Has your new product moved from an idea to creation? How do you choose a partner who can provide the right technology and support throughout the evaluation and production process?
Here is a checklist that outlines some information, questions and considerations to get you started:
1. Reference the partner's product selection guide and online collateral.
- Does their product portfolio have what you need to support your solution? Do the product(s) meet the right specifications? Can the partner supply multiple products for your solution?
- This can be verified by looking at online brochures and product information on the vendor’s website.
- Peruse their social and professional media sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to see if you can find more information about their commitment to the marketspace, innovations and new initiatives that will shape the industry.
- Subscribe to their online newsletters, new product releases and blogs for the latest updates and ideas.
Learn more about Qorvo's solutions on our website, where you can find our Wi-Fi Front-End brochure and details on all the applications we support with our technology. You can also follow all our latest news and blog posts about Wi-Fi on our LinkedIn account.
2. The details are in the data sheets.
- Not all data sheets are created equal. Do the data sheets have all the technical information you need like efficiency, dynamic EVM and size specifications?
- For example, does the supplier provide solutions targeting thermal management that benefit the end product's size?
- Ensure key differentiators are identified and that the supplier can support those requirements (e.g. - cost-effective design, size requirements, power/efficiency, interference robustness).
At Qorvo, we have important information accessible from the start. That is why you will always find a product data sheet linked to a product on our website.
3. Reach out to distributors and channel partners.
- Local distributors and channel partners can be a good source of information regarding newly released products and complementary components.
- They are a good resource for early prototypes.
- Dig deeper: don’t hesitate to engage the salesforce if you’re looking for something specific. They may be able to provide insight into product information not yet available on the website, such as:
- An upcoming product
- An adaptation of an existing solution
- A legacy product that may be a good fit for your design
Qorvo works with trusted channel partners, trained to help you design-in and optimize our products.
4. Review the application and manufacturing notes. (example: QPA5219 Application Note)
- Application/manufacturing notes provide a lot of detail about a product and intended uses for a product. These documents provide a deep dive into evaluating product differences.
- For example, thermal reports help with thermal mechanical design (e.g. – thermal efficiency, cost, size and performance).
If not posted to our website, contact Qorvo to request additional application and manufacturing notes on the product you're interested in.
5. Obtain answers to your technical questions.
- When you're mapping out your design, get your questions answered from the start.
- Utilize field application engineering and channel partners as a resource. They will be able to review schematics and answer specific product questions (e.g. – environmental reviews, layout questions, bond applications, usability outside of its intended uses)
- This will also help you gauge the level of support you'll receive from the partner before buying their product.
6. Assess the supplier's flexibility
- Can you find information in various formats and via different channels and tools?
- Will the supplier guide you through the design evaluation and buying process?
- Does the supplier provide design support throughout your design evaluation stages?
- Does the product support and production schedule timeline meet your needs?
- Does the supplier provide forecasting information throughout the prototype and production stages?
7. Ask for product samples
- Samples are an important part of the process, as they allow you to verify in real conditions if the product meets your requirements.
- Ask your partner as many questions as possible to help you understand the best way to use the product's full capabilities.
It's important to gather as much information as possible about a product to ensure a smooth, cost-effective implementation. By being prepared from the beginning, you can be assured you know how the product will work; this will also help you avoid surprises. The more you engage with your supplier and ask the tough questions, the better your solution will be – including a smooth buying and production process. Doing your research and finding the right product saves time and money.