Armistead Technologies News

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21 Jan 2008 17:22:18 GMT

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Reverse Engineering Emerging As The Latest Trend In Advancing Technology, 01/31/2008

31 Jan 2008 23:13:09 GMT

Reverse Engineering Emerging As The Latest Trend In Advancing Technology

Reverse engineering is no longer just about bringing old technology back to life. It�s also about using that technology as a launch pad into the future. John Armistead, founder and owner of reverse engineering firm Armistead Technologies, discusses some recent technological advances � made in reverse.

Glen Arm, MD, January 31, 2008 -- As NASA moves forward with plans for future Mars missions, it has found itself relying on solutions from the past. Decades-old equipment and technologies from the Moon program are being used as the foundation for Mars-bound space systems. Unfortunately the engineers who created those solutions are long gone � retired, dead, or moved on to other projects in other fields.

That has put reverse engineering in the news, as today�s engineers painstakingly disassemble, analyze, and re-create mission-critical components from ancient spacecraft and support systems.

John Armistead, founder and owner of reverse engineering firm Armistead Technologies, can�t help but chuckle. “Perhaps, for the printed circuit boards, they could�ve called me,� he says.

Armistead�s firm specializes in reverse engineering printed circuit boards (PCBs), the “brains� that control electro-mechanical devices. Manufacturers and companies call on Armistead when they need to recover a piece of electronic technology.

“It happens all the time,� Armistead says. “What happens is, the engineers working on a particular problem learn their lessons, apply what they�ve learned to the solution, and move on. The lessons are retained by the group, but over time the group memory is lost.�

This has serious implications for commercial enterprises as well as government agencies.

“For example, a company acquires another company,� Armistead says. “They run through their inventory of PCBs and have to ramp up production again � but by then the manufacturing files can�t be found and all the people who knew anything about the circuit board designs are gone.�

Engineering managers may have the in-house resources to reverse engineer PCBs, but they are often reluctant to take engineers away from critical design projects that are timelined. Now, they have the option of outsourcing the project to a reverse engineering specialist.

Armistead points out that even when manufacturing files are available showing how to make a certain circuit board, there often remain questions as to why certain decisions were made in the design process. That can confound efforts to update the PCB design to meet current needs.

“It�s one thing to have a pile of paper on your desk saying �this is the product,� and another thing to go out and actually build the product,� Armistead says.

In those cases, Armistead Technologies reverse engineers the circuit board, creating new manufacturing files so a plug-in replacement PCB can be produced. Along the way, the circuit board may be updated with modern components to reduce costs. Armistead recalls a recent project for a European company in which the original PCB design was updated to use surface mounted components instead of through-hole mounted components. The result was an electronically identical circuit board with lower production costs.

“You move backward and forward at the same time,� Armistead explains. “You reverse engineer the circuit board to fulfill its original functionality, but at the same time you update the materials and components or add functionality.�

Another recent project had Armistead Technologies working for a commercial printer, reverse engineering control boards for massive printing presses. Spare control boards were unavailable, yet the presses themselves were mechanically sound. Armistead Technologies reverse engineered, upgraded, and manufactured a small number of replacement PCBs, extending the life of the presses at a fraction of the cost of replacing them.

“We do it all, including short-run manufacture,� Armistead says. “You don�t need to order several thousand PCBs. We can reverse engineer and manufacture as few as five or ten circuit boards. And we handle everything, from design to assembly, right here in the U.S.�

And what if NASA should come calling? Armistead smiles. “I�m here,� he says. “And I�m ready.�

About Armistead Technologies, LLC.

Armistead Technologies is an engineering firm based near Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1989 by John Armistead, a graduate electrical engineer from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Armistead Technologies specializes in reverse engineering printed circuit boards, and re-engineering older PCB designs to be compliant with updated standards and compatibilities.

For more information, visit http://www.armisteadtechnologies.com or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.

Index

A New Resource For Old Equipment: Custom-Manufactured Replacement Circuit Boards, 12/10/2007

10 Dec 2007 23:11:52 GMT

A New Resource For Old Equipment: Custom-Manufactured Replacement Circuit Boards

As the global economy tightens up, more companies are seeking innovative ways to get more life out of their old equipment. One increasingly popular approach is to use replacement PCBs to extend equipment life, add updated capabilities, and enhance system performance.

Glen Arm, MD (PRWEB) December 10, 2007 -- It�s a familiar story for many small manufacturers. The printed circuit board (PCB) controlling a critical piece of equipment fails, bringing the machine � and an entire production process � to an abrupt halt. Buying new equipment is prohibitively expensive. But replacement PCBs are no longer available, making repair impossible. Until now.

Reverse engineering firms like Armistead Technologies are filling this rapidly emerging need in the market. Armistead Technologies specializes in the design and short-run manufacture of replacement circuit boards.

“We take your worn-out old circuit board, reverse engineer it, update it with new components, and deliver a brand-new board that plugs right into your old equipment,� says John Armistead, founder and owner of Armistead Technologies. “Not only is your equipment up and running again, but it also can be repaired easily because all the electronic components on the board are from currently available stock lists.�

One bonus to reverse engineering a custom replacement PCB is that functions can be added to extend the capabilities of the system, creating additional efficiencies.

Since 1995, Armistead Technologies has reverse engineered replacement PC boards for clients in the electronics industry as well as manufacturers and even commercial printers. In addition to reverse engineering services, Armistead Technologies also offers custom PCB manufacturing and assembly, making it a one-stop shop for its customers.

“We do it all,� Armistead says. “We�re not some offshore company that requires an order of several thousand PCBs. We can reverse engineer and manufacture as few as five or ten replacement PCBs. And we handle everything, from design to assembly, right here in the U.S.�

Armistead points out that the cost of reverse engineering and manufacturing a few replacement PCBs is a tiny fraction of the cost of replacing an entire piece of equipment. In most cases, the cost savings are dramatic.

“When a system isn�t working any more, you might think your only option is to replace the system,� he says. “But you can call in someone like me and just replace the PCB, and keep your current system in operation.�

About Armistead Technologies, LLC.

For more information, visit http://www.armisteadtechnologies.com or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.

Index

Armistead Technologies Launches Online PCB Reverse Engineering Cost Calculator, 11/9/2007

9 Nov 2007 23:11:03 GMT

Armistead Technologies Launches Online PCB Reverse Engineering Cost Calculator

Armistead Technologies, a Maryland firm specializing in reverse engineering PCBs, offers manufacturers a U.S.-based option for critical reverse engineering projects.

Glen Arm, MD (PRWEB) November 9, 2007 -- Reverse engineering a printed circuit board (PCB) is a highly customized project, requiring in-depth knowledge of electronics, design engineering, and production. That complexity makes it difficult for companies to know how much to budget when outsourcing a reverse engineering project, or even whether or not reverse engineering a current PC board is a cost-effective option.

Fortunately, there is now a quick, simple way to get estimated costs: an automated PCB reverse engineering estimator, available with no cost or commitment on the Armistead Technologies website.

"All you do is fill out a simple form and you get an instant cost estimate right online," says John Armistead, founder and owner of Armistead Technologies. "The calculator can even factor in rush charges for projects requiring fast turnaround."

Although the website makes it clear that the estimate generated is not a full quote, the tool is highly useful for companies merely seeking a rough estimate to aid in establishing a project budget -- and who don't want the hassle of talking to a salesperson.

"The form never even asks for your contact information," Armistead explains. "The entire calculation takes place right online, in real time. If you contact me later, I don't know whether or not you've used the online estimator unless you tell me."

Armistead points out that PCBs can be very cost-effective to reverse engineer, and in many cases the process can lead to additional cost savings. For example, Armistead often updates the design to specify currently available components, which are cheaper and easier to source than older components used on outdated designs. The process can even include upgrading capabilities and adding features.

About Armistead Technologies, LLC.

For more information, visit http://www.armisteadtechnologies.com or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.

Index

China and reverse engineering circuit boards: a resource or a risk?, 9/12/2007

12 Sep 2007 23:09:54 GMT

As Chinese Companies Struggle With Quality-Control And Process-Control Issues, American Engineering Firms Offer A Secure Alternative

Armistead Technologies, a Maryland firm specializing in reverse engineering PCBs, offers manufacturers a U.S.-based option for critical reverse engineering projects.

GLEN ARM, MD (PRWEB) September 10, 2007 � With Chinese-based vendors and subcontractors making headlines over recent quality-control and process-control lapses, John Armistead, founder and owner of Armistead Technologies, offers a timely alterative to offshore engineering: using American engineering firms such as his own.

Armistead Technologies is a Maryland-based firm specializing in reverse engineering printed circuit boards (PCBs).

"We give people an option," founder and owner John Armistead says. "You don't have to go offshore to get a PC board reverse engineered."

Armistead is quick to point out the benefits of working with a U.S.-based firm for reverse engineering critical electronic components. "The key issue is about control -- how do you control the process?" Armistead asks. "Some major companies have the resources to place someone on-site in China or India, to make sure that everything gets done the way it's supposed to, and nothing gets loose."

But recent events have shown that even the strictest oversight procedures can't plug all the potential gaps and leaks.

That's where smaller American engineering firms hold an important advantage. "When you outsource a reverse engineering project to Armistead Technologies, the people doing the work are me and my team," Armistead says. "You're not dealing with some faceless corporate entity, and you're not sending your engineering or manufacturing files out of the country. Everything stays here."

Armistead readily admits that offshore engineering firms are making inroads throughout the electronics industry. "Everyone's getting emails from companies based in India or Asia, saying 'outsource your engineering to us.' Heck, even I get those emails," he says with a chuckle.

But, for manufacturers wanting to keep their intellectual property closer to home, companies like Armistead Technologies remain ready to answer the call. So, for the time being, at least, there is a choice.

About Armistead Technologies, LLC.

For more information, visit http://www.reverse-engineer.com/offshore-reverse-engineering.html or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.

Reverse Engineering Firm Moves Forward With New Website, 8/7/2007

7 Aug 2007 23:09:10 GMT

Reverse Engineering Firm Moves Forward With New Website

Armistead Technologies� newly re-launched website puts the focus on reverse engineering printed circuit boards � and the user � through fresh, targeted content and strategic design.

BALTIMORE, Maryland, August 7, 2007 - - More than a decade ago, back in 1996, few small companies had websites. But John Armistead, founder and owner of Armistead Technologies, saw the potential in web-based communication, and moved quickly to develop a website.

Over the years, Armistead made numerous revisions to his company�s website to keep it up to date.

Today, Armistead Technologies is unveiling its new, completely revamped, website.

“It�s not enough any more just to have a presence on the web,� says John Armistead. “Now, almost everybody has a website. The standards have gotten higher.�

The key objectives of the website redesign were to enhance usability and bring the core business into sharper focus, clearly communicating Armistead Technologies� expertise in reverse engineering printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Armistead created his own branding and website development team: designer Joe Santoro, principal at 3 Tuna Productions in Yardley, Pennsylvania, and veteran freelance copywriter John Kuraoka in San Diego, California.

Armistead�s bicoastal team worked together seamlessly � and virtually � through the web. As Kuraoka developed strategic content and focused the marketing message, Santoro brought an unerring eye for brand development to the look, feel, and functionality of the developing website.

“Ten years ago, it would have been hard to put together a team of this caliber,� says Armistead. “Today, you can find everyone you need online!�

Armistead Technologies� new online home showcases reverse engineering PCBs, but it�s also a valuable informational resource for companies seeking reverse engineering services. What�s more, this website launch marks the beginning, not the end, of the process.

“Oh, this is just the start,� Armistead says. “There are still some details to polish as we refine the usability factor and increase the amount of content value for our potential customers.�

“But I�m happy with the direction it�s going, and the main thing is that it�s now definitely communicating the right message to clients and potential clients.�

About Armistead Technologies, LLC.

About 3 Tuna Productions

3 Tuna Productions is a marketing and brand development firm based in Yardley, Pennsylvania. Contact Joe Santoro: (917) 689-1813.

About John Kuraoka

John Kuraoka is a freelance copywriter, creative director, and branding consultant, based in San Diego, California. He can be reached at (619) 465-6100.

Reverse Engineering Breathes New Life Into Old Equipment, 6/28/2007

28 Jun 2007 23:08:08 GMT

A new twist helps maximize returns on your investment in equipment. Many manufacturers are finding it useful to know a firm that reverse engineers and updates old printed circuit boards and controllers, extending the working life of their equipment.

Baltimore, MD June 28 2007 � For more than 18 years, Armistead Technologies has reverse engineered printed circuit boards (PCBs) for clients in the electronics industry. Recently however, an increasing number of small to mid-size manufacturers are discovering the value of reverse engineering as a business resource.

Company founder and owner John Armistead recalled a recent project for a client who was, of all things, a commercial printer.

“The controller boards in his machines had been repaired and repaired, and they were just worn out,� Armistead says. “But everything else was fine.�

“This guy didn�t care what went into the board,� Armistead continues. “He just wanted his machines back up and running reliably. And, he knew he needed to start by having someone reverse engineer the circuit board.�

That�s a typical path for many small manufacturers, who come from diverse industries. A critical piece of equipment breaks down. The cost of replacing it seems needlessly high given that its mechanical components are basically sound. But, the electronic components � the printed circuit boards � are no longer repairable or available as replacement parts.

That�s when savvy managers call in reverse engineering experts like Armistead Technologies.

The commercial printer also needed a handful of replacement circuit boards to install in his existing machinery. So, in addition to reverse engineering the circuit board, Armistead Technologies custom-manufactured ten PC boards � which was all the printer needed to put his equipment back on line for many more years of profitable service.

Armistead Technologies integrates manufacturing and assembly capabilities in its menu of services, making it a one-stop shop for its customers.

“We take the broken-down old circuit board, reverse engineer it, update it with new components, and deliver a brand-new board that plugs right into the old system,� Armistead says. “Not only is the system up and running again, but it also can be repaired easily because everything on the board is current.�

Furthermore, functions can actually be added during the re-engineering process, extending the life of the system even more and creating additional efficiencies.

Armistead points out that the cost of reverse engineering and manufacturing five or ten circuit boards is a fractional percentage of the cost of replacing the equipment. In most cases, the cost savings are dramatic.

“When a system isn�t working any more, a lot of people think their only option is to replace the system. But they can get someone like me to replace just the board, and keep the system in operation.�

Listen in:

John Armistead recently spoke with Ken Rayment of the Better Business Podcast about how reverse engineering can help small and mid-sized manufacturers extend the working life of their equipment, conserve their capital, and increase the efficiency of their processes.

Better Process Podcast interview with John Armistead (external link)

About Armistead Technologies, LLC

For more information about getting re-engineered replacement circuit boards, visit http://www.armisteadtechnologies.com/replacement-boards.shtml or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.

Refocus Business On Reverse Engineering Printed Circuit Boards, 6/1/2007

1 Jun 2007 23:06:28 GMT

ARMISTEAD TECHNOLOGIES TO REFOCUS BUSINESS ON REVERSE ENGINEERING PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS

Owner John Armistead positions his engineering service company to seize growth opportunities in reverse engineering PCBs by leveraging its expertise in design engineering and production as well as reverse engineering.

Baltimore, MD � Armistead Technologies, an electronics engineering firm, has redirected its energies specifically toward reverse engineering Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assemblies.

“Re-engineering printed circuit boards has always been a major part of our business,� says company founder and owner John Armistead. “In talking with my partners, we decided to dedicate ourselves to pursuing the natural growth we foresee in that side of the electrical engineering market.�

Armistead Technologies isn�t abandoning the design engineering and short run production side of the business entirely though. “We�ll still offer prototyping capabilities to clients who need it,� Armistead says. “And, those skills definitely enhance our service on reverse engineering projects.�

He explains that owners of PC board designs frequently need it updated to work with a current list of peripheral devices or components. Or, functionalities need to be added to remain competitive in the marketplace.

Conversely, obsolete capabilities may need to be engineered out of a circuit board, to reduce costs and streamline operations.

“That�s one big advantage to reverse engineering a PCB versus merely copying it,� Armistead points out. “You don�t have to worry about tracking down or reproducing discontinued components because you�re hamstrung by an old design. Reverse engineering gives you the exact same functionality using components that are easy to source today.�

The high activity recently in technology-related mergers and acquisitions also indicates to Armistead that reverse engineering PCBs is a growth field.

“Often, a lot of product design knowledge exists only in some old-timer�s head,� Armistead says. “Once that person leaves, there goes the last link to knowing how something works, or why it was designed the way it was. When the new owner needs to update a product, or make some new PCB assemblies, they suddenly find out that no one in the building has the knowledge they need. They can�t find the original schematics, everyone who was connected with designing the board is gone � it�s a big hassle for the project manager.�

“By reverse engineering the board, we generate a fresh, original set of manufacturing files, including schematics, drill files, everything. So the job moves off the project manager�s desk and into production, quickly and efficiently.�

“We see a lot of opportunity in reverse engineering printed circuit boards,� Armistead says. “And, with our capabilities and track record, we can turn reverse engineering into a growth opportunity for our clients as well.�

ABOUT ARMISTEAD TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

For more information, visit http://www.armisteadtechnologies.com or call John Armistead at (410) 627-2408.