Production testing
for ARM PCBs

Our PCB Tester provides a new approach to programming and your final test. It combines the ability to test a board without the device needing a test mode, along with programming the firmware and any required settings, serial numbers or encryption keys. This can be linked to a client's server to automatically register devices as they are produced.

Our PCB Tester connects to the target board via the standard 2 wire ARM debug interface. This provides a high-speed connection with the ability to take control of all aspects of the target CPU. Using an Ethernet connection, this allows a PC to fully control the target CPU and all the hardware connected to it.

Get Started
Hero Image
Business Meeting

25+ Years

experience in testing

MORE ABOUT US

Committed to Excellence

Having over 25 years’ experience within the design of electronic products, we have used a wide range of testing methods which ultimately has led to the creation of our PCB Tester. We know that different clients expect different things from the end of line procedure to fit into their system. So, rather than used fixed test methods, our device is completely software driven and can be programmed for virtually any task.

Please contact us and we'll be delighted to discuss your requirements and help simplify your test procedures, however complicated they may seem. We love a challenge!

CEO Profile

Michael Gaut

Managing Director

Features

Check out some of the many features of the PCB Tester below

Hardware connectivity

The PCB Tester has a connection to the target board, to a PC via ethernet and USB for power.

  • Provides a standard ARM 20 way debug connector.
  • Uses 2 wire SWD to control the ARM CPU
  • High speed Ethernet connection to a PC.
  • Powered by 5V via a USB connector.

Software features

The software flexibility of the PCB Tester is the crux of the system.

  • All aspects of testing are performed by PC software.
  • The PCB Tester provides an interface between the PC and target hardware.
  • The client can use our API to develop their own test software that integrates with their back office systems.
  • The ARM firmware can be programmed as well as any other connected modules, such as GSM, GPS etc.
  • Calibrate sensors from the same software.

Full remote control

If required, the PCB Tester can be accessed remotely via the internet. For example, if there is a problem with a new batch of boards failing a test, the client can access the system remotely and carry out any diagnostics required to figure out the problem.

  • Helps avoid shipping or site visits by working remotely.
  • Secure end to end encryption.
  • Diagnosic logs can be sent automatically to the client.

See PCB Tester in action!

The best way to understand what PCB Tester can do for your business is with a live demonstration. Let us show you what it can do!

Arrange a demonstration
-->

Have a question? Check out the FAQ

I still don't get what it does.

It allows you to program, test and calibrate any ARM based PCB while also setting encryption keys, serial numbers and sending this to a client's server. All from one program.

Why is it better than having a test mode in the target firmware?

When using a small CPU there may not be enough code space left to implement a test mode. Also, keeping the test software completely separate from the target firmware avoids having to release a new version to perform tweaks to the test procedure. It also allows the PC software to be in control of every part of the test, programming and configuration of the device.

How can it reprogram a GSM module for example without being connected to it?

The ARM debug port allows the PCB Tester to pause the target CPU and take control of any interface, such as UARTs, GPIO, SPI and so on. Therefore, any external module that is connected to the ARM CPU can be accessed. The test software on the PC sends data via the PCB tester which makes it appear that the external module is connected! Likewise, the response from the module is sent back via the debug port, PCB Tester and to the PC.

How do I configure who has remote access?

First of all, if the PCB Tester doesn't have connection to the internet, there is no remote access! Otherwise, the PCB Tester identifies the product being tested and you can configure who has access to the PCB Tester based on this. i.e. when connected to client A's board, then only client A can access it. Or you can configure it so that remote access is disabled.

Who writes the test software?

This can be the client, the manufacturer or we can provide this service at a competetive rate.

Contact

For more information please email info@pcbtester.co.uk