What Is PCB Scans Service

RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY
What is PCB Scans Service ?

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are at the heart of electronics. As products
become more advanced, PCBs grow more complex. This complexity
makes verifying that a PCB matches the original design intent increasingly
critical. PCB scans help provide that verification through detailed
inspection and analysis.
PCB scans offer a comprehensive way to validate board fabrication quality.
This article will explore what PCB scans services encompass including:
 The different types of scans
 Typical scan deliverables
 How scan data gets analyzed
 Use cases showing value of scans
 Options for implementing scanning
 Frequently asked questions
Read on to understand how utilizing scans can improve quality across the
PCB development and production cycle.
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Table of Contents
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Types of PCB Scans
There are a few core types of scans used to validate PCB fabrication:
Optical Scans
These use cameras and image processing software to capture highly
detailed images of a PCB. The scanned images enable inspection of trace
width, spacing, mask alignment, and more. 2D optical scans provide a
layer-by-layer view while 3D scans can create models of the entire board.
X-Ray Scans

X-ray scanning reveals internal PCB structure. This allows verification of
layer alignment, voids, and defects within the board that are invisible from
the outside.
Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)
AOI systems use cameras, lighting, and software algorithms to
automatically flag defects on a PCB. This provides fast pass/fail verification
to complement manual optical inspection.
Electrical Testing
Testing functionality electrically through in-circuit or flying probe testing.
Confirms boards operate as designed rather than just verifying physical
traits.
Cross-Sectioning
Physically cutting a sample to expose internals for measurements under a
microscope. Most accurate way to assess plating thickness and layer
alignment.
These different scans provide complementary views into PCB quality.
Optical scans deliver detailed imagery while x-ray and cross-sectioning
reveal the board’s internal structure. AOI and electrical testing provide
automated defect detection. Typical scan services utilize a combination of

these techniques tailored to the specific board and application
requirements.
Scan Deliverables
PCB scan services provide a range of detailed deliverables. These help
document quality and assist further analysis. Typical deliverables include:
High Resolution Board Images
 Layer-by-layer photos showing fine details
 Captured under precision lighting
 Multiple angles provide complete view
Measurement Annotations
 Board images with measurement callouts
 Critical attributes like trace width documented

 Pass/fail status noted based on specified tolerances
Layer Composite Images
 Overlays images from multiple layers
 Used to assess alignment and stackup
3D Board Models
 Photorealistic 3D model of assembled board
 Enables inspection from any angle
 Zoom into component-level detail
Automated Inspection Data
 Results from AOI inspection
 Log of fails and process metrics
 Used for process control and optimization
Cross-Section Images
 Detailed photos of board cross-section
 Reveals plating quality and thickness
 Assesses inner layer alignment

These deliverables provide full visibility into the as-built state of PCBs.
They serve as an important quality benchmark and enable further
analysis.
Scan Data Analysis
The scan deliverables provide a wealth of data to analyze fabrication
quality. A few examples of how this data gets used:
Dimensional Analysis
The photorealistic board images support precise dimensional
measurement of features like trace width and spacing. This verifies all
aspects match the original design files.
Layer Alignment Assessment
Layer composites and cross-sections reveal alignment between layers.
This includes registration between layers and inner layer skew.
Plating and Etching Analysis
Plating quality and etching characteristics can be inferred from images.
For example, uneven plating or over-etching of traces.
Solder Mask Inspection

Mask dimensions relative to copper features are measured. Images
reveal solder mask registration errors and insufficient openings.
Voiding and Defect Detection
X-ray scans combined with cross-sectioning uncover voids, gaps, and
other defects in the PCB substrate
Process Capability Analysis
Automated inspection data allows statistical process control metrics to be
calculated. This reveals fabrication consistency.
These examples demonstrate the breadth of insights possible from scan
data. It provides vital feedback for continually improving manufacturing
processes.
Use Cases Showing Value of Scans

Now that we’ve explored the scan types and analysis performed, let’s look
at a few examples showing the value scans offer across the PCB
production cycle:
Research & Development
During R&D, scans help accelerate prototyping by providing detailed
validation of new designs and processes. Images allow quick comparison
between design and fabricated board.
Pre-Production
Before full production, scans verify that fabrication processes meet
specifications consistently across pilot builds. Issues can be corrected
earlier.
New Supplier Qualification
When qualifying a new fabrication supplier, scans supply quantitative data
about their capabilities relative to requirements.
Batch Quality Monitoring
Periodic scans during production provide ongoing process control. Scan
data can detect deviations so corrections can be made before volume
production.

Design Issue Diagnosis
If functional issues arise, scans provide detailed physical data to help
determine the root cause. For example, whether a short is from a PCB flaw
or faulty assembly.
Counterfeit Screening
For products with high counterfeit risk, scans supply physical forensic data
to identify boards not produced by approved suppliers.
These examples highlight the benefits of PCB scans during prototyping,
ramp-up, and volume production. The data aids issue diagnosis, process
control, and quality assurance.
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Options for Implementing Scanning

There are a few options available for implementing PCB scan services:
In-House Scanning
Scanning can be brought fully in-house by investing in equipment such as
automated inspection, x-ray, and cross-sectioning tools. Offers full control
but requires significant capital expenditure.
Outsource to Specialized Provider
Many companies offer outsourced scanning services. These providers
supply the equipment, expertise, and capacity needed for on-demand
scanning.
Hybrid Approach

Some capabilities like AOI can be brought in-house while specialized
techniques like x-ray remain outsourced. This balances control, cost, and
flexibility.
Supplier Scanning
Require PCB suppliers to provide scan data as part of fabrication services.
Shifts burden to supplier but scan access may be limited.
The right implementation depends on budget, internal expertise, quantity
of scans, and quality control approach. As volumes increase, bringing
more capabilities in-house makes sense for full control and traceability.
Frequently Asked Questions
A few common questions arise around PCB scan services:
What does PCB scanning typically cost?
Outsourced scan costs range from $250 – $1000 depending on complexity,
scan types, and deliverables. Bringing in-house requires equipment
investments from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How long does it take to scan a board?

High resolution optical scans can be completed in under a day excluding
time for delivery and analysis. Automated inspection offers even faster
turnaround. More complex analysis like cross-sectioning takes longer.
Is scanned data proprietary?
If outsourcing, providers typically retain rights to scan techniques but
board data belongs to the customer. Data privacy should be ensured.
What defect detection resolution is possible?
Inspection can reliably detect defects down to 2-5 microns. Smaller
defects may be visible but cannot be consistently distinguished from
normal variations.
How many boards are needed for sampling?
5-10 samples from a batch provides good insight into quality variation.
Complex boards may need more. Both pilot and volume production
should be evaluated.
In summary, PCB scans deliver detailed physical validation while questions
of cost, time, and implementation depend on specific needs. When used
appropriately, scanning adds significant quality assurance value.
Conclusion

PCB scan services provide invaluable verification of board fabrication
quality. The variety of scans available equip engineers with
multidimensional data to validate PCBs relative to design specifications.
Photorealistic imagery combined with automated inspection and
cross-section analysis ensure boards meet requirements.
Scans identify issues early when corrections are lower cost. They also
provide process feedback to continually refine manufacturing. As PCB
technologies advance, scanning offers the level of precision needed to
achieve quality and reliability targets. While adding cost, the value realized
across prototyping, pre-production, and volume manufacturing outweighs
investments. By proactively using scans instead of reacting after functional
failures, organizations gain higher PCB quality along with improved
time-to-market and lower risk.
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RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

What is PCB Scans Service ?

become more advanced, PCBs grow more complex. This complexity

critical. PCB scans help provide that verification through detailed

inspection and analysis.

PCB scans offer a comprehensive way to validate board fabrication quality.

 The different types of scans

 Typical scan deliverables

 How scan data gets analyzed

 Use cases showing value of scans

 Options for implementing scanning

 Frequently asked questions

PCB development and production cycle.

Request PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Quote

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

Types of PCB Scans

These use cameras and image processing software to capture highly

detailed images of a PCB. The scanned images enable inspection of trace

width, spacing, mask alignment, and more. 2D optical scans provide a

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

X-ray scanning reveals internal PCB structure. This allows verification of

Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)

AOI systems use cameras, lighting, and software algorithms to

automatically flag defects on a PCB. This provides fast pass/fail verification

to complement manual optical inspection.

Testing functionality electrically through in-circuit or flying probe testing.

Confirms boards operate as designed rather than just verifying physical

Physically cutting a sample to expose internals for measurements under a

microscope. Most accurate way to assess plating thickness and layer

These different scans provide complementary views into PCB quality.

Optical scans deliver detailed imagery while x-ray and cross-sectioning

automated defect detection. Typical scan services utilize a combination of

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

these techniques tailored to the specific board and application

PCB scan services provide a range of detailed deliverables. These help

document quality and assist further analysis. Typical deliverables include:

High Resolution Board Images

 Layer-by-layer photos showing fine details

 Captured under precision lighting

 Multiple angles provide complete view

 Board images with measurement callouts

 Critical attributes like trace width documented

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

 Pass/fail status noted based on specified tolerances

Layer Composite Images

 Overlays images from multiple layers

 Used to assess alignment and stackup

 Photorealistic 3D model of assembled board

 Enables inspection from any angle

 Zoom into component-level detail

Automated Inspection Data

 Results from AOI inspection

 Log of fails and process metrics

 Used for process control and optimization

 Detailed photos of board cross-section

 Reveals plating quality and thickness

 Assesses inner layer alignment

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

They serve as an important quality benchmark and enable further

Scan Data Analysis

The scan deliverables provide a wealth of data to analyze fabrication

quality. A few examples of how this data gets used:

The photorealistic board images support precise dimensional