I would like to buy ESP-HDMI-Bridge units. MIPI(DSI)-HDMI conversion is crucial for my commercial startup project. I am ready to pay for up to 10 of them immediately for prototyping.
I tried to get it manufactured myself. Here's what happened:
Finding a complete design
I found Espressif's design files for the ESP-HDMI-Bridge on OSHWLab. I could not order it on JLCPCB because the BOM was incomplete. Thankfully, a user named PointerFly on the Chinese version, OSHWHub, developed a version with a complete BOM.
Getting a quote for manufacturing
I was able to easily prepare an order for PointerFly/Espressif's board on JLCPCB by exporting the project from EasyEDA Pro. However, I ran into two problems.
The PCBA service is expensive
While the PCB is only $24 for 5 units, the assembly is $114. I am on a limited budget (I am a college student), and so this is expensive for 5 units. Here's what I was quoted.
The LT8912B IC is out of stock
Unfortunately, the LT8912B is out of stock at JLCPCB. So, I would have to either consign the chip, which is expensive ($75+ plus parts), or solder the QFN64 package myself, which I am considering doing but I am not at that skill level.
What I need from Espressif
I am ready to buy many units of the ESP-HDMI-Bridge for prototyping. To make it myself, though, it would be $200 or $300 to manufacture just 5 units. Espressif made some engineering samples of this board, and I would like to obtain one.
I've seen many, many comments online from people who want to buy this board. I think if it were mass produced, you would see many popular and useful applications, such as digital signage, video games, and more.
Would Espressif consider manufacturing this board at scale? Or, selfishly, would they be willing to send me an engineering sample? I am very excited about this capability.
Thank you Espressif! To the community, let me know if you have any solutions.
-ramblecube
