After the PCB sample is manufactured, it needs to be tested, and the quality can be guaranteed before it can be delivered to the customer. The PCB flying probe test is one of the more effective test methods.

PCB flying probe testing is to check the electrical function of the PCB, using four to eight independently controlled probes that move to the component under test. UUT - Unit Under Test is conveyed into the tester by belt or other UUT conveying system, and then fixed, and the probe of the tester contacts the test pad and via, so as to test the individual components of the UUT. Test probes are connected to drivers (signal generators, power supplies, etc.) and sensors (digital multimeters, frequency counters, etc.) through a multiplexing system to test components on the UUT. While one element is being tested, other elements on the UUT are electrically shielded by the prober to prevent reading interference.

Compared with traditional ICT, PCB flying probe test has many advantages. Flying probe testing is more flexible, allowing for quick test transitions and quick feedback of process errors. Flying probe testing does not require fixture development costs, so it is a low-cost system that can be placed in front of a typical test process. In addition, due to the simplicity and speed of setup, programming and testing, general assembly technicians can operate without professional engineers.

However, flying probe testing also has some disadvantages. First of all, the flying probe test takes a long time and the efficiency is not high. Secondly, although the flying probe test operation is relatively simple, there are still many flying probe functions and commands that need to be remembered. In this way, many testers still like to use the fixture, because only a few buttons are needed!

In order to achieve a comprehensive test platform, the flying probe system needs to be equipped with hardware such as power supply and programming interface. At the same time, it needs to improve the mixed channel before it can be applied to functions such as flash programming and boundary scan.