We used to breadboard some projects, but given analog circuits, noise, component availability (a lot of newer parts are not available in DIP packages), etc. it became quickly apparent that prototype boards were the only reliable way to go.

For less than $100 and in only a couple of days time, we get two double-sided circuit boards. Ground planes are layed out as for a production board, and all components are as for a production board (mostly surface mount). We avoid having to do two debugs, one with the breadboard and one with preproduction boards.

Unless you use parts with real fine pitch leads or BGAs, surface mount parts are easy to deal with, even with just a fine-point soldering iron. Making changes actually seems easier than with through-hole.

If we didn't make any mistakes, once debug is through we're ready for production. Afterwards we still have our proto boards: no breadboard to tear apart in preparation for the next project.

Because changes to a PCB are easy enough to make, sometimes we can use one of our previous prototype boards as the basis for the next project.

Dennis