Types of Evaluation Kits
- A "Reference Design Kit" contains resources such as schematics, gerber files, and/or libraries and source code that support a specific application such as motor control, embedded wireless networking, or offline AC to DC power supplies that allows the user to replicate it or incorporate it into their design.
- An "Evalution Kit" usually includes a PCB with the target component and support circuitry that allows the user to quickly and easily evaluate the features and capabilities of a specific part or family of parts.
- A "Starter Kit" provides a platform to quickly begin the prototyping process by allowing access to IO pins, peripherals and debug ports, and in some cases, provides a prototyping area to build a portion of the users circuitry right on the starter kit PCB.
- A "Demonstration Kit" is similar to an evaluation kit but it usually includes a CD with self-running tutorials and examples that highlight the features and capabilities of the part or family of parts and its supporting tools.
- A "Software Development Kit" can be a compiler, debugger, simulator, IDE (Integrated Development Environment), or an RTOS or Utility Stack that aids the designer in the development of the software/firmware required for their embedded application. Vendors typically support standard core architectures (e.g. ARM, CORTEX, 8051, H8, SH, etc…) and provide library support for specific manufacturers’ devices.
- A "Production Kit" provides a variety of commonly used components for use in the production of end products.
- A "Lab Kit" provides a variety of components that allows designers and students to have choices available when building prototypes.
- A "Module" is an embeddable assembly that provides turn-key functionality in users’ end products.
- A "Tool" is a hand tool or device that aids in production or prototyping