Build it at home first: Order products from Alibaba.com and
other inexpensive suppliers, and stock up on ducttape.
Electronics: Start with kits, then breadboards, then custom
PCBs, and not the other way around. And if you have electronics in
your product, expect to have more before it's all over.
Identify important components and hard-to-find ones keep track
of reliable suppliers. An early relationship with Avnet will go a long way.
If batteries are part of the picture, think carefully about
your requirements. Looking for a Lithium-ion battery? Do yourself a
HUGE favor: Source a pre-certified battery and save yourself a lot
of time and cost.
If you can't find the pa t you need, you can probably make it!
3D Print- ers are now easily available around the world. Find a
local shop and make some friends.
Identify prototyping partners who can help you build and test
your first. This is also the time to start understanding consumer
electronics regulations and certifications.