7 PCB Testing Methods you need to Know

When you purchase Printed Circuit boards (PCB), we hope that you are aware of the costly consequences of the failure. Suppose your PCB suddenly drops dead or shortens its life span because of the faulty design or QA issue. PCB assembly testing methods are essential parts of the manufacturing process; a professional Printed Circuit Board Assembler offers an array of PCB testing methods. Here, we are presenting your top seven PCB testing methods. It helps you to be prepared for a better discussion with your ECM.

In-Circuit Testing

According to professional 'Printed Circuit Board Assembler', In-Circuit Testing(ICT) is one of the most reliable and effective PCB testing methods. In most cases, the test is prepared for 100% coverage. However, one can only receive up to 85-90% coverage. The process involves utilizing fixed probes connected in such a way that matches the design of the PCB. The probes are utilized to check the integrity of the solder connection.

Flying Probe Testing

As per professional Printed Circuit Board Manufacturers, this process is a proven and less-expensive option in Printed Circuit Board Prototyping. The entire process is optimized through the utilization of the needles fixed to the probe. The ECM program should cooperate with the circuit board and runs the program. This test checks for:

• Opens
• Shorts
• Capacitance
• Resistance
• Inductance
• The issues in Diode

Automatic Optical Inspection
Automatic Optical Inspection utilizes a single 2D camera or 3D cameras to capture the photos of the PCB. The program is designed to compare the photos of the board for details. If a board doesn't match the schematic to a certain level, it means that the board needs technical assistance.

Burn-in Testing

It is another intense process used by professional Printed Circuit Board Assemblers. However, due to its high-intensity, this process can be destructive to the parts. It pushes the power through your electronics. The power runs through the board continuously for 50 to 168 hours. If a board fails during the test, it is considered as infant mortality. Take note that this process can shorten the product's longevity.

X-Ray Inspection

It is a wonderful way of testing for ECMs. During this process, an x-ray technician can easily detect any problem without harming the PCB. They detect the problem by viewing:

• Internal Traces
• Solder Connections
• Barrels

Functional Testing

Some customers are still fond of conventional functional tests. A professional Printed Circuit Board Assembler utilizes this method to ensure the efficiency of the product. This test goes through a few things:

• External Pieces of equipment
• The need for UL, MSHA, and other standards.
• All the fixtures

The functional parameter and its test are generally suggested by the customers.

Other Testing

Other functional testing includes Solder ability test, PCB contamination testing, Micro-sectioning, Time-domain reflect meter, Peel test, etc. These are the top 7 methods of PCB testing. However, if you want to learn more about PCB testing, you can contact a professional Printed Circuit Board Assembler. To buy efficient PCBs, it is always recommended to contact a Printed Circuit Board Supplier.

7 PCB Testing

Methods you

need to Know

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