Combining unloaded and loaded board testing

Abstract

One method for reducing testing costs has been developed for printed wiring board testing. By designing one common fixture, testing of unloaded and loaded printed wiring boards can be performed in less time and at a reduced cost. The authors discuss the marriage of the two types of test and fixturing philosophies from conception to implementation. Significant time, cost, and maintainability benefits were derived from the union of the printed wiring board tests. The potential benefits, the foreseeable problems, and the course of action in the future at NAWCADI are outlined.<>