Z-Axis Europe offer 6 types of standard fixtures:
- 3 geometric sizes (Small, Medium & Large) – The width of traces of the DUT FLEX determines the size of the test fixture.
- 2 DUT Flex positions (Up & Down).
Flexible Circuits
Flexible circuits are used in many miniature electronic devices to carry power and control signals to/from mating electronics. Flat Flex Cables (FFC connectors) and Flat Printed Circuits (FPC) are flexible printed circuit widely used in virtually all industries as the most common way to economically connect many high-density interconnects in a low profile small PCB footprint. How to distinguish between FFC Connectors & FPC Testers? read here about the difference between FFC and FPC.
Limitation with ZIF and LIF Connectors
Low profile ZIF and LIF (zero and low insertion force) connectors are used to interface FFC - FPC circuits to PCBs. While ZIF and LIF connectors are great for meeting the product needs of integrated electronics the connectors have a limited actuation life, creating a significant need to test FFC - FPC based electronics. In addition, small ZIF and LIF formats are difficult to work with due to their size, creating a secondary need for a fixture that is more ergonomic for operators, and adaptable for automation. This is why there is a need for connectors for flexible printed circuits.
Testing Solution
FlexibleTest fixtures are typically used between a DUT (device under test) and the electronics driving circuitry to operate or test the DUT. With an integrated FlexibleTest fixture the connection is made once to the test board's delicate ZIF or LIF connector.
Operation Simplicity
Moving the fixture's ergonomic lever rotates a CAM motion which applies a compression force to a proprietary elastomeric element that bridges the DUT flex to the fixture's termination FFC or PCB.
The element compression perpendicular to the circuit creates a soft contact that does not mark or indent the DUT flex, further improving reliability when the DUT is later integrated into the final product.
When the electrical test is complete, the reverse motion of the lever CAM reduces the force, uncompressing the elastomeric element, opening the electrical circuit and allowing a zero force removal of the DUT flex.
Proven Reliability
FlexibleTest elements have been in use for many years as a connection method. Fabricated specifically for test fixture operation, their design mimics a standard FFC/FPC electrically which enables extended mechanical operation as well. Very often over 10,000 actuations.
If an element needs to be replaced, a new element can be installed in minutes.
Practical, cost effective, easy to install and use test fixtures
- Contact pitch, number of contacts, contact orientation, and termination (FFC jumper of PCB) are basic requirements.
- FlexibleTest provides proven fixture solutions to meet both standard and custom test system layouts.
- Newer Mini style reduces footprint. Original style maintains legacy and supports large-format applications.
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