Prototyping that leads to production
- A prototype should prove the design and the process. We build to the same fabrication and assembly rules that production will use.
- DFM and DFT review before ordering catches footprint errors, tombstoning risks and unreachable test points.
- Bring-up is a method, not a hope: power rails first, clocks, then peripherals, with each step recorded.
- The deliverable is a build package that any contract manufacturer can reproduce.
Prototype stages
| Stage | Purpose | Typical quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of concept | Check the riskiest circuit or sensor | 1-3 boards, may be on dev kits |
| Engineering prototype (EVT) | Full function, debug and firmware development | 5-10 boards |
| Design validation (DVT) | Environmental and EMC pre-checks, process test | 10-50 units |
| Pilot build (PVT) | Production process on the real line | 50-500 units |
Quantities are indicative and vary by product and risk.
What the build package contains
- Gerber and drill files, fabrication drawing and stack-up.
- Assembly drawings, pick-and-place file and BOM with manufacturer part numbers and alternates.
- Test procedure and, where justified, a test fixture design.
- Programming and calibration instructions.
- Revision control so every board can be traced to its design version.
Bring-up sequence
- Visual and continuity inspection, then current-limited first power-up.
- Verify each supply rail, ripple and sequencing.
- Confirm clocks and reset, connect the debugger, run the minimal firmware.
- Test peripherals one at a time and log results against the test plan.
- Feed lessons back to the design as an engineering change list.
Moving to a manufacturer
For volume we hand over to the assembly partner you choose, support first-article inspection and help set acceptance criteria based on IPC-A-610. Read how the stages fit in our product development process.
Sources and further reading
- IPC — IPC-A-610 and IPC-6012 acceptance standards.
- KiCad — Fabrication output documentation.
- Ministry of Electronics and IT, Government of India — Policy context for domestic electronics manufacturing.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Regulations and product availability change; confirm current rules with the issuing authority before you commit to a design.