ICT • FCT • FLYING PROBE • AOI • X-RAY
No single test catches every assembly defect. AOI and X-ray look at the joints, flying probe and ICT check the circuit electrically, and FCT proves the powered board works. This page helps you choose which PCBA testing services to run, based on volume, test-point access, fixture budget and the evidence your release needs.
INSPECTION SERVICES
Inspection finds assembly defects without powering the board. Run it first, so electrical and functional tests start on boards with sound joints.
BY BUILD STAGE
The right mix changes as volume grows and the design stops changing.
Prototype
AOI, X-ray on BGA/QFN, flying probe; bench or simple FCT.
NPI / pilot
Add SPI data review, flying probe, and a first FCT fixture with limits.
Ramp
Release the ICT fixture once the design is frozen; keep FCT.
Volume production
SPI + AOI, X-ray by risk, ICT, FCT and final inspection.
Changes and failures
Failure data feeds back to test limits and coverage.
TEST METHODS
Short guidance for each method, with a link to the detailed service page.
ELECTRICAL SCREENING
A bed-of-nails fixture contacts test points and checks components, opens and shorts in seconds per board. The fixture is a one-time cost per design, so ICT pays off in repeat production.
PRODUCT BEHAVIOR
The board is powered and exercised through its interfaces with firmware and loads. FCT catches faults that structural tests pass, such as wrong firmware or an out-of-limit output.
PROTOTYPE AND LOW VOLUME
Moving probes reach nets without a fixture. Slower per board than ICT, but no tooling cost, so it fits prototypes, NPI and designs that still change.
INSPECTION
SPI checks paste before placement, AOI checks visible joints and parts after reflow, and X-ray checks hidden BGA and QFN joints. None of them need a fixture.
RELEASE
Workmanship, identification and the agreed test records are checked before shipment.
TEST METHOD MATRIX
Each method answers a different question. Compare them on what they find, when they pay off and what they cost to set up.
ICT and flying probe coverage follows test-point access and the netlist; AOI coverage follows line of sight. Final coverage is stated after the design files are reviewed, not promised in advance.
REPORTS
Report fields are agreed before the first lot so every shipment carries the same evidence.
SPI and AOI results, X-ray images for hidden joints where specified.
Flying probe or ICT pass/fail with coverage notes; FCT results against limits.
Serial or lot traceability, failure and retest records, and the certificate of conformity.
ECU and power boards where ICT and FCT records are part of release.
Traceable test and inspection records for medical device builds.
Controllers where functional and safety tests run before shipment.
Boundary-scan and FCT for dense BGA boards with limited probe access.
Choosing and combining test methods.
Upload BOM, XY, netlist and test requirements. You get a recommended test mix, coverage notes and fixture scope with the quote.
