Prototype, Integration and Test

The prototype, integration and test phase is where the previous engineering phases come together.

The steps:

• Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are fabricated, and assembled
• Preliminary hardware test using the lowest level of the firmware, commonly referred to as the hardware I/O layer
• Hardware verification, Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), Documentation Updates
• Integration of higher layers of the firmware including the ‘toolkit’ layer and ‘application’ layers
• Re-spin PCB layout and fabrication to incorporate ECOs
• Test PCBs – which may include preliminary agency (FCC, UL, etc.) testing where warranted

The deliverables:

• Prototype assembled PCBs
• Updated Engineering documentation (PCB Artwork, Bill of Materials, Database, etc.)
• Firmware source