Hi guys welcome to the new post. In this post, we will learn What is a PCB Flying Probe Test. PCB boards are complex and structured and have high-density components and some testing processes of old types like manual testing and bed-of-nails testing are limited due to high cost, longer duration and testing process. This is where the PCB flying probe test comes to use, offering a flexible and effective solution for testing PCBs in 2023. So let’s get started Introduction to flying probe testing
Understanding PCB Testing
Differnt testing techniques are used for board tests such as manual testing checks bords with visual techniques to find errors and different damage on boards.
Introduction to PCB Flying Probe Testing
A flying probe tester is an automated board testing process that covers the limitations of old testing methods. It uses different instruments such as robotic probes pais, for checking the electrical nodes of boards and offers different tests. Probes move slowly over the board to make connections with testing points to check electrical features and detect any fault
Advantages and Disadvantages of PCB Flying Probe Test
Feature | Advantage | Disadvantage |
---|---|---|
Test development cycles | Shorter | None |
Test costs | Lower | None |
Operational testing | This can be performed by general technical assembly personnel | None |
Test accuracy | Higher | None |
Solder pits | left in the solder | Can be considered as appearance defects |
Loose or poorly soldered components | not be detected | None |
Double-sided PCBs | Cannot be tested top and bottom simultaneously | Requires flipping the PCB |
Applications of PCB Flying Probe Test
The main applications of this test are
- it is performed for checking open and short circuit points
- Used for signal quality and connection checking
- Finds the faults of pattern
- Measure the voltage and frequency response.
- Measures teh value of passive component
How Does Flying Probe Testing Work?
Some steps involved in flying probe tests are explained here
1. Load PCB
- In this first step board is configured on the testing platform with accuracy
2. Optically Align Board
For testing the board optical camera is aligned on the board
3. Import Test Program
Test data is imported for CAD
4. Probe Test Points
Probes touch on different options to find the testing nodes
5. Perform Electrical Tests
Tester started and measured on the base of programmed tests.
6. Move Probes
Change the position of probes to cover all nodes
7. Repeat Tests
Steps four to six are repeated again to tell verification is completed.
8. Display Results
Not configure the results of this test about finding the faults
Flying Probe Testing vs. ICT Testing
Feature | In-Circuit Testing (ICT) | Flying Probe Testing (FPT) |
---|---|---|
Strengths | Quick tests per PCB unit | No custom tooling needed |
Lower costs per unit than FPT | Programming requires less time | |
Checks for shorts, opens, resistance, capacitance, and component tolerance | Checks for shorts, opens, resistance, capacitance, and component tolerance | |
Tests components individually | Tests components individually | |
Tests for logic functionality | Low up-front costs | |
Capable of performing on-board verification FPGAs | Ability to test LEDs | |
Can be set to turn on and test LED components – say by enabling verification of color and brightness | Capable of performing on-board verification FPGAs | |
Ability to check the integrity of BTC components’ soldering using a pressure test | ||
Weaknesses | Long development lead time | Higher cycle test period times and cost-per-unit costs |
High up-front costs | Doesn’t test connectors or non-active components | |
Programming and custom tooling are required | Doesn’t test components operating together | |
Doesn’t test connectors or non-electrical components | ||
Doesn’t test components working together | ||
Best for | More developed and high-volume products | Early stages of development and low-volume orders |
WHAT KINDS OF PROJECTS WORK BEST WITH A FLYING PROBER?
Here are some of the types of projects that work well with a flying prober:
- Prototypes: Flying probe tests are best for testing the prototype. Since there is no need for customer pictures that can be costly and time-taking
- Low-volume production: This testing technique is also used for low-volume production.Since it is a more cost-effective solution than other testing techniques like in-circuit testing (ICT).
- High-density boards: it is also used to measure the parameters of high-density boards,
Circuit Board Testers
Here commonly used circuit board testers, are listed
- In-Circuit Testers (ICT):
- Flying Probe Testers
- Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) System
- X-ray Inspection Systems
- Functional Testers
Conclusion
The PCB flying probe test is flexible in nature and best for board evaluation in the electronic field. This is important for making sure the quality of boards with less cost and an accurate testing process. This testing makes sure the production process is simple and easy
FAQS
What is the difference between flying probes and ICT testing?
Feature | Flying Probe Testing | In-Circuit Testing (ICT) |
---|---|---|
Testing Approach | Robotic probes move across the board to make connections with certain test points | Custom test fixtures and probes make electrical connections |
Equipment Used | Flying probe tester | ICT tester |
Adaptability | High | Low |
Flexibility | High | Low |
Ability to test complicated designs | High | Low |
Suitability for low-volume production | Good | Not as good |
Suitability for prototyping | Good | Not as good |
Suitability for high-volume production | Not as good | Good |
Test time per board | Longer | Shorter |
Ability to simultaneously test many test points | Low | High |
What is the FPT test in PCB?
The flying probe test (FPT) is an automated testing process. One or more automated probes are used over the cross-section of the board. These probes inspect from pin to on . The mounted component function is monitored in this test
What is GPT vs FPT?
GPT or (Giant Perpendicularity Test) and FPT (Flying Probe Test) are 2 completely different concepts. GPT is defined as a testing method employed to determine the perpendicularity or alignment of properties or structures, generally in mechanical or engineering contexts. While, FPT is a testing process specifically used for board, where robotic probes are employed to make electrical connections with test points on the board
What is MPT vs FPT?
Feature | MPT | FPT |
---|---|---|
Testing method | Manual | Automated |
Application | Surface hardness or resistance | Board testing |
Technique | Penetrating with a specialized tool | Robotic probes making contact with test points |
Parameters | Hardness, resistance | Electrical parameters |
Why is GPT used?
GPT, or Giant Perpendicularity Test, is employed to evaluate the perpendicularity or alignment of a feature or structure. It helps to ensure that components or structures are accurately aligned according to certain tolerances. GPT is used in mechanical and engineering industries to check the accuracy and quality of parts, assemblies, or structures.
What is FPT technology?
FPT is a technology used for testing printed circuit boards. It uses robotic probes that move across the board and make contact with certain testing points to find electrical features and defects.
What does FPT mean in mechanical?
Functional Performance Testing (FPT) puts the Direct Digital Control (DDC) system through manipulating each condition the HVAC controls and equipment faces