Electronics Component Failure Analysis – Isolating Failing Components

Modern electronics consumers demand a wide variety of capabilities with excellent reliability at a low cost. These devices, such as smartphones, are designed to provide cross-country data transfer, high-quality graphics, and mathematical prowess. However, modern electronic systems require hundreds or thousands of components, ranging from passive capacitors to microprocessors. Analyzing electronic component failures is crucial for continuous advancement, as pinpointing the cause of a device’s failure is often a first step towards enhancing the reliability of upcoming generations.

The complexity of modern electronics makes it challenging to isolate malfunctions, as schematic representations can be complex and time-consuming. To successfully complete an analysis, analysts must first reduce the range of potential outcomes to develop a more achievable test plan. They can narrow down the list of potential failure mechanisms by looking at the device’s history and reported failure mode. With experience, analysts can select one or two logical hypotheses, reducing the number of potentially failing components. This method often involves studying layouts and schematics for a product, gaining a thorough understanding of the device’s built-in circuits, and identifying potential failure sites. The failure analysis project moves forward once an analyst has created a working theory by collecting supporting data, similar to any other scientific activity.

An analyst must present specific data identifying the problematic component to support their argument. This can be achieved through technologies like thermal imaging or physically isolating the component from the rest of the circuit. In less complicated situations, tracing on a board can be used to isolate a device. Isolating a problem can be as simple as removing components from the board and confirming the fault. Further electrical testing is required after every circuit adjustment to determine the right component.

Failure analysis of the specific electronic component can begin after the failing device is located. Although the most glamorous part of an electronics component failure analysis project is producing the ideal image or test data, the uninspiring tasks are an essential part of the failure analysis process.