Transforming Large PCB Inspection with Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo
In this article:
- Revolutionizing Large PCB Failure Analysis: A global tech leader adopted the Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo CT system to non-destructively inspect oversized printed circuit boards (PCBs) up to 19” x 30”, replacing costly destructive testing.
- Dual-Tube CT for High-Resolution Imaging: The system’s dual-tube architecture enabled full-board scans and detailed component-level analysis, including power FETs, regulators, connectors, and microprocessors.
- Advanced Scanning Techniques for Complex Boards: Features like Sector|scan and Offset|scan allowed precise imaging of critical areas, ensuring defect detection in solder joints, vias, and thermal interfaces.
- Significant Cost and Time Savings: By eliminating destructive testing, the company saved up to $500,000 per PCB and improved turnaround time in their failure analysis lab.
- Scalable Solution for AI Hardware Manufacturing: The success highlights how high-resolution industrial CT supports quality assurance in high-performance electronics and data center infrastructure.
In the ever-evolving world of electronics manufacturing, ensuring the quality and reliability of printed circuit boards (PCB’s) is critical. This month, we’re excited to share a remarkable success story that highlights how cutting-edge CT technology is revolutionizing the inspection of very large PCB’s, enabling non-destructive testing and significant cost savings for a leading global technology company.
The Challenge
Inspecting Massive PCB’s
The client, a world-renowned technology innovator, was facing a growing challenge in their Failure Analysis Lab. With the increasing global demand for their high-performance AI products, production volumes were surging, leading to a higher number of failures in their large data center PCB’s – some measuring up to 19” x 30”. These PCB’s, which incorporate the latest advanced chips, are critical to the performance of their products.
The existing inspection systems in their lab were not equipped to handle the size and complexity of these PCB’s. As a result, the company had to resort to destructive testing for failure analysis, costing them between $300,000 and $500,000 per PCB. This approach was not only expensive but also unsustainable, as it prevented the possibility of refurbishing or repairing the boards.
The Solution
Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo
To address this challenge, the company initiated a comprehensive evaluation of various CT systems to determine the feasibility of non-destructive inspection for these large PCB’s. Their goal was to identify a solution that could deliver high-resolution imaging across the entire board, as well as detailed scans of specific regions of interest. They selected Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo, our dual-tube CT system designed for large-scale, high-resolution PCB inspection.
Key Requirements
The client provided a detailed set of criteria for the inspection process, including:
1. Full PCB scans at high resolution.
2. High-resolution imaging of specific components, such as:
- Power FET’s: Aluminum wire gate connections, voiding in solder connections, and die attach areas.
- Regulators: Solder integrity between regulators and PCB, as well as vias.
- Connectors: Solder connection integrity between pins and PCB, and any resulting voids.
- Microprocessors: C4 bumps, micro bumps, and voids/bridging.
- Microprocessor Thermal Interface: Integrity of bumps between PCB and components.
The Process
Given the size and complexity of the PCB’s, the client sent them to a specialized facility for inspection. Using an advanced dual-tube CT system, the team employed innovative functionalities such as Sector|scan and Offset|scan to achieve high-quality imaging across the entire range of requirements. From full PCB scans to detailed component-level inspections, the system delivered exceptional results.
The Outcome
A Game-Changing Solution
After a rigorous two-year evaluation process, which included multiple rounds of testing, meetings, and presentations, the client concluded that the Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo was the only viable solution capable of meeting their needs. The system not only enabled non-destructive inspection of the largest PCB’s but also provided the precision and resolution required for their most critical components.
Following this success, the company has recommended Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo to its suppliers, ensuring broader adoption across the industry.
Why This Matters
This case demonstrates the transformational power of advanced CT technology in electronics manufacturing. By leveraging recommended Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo, companies can:
- Reduce costs
- Improve production efficiency
- Enhance product quality and reliability
Conclusion
As technology continues to advance, the demand for reliable, high-performance PCB’s will only grow. This project demonstrates how cutting-edge CT systems can meet the challenges of today’s most demanding applications, delivering precision, efficiency, and cost savings. For companies facing similar challenges, the message is clear: advanced inspection technology is not just an option – it’s a necessity.
About Us
We are a global leader in advanced industrial imaging and inspection solutions, trusted by industry leaders to deliver precision, reliability, and innovation. Our cutting-edge technologies are transforming the way businesses ensure quality and efficiency in their operations. Click here to read more about Phoenix V|tome|x M Neo.