The Importance of PCB Testing in Product Development

Effective product development hinges on a meticulous design phase and thorough testing procedures. While design sets the stage for quality, testing ensures the product functions as intended in real-world scenarios.

When it comes to assessing system functionality, physical testing is indispensable. It offers insights into how different components interact and influence each other, while also evaluating usability and overall system performance.

Introducing a 3D-Printed Fixture for PCB Testing

Designed for efficient testing of newly assembled PCBs, this 3D-printed fixture provides flexibility for diverse test scenarios, simplifying PCB assembly testing and component replacement.

Enhanced Testing Capabilities

The fixture’s design allows for easy power supply and signal connections, crucial for testing any system. With connector panels that accommodate custom modifications and multiple power lines, the fixture streamlines the testing process without the need for constant cable adjustments.

• The blank panel permits custom adaptations without a complete redesign.
• The panel with six female banana connectors enables simultaneous connection of power lines and signals.

By facilitating easy access for multimeter and power supply connections, the connector panel simplifies monitoring and measuring system performance under operational conditions.

For more precise measurements, the fixture’s C-arm holder securely positions probes for monitoring voltages and currents. Additional building blocks and springs can be incorporated for testing sensitive points, offering flexibility for varying testing needs.

Customizable Testing Solutions

Key Building Blocks for 3D Printed Fixture

• Main Plate

  File Name: Main Plate – 3mm

  Printing Count: 1

  Description: The central component of the fixture, designed with holes and rails to secure both the PCB and other fixture parts. It offers a good balance between rigidity and print time, available in 3mm or 5mm thickness.

  

• Foot

  File Name: Foot – A

  Printing Count: 5

  Description: Features a 6mm diameter hole for M4 brass knurled threads. Can be attached to the foot holder, allowing easy mounting on the lab table.

  

• Foot Holder

  File Name: Foot Holder – A

  Printing Count: 4

  Description: Enables easy attachment of feet to the lab table using screws or mounting tape.

  

• Connector Panel

  File Name: Connector Panel – B

  Printing Count: 1-2

  Description: Facilitates power and signal connections from bench instruments to the PCB. Type A allows custom drilling, while Type B includes six standard banana connectors.

  

• Knobs

  File Name: Knob – A and B

  Printing Count: 20 Type A, 25 Type B

  Description: Used for assembling and securing fixture components. Type A has a 6mm diameter hole for M4 threads, while Type B includes a nut holder for 4mm screws.

  

• PCB Holder

  File Name: PCB Holder

  Printing Count: 4 per type

  Description: Secures the PCB to the test arms, offering horizontal and vertical mounting options.

  

• Probe Arm

  File Name: Probe Arm – Base

  Printing Count: 4

  Description: The base for vertical arm holds probes and PCB, featuring a 6mm hole for easy installation.