This is, I suppose, more of a manufacturing question than an electronics question per se, but it is electronics manufacturing and I thought there might be a few here with some insight and/or rules of thumb that they've developed over the years that might be willing to share some of their wisdom.
The question is summarized in the title, so let me give a more concrete example that actually triggered this search:
I can build a switchable, constant-current source with 3 transistors and 3 resistors for ~$0.25.
Or, I could use a custom IC with a single set resistor for ~$0.50.
Assuming a large production run (100k+ units) and further assuming board real-estate is not an issue, how do you determine the break-even point for parts count vs. parts cost?
I appreciate any insights on this,
Mike
The question is summarized in the title, so let me give a more concrete example that actually triggered this search:
I can build a switchable, constant-current source with 3 transistors and 3 resistors for ~$0.25.
Or, I could use a custom IC with a single set resistor for ~$0.50.
Assuming a large production run (100k+ units) and further assuming board real-estate is not an issue, how do you determine the break-even point for parts count vs. parts cost?
I appreciate any insights on this,
Mike