[Cryptech Tech] PCB prototyping machine [Was: BCP prototyping machine]

[Павел Шатов]

On 24.02.2015 23:08, Benedikt Stockebrand wrote:
> Sure not, and perfboard isn't all that much better, either.  But: If we
> can do a modular design where individual modules can be replaced, and if
> *some* of these modules can actually be done with anything more
> convenient than ordering PCB prototypes, then I expect that would be
> rather helpful; maybe not to your part of the project, but at least to
> what Fredrik and myself are working on.
>
> I have tried not to get myself drawn into the FPGA part of the project
> simply because I currently find it hard to find time for the stuff I've
> already familiarized myself with, so I don't have an idea if we can
> separate the FPGA (with its peripherals) from the MCU (with its
> peripherals, like the RAM you mention), but I do know that Fredrik and I
> can split the avalanche noise generator into at least two boards which
> I've actually built using breadboard and then perfboard and then a
> custom prototype PCB: The voltage supply (either using boost converter
> or a charge pump) and the analog part of the actual noise generator,
> plus the MCUs we've been using.

Yes, having modular design with modules, that can be worked on 
independently is vital for our project.

> Put all of that on a single module with only low speed connectors going
> off that module?

Yes, that is what I suggest. Have you seen my suggestion to use CPU+RAM 
module from http://www.imx6rex.com/ on the list? This module can be the 
core module of our Alpha Board, that end users are not supposed to 
modify. Another module will be the baseboard (carrier), that we will 
need to develop ourselves, it will require a factory-made PCB. The 
baseboard will contain landing spot for core CPU+RAM module, an FPGA (or 
two) and expansion connector(s). End users can develop their own 
extension modules and attach them to the baseboard using extension 
connectors. We can even use the expansion connector from Novena with the 
same pinout to be able to attach your noise generator to our new baseboard.

--
With best regards,
Pavel Shatov