Smart PCB Testing
At Forwessun we utilise a copper shorting plate and Smart alignment board to test electric contact & alignment in-circuit and functional tests.
Forwessun's Smart Alignment Tool
At Forwessun, we utilise two essential tools that enhance our testing process: the Copper Shorting Plate and the Smart Alignment Board.
The industry-standard Copper Shorting Plate provides a reliable method for ensuring all test probes make proper electrical contact with the PCB, whilst our Smart Alignment Board, a Forwessun innovation, takes testing precision to the next level.
Together, these complementary technologies form the foundation of our comprehensive quality assurance process. To learn more, you can watch our video, which will give you a better insight into the tool and how it works.
How The Process Work's
- Copper Shorting Plate
We begin the testing process with a standard copper shorting plate to verify if all fixture probes make contact. The copper plate is placed on the fixture and a standard test is run. This allows us to confirm a general connection across probes. - Smart Alignment Testing
We would then place the Smart Alignment board onto the fixture to measure probe contact specifically on each test pad. This ensures that only the desired points on the PCB are being contacted, guaranteeing a more accurate test result and quicker troubleshooting. - Enhanced Focus on Test Pad Centres
The Board’s downsized test pads allow the probes to focus on the exact centre of the UUT’s test pads, avoiding unintended contact on the perimeter. This leads to higher-quality, reliable testing across all components.
What is the Copper Shorting Plate?
The Shorting Plate is a copper plate designed for use in test fixtures to confirm that all probes are making contact with the PCB. The plate, placed on the fixture, is used to run the shorting plate program, giving technicians the ability to check for full electrical contact.
What is the Smart Alignment Board?
The Smart Alignment board takes testing a step further by offering targeted precision. It has isolated conductive test pads that match up with the points of interest on a PCB. By designing the pads slightly smaller than the actual UUT.
Key Benefits of the Smart Alignment Board
- Precision Probe Contact
The Smart Alignment Board is designed to test only the exact points on the PCB’s test pads, reducing the chances of peripheral contact and ensuring contact within the centre radius. This level of accuracy enhances reliability, especially for critical systems. - Customised Test Pads
In each Smart Alignment Board, test pads are approximately 80% smaller than those on the UUT, enforcing an even tighter contact area that significantly boosts the accuracy of testing outcomes. - Efficient Troubleshooting
Combining the use of a standard shorting plate and the Smart Alignment Board Board lets engineers quickly identify and resolve issues, confirming both the presence and precision of electrical contact. This dual approach accelerates troubleshooting, making it ideal for high-throughput production environments.
