HK test lab for electronic startups attracts 120 engineers in first two months

Arrow, the US-listed electronic components distributor, says it has received a strong response from local SMEs to its new Arrow Open Lab in Hong Kong – a facility that allows hardware start-ups to test their products on expensive equipment they are unlikely to be able to afford themselves.

Esmond Wong, Arrow’s vice president, supplier marketing, said 120 engineers have signed up to use the lab, which opened in June, from 50 companies.

The 3,000 square foot facility, which is free to members at Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, has four resident engineers and HK$10 million in equipment to help speed up the development of products designed by local companies, such as wearable devices while ensuring Arrow is on top of the next big thing.

“This is a bet. Nobody knew [drone maker] DJI would be that big. The problem is, how many are willing to spend time with them [tech startups] when they’re young?” said Wong.

“My role is to provide enough support, to nurture them so they will stay.”

Wong said Arrow can help companies using the lab to find suppliers, such as manufacturers in Shenzhen and global customers through its existing network.