![]() For a start, you can create testing pads for voltages and critical signals like communications. ![]() However, there are ways you can optimize a PCB for future troubleshooting. Use visual indicators to facilitate testing.Ĭircuit board testing is a tedious process, particularly for issues like short circuits. Optimizing Circuit Boards for Troubleshooting When communication failure is detected, check for burns or cracked communication ICs or protective components like Zeners. Check Communication PortsĬircuit boards with communication ports like Ethernet and RS485 have an increased risk of failure. The only way to find out is to replace the parts with good ones. If so, the logic IC or the microcontroller is likely damaged. If the I/O is protected by fuses, Zener diodes, or varistors, ensure that they are functioning well. For example, an alarm controller that always senses an open door even if it’s closed or a motor that is continuously activated. Damage on I/O ports seldom shuts down the whole circuit, but it usually results in anomalies in the system. The I/O are also common points of failure. Use your multimeter to narrow down where the discontinuity is. A broken trace could result in the voltage being detected at some points of the trace but not in others. If there aren’t signs of overheated components then look for broken traces. Refer to the schematic and remove the next component that is near the edge of the PCB. If voltage observed is still different than the expected voltage, there could be more components that are damaged down the voltage line. Remove the overheated components and confirm that the voltage has returned to the expected value. Be careful to not directly touch the component when it’s powered on, as it can be extremely hot. Bring your hand close to the components to feel if one is giving off excessive heat. If that’s the case, the damaged component will heat up quickly. If the fuse is replaced and immediately breaks after power-up, it means other components are shorted and draining a huge amount of current.Ī voltage of 0V, or below Vcc, at the output often means that the regulator or a component along the voltage rail has a short circuit. Both the input and output of the voltage regulator need to show the expected values.Ĭheck the fuse if the input voltage measured at the voltage regulator is 0V. Measure the voltage of the power rails with the multimeter. If the components look fine, you’ll need to power up the circuit board. Sometimes, you could trace the damaged components by their acrid scent. Pay attention to cracked ICs, broken traces, and blown capacitors. Look for a burnt spot, particularly on the power supply module or I/O and connectivity ports. Often, circuit boards deployed in the field are damaged by electrical surges and there are telltale signs on the PCB. You’ll need to rely on your vision to spot faulty components or broken traces. When a circuit board suddenly stops working, there are sometimes obvious signs of what went wrong. Look for burnt components during your visual inspection. How to Test a Circuit Board That Stops Working Start with a Visual Inspection ![]() These are tools that will solve common problems like short circuits, broken traces, or faulty components. Here’s a checklist of basic tools you should have: You’ll need to be well prepared before testing a circuit. It can be a struggle but when you have a systematic test procedure you’re bound to locate the fault eventually. While there’s no steering wheel involved, I have other tools that help in identifying faults in the circuit. The same confidence is reflected during times when I need to test a circuit board. I’m not bragging but I have the utmost confidence with my driving skills, either in a new car or otherwise. Obviously, the salesperson isn’t impressed and is more concerned with whether or not I’ll crash the brand new car. I start revving up the engine and accelerating quickly just to check out if it suits my taste. I am always excited to test drive a new car. Learn various ways to test a circuit board.Įxplore PCB optimization ideas to aid future testing.Ī multimeter is a must-have tool for circuit board testing. A list of basic tools for circuit board testing. ![]()
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