assuming viability could result in serious issues with later prototyping and testing, which is a waste of time and money.

Functional Prototypes

The final result of any project will be a fully functional, ready-to-implement prototype that functions in every way that it should and is as close to the final design of the product as possible. This allows for one last check of everything, as well as a way to see the PCB in action before it is mass-produced. Designers make these to resemble the finished product to ensure that everything is in working order, looks visually correct, and has become the idea that was first conceptualized.

Once the functional prototype is perfected and approved, full production can begin on a set of PCBs. This might happen with the first run, which is rare but possible for those who have planned and handled the rest of the stages properly. It usually takes at least two or three tries for the final prototype to deliver the ideal result for all invested parties.

We Fubon Precision will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your final product delivers everything that you want, helping you streamline the testing process and improve your bottom line along the way. Contact us to learn more about the value of prototypes and get your project started now.