Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
D.
Design for Manufacture Checklists
The content for this appendix has been taken from
Chapter 12
,
Accelerate from Making to
Finding the Right Contract Manufacturer
Does the contract manufacturer (CM) make things that are similar to what you in-
tend to manufacture?
Who are the CM's other customers (that it can tell you about)?
Does the CM have experience working with the materials that you'd like your
product to be made from?
Do the CM's samples have a similar number of parts and level of complexity com-
pared to your product?
Can the CM provide a fully turnkey solution, including the procurement of all parts?
What is the difference in total unit cost between the turnkey solution and the “as-
sembly only” cost?
What is the CM's average turnaround time once an order becomes official? If you
are working with an international contractor, has it verified that the quoted turn-
around time includes shipping?
What are the CM's minimum order quantity requirements? Does that requirement
differ depending on who is supplying the parts for the production run?
Is the CM capable of sourcing bare printed circuit boards (PCBs) in any color de-
sired?
Is the surface finish quality what you are looking for?
Do the parts have the same level of precision and fit that you desire?
Does the CM have a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and/or a documented policy
on intellectual property to govern the partnership and give you the protections you
desire for your open source hardware?
Does the potential CM have any current or former customers that can be independ-
ently contacted for their opinions on working with that particular CM?
