The stages of the work
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Requirements | what the device must do, in what conditions, at what cost per unit |
| Circuit design | component selection, schematic, power and interface decisions |
| PCB layout | board routing with thermal, EMC and manufacturability constraints |
| Firmware | the control logic, communication protocols, update mechanism |
| Prototype | first assembly, bring-up, measurement against the requirements |
| Testing and revision | the stage that usually consumes the most time |
| Series | production documentation, assembly, incoming inspection |
What to look at in a contractor
- •Whether they have taken a product to series themselves, not only to prototype,
- •Whether hardware and firmware are done by the same team — the handover is where defects hide,
- •What happens after delivery: revisions, spare parts, firmware updates in the field,
- •Whether the documentation you receive lets somebody else manufacture it.
Hardware and software designed together is the single biggest factor in how well the finished device behaves. Where the device has to report telemetry back, that connects directly to IoT equipment monitoring, and in building services to remote HVAC management.
Frequently asked questions
How long does developing a device take?
It depends on complexity: a simple product takes weeks, something complex with certification takes months. Most of the time goes into circuit design, prototyping and debugging rather than manufacturing the board. We quote timelines once the requirements are defined.
Can we order only the board, or only the firmware?
Yes, we work on individual stages — board design, firmware, or improving an existing product. But the best result comes when the hardware and software are designed together.
Do you do production runs or only prototypes?
Both: from a prototype through to small and medium series. We have our own products in production, so the path from schematic to series is well worn.