Prototype production


In addition to product design, we also provide manufacturing services, covering the entire process from prototyping to small-scale production runs.


Prototype production involves creating a preliminary version of a product to test and refine its design, functionality and manufacturability. It is crucial because it allows designers and engineers to identify and resolve issues early in the development process, ensuring that the final product meets quality and performance standards. Prototyping helps reduce risks, save costs and improve the final design by enabling iterative testing and feedback before committing to large-scale production.

Why is prototype production important?

Prototype production means transforming a small batch of printed circuit boards (PCB's) into fully assembled printed circuit board assemblies (PCBA's). The assembly process includes multiple stages, typically starting in the Surface-Mount Device (SMD) production department, followed by the hand soldering department. Once the PCBA assembly is completed, the products undergo quality checks before being passed on to (embedded) software engineers for testing or assembly staff for further integration.


It is very important to involve prototype production before you start with serial production. These two production types are different stages in the manufacturing process and have distinct purposes and characteristics. It is common to undergo multiple rounds of prototype production prior to commencing the initial serial production phase (0-series production).

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  • Purpose
    Prototype production is focused on creating a preliminary version of a product to test design, functionality and feasibility. It is used to identify and resolve design issues before full-scale manufacturing.
  • Volume
    Typically involves producing a small number of units, at VEDS Group we recommend around 3 to 5 pieces, to validate the design.
  • Flexibility
    Highly flexible, allowing for frequent design changes and adjustments based on testing and feedback.
  • Cost
    Higher cost per unit due to the low volume, custom setups and manual processes. The focus is on precision and testing rather than cost-efficiency.
  • Lead Time
    Can have shorter lead times for initial units but may involve iterative processes that extend the overall timeline.
  • Quality Control
    Emphasis on detailed inspection and testing to ensure the prototype meets the design specifications and performance requirements.


VEDS Group also offers production services for designs created by our customers. In these cases, we generate production data to ensure that the customer’s designs are optimized for VEDS Group’s manufacturing capabilities.


Our skilled production team is also equipped to perform repairs on completed products, allowing rejected PCBA's to be refurbished and reused. This repair process is conducted in close coordination with project management to ensure compliance with project requirements.


Specializations

  • (Double-sided) SMD Assembly
    We offer precise double-sided Surface-Mount Device (SMD) assembly, accommodating components on both sides of the PCB for efficient use of space and enhanced design flexibility.
  • BGA and FPGA Placement
    Expert placement of Ball Grid Array (BGA) and Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) components ensures reliable connections and performance in high-density, complex electronic designs.
  • Odd-Shape Components and Chips
    We handle assembly of components and chips of various shapes and sizes, including irregularly shaped parts, ensuring versatile and customized solutions for unique design requirements.
  • Assembly of Very Small and Complex Designs
    Our team specializes in assembling intricate and compact designs, providing high-precision assembly for the most demanding and detailed electronic projects.
  • Mounting of (Complex) Flex PCB
    Expertise in mounting complex flexible PCBs, enabling compact, bendable, and lightweight circuit solutions for advanced applications where traditional rigid boards are unsuitable.
  • Through-Hole Assembly
    We provide through-hole assembly services for components requiring strong mechanical bonds, ideal for products subjected to high stress or requiring robust electrical connections.
  • SMD & Through-Hole Combination
    Combining SMD and through-hole assembly techniques allows us to optimize designs for performance, cost, and space, offering a flexible approach to complex electronic assemblies.



All our production staff hold the internationally recognised IPC-A-610 certificate. They are trained and periodically tested by our internal IPC trainer.


All production processes are conducted in an ESD-safe environment, protecting sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge and ensuring the highest level of product integrity.