embedded hardware design services

Our embedded hardware design process always starts with discussions with the client about their project, the technological requirements, schedule expectations, and their budget. Once this crucial step is completed, a requirements specification is written and the hardware design process commences. Typically, there are three phases for embedded hardware to be produced: a prototype phase, a pilot phase, and a production phase. On occasion, we recommend an initial "proof-of-concept" phase which is prior to the prototype phase. This is a phase of the project where inexpensive "off-the-shelf" evaluation printed circuit boards (PCBs) are purchased and wired together to prove that the proposed design solution will meet the set of requirements. This low-cost / low-risk / highly-valuable pre-design phase is utilized when a new technology is proposed or when we need to evaluate performance.

In the prototype phase, the requirements specification and block diagrams are translated into an electronic schematic and bill of materials (or parts list). A schematic is essentially a wiring diagram showing how all the electronic parts and integrated circuits are connected together. After holding reviews of the design with the client, we work with a mechanical engineer (we can recommend a colleague if needed) to make sure our hardware design will fit perfectly into the proposed product space.

A PCB is then designed and fabricated. Standard Zone 7 Engineering practice is to spend extra time during the design process to simulate the intended circuitry and fully understand / predict circuit behavior. This ensures prototype PCBs are as close as possible to the final version. This has been proven to save money for clients in the long run as opposed to having to design several costly iterations of the PCB later in the process. Electronic parts are also ordered at this time which are later soldered to the PCBs. Both fabrication and assembly are performed at our Contract Manufacturers (CMs) who are specialized and efficient at these tasks. A typical prototype build consists of 5-10 PCBs which is enough for testing and demonstrating to potential investors.

While waiting for the CM to generate prototypes, firmware is developed (if required) and can be simulated prior to having a live PCB to run on. Once the assembled PCBs are received from the CM, we perform a full suite of unit tests including validation of voltage regulators, clock oscillators, power-up initialization events, user interface, and any microprocessors on board. Firmware is loaded and the code tested by "single stepping" through each function verifying proper events at processor input/outputs.

Once unit testing is complete and the design is verified in a controlled environment, the prototypes are integrated into a larger assembly and tested in real-world conditions. Generally, there are firmware corrections and enhancements loaded onto the prototypes as integration proceeds. Occasionally, PCBs are re-spun to incorporate circuit enhancements or part changes

discovered during prototype testing​.

At this point, the prototypes (or re-spun PCBs) are fully tested and integrated into the near-final product. Prior to full production release, we always recommend a pilot phase build of 50-100 for beta testing. This gives the client the opportunity to sell or give the product to "friendly users" who will test the product as intended but agree to provide feedback which is critical for a successful product launch. This phase also provides an opportunity for the CM to perform a dry-run of the build prior to mass production.

Once the electronic design is ready for the production phase, Zone 7 Engineering assists in transitioning the design files to the CM of choice and then provides support on an as-needed basis.