Fixtureless PCB test and troubleshooting Systems ~ FT100s 

 

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Fixtureless PCB test and troubleshooting Systems ~ FT100s 

Helps test and troubleshoot assembled PCBs

Important note: FT100s is still available on special order terms, however the recommended solution for PCB troubleshooting is now the new GRS500:

GRS500 for troubleshooting in manufacturing
GRS500 for Service and repair

FT100

The pin spacing of SMD (surface mount devices) is continually shrinking and this is creating many challenges when troubleshooting PCBs. Some of the leads on ICs are so closely spaced that it is difficult for you to see them with the naked eye.

In addition, frequent changes to PCBs make it difficult for manufacturing to justify the cost or time required for dedicated ATE fixtures.

 Use in Manufacturing and Service
Programs from CAD with FTCam Pro
Ideal for low and medium volume applications
Fast troubleshooting times
Optional Graphical repair software

The Polar FT100s test and troubleshooting system  automatically probes the nodes of a PCB including each of the legs or PCB pads of fine pitch devices. You do not need a dedicated test fixture since the FT100 learns the position of each test point to be probed. You simply use the FT100 to probe and learn automatically the response of a golden (good) PCB. Batches of the same type of PCB can then be automatically probed and the FT100 will identify any differences.

The FT100s is fast (typically 5 tests per second) and accurate (it can probe devices with 0.4mm lead pitch and below) so even complex boards do not take long to test.

If the layout of a PCB changes, there is no fixture to modify as the FT100 software adapts to the new layout (you can also keep the original layout stored for future use).

The Polar FT100s is used with the Polar PFL760 or PFL780 Fault Locators which use nodal impedance comparison to help troubleshoot PCBs with no power applied.  Upgrades for existing Polar TD8000 and T4128 users are available to give compatibility with the FT100s.