Issues with Etched Traced
What specific defect occurs when the etchant removes copper underneath the resist layer, narrowing the trace and weakening its integrity?
Undercutting
This advanced inspection system uses high-resolution cameras to detect surface defects, such as misaligned or missing components.
AOI (Automated Optical Inspection)
What hand tool is used to create a small indentation on the marked hole location to prevent the drill bit from wandering?
Center punch
What ensures the correct signal flow between components?
Continuity testing
What type of PCB has copper on both sides and is usually used for robots, controllers, and moderate complexity builds?
Double-Sided PCB
What is the term for excessive copper removal that results in thinned traces or "open circuits"?
Over-etching
What specialized equipment is used to reveal hidden solder joints and internal defects, particularly those located under Ball Grid Arrays (BGAs)?
AXI (X-Ray Inspection)
What substance is applied when drilling metal to reduce friction and cool the drill bit?
Cutting oil / lubricant
Runs the boards under stress to identify early-life failures
Burn-In testing
What should be melted to the tip to improve heat transfer and prevent oxidation?
Solder
This issue involves inconsistent etching across the PCB, which can leave behind residual copper or create irregular trace widths.
Uneven/Incomplete Etching
What is the recommended temperature range (in Celsius) for a soldering iron used during repair and maintenance?
330–370 °C
What type of chips indicate proper cutting during drilling?
Curling Chips
To verify the outputs of a PCB using a real-world operation, what test should be used?
Functional Test (FCT)
What type of solder has a low melting point, forms shiny and reliable joints but the toxic lead creates toxic fumes?
Lead-Based Solder
Etched-trace defects primarily degrade electrical performance and can ultimately cause what to happen to a device?
Device failure
Which manual tool is used for the precise handling and repositioning of small electronic components?
Tweezers
What process removes sharp edges after drilling to ensure a clean and safe finish?
Deburring
How will you measure component values such as resistance and capacitance?
In-Circuit Testing (ICT)
What protects the copper from damages and short circuit in a PCB? (Hint: responsible for green color)
Solder Mask
Incomplete etching is dangerous because it can leave residual copper on the board, which often leads to what kind of electrical failure?
Short Circuits
What specific material is used for cleaning soldering iron tips to ensure they stay in good condition for efficient heat transfer?
Brass wool
What machine improves accuracy and efficiency when drilling through holes in woodworking, metalworking, and electronics?
Drill press
What is Isolation Testing?
It checks for unintended shorts between traces
What PCB Cleaning method uses boiling liquid chemicals to make cleaning vapors that dissolved contaminants on its surface?
Gas Phase (Vapor) Cleaning