Press Release Archives:
2026 | 2025 |
2024 |
2023 |
2022
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |2018 | 2017 | 2016 |
2015
Content is copyright of company represented. Page format, custom text and
images are RF Cafe copyright - do not distribute. Note: Posting of press releases costs $100 each for non-advertisers.
San Francisco Circuits:
Flying Probe Testing
- A Practical Solution for PCB Designs That Traditional Fixtures Cannot Test
A Practical Solution for PCB Designs That Traditional Fixtures Cannot Test
April 23, 2026 - San Mateo, California - Since 2005, San Francisco Circuits has
been a trusted U.S. provider of advanced PCB manufacturing and assembly solutions
for R&D innovators, prime contractors, and integration experts.
Flying
Probe Testing (FPT) has long been a reliable method for validating
PCB designs, particularly for prototypes and low volume production. Unlike traditional
in circuit testing (ICT), which relies on custom built fixtures, flying probe systems
use movable probes to test electrical connections directly, eliminating the need
for dedicated hardware.
What Is Flying Probe Testing?
Flying probe testing uses multiple programmable probes to contact pads, vias,
and component leads across a PCB. These probes perform continuity and isolation
checks, verify component values, confirm polarity, and test power rails, all without
requiring a custom fixture. Instead of redesigning hardware for every iteration,
engineers can simply update the test program.
Why Engineers Choose Flying Probe Testing
FPT is especially valuable for designs where fixtures are impractical or uneconomical.
It enables testing on dense layouts, high complexity boards, and frequent design
revisions without adding unnecessary cost or delay. While slower than ICT, its flexibility
makes it ideal for early stage validation and small production runs.
Flying Probe vs In Circuit Testing
Compared to ICT, flying probe testing offers faster setup, lower upfront costs,
and greater adaptability to design changes. ICT remains the preferred option for
high volume production due to its speed, but FPT provides deeper flexibility and
detailed diagnostics when fixtures are not feasible.
Designing for Testability
As PCB designs become more compact and complex, test accessibility becomes a
critical challenge. Engineers should plan for testability early by incorporating
accessible test points, maintaining adequate spacing, and ensuring probe clearance.
Designing with testing in mind helps avoid costly redesigns and ensures reliable
validation.
When Flying Probe Isn't Enough
Although powerful, flying probe testing has limitations. It cannot easily access
buried nets, verify high frequency signal integrity, or replicate real world operating
conditions. For advanced designs such as RF layouts, rigid flex assemblies, or multi
board stacks, a hybrid testing approach combining flying probe testing, AOI, X ray
inspection, and functional testing is often required.
A Smarter Approach to PCB Testing
Modern PCB validation relies on combining multiple testing methods to ensure
performance and reliability. Flying probe testing plays a key role in this strategy
by providing flexible, detailed diagnostics where traditional fixtures fall short.
San Francisco Circuits – Your Trusted PCB Testing Partner
San Francisco Circuits delivers comprehensive PCB testing solutions, including
flying probe testing, to support complex designs at every stage of development.
Their expertise ensures accurate validation, reduced risk, and high-quality results
for even the most challenging applications.
Read more about
Flying Probe Testing
on San Francisco Circuits' website.
About San Francisco Circuits
San Francisco Circuits is a provider of PCB fabrication and assembly, has a dedicated
team specializing in simple and complex PCB fabrication and assembly technologies.
They can produce elaborate and high-quality PCBs in a number of custom and common
layouts. From basic to intricate PCBs–their engineers will meet your PCB fabrication &
assembly needs. The company provides a rare balance between technical expertise
and competitive pricing. And they not only provide high-quality products but also
high-quality customer service at the same time. San Francisco Circuits has been
voted by National Television as the "world's greatest in PCBs" and has demonstrated
experience as a power player in PCB fabrication and assembly.
If you are looking to discuss PCB projects of any size or scope, feel free to
reach out to them via our website (see below).
Contact
Victor Bilandzic
San Francisco Circuits, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-732-5143
Web: www.sfcircuits.com
|
