Prototyping is where electronics products are proven or broken. Each prototype stage answers specific questions, and skipping stages to save time almost always costs more later. A disciplined prototyping plan de-risks the journey to production.
Proof of Concept
The proof of concept validates the core idea: does the sensor read correctly, does the radio link work, does the power budget hold? It does not need to look like the final product. Keep it simple and test only the highest-risk assumptions.
Engineering Prototype
The engineering prototype approaches the final design in form and function. It validates the schematic, layout, firmware, and mechanical fit. This is the stage to catch interference problems, thermal issues, and usability gaps before tooling investment.
- Test in the real environment, not just the bench
- Measure power consumption against the battery budget
- Validate antenna performance in the final enclosure
- Document every change for the design-verified sample
Design-Verified Sample
The design-verified sample, or DVT unit, is built with production processes and parts. It confirms manufacturability, assembly yield, and test coverage. DVT approval is the gate to tooling, molds, and mass production, so treat it as a formal milestone with sign-off criteria.
