Blog

Using Test Fixtures for Flashing

Printed circuit board test fixtures are not just for testing. Using fixtures for programming Flash memories and microcontrollers as early as the prototyping stage can reduce the need for board re-spins and speed development.

Test Fixtures and ESD

Electrostatic discharge is a serious concern throughout the printed circuit board assembly process, and that includes test activities.

Probing Tips

When designing printed circuit boards, consider these tips for placing test pads to reduce fixture cost and improve testability.

The Future of Low-Volume PCBA Testing

In recent years we have seen a huge reduction in friction around low-volume manufacturing of printed circuit board assemblies. Costs have come down, lead times have reduced, and accessibility has increased. The Merifix drilling service offers the same experience for PCBA test fixtures.

Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided PCB Testing

For a PCB that will be tested on a bed-of-nails test fixture, placing test pads on only the bottom side of the board is the single most effective thing the designer can do to reduce the cost and complexity of the fixture.

Design for Testability (DFT) in Low-Volume Production

Testability of printed circuit boards begins with the schematic. Here are some tips that will ease production testing.

Drilling Toolpath Optimisation

Enhancing our G-Code generation algorithm reduced our drilling time and helped us achieve same-day shipping on more orders.

Tooling Hole Best Practices for Reliable Fixture Alignment

Where PCB tooling holes are used for alignment on a test fixture, consider these points during board layout to improve testability.

How to Choose the Right Spring Probes

When designing PCB test fixtures, choosing the correct type of spring probe can significantly improve probing reliability.

Positioning a Board on a Fixture

Analysing data from custom drilling fixtures to see where folks are positioning their boards on the fixture, and how that corresponds to best practice.