SUPPLY CHAIN
optimised design processes Robert John Webber, European applications manager at specialist distributor for hi-rel connectors, Powell Electronics outlines 10 design tips and techniques to help remove unnecessary time pressures, avoid delays and increase time-to-market
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anufacturing products and solutions that integrate electronic, electrical and mechanical systems is no easy task. Today’s design engineers must address multiple challenges, from integrating advanced core technologies in an optimum manner to managing complex supply chain issues. Using a comprehensive and coordinated design and development methodology goes a long way towards success in this disruptive marketplace. Get help reviewing the BoM:
Knowledgeable development partners can help you select the right parts – and just as importantly, avoid common mistakes. For instance, the choice of plating on a time – but does it make a difference for your design needs? For instance, Harwin’s M80- 5401622 PCB connector features gold on the contact area and tin/lead on the tails (often used in MIL-SPEC applications, the presence of lead helps inhibit tin whiskers) – but its current lead time is 14 weeks. A quick chat with an FAE could help establish that the M80-5401642 connector (identical in every way, save only tin on the tails) is perfectly OK for your application needs – saving you 14 weeks, since it is available immediately from stock.
FAEs and product specialists will be able to test reports, pricing information and and those on a limited parts database. This can help speed up the process and avoid problems later.
It’s vital to communicate development and project milestone dates along the way. Good distributors will be able to advise of potential supply chain issues based on these. Through open communication, orders can sometimes be “babysat”, pencilled in or
scheduled with suppliers. Component selection: In order of priority, select your components based on i) ability to solve the design problem (technically); ii) project dates; and iii) manufacturability. will have differing technology offerings, stock and pricing models, and openness to customisation, so this approach results in the optimum solution both technically and commercially. For instance, both Glenair and Harwin have hi-rel interconnect offerings – but each follow differing supply models. Glenair specialize in customisation and offer very short lead times, but can be at the higher end price-wise for short runs. Meanwhile, Harwin focus on popular variants and maintain industry- standard lead times, helping keep pricing competitively low.
Important as traceability is, one problem that it has resulted in is standard parts lists, limiting alternatives or the ability to cross reference switching out parts during development phases, it can help mitigate some supply chain issues.
Considering alternatives to the obvious suppliers can also help.
Make use of distribution partner’s warehouses: some distributors will be able
to help you manage your just-in-time requirements by holding stock for you and delaying delivery to suit. Use common solutions: Using the same components for multiple solutions where possible enables you to take advantage of fewer lines, lowering the probability of pricing.
Custom kitting and cable assemblies can help to do this – reducing complexity and improving deliverability.
Looking forward
Surviving and thriving in today’s disruptive geopolitical and manufacturing environment requires effective management of both your team and the supply chain. Establishing the optimum team composition can help address issues before they start, ensuring the right people are in the right roles and are able to communicate effectively. In procurement, you should select components according to how they solve the design problem technically, how parts availability matches your various project milestone dates, and the manufacturability of the solution to be created. Working with a trusted and knowledgeable development partner can address all these factors, helping mitigate supply chain challenges and issues.
JULY/AUGUST 2025 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS 37
How to delays & accelerate development cycles with
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