What is MDA?

A Manufacturing Defect Analyzer (MDA) for Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBAs) is a specialized test system designed to identify and diagnose manufacturing defects in assembled PCBAs. MDA systems play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of PCBA production by detecting and addressing defects early in the manufacturing process. Here's an overview of the components and functionality of an MDA for PCBA:

Test Fixtures

Custom-designed fixtures secure PCBAs during testing, providing electrical connections. Includes bed-of-nails, vacuum, or pneumatic options based on specific PCBA needs.

Boundary Scan (JTAG) Test Capability

Utilizes JTAG testing for structural testing of digital ICs and interconnectivity verification. Detects faults like open circuits, short circuits, and stuck-at faults in digital signals.

In-Circuit Testing (ICT)

Incorporates ICT for comprehensive electrical tests on components and circuit paths. Checks for defects such as open circuits, short circuits, and incorrect component values.

Functional Testing

Includes functional testing for overall PCBA functionality and specific task operations. Simulates real-world conditions, testing features like power-on self-test (POST) and communication interfaces.

Automated Test Software

Controls MDA system operation, executing predefined test sequences and algorithms. Features test configuration, result analysis, and reporting for comprehensive documentation.

Defect Analysis and Reporting

Provides tools for analyzing test results and identifying manufacturing defects. Includes fault localization, root cause analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and trend analysis.

User Interface

Offers a user-friendly interface for configuring tests, monitoring progress, and viewing results. Includes test selection menus, parameter settings, and result displays.

Integration with Manufacturing Systems

Integrated with manufacturing systems for streamlined processes and defect resolution.

How does Indic do it?

Our Manufacturing Defect Analyzer can identify a spectrum of defects, including soldering issues, component misalignment, bridging, and other anomalies that may impact product performance.

Our analyzer operates in real-time, providing instant feedback on manufacturing processes. This allows for timely adjustments and ensures the consistent production of defect-free electronic components.

Why Indic?

The automated nature of our analyzer enhances efficiency, providing a rapid yet precise inspection process that minimizes the risk of human error.

Beyond defect identification, our focus on root cause analysis facilitates continuous improvement in manufacturing processes, contributing to enhanced product quality over time.

Features
Our Capabilities
Rigid PCBs
Up to 24 layers
Panel Size up to 21ʺx26ʺ
Metal core or metal backed
A wide range of laminates
Copper thickness – 8 Oz. inner layer/16 Oz. outer layer
Rigid Flex PCBs
24+ layers
A wide range of custom finishes
Metal core or metal backed
UL qualified
Flexible PCBs
Up to 20 layers
Board size up to 20ʺ x 24 ʺ
Board thickness: 0.1mm – 0.8mm
Blind and buried vias
RoHS compliant
Frequently Asked Questions

MDA testing is limited to detecting physical and basic electrical defects. It cannot assess component functionality, circuit performance under power, or complex issues like timing errors.

MDA testing is crucial for early detection of manufacturing defects, reducing scrap rates, improving yield, and ensuring product reliability before further investment in assembly.

An MDA works by applying test signals through a bed-of-nails tester or similar fixtures to PCBs, checking for basic circuit continuity and identifying manufacturing defects without powering the board.

Manufacturing testing methods detect defects such as solder shorts, opens, missing or incorrect components, misalignments, and faulty connections.

MDA focuses on identifying manufacturing defects (shorts, opens, missing components) early in the production process, while ICT (In-Circuit Testing) provides a more comprehensive check, including component functionality and specific electrical parameters.

Manufacturing Defect Analysis involves identifying and analyzing defects in products to improve manufacturing processes and product quality, focusing on eliminating sources of failures.

MDA (Manufacturing Defects Analyzer) is used in the PCB manufacturing process to detect defects like shorts, opens, and missing components. It ensures boards are defect-free before moving to more complex assembly stages.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join us to stay updated with our latest blog updates, manufacturing and assembly trends, news and announcements!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.