Component-level circuit board testing involves individually testing each component on a printed circuit board. The objective is to ensure each component performs according to PCB design. Use this test to troubleshoot problems and optimize design. Basic Test Procedure Test Equipment Significance
Component testing begins with knowing the required input and output current and voltage level of each component as well as the characteristic impedance or resistance of each component. Find these parameters in the specification sheet of each component. Once you know these levels, power the circuit under test with a power supply and measure the input and output voltages using a volt meter for each component. Divide the voltage by the characteristic impedance, and determine the current seen by each component. Use this information to compare these levels with system-design requirements.
The test equipment required includes a power supply, volt meter and the circuit under test. An oscilloscope is also advantageous if you want to visualize the input and output waveform that each component experiences.
Component-level testing is a worthwhile troubleshooting technique. It allows you to find problems by comparing the actual voltage and current levels with what they should be per design. This lets you determine which components need replacement.
