System Check Which Bench Instruments Do You Use

System check! We want to know: Which test and measurement tools do you use most often during development? What is the biggest weakness in your current electronics workbench setup? Share your opinion with the community!

Past results: version control

Wondering about the results from last week’s System Check on the topic of version control and Git? Here are the results from last week.

The data is clear: version control is no longer just for software. More than half of surveyed engineers now use Git across both hardware and firmware workflows. Another large group leverages it exclusively for firmware, though a small slice of the community still sticks to local files or remains new to version control altogether—proving there is still room for outreach. For engineers balancing PCBs, firmware, and embedded systems, Git is fast becoming non-negotiable.

This shift extends to backups, too. Git repositories are pulling double duty as both collaboration hubs and reliable safety nets. While external drives and NAS units remain popular fallback options, cloud storage sees lower adoption, likely due to security doubts or old habits. Meanwhile, manual file-copying is still surprisingly alive and well, showing that old-school engineering practices still have a home in modern labs.

When it comes to the integration of version control tools like Git into hardware and firmware development processes, the benefits are clear. The ability to track changes, collaborate seamlessly, and maintain a history of revisions has become essential for efficient project management. Engineers are recognizing the importance of version control not only for individual tasks but also for team-based projects where multiple stakeholders are involved.

Looking ahead, the trend towards using Git for hardware and firmware development is expected to continue growing. As more engineers experience the advantages of version control in their workflows, the reliance on traditional methods like local file storage or manual backups may diminish. Embracing modern tools and practices can lead to increased productivity, better organization, and smoother collaboration among team members, ultimately enhancing the overall efficiency of electronics workbench setups.