PCB Design for Test (DFT) Review
Plan how your assembled board will be tested before the layout is finalized. Share your schematic, PCB files and test requirements with GlobalWellPCB to review test-point access, programming connections and practical test constraints.
Define the access and information needed to verify your board in production.
Design test access around your product
A practical DFT review connects the functions you need to verify with the test method and fixture you plan to use. Share the test requirements early, while the layout can still accommodate changes.
Test-point access
Review the nets to be accessed, test-point locations, spacing and physical probe access.
Power and signal coverage
Identify the power rails, interfaces and critical signals included in the proposed test plan.
Programming and debug
Review connector access, pin definitions and requirements for programming or configuration.
Fixture and functional test needs
Consider alignment, board support, connector mating and handling constraints for the proposed setup.
Files and feedback for your next step
Confirm the required formats and deliverables when we define your project scope.
Test-access findings
Identify inaccessible nets, congested areas and layout changes to consider.
Test-point information
Agree the net names, coordinates and drawings needed by the test team.
Programming and interface notes
Document the connections and access requirements to support the agreed test process.
Coverage and open-item summary
Keep the proposed checks, remaining gaps and fixture questions visible.
Start with the information you already have
Send the available files together and identify the revision. Tell us which details are still to be confirmed.
Electrical and board files
Schematic, PCB source or relevant fabrication data, BOM and the current revision.
Test objectives
Functions to verify, pass/fail criteria, power conditions and critical signals.
Planned test setup
ICT, flying probe or functional test plan where applicable, fixture information and programming needs.
From your enquiry to the next design step
Define what must be tested
Share the product functions and the checks required in production.
Review the intended method
Confirm the access and fixture constraints for the proposed test setup.
Resolve layout changes
Approve test-point, connector or mechanical changes as needed.
Align the test handoff
Confirm the documentation and remaining work before the board is released.
DFT reviews testability. Fixture development, test software, test execution and achievable coverage need their own agreed scope.
Before you send your files
When should I request a DFT review?
Request it before the layout is finalized so test points, connectors and fixture constraints can be accommodated.
Is DFT only about adding test points?
No. It also considers the functions to verify, power conditions, programming access and the physical requirements of the test setup.
Can I use the same access for programming and testing?
Some access may be shared, but pin definitions, electrical conditions and fixture requirements need to be reviewed for the proposed methods.
Does a DFT review include a test fixture?
Confirm fixture design, test software and execution separately. A testability review defines the access and documentation needed for that next stage.
Need to plan production test access?
Share the board files and your test objectives through the PCBA assembly enquiry.