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PCB Functional Testing vs. PCBA Functional Test
PCB Functional Testing vs. PCBA Functional Test
highly crucial for the fine performance of our devices so that our lives can
various steps. However, the production of PCBs is not enough. The testing
of PCBs also matters here. It comes in handy to rule out defective PCBs
PCBs are functional and safe to use. Or else a damaged and defective PCB
can ultimately ruin the whole electronic device in the future. We are going
to have a detailed look at the testing of PCBs so that you can easily learn
Table of Contents
One of the most common methods is functional testing, aka FCT. If you do
FCT, precisely meeting all its requirements and executing on the basis of
its guidelines, it will help you test your PCBs on a deeper level. Now FCT is
for testing each component individually. An FCT test is also reliable for the
verification of the optimum atmosphere for the PCBs. In the end, the
results of this FCT will give you a clear knowledge and idea about the
health of your PCBs. Such tests are important in the domain of PCBs,
where producers are able to produce exceptional PCBs for the users.
1. Monitors
2. Cables/wiring
3. Connective interface
4. CPU
By far, you have a clear idea that FCT is important for PCBs. There is no
margin of negligence since it can alter the results. In FCT, the goal is to
analyze and test all the components. There are also other alternative
methods that you can use in place of FCT. However, if you are going for
FCT, you need to do it in the correct way. In this section, let’s talk about the
You need to properly plan the FCT procedure so that each and every PCB
most cases. You need to write down all the methods that you are going to
opt for in this process. Also, what PCB parts will undergo testing? Make a
when you want to test the resistors. Make sure to get proper
around them, and due to this, they produce electrical signals based
a device or PCB. You can also test the capacitors to see if they are
PCBs. Changes and problems with the voltage create a negative impact on
PCBs on the whole. The voltage and power work together in a PCB to
make it work. In case you are using low voltage and high-voltage, you need
to always test it. So that it will make your PCBs much safer to use, to test
the voltage, you can use a voltage meter. The reading of the voltage meter
is for indicating the performance of the voltage. Later, you can also
Load Testing
The loads are an important part of PCBs because they help them fight
However, the result of the test can vary as to the following factors. These
are:
overheating, the PCBs can melt down and undergo full failure. The
Current: The current changes can also alter the results. Therefore
attention. The PCBs usually work with high frequency and low
QC Testing
know that the PCBs are of industrial grade and meet industry standards as
well. This test is basically for the verification of the final product. These are
different from FCT since it does not test the final product. The QC test
verifies the PCBs on a deeper level. From their design to components and
performance, a QC test will give you all the insight about your PCBs. QC
tests also rule out defective PCBs and highly hidden defects in PCBs so
that they will remain intact and safe to use in consumer electronics.
Defective PCBs are not only harmful but also can lead to loss of money by
Now we are going to see the major benefits of FCT and other PCB testing
below:
perform nicely. With the PCB tests like FCT, we can make sure that
Inaccurate voltage: Some PCB tests, like voltage testing, makes sure
that the voltage supply is accurate and that there are no issues with
it. It detects voltage issues in real-time so that you can make the
changes successfully.
The PCBA is a type of PCB testing method that is normally for testing
complex circuits and PCBs. Now any negligence in doing the PCBA can
falsify the results. Also, any human error can change the results, which is
not acceptable, however, despite the fact that PCBA is a powerful testing
pairing PCBA with FCT and ICT proves to be beneficial in analyzing the
PCBs intensely.
save the life of users. In case of short circuits and current leaks, the users
producer to rigorously test the PCBs before delivering them to its clients
to ensure their safety on all counts. Plus, doing the PCB tests in time will
give enough room to reverse the faults and defects before delivering.
1. Visual Inspection
VI is mainly for detecting the issues with PCB soldering. It is a basic PCB
testing method in which you will analyze the PCBs with the naked eye
detecting small PCB parts. Only big and visible solder joints can undergo
visual inspection. However, skills are needed for visual inspection and to
The FPT is an affordable testing method and useful to replace the ICT,
penetrating through them and only test special areas on the board. It is
3. Burn-in Testing:
available. It exerts extreme stress on the PCBs. Now, problems can occur
shows great results. There are some downsides of this testing, including
An FCT is highly beneficial for the performance of PCBs. It rules out small
end of the PCB production. It is also affordable, which means many PCB
producers can do this test to ensure the quality and performance of their
results from FCT. It is a much less rigorous test and might still leave some
defects undetected.
If you ever get confused between the PCB tests, then RayPCB will help you.
We will analyze your PCBs and recommend suitable tests for them.
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Functional Testing?
Elements
https://www.raypcb.com/pcb-functional-testing-vs-pcba-functional-test/