During the PCB manufacturing, how to use ICT test to produce high-quality PCB? In this passage, we will focus on the topic and check the content below for more information.
What is ICT test?
ICT, in the circuit board technology, is an abbreviation for In-Circuit Test. It’s also known as the bed-of-nails In-circuit test. Structurally, it is an example of white box testing whereby an electrical probe tests a populated printed circuit board and checks for faultiness such as shorts, opens, etc. Ideally, you can perform this test with a bed of nails type test fixture or featureless in-circuit test alignment.
This type of test method works by checking errors that may occur during fixing components onto the board. In doing so, you can easily replace any defective part. Moreover, they offer a fast and straightforward way of assessing the board’s manufacture and providing accurate results. ICTs can also utilize suction cups to check the soldiers’ sturdiness and the malleable strength of chips.
Some known examples include but not limited to;
·Acculogic Scorpion ICT 7000
·TRI TR5001 Inline ICT
·Automated ICT systems
How it works; first, your manufacturers will press the PCB down on a fixed bed of probes. These probes have their designs fitting a particular circuit board. After that, needles will shoot up from the bottom and be in contact with the circuit. Lastly, boards access those pins then use them to measure the values of the PCBs.
Since it is a fully automated test, it doesn’t require much human involvement rather than pressing the ‘start’ button. Moments later, carefully measured values decide whether the test was a fail or pass.
The Main Types of ICT Machines you Need to know.
There are several different types of ICT machines in the electronics manufacturing industries. The machine type usually is dependent on;
·The manufacturing or testing process,
·The volume of purchased PCBs and,
·Types of PCBs in the picture.
·The main types of ICT machines include;
Standard ICT machine
In normal circumstances, this is the general test in this form of testing. However, they’re standard because they offer elemental resistance, capacitance, and some device functionality.
Manufacturing defect analyzer, MDA
MDA offers an essential ICT of resistance, continuity, and insulation. Manufacturers use it to detect defects such as shorts and open circuit connections on the board. It uses the printed circuit board CAD data to generate the fixture design and test programs while operating. Thus, you can automatically produce about 80% of the programs.
Cableform tester
As the name suggests, you use its operation to test cables optimally. It works similarly to an MDA but differs in high voltage usage. The high voltage is for periodic testing for the insulation.
Flying probe tester
A roving or flying probe has a simple, inexpensive fixture that holds the board. A testing team then connects via a few inquiries that move around the board and make contact as needed. Often, software control monitors the movements of the probes. Therefore, any board updates will lead to a change in the software program.
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