FrameScan is now the industry standard for vectorless
test on a Teradyne TestStation. It is superior to Opens Xpress because the
receiver signal is amplified at the probe which results in a more reliable test.
This vectorless test technology can be a good way to
pick up the coverage of the few pins that vector based tests cannot capture. It is a good
complement to vector based test. It is an excellent testing tool when put to use in the
appropriate places.
Unfortunately there is a downside to FrameScan or other
vector-less techniques. With its ease of use, vector-less test has become the first
resort, without regard for fixture cost, complexity, reliability and maintainence.
Most microcontrollers can be pin-tested with Boundary
Scan or by reading GPIO pin H/L state through the flash programming port. Other
microcontrollers can be tested with a firmware driven pin-test. Sometimes a junctions test
is all that is needed to test for lifted pins.
https://www.teradyne.com/products/test-solutions/production-board-test/library/framescan-fx-faq
Before you have FrameScan installed in your next
fixture, check with Uwharrie Test Solutions to see if a vector test can be developed for a
comparable price.
- FrameScan does not functionally test any device pin.
- FrameScan does not ID a device.
- In many cases FrameScan will not detect an incorrect or
counterfeit part.
- FrameScan does not detect bus failures.
- FrameScan does not and should not replace vector based
test.
- FrameScan adds a premium to the cost and complexity of
your fixture.