Refurbished ICT Systems Boosts Production Capacity
How a Manufacturer Saved £300k+ with Refurbished ICT Systems
This project highlights how manufacturers can scale their test capability without the constraints of lengthy OEM lead times or inflated costs.
By choosing Forwessun’s proven refurbished equipment this customer was provided with exceptional value whilst maintaining the highest standards of reliability.
The Challenge
A leading manufacturer of innovative fire safety technology faced a critical operational challenge.
Their existing in-circuit test (ICT) systems were reaching capacity and production growth demanded immediate expansion of their test infrastructure.
However, they faced several issues:
- Long OEM Lead Times: New systems typically require 12+ months to deliver, pushing their production expansion timeline years into the future.
- High Capital Expenditure: A single new OEM ICT system can cost over £400,000, severely constraining budget flexibility.
- Production Risk: Equipment failure without reliable backup systems could halt manufacturing and damage customer relationships.
- Integration Complexity: New systems need to integrate seamlessly with existing fixtures, test programs and production workflows.
- Downtime Minimisation: The customer needed solutions that could be deployed rapidly without disrupting current operations.
The Solution
Forwessun supplied two fully refurbished Agilent / HP / Keysight 3070’s, industry-proven platforms with an established track record in high volume manufacturing.
This solution delivered several strategic advantages over new OEM equipment.
Why HP 3070?
The HP / Keysight 3070 series is one of the most reliable and widely deployed ICT platforms globally.
By selecting proven, established technology, the customer minimised technical risk and integration complexity.
Forwessun’s expertise with this platform allowed rapid customisation and seamless deployment to the customer.
Proven Technology
Decades of industry deployment and thousands of installations worldwide provide unmatched reliability data and support ecosystem.
Flexible Configuration
Each system was customized with bespoke test card and pin configurations to integrate perfectly with existing fixtures.
Complete Support
Full service contracts, on-site commissioning, operator training and ongoing technical support included in the solution.
Rapid Deployment
5-6 week lead time vs 12+ months for new OEM systems, enabling an increased production ramp-up and minimising revenue impact.
Refurbishment Quality
Each HP 3070 system underwent Forwessun’s rigorous refurbishment process:
- Complete disassembly
- Wet coat painting (enamelling)
- Complete electronic refurbishment.
- Consumable replacement (fans, seals, filters)
- Complete system recalibration to OEM standards.
Refurbished test equipment doesn’t compromise reliability, when properly restored and certified, they deliver the same performance and uptime as new systems at a fraction of the cost.
Delivery & Lead Time
OEM Lead Time
12+ months is typical for new systems, with significant price volatility and potential supply chain delays.
This dramatic acceleration meant the customer could meet aggressive production timelines and start generating revenue from their expanded test capacity within weeks, rather than waiting over a year.
These savings were made possible through three key decisions:
- Multiple Systems Over One: Rather than investing in a single new OEM ICT system, the customer purchased two fully capable refurbished units. This doubled their test capacity while keeping costs dramatically lower.
- No Hidden Costs: Every Forwessun system includes comprehensive training and a full service contract, removing the unexpected add‑ons that often inflate total project costs.
- Budget Freed for Future Growth: With such a significant saving, the manufacturer could reinvest in other equipment and operational improvements, strengthening their long‑term production strategy.
Contact Us
At Forwessun, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable, high-quality solutions that help our customers bring products to market faster and with confidence. This case study demonstrates our commitment to precision, quality and collaboration in developing test solutions that drive real business value.
Get in touch today and let our team of experts support you and your next project.
