PCBA FUNCTIONAL
TEST

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Cyth Systems

Automated Printed Circuit Board Testing

PCBA Functional Testing

Implementing automated testing in your PCBA manufacturing process, you can streamline your testing workflow, improve productivity, and achieve higher levels of quality control.

Functional testing circuit boards can help detect defects, verify functionality, and evaluate performance. With our industry-leading solutions and expertise in PCBA testing, we will guide you through the key benefits, implementation process, and best practices.

Note: does not include Flying Probe testing or In-Circuit testing (ICT).

Automate complex tasks faster

Perform complex and rapid tasks and measurements that are impossible for human manual test.
Conduct Stress or Life Testing of boards by repeating tests hundreds or thousands of times.
Test multiple boards simultaneously, even share time-expensive equipment.

Custom PCB Testing Equipment

Bed of Nails Test Fixture

Functional Board Testing

Project PORTFOLIO

The best way to get to know us is by taking a tour of the systems we've developed over the years. Here is a small sample of some of our Automated Test Systems, Embedded Control Systems, Machine Vision Systems, and Manufacturing Automation Systems.

"Every project is unique, but all projects share many common features. No matter what your project requirements are, we know how to get you there."

View more case studies

PCBA Automated Test Accelerates Vital Signs Monitor’s Path to Market

PCB Board Testing

Benefits of PCBA Automated Testing

High Volume Testing

In the fast-paced world of PCBA manufacturing, testing large volumes of boards can be a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. Manual testing methods may not be able to keep up with the demand, leading to delays in production and potential quality issues. Automated testing systems are designed to handle high volumes of testing efficiently, allowing manufacturers to meet tight deadlines and scale production without sacrificing quality.

Complex Test Procedures

PCBA testing often involves complex test procedures that require precise measurements and analysis. Manual testing methods may not be able to perform these tests accurately and consistently, leading to errors and false results. Automated testing systems use advanced equipment and software to perform tests with precision and speed, ensuring accurate and reliable results. These systems can handle complex test procedures, including functional testing, performance testing, and stress testing.

Traceability and Documentation

PCBA testing requires traceability and documentation of test results for quality control purposes. Manual testing methods may not provide the level of traceability and documentation required to meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations. Automated testing systems provide detailed traceability and documentation of test results, allowing manufacturers to track and analyze data for quality control purposes. This level of traceability ensures that your products meet the highest standards in the industry.

Automation can help overcome these challenges by streamlining the testing process, improving productivity, and enhancing the overall quality of your electronic assemblies. By implementing automated testing in your PCBA manufacturing process, you can achieve higher levels of quality control, reduce costs, and gain a competitive advantage in the market.

PCB Testing Equipment

We know the ins and outs of PCB's

Power supply voltage levels (VCC, VDD, etc.).
Clock signals (system clock, peripheral clocks).
Analog input signals (e.g., sensor inputs).
Digital control signals (e.g., reset, enable signals).
Serial communication inputs (UART, SPI, I2C).
External trigger inputs.
User interface inputs (buttons, switches).
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signals.
Temperature sensor inputs.
Voltage reference inputs.
Digital output signals (data lines, control lines).
Analog input signals (ADC inputs).
Analog output signals (DAC outputs).
LED indicators.
Display outputs (LCD, OLED, LED display segments).
Relay control outputs.
Voltage regulator outputs.
Power-on indicator outputs.
Current sense inputs/outputs.

Power-up sequence testing.
Power-down sequence testing.
Voltage tolerance testing.
Clock frequency and accuracy testing.
Data integrity testing (checksum, CRC).
Communication protocol testing (UART, SPI, I2C).
Uploading Firmware or other files.
Overvoltage protection testing.
Undervoltage lockout testing.
Logic functionality testing (gate-level/functional logic).
Memory read/write testing (RAM, Flash).
Sensor calibration and accuracy testing.
ADC/DAC functionality and accuracy testing.
Motor control functionality testing.
Audio output quality testing.
Display content and pixel testing.
Communication protocol testing.
Button/switch functionality testing.
Temperature sensor accuracy testing.

All these I/O's and much more.

Components of Automated Testing System
for Printed Circuit Board Assembly

Printed Circuit Board Test Fixtures

Test fixtures are used to securely hold the PCBs during the testing process. These fixtures ensure proper alignment and contact between the PCB and the testing equipment.

Test fixtures can be custom-designed to accommodate different board sizes and configurations, allowing for efficient testing of various PCB designs.

Printed Circuit Board Test Equipment

Test equipment includes a wide range of tools and instruments used to perform different types of tests on PCBs. This may include oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers, and power supplies.

The choice of test equipment depends on the specific requirements of your testing process and the types of tests you need to perform.

Inovio - ATE Fixture - Background Removed.png

Printed Circuit Board Test Software

Software plays a critical role in automated testing systems. It allows you to program and control the testing process, configure test sequences and parameters, and analyze test results.

The software also provides traceability and documentation of test results, enabling manufacturers to track and analyze data for quality control purposes.

PCB Testing Equipment Communication Interface

The communication interface allows the automated testing system to interact with other systems and devices, such as production control systems or data collection systems.

This interface enables seamless integration of the testing process with other stages of the manufacturing process, ensuring efficient workflow and data exchange.

PCBA Test Data Management System & Reports

A data management system is used to store, organize, and analyze test data. This system allows manufacturers to track and analyze data for quality control purposes, identify trends or patterns, and make informed decisions based on the test results. The data management system also provides traceability and documentation of test results, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and customer expectations.

By understanding the components of an automated testing system for PCBA, you can make informed decisions when selecting the right equipment and software for your testing process. It is essential to choose a system that meets your specific requirements, offers flexibility and scalability, and integrates seamlessly with your existing manufacturing process.

Implementing Automated Testing in Your Printed Circuit Board Assembly Manufacturing Process

Assess Your Testing Needs

Start by assessing your specific testing needs and requirements. Consider the types of tests you need to perform, the performance criteria, and the desired level of quality control. This will help you determine the scope and complexity of your automated testing system.

Design Test Fixtures

Design test fixtures that securely hold the PCBs, provide proper alignment and contact, and allow for easy insertion and removal of the boards. Consider the specific requirements of your PCB designs and ensure that the test fixtures can accommodate different board sizes and configurations. Test the fixtures with sample PCBs to ensure proper functionality.

Deploy and Validate

Research & Select the Right Equipment

Research and select the right equipment and software for your testing process. Consider factors such as test accuracy, test speed, ease of use, scalability, and compatibility with your existing manufacturing process. Consult with experts in the field, attend trade shows and conferences, and request demonstrations or trials to evaluate different options.

Develop Test Sequences & Parameters

Develop test sequences and parameters that accurately reflect your testing requirements. This includes defining the order of tests, the specific measurements and analysis to be performed, and the pass/fail criteria. Consider the complexity of your test procedures and ensure that the automated testing system can handle them accurately and consistently. Test the sequences and parameters with sample PCBs to ensure accurate and reliable results.