3.7.Cost Optimization
3.7. 1. Introduction to Cost Optimization
Cost optimization is the process of reducing the total cost of an embedded system while maintaining the required performance, quality, safety, and reliability.
Cost includes more than the purchase price of the microcontroller.
Components of embedded system cost
Component cost
+
PCB cost
+
Assembly cost
+
Programming/testing
+
Power supply
+
Maintenance
+
Production cost
=
Total system cost
Cost optimization techniques
1. Select cost-effective components
Choose components that meet the specifications without unnecessary features.
2. Reduce component count
Fewer components can mean:
- Lower material cost.
- Smaller PCB.
- Easier assembly.
- Fewer possible failure points
- High failure rate.
- High power consumption.
- Difficult maintenance.
- Limited availability.
3. Use integrated peripherals
A microcontroller with built-in ADC, PWM, timers, communication interfaces, etc., can reduce the number of external ICs.
4. Optimize PCB size
A smaller PCB can reduce manufacturing and material costs.
5. Design for manufacturing
The design should be easy to assemble and test.
6. Consider long-term costs
A cheap component may not always be the best choice if it has:
Example:
Consider two designs:
Design A
Microcontroller + External ADC + External timer + External communication IC
Design B
Microcontroller with ADC + timer + communication interface
If Design B satisfies the requirements, it may reduce the number of components and therefore reduce cost and complexity.
You may also like
Nyereka Tech and Tumba College Explore Opportunities for Collaboration
The Launch of our IoT Innovation Hub
