Starting an electronic design company

AI Thread Summary
Starting a company focused on LED and lighting controller products for the automotive tuner industry requires careful consideration of startup capital, which can vary significantly based on factors like workforce compensation. It's suggested that entrepreneurs may not need to invest in automated SMD placement machines; instead, outsourcing board assembly to local shops is recommended. The LED lighting market is viewed as young and open to innovation, contrasting with the more saturated automotive market. Developing a solid business plan is essential for transforming ideas into a viable business.
david90
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I want to start a company that design products for the automotive tuner industry. The kind of products that I want to focus on are LED/lighting related controller products. How much money do I need to start this company and can I get away with not having an automated smd placing machine?
 
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I think the startup capital would depend on too many factors for us to know. If you or your employees are willing to work for free for a while, they can be quite low.

You do not need to have your own board stuffing machines; in fact, I would recommend that you not do your own board stuffing. Instead, find a shop in your area that will assemble and wave-solder your boards.

- Warren
 
The common terms "LED lighting" and "automotive" are orthogonal, IMO, but I could be missing something, obviously (hence your startup!). Please read through this basic link, and work on the "business plan" part of the wiki entry:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Startup_company

Writing your business plan (no matter what form it ends up taking) will help you to make your vision a reality (hopefully). Best of luck, and work hard!
 
why would you want to get into such a saturated market?
 
ice109 said:
why would you want to get into such a saturated market?

The LED Lighting market is very young, and ripe for innovation (there's not much more that I can say without multiple lawyers pouncing on top of me and beating me sensless, well, with limp hands, but trying their best :rolleyes: ). The automotive market is pretty much saturated with ideas and innovators ahead of us...
 
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