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Build to specification or build to print?

Choose the starting point that matches the information you have, then agree what the manufacturer will deliver.

FUNCTION / INTERFACES / INTEGRATION
Engineering illustration / application requirements

Engineering note / 4 October 2026

Optical design and analysis selected for build to specification
POG / optical design

When the optical function is the starting point

A specification route begins with what the assembly must do. Describe the optical function, wavelength range, field of view and available space. Separate firm requirements from targets that can be discussed. Include the system interfaces and the evidence you will use to accept the result.

When a controlled design already exists

A drawing route starts with an existing design package. Identify the drawing revision, materials, coatings, tolerances and relevant inspection instructions. Clarify which parts of the package are fixed and who can authorize a change. A drawing alone may not describe how an assembled system will be accepted.

Agree the boundary of responsibility

Ask who owns optical design, mechanical design, manufacture, assembly and testing. Define the documents required at each review. Build to specification and build to print describe starting routes; they do not automatically establish design ownership or commercial terms.

Prepare the first discussion

Bring a short functional summary, available drawings, prototype quantities and a production forecast. Mark open questions clearly. POG describes optical-system development and manufacture; confirm the route, deliverables and feasibility for your assembly.

This note helps prepare a technical brief. Product performance and application suitability require project-specific confirmation.

Manufacturer reference: POG optical systems

All engineering notes