Difference between prototype, engineering model and qualification board in electronic products
During the development of electronic products, several design versions are created before reaching series production. Among the most common are the prototype, the engineering model and the qualification board. Each stage has a specific purpose, a different level of maturity and plays a key role in reducing technical, regulatory and production risks.
Understanding the differences between these stages helps plan development more effectively, avoid unnecessary iterations and accelerate the transition from concept to a reliable, certifiable industrial electronic product.
Electronic product development phases
Throughout the development process, the design evolves from exploratory versions to near-final implementations. In simplified terms, this evolution typically includes three major milestones:
- Prototype: validation of the concept and basic architecture.
- Engineering model: design consolidation and extended functional validation.
- Qualification board: regulatory and reliability validation prior to production.
Electronic prototype
The prototype is the first functional version of the electronic design. Its main purpose is to validate the concept, the overall system architecture and basic hardware behaviour.
Prototypes are usually built in small quantities using flexible processes that allow rapid iteration. At this stage:
- The technical feasibility of the concept is validated.
- Interfaces, communications and functional blocks are tested.
- Full compliance with production or regulatory requirements is not yet mandatory.
Engineering model
The engineering model is a direct evolution of the prototype, with a much more stable and refined design. At this stage, the schematic and PCB have been reviewed, components are defined and design-for-manufacturing and reliability criteria have been applied.
The engineering model is used for:
- Extended electrical and functional validation.
- Integration with firmware and application software.
- Internal performance, power consumption and stability testing.
- Preparation for reliability and certification tests.
Qualification board
The qualification board is a version of the design specifically intended for advanced validation. Its goal is to demonstrate compliance with regulatory, environmental and reliability requirements before industrialisation.
This version is typically used for:
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing.
- Thermal and environmental testing.
- Electrical safety verification.
- Reliability and lifetime testing.
Qualification boards help identify and correct critical issues before series production, avoiding costly redesigns and delays. They are essential for industrial products with long lifecycles or strict regulatory requirements.
Key differences summary
- Prototype: concept and basic functionality validation.
- Engineering model: stable design and extended testing.
- Qualification board: regulatory and reliability validation before production.
End-to-end support at REIDITE Electronics
At REIDITE Electronics, we support our clients through all these stages of electronic development, from the first prototype to industrial production.
Our approach combines custom electronic design, rigorous validation and preparation for industrialisation, helping bring complex electronic products to market efficiently and with full technical control.
View our electronic engineering services or contact us to discuss your project.