BIRD Electronics — SignalHawk™ Spectrum Analyzer

How do you encapsulate extremely sensitive diagnostic electronics into a virtually indestructible, technician-friendly handheld case that must pass such extreme testing as a standard drop test, transit drop test, vibration tests, shock tests, water-resistance tests, salt exposure, and even fungus-resistance tests?

That seemingly difficult task was handled expertly through the solid engineering work of Bird and The Technology House combined with Balance industrial design.

Balance was charged with performing a re-design of Bird’s then-current Site Analyzer product. The existing unit worked consistently and extremely well from an electronic functionality standpoint. However, Bird was seeking several innovative solutions to some issues that were becoming increasingly apparent while the unit was being utilized in the field. The new unit also needed to complement some powerful new features and upgrades in their upcoming software.

Along with a customary restyling effort, Balance started tackling obstacles such as improved ergonomics, development of a more intuitive user interface, and the sealing/weatherproofing of the entire electronics package (especially its external cable connections). Concept drawings gave way to foam study models, and several innovative features and details were hybridized into a winning concept. Balance then provided CAD design control drawing files of the final design to Bird for final Engineering review.

The resulting product has been received well by field-technicians, and successfully addresses the usability and functional concerns originally expressed by our client. Mission accomplished.