An Integration Methodology of a Third-Party In-System Programming Solution into a Flying Probe Equipment

This work presents a methodology for integrating a third-party stand-alone In-System Programming (ISP) solution, in this case the Flash Runner Next Generation (FRNXG), with the Takaya APT Flying Probe equipment (FP, model APT1400F). It can serve as a guide for combining other types of external test and measurement devices with the FP machine. The proposed approach extends FP equipment capabilities by offering the advantage of programming supported components, by means of the FP mobile arms. For small, printed circuit boards (PCBs) batches or during the prototyping phase, this solution delivers reduced implementation time and important cost benefits. Our solution exploits the Command Line Execution (CLE) FP communication method, while integrations based on the other available option, namely the Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) calls, are outside of the scope of the present document. Consequently, after physically connecting the FRNXG with the FP machine, programming procedures can be included as a single step within the usual test program. Resulting data is transmitted back to the FP interface and is presented in the default test logfiles. To evaluate the methodology viability, limitations and advantages, experiments were performed on multiple component types, over several weeks. Results were analyzed and discussed in correlation with several experiments performed on PCB batches received from different industry actors. Our conclusions support the suitability of such a solution, if deployed after careful analysis of the industrial context and ISP requirements.