Prototyping Circuit Boards in the New Tariff Environment and Saving $$
10 months ago
- #electronics
- #prototyping
- #DIY
- Author designed a circuit board that activates in the dark, aiming for cost-effective domestic production amid US tariffs.
- Domestic prototyping with OSHPark saved 85% compared to overseas options, despite longer delivery times (20 days vs. under a week).
- The project used a CR2032 battery for power, offering months of operation, and integrated a PCB-based battery holder.
- Tariffs and high shipping costs made overseas PCB production less attractive, leading to a shift towards domestic suppliers.
- The article highlights the trade-offs between cost, delivery time, and quality when choosing PCB manufacturing options.