Flying probe and In-Circuit testers (ICT) are both used to test printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) to ensure quality and functionality.
However, they have some differences in operation, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
What is a Flying Probe Tester?
A flying probe tester is a fixtureless testing tool that utilizes multiple movable test probes to contact specific points on the PCB. It measures the electrical properties of components and checks for shorts, opens, or incorrect component values.
Advantages Flying Probe Testers - Advantages
- Cost effective: No need for custom test fixtures: Flying probe testers do not require test fixtures, making them suitable for low to medium-volume production runs and ideal for prototyping and rapid design changes.
- Flexibility: They can easily adapt to different PCB designs and test complex, dense boards.
- Shorter setup time: generating test programs is usually quick, and Test programs can be updated to accommodate design changes, enabling faster testing turnaround and reducing production delays.
- Lower operating cost: elimination of fixture costs reduces NRE costs, making flying probe testing more cost-effective for prototypes and small to medium production runs.
What is an In-Circuit Tester?
In-circuit testers use a custom test fixture, known as a "bed of nails," to make contact with test points on the PCB. In-circuit testers are generally more suitable for medium to large-scale production.
Advantages of In-Circuit Testers
- Custom test fixtures: ICT uses custom test fixtures, often called "bed of nails," to contact test points on a circuit assembly.
- Medium to high-volume production: Electronic manufacturers typically use ICT for medium to high-volume production.
- High test speed: In-circuit testers can perform tests faster than flying probe testers, as they can access multiple test points simultaneously, making them suitable for high-volume production.
Flying Probe Test vs. In-Circuit Test
Choosing between Flying Probe Testing and In-Circuit Testing depends on several factors, including production volume, complexity of the PCB and cost considerations. When making your decision, keep these points in mind.
- Development Costs: Higher initial cost vs. continuous costs. The custom test fixtures required for ICT can be expensive, especially for low-volume production or prototypes.
- Test development time: Designing and manufacturing custom test fixtures can lead to more prolonged setup times.
- Flexibility: Any changes in the PCB design may require updates to the test fixture, increasing test preparation time and cost. This makes ICT less adaptable to frequent design changes than flying probe testers.
- Size: Flying probe can be easily adapted for small runs, prototypes or frequent design changes. ICT is better suited for large production runs.
- Board Complexity: Flying probe can easily adapt to different designs and is better suited for boards with varied layouts.
Deciding between In-Circuit Test and Flying Probe test ultimately hinges on your particular requirement. Acculogic offers both Flying Probe test solutions and In-Circuit Test solutions. Have specific questions about what's best for you? Our sales team is happy to work through your scenario and help you determine the best testing solution.