What is PCBA Testing?

PCBA testing refers to the comprehensive process of verifying the functionality and reliability of an assembled Printed Circuit Board (PCB) – a PCBA. It's the critical step where the board, with all its electronic components mounted and soldered, is checked to ensure it operates correctly according to its design specifications.

This process goes beyond simply looking for manufacturing defects (which is PCBA inspection). Instead, PCBA testing powers up the board and simulates various operational conditions to confirm that all components, circuits, and the overall system perform as expected.

Types of PCBA testing include:

• Functional Testing (FCT): This is the most common type, where the PCBA is powered on, and its inputs and outputs are stimulated and measured to ensure it performs its intended functions.
• In-Circuit Testing (ICT): Often called the "bed of nails" test, ICT uses probes to make contact with specific test points on the board to electrically test individual components and connections for shorts, opens, resistance, capacitance, and proper component values.
• Aging Testing (Burn-in Testing): The PCBA is subjected to prolonged operation under stress (e.g., high temperature, voltage) to detect early-life failures and assess long-term reliability.
• Environmental Testing: The PCBA is exposed to extreme conditions like temperature, humidity, or vibration to ensure its performance and durability in various environments.