Semiconductors & Chips: How to Identify Refurbished or Counterfeit Components

Semiconductors & Chips: How to Identify Refurbished or Counterfeit Components

A counterfeit integrated circuit does not announce itself. It arrives in branded packaging, with a p...

Electronic Transformers: Inductance Testing, Dielectric Strength, and Temperature Rise under Load

Electronic Transformers: Inductance Testing, Dielectric Strength, and Temperature Rise under Load

A transformer that meets its rated specifications at room temperature with no load is not the same t...

Capacitors & Resistors: Tolerance Screening and Voltage Withstand Testing

Capacitors & Resistors: Tolerance Screening and Voltage Withstand Testing

A capacitor or resistor that measures within spec at room temperature on the factory floor is not th...

PCBA Inspection: Using AOI and X-Ray to Detect Soldering Defects

PCBA Inspection: Using AOI and X-Ray to Detect Soldering Defects

A solder bridge connecting two adjacent pads on a densely packed PCB. A void trapped beneath a BGA b...

Gaming Controller QC: How to Stress-Test Button Actuation Lifespan and Joystick Drift Tolerance Limits

Gaming Controller QC: How to Stress-Test Button Actuation Lifespan and Joystick Drift Tolerance Limits

A gaming controller that develops stick drift after 90 days is not a defective unit that slipped thr...

Tablets & Monitors: Applying AQL Standards for Pixel Defects and Backlight Uniformity Inspection

Tablets & Monitors: Applying AQL Standards for Pixel Defects and Backlight Uniformity Inspection

Display defects are invisible in the factory carton and brutally visible the moment a customer power...