Boston Device Blog

Breadboarding Versus Prototyping

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While the terms “breadboarding” and “prototyping” are often used interchangeably, they are unique stages in our device development process. Here, we’ll explain breadboarding, and outline how it differs from creating a prototype. Both are integral to quality design and serve separate, but essential, purposes.

The term breadboarding originates from the early days of amateur radio. Experimental radios were developed by attaching copper wires or terminal strips to a wooden board—often a bread cutting board—and soldering electronic components to them. The board provided a surface to attach schematic diagrams and mounting posts, which were often thumbtacks or small nails.

Breadboarding has evolved over time and is now used for a wide range of devices. At Boston Device Development, we use "breadboards" to evaluate and optimize subsystems. Our breadboards are often mounted on aluminum plates, and allow for the swapping of actuators, springs, or other key components. The purpose here is to test basic function by having the ability to tinker with the design as needed. Breadboarding is meant to test and re-test a device in order to achieve the desired functionality quickly. Breadboards serve as a “rough draft” that aim toward functionality but does not look like the eventual final product.

In contrast, a prototype is much more refined, aiming to represent a system-level design. Our prototypes typically integrate aesthetics and production-grade materials to create a working model that is a more accurate rendition of the finished device. While some testing may occur using prototypes, at this stage the design will be much closer to completion and the focus is on fine-tuning for manufacturability, ergonomics and aesthetics.

Boston Device Development’s extensive knowledge of materials, fabrication, and assembly methods enables the engineering of functional breadboards and prototypes that can then be perfected through iteration. Our advanced processes include CNC machining, rapid injection molding, and additive printing (SLA, SLS, FDM). Additionally, the engineering team is well-versed in assembly methods with capabilities in UV adhesive bonding, wiring, soldering, and precision mechanical assembly.

Inspections are performed on all components and valuable information is gathered through rigorous protocols and evaluations. The results of this verification are recorded in the product’s design history file, and are a resource for future design developments.

Photo by Jim at sonicchicken.