Make it easy to attach Synapse modules for prototyping

[wbschindler]

I just had a nice long conversation with Synapse. I cannot fault their dedication and support but for one thing.

You have a 2mm footprint on the modules which makes life for engineer's prototyping difficult to work with. Yes, you do offer a "full RS232 module" etc., but you make it difficult to just attach a serial device.

So, I suggest that you make a prototype board which has only the following:
1. A socket for the Synapse module with connections brought out to thru-hole connections on 0.1" centers which fit into standard prototyping systems.
2. An optional pad set for SMT mounted 3.3V regulator for powering from customer equipment.
3. You may want to consider landing pads and jumpers for 3.3 <-> RS232 adapters as well.

You don't have to populate the board, but for the 2mm connectors and let the user wire the board as needed for their connection(s).

Oh, let me not forget, put some pads down for 0402 and a few "standard" SMT parts? This way people could make an adapter for their own use.

[imjustabrian]

That would be handy for me as well. I don't mind soldering up my own parts so a bare board is fine.

If someone makes one and includes pads for 232 drivers, it would be nice to have pads for some .1 header pins and jumpers inline with them (like what is on the prototype boards from Synapse). That would let me build up the board with all hardware on it, but still use those lines as GPIO when needed.

Not so sure about including pads for misc smt parts on the same board - there are already .1" header adapters for those available on digi-key, and I think no matter what assortment was included, it would never be what you need :)


I guess we're talking about both an adapter that allows using a module on standard .1" breadboard, and also one to allow soldering it into .1" perfboard for making a permanent gadget. They're very close to the same requirements, maybe enough so that it's the same board in both cases, but not necessarily.