Karl's procedures

The Author's one of those very organized builders of various projects, including electronic ones, such as radio communications for SRG. Once an idea is made, it's thought about it during other (boring) things, like driving on the hyway (summer-type conditions), taking a shower or just relaxing around the house. A vacation would be thinking about it as well. But that's fun. The next practice is to draw a block and system diagram on what was thought up the device would do, and lots of "what-if" scenarios, for designing logic circuits. Or here's a list:

An idea, perhaps even just "pipe dreaming".

Draw up a rough block diagram.

Research parts availability, sources and pricing.

Design and draw up a schematic diagram.

Write-up a theory of operation document and verify it agrees with the schematic and block diagrams. Make any changes or improvements at this time.

Design the rough artwork; boards "runs" layout.

Build the prototype and test it's operation in an acual situation. Make any changes or improvement at this time and update the schematic and theory of operation documentation at this time.

Find and hire a professional art worker and board builder; procure availability and pricing. If acceptable order the boards.

Upon receiving the boards, load them up and test them.

Install the final product in the equipment and test it's operation.

Install the equipment on site and turn up.

Here's the test bench where the prototype and final projects are performed. On the right is the documentation creation to be printed out for a manual.

On the left side of the shop drafting and general operating happens when time permits. Just on the far edge of the picture is one of the equipment racks for the station; in this case, SRG 147.20 repeater. And yes, the floor is clean. A professional type setup.

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