3 Key Steps in the Creation of Electronic Devices
It is a fact that technology plays a vital role in the everyday lives of billions of people on the planet. People wake up to an electronic alarm clock and then go downstairs to prepare breakfast in a microwave or oven while watching the morning news on television. Today, billions of consumers own a smartphone and will access it countless times during the day to communicate with friends, shop online or check on the latest global developments.
Put simply, humanity relies on a wide range of electronic devices and technology simply to go about their daily routines. The working environment is one that commonly features a range of tech devices. Many workers will spend their day sitting at a computer terminal completing tasks and responding to emails, and tech use is widespread across all types of businesses and industries. In this article, the concept of electronic device manufacture is discussed. Three of the key stages of the design and manufacturing process for common electrical devices will be described in detail.
Decide on the concept
The first stage in the development of any new electronic device is to determine the purpose it will serve and what target market(s) it will be aimed at. At this stage of the process, it is important to decide on the budget for the electronic device and what price point it will be sold at. This will have an important effect on the consumer groups that the device will be aimed at. In addition, this will also have an impact on the types and quality of components that can be fitted into the device and the budget for this. The manufacturer must be certain that there is sufficient demand for the product and that it will serve the needs of the market while being affordable.
Plan out the design and components
After the concept for the electronic device has been agreed on, the next key step is to begin to make final decisions on the design of the product and all the electronic components that will be housed within it. One of the most important stages of the final design process for electronic devices is to use PCB design software to create the final printed circuit board schematics. This is a vital stage as the PCBs will control most of the key electrical components in the design and form an important part of the device’s operation. Design teams will need to demonstrate that the PCBs and other componentry can be housed inside the device and will operate safely and efficiently for the product’s life.
Prototype design and testing
The last main stage before the final manufacture of the product is to create a prototype model of the device and then thoroughly test it. This should be as close to the final expected design as possible and will be used as a proof of concept for the device. Often, key stakeholders will need to be in agreement that the prototype is fit for the intended market and that there are no other modifications that need to be incorporated into the design. The device will then be rigorously tested to ensure it meets safety and quality standards and is fit for consumer use.
