Board Level Testing: Test PCB assemblies prior to final product assembly
During any production run, testing printed circuit board assemblies (PCBA) is key to a successful product. Any defects will be spotted early before the board gets assembled into its final product.
What are Test Points?
Test points (or pads) are specific landing pads allocated to a PCB design and are vital features required for robust testing. Sprung test pins can make a connection to the test points in order to perform measurements, control and signal/power injection stimulus. Test points are useful for initial board debugging/development as well as production testing. Our HILTOP platform can provide a range of electrical interfaces for test point connections including, AC & DC power supplies, analogue measurements, digital I/O, test stimulus and programming lines to name a few.
Test Fixtures
During initial prototype builds and low volume production you may be able to test your boards using a manual test procedure performed by a technician. As volume increases, this quickly becomes difficult to manage. The risk of inconsistencies and mishaps is high. It is also hard to get good traceable measurement data which can be analysed in real time. A text fixture, alternatively known as a Jig or Bed of Nails, is a key piece of the puzzle as it secures each circuit board assembly in a fixed location enabling electrical connections to your test platform. Typically, sprung pogo pins are used to connect with test points on the PCBA under test. In combination with a clamping mechanism, pressure is applied to the board under test to ensure even connections are being made with each test point of the board. Devtank work with a number of reputable test fixture manufacturers including a partnership with Coda to offer turnkey solutions.
CGF Series
