Prove the idea before it is a product
Prototyping / R&D
A first working version — electronics, firmware, software, or all three — so the next decision is based on something real.
Problems this covers
- The idea is clear; the first physical or digital version is not.
- Risk is in the unknown interface, not in the pitch deck.
- You need something you can put in front of users or a factory.
What can be built
- Hardware prototypes
- Firmware spikes
- Thin software around a device
- Feasibility on a protocol or sensor
Systems involved
- Dev boards
- Throwaway firmware
- Minimal dashboards
- Lab-to-field notes
Example applications
- A first-pass smart device on ESP32
- A sensor + phone view to test the job
- A protocol spike against an old machine
In this area
- Prototyping / R&D