Preliminary Concept Design:

• Research the performance specifications of the design
• Establish functional specifications
• Document operational sequences
• Develop timing diagrams
• Develop a detailed flow chart of events
• Establish budget and goals

Detailed Design and Prototype Fabrication:

• Select the microprocessor and software
• Design the circuit schematics
• Use breadboards to verify circuit designs
• Simulate circuits using SPICE programs
• Circuit board Design and fabrication
• PCB layout is performed manually using OrCAD or in combination with an Autorouter for multi-layer boards
• Write the main program, subroutines, and interrupt Handling routines using the design documents
• Perform simultaneous hardware and software design where possible
• Design and fabricate the prototype hardware

Design Analysis:

• Test the prototype functionality
• Verify design parameters such as timing, temperature susceptibility and supply voltage variation
• Test the design with all interface units
• Modify hardware/software as needed to meet all design requirements

Final Design:

• Fabricate the final product
• Prepare final software documentation
• Prepare final operational manual documentation
• Complete the engineering drawing package
• Includes schematic, ECO sheet, bill of materials, front panel artwork, manufacturing notes, and drilling diagrams