Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our services.
Reverse Engineering
Can you reverse engineer a PCB to provide schematics and Gerber files?
Yes, we specialize in reverse engineering and can recreate the full schematic, Bill of Materials (BOM), and PCB layout. We provide production-ready Gerber files for manufacturing, ensuring the new board maintains the original’s electrical functionality.
Can you reverse engineer a board and adjust its dimensions or design?
Absolutely. We can recreate a board’s functionality while adjusting its physical dimensions or layout to fit your new design requirements. This is a common part of our reverse engineering service.
Do you work with obsolete or vintage PCBs?
Yes, we specialize in working with vintage and obsolete PCBs. Our expertise allows us to create new, functional replacements for boards from equipment that is no longer in production.
What is your process for reverse engineering a multi-layer PCB?
We have specific tools and techniques to handle multi-layer boards. The process involves carefully separating the layers to trace all circuits and generate an accurate schematic and Gerber files.
How long does a reverse engineering project typically take?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the board, including its size, number of layers, and component density. Once we receive the physical board, we can provide a more accurate estimate.
Firmware and Software
Can you extract firmware from a microcontroller for cloning?
We can perform firmware extraction on many microcontrollers. However, some chips may have specific security measures that prevent this service. Please provide the chip’s part number for us to evaluate the feasibility.
Are there any microcontrollers you cannot extract firmware from?
Yes, some modern microcontrollers are designed with advanced anti-tampering features and can’t be cracked. We will inform you upfront if a specific chip is not feasible for extraction.
Can you develop custom firmware or software for a new product?
Yes, we provide custom firmware and software development services tailored to your hardware. This includes everything from basic embedded code to more complex applications for platforms like ESP32.
Repair and Prototyping
Can you repair or clone a damaged PCB?
Yes, we offer services to repair or clone damaged PCBs, even if they are from obsolete equipment. To give you an accurate assessment, we’ll need to know the specific part number of the main components.
Do you offer DFM (Design for Manufacturing) review?
Yes, we provide Design for Manufacturing (DFM) review as part of our process. This helps ensure that the final design is optimized for a smooth and cost-effective manufacturing process.
Can you assist with a complete product redesign?
Absolutely. We can take an existing design and modify it to meet new specifications, integrate new components, or update it for modern manufacturing standards.
Do you handle component procurement for prototypes?
Yes, we manage the entire prototyping process from start to finish, including sourcing and procuring all necessary electronic components for your board build.
Can you test the prototype before final delivery?
Yes, we can perform basic functionality testing on the prototype to confirm it operates as expected, ensuring the quality of the final product.
General and Process
What input materials do you need from us to get started?
The required materials depend on the project. For reverse engineering, we generally need the physical board itself. For new designs, we need your product concept, specifications, and any reference files you have.
How do I get a quote for my project?
Please provide as much detail as possible about your project, including the type of service you need, the board’s part numbers, and any specific requirements. We will then provide a detailed quote.
What is your typical project timeline?
Project timelines vary based on complexity, component availability, and our current workload. We will provide an estimated timeline with your project quote.
How do you handle the intellectual property of my project?
Protecting our clients’ intellectual property is a top priority. We operate with strict confidentiality and are open to discussing and signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) as needed.
Do you offer manufacturing services after the prototyping phase?
Yes, we can support you in the manufacturing phase by providing production-ready files and assisting with the transition to mass production.