Economic tradeoffs of in-circuit and functional testing

With the advent of LSI devices, many manufac turers are experiencing a very complex board test problem and are looking at testers that will test all or most of the printed circuit board as an end product. This is often a narrow view and frequently an expensive mis take. What one does in one area of testing (e.g., device) affects what one does in another area of testing (e.g., board). There are many variables to consider when examining the overall test problem. There are device testers, PCB testers, testing services for devices and PCBs, burn-in ovens, automatic handlers, etc., etc. Furthermore, there are several different types of all of these testers. The systems approach to testing examines the total testing cost from receiving inspection through field service. This approach will minimize the overall testing costs and maxi mize the reliability of the end product.