Hello Shawn,

I have taken an existing access point and modified it to my idea, but
obviously a new design must be made since my current prototype is made from
a currently pattented device.


The last part could potentially get you into trouble, in the form of a
nasty and drawn-out legal dog fight.


I'm not an electronic engineer, I only know enough to do the modifications
that I've done.


That's ok, most of my clients are not EEs and I bet the same goes for
other consultants. You have to find someone whom you can trust. This
news groups was the right place to ask.


What I need done is a new circuit board designed, firmware written, and
enclosure made.


That kind of rules me out, there are people here who are better in
writing firmware. If you think firmware is the lion's share of the work
then also post in 'comp.arch.embedded'. That where the uC and DSP guys
hang out.


All I have is the idea and a working prototype made from someone elses
product. Any help on where to go next would be appreciated.

I've been googling all afternoon and I can't find any solid leads.


Maybe the keywords weren't optimal. I'd start with a combination of
'consulting, electronics, product design, prototyping, consumer'.

Since you probably aren't part of a large corporation be prepared to pay
a hefty up-front retainer before getting someone to put lots of hours
into it. Just as you usually would have to at a lawyer's office.

If this is cost critical prepare yourself to go offshore with
production. Else you may not be able to make any profit. I just priced
out a new design and as usual tried to give domestic sources a first
shot. That tooth was pulled when I was quoted a whopping 20 cents per
hole (!) for CNC drilling for the pilot run. And this was regular thin
plastics, nothing fancy. The molded parts were kind of ok in pricing but
they really nail you with any extras.

Regards, Joerg

http://www.analogconsultants.com