AOI Test – What Is Automated Optical Inspection Test?

Published on October 10, 2022 , Last modified on October 24, 2024
by Hommer Zhao
Optical quality control and assembly inspection of an electronic product in the factory

Modern PCBs are much more complex and smaller compared to older boards. Even simple PCBs have thousands of solder joints, which are potential sources of the problems. Additionally, the smaller board sizes make it difficult to perform a traditional manual inspection. As a result, most PCB manufacturers opt for tests such as the AOI. This is the right article if you’re new to the AOI test. Let’s get started.

What is Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)?

Optical quality control and assembly inspection of an electronic product in the factory

Fig 1: Optical quality control and assembly inspection of an electronic product in the factory

Automated optical inspection, or AOI, is a visual assessment of complete printed circuit boards during fabrication. The inspection relies on a machine scanner that employs light imaging to assess PCB qualities and verify that they’re fit for sale or use.

Working Principle of AOI Test

An AOI machine captures images through LED, UV/IR, or fluorescent lights. I then compare the image to pre-programmed data and put it in the AOI processing system’s memory. The system may terminate production if the difference or Normalized cross-correlation is larger than the tolerance level.

Types of Failures AOI Can Check for

Soldering Defects

AOI can detect Open circuits, solder bridges, solder shorts, insufficient solder, and excess solder.

AOI cannot detect Solder voids and solder quality.

Component Defects

AOI can detect: Lifted lead, missing components, and misaligned or misplaced components.

AOI cannot detect Incorrect component values and faulty component defects.

BGA and CSP Defects

AOI cannot check for BGA shorts and open circuit connections.

Types of cameras for AOI Test

A worker supervises the visual inspection of the AOI of a printed circuit board

Fig 2: A worker supervises the visual inspection of the AOI of a printed circuit board

There are several image-capturing system variations depending on the specific application and the complexity/expense of the AOI system.

Streaming Video

AOI cameras capture streaming video and retrieve complete frames from it. T e captured frame then produces a still picture on which it performs signal processing. H wever, the streaming video method is not as precise as the other systems but is much faster.

Still Image Camera System

This system requires good lighting, and you should place it close to the target.

Type of Lighting Systems Used for AOI Test

Fluorescent Lighting

However, a significant issue with fluorescent lighting for AOI systems is that the light sources deteriorate with time. Then means that the AOI system will be susceptible to ever-changing quality and intensity of light.

LED Lighting

LED lighting is preferable as they’re more durable and offer a stable form of lighting. L Ds also allows you to control the level and intensity of lighting to match the application. C consequently, they’re preferable to incandescent or fluorescent lighting.

Infra-red or Ultraviolet

PCB companies use IR or UV lighting to enhance or reveal certain defects that are hard to detect.

Methods We Can Use to Program an AOI System

Soldering iron tips of automated manufacturing soldering and assembly PCB board

Fig 3: Soldering iron tips of automated manufacturing soldering and assembly PCB board

Use of “Golden Board”

One approach is to utilize a known good board or “golden board” as a reference for the AOI system. T is board is fed into the system to study the necessary qualities. I will examine the components and solder profiles of each junction. Several boards are needed to deliver sufficient variance data to the system.

Algorithm-Based Programming

The system receives PCB data and develops its profile for the board. This approach will likewise necessitate actual boards, albeit fewer are usually required.

How Does AOI Compare With Other Inspection Methods?

Printed circuit board in a laser machine

Fig 4: Printed circuit board in a laser machine

Automated X-ray Inspection (AXI)

AXI uses X-rays during inspection instead of light imaging and is popular in evaluating densely constructed or complex design boards. Unlike light imaging, X-rays penetrate through materials to capture imaging accurately. The only downside of the AXI technology is that it’s costly. M st companies only buy it for imaging specialized and complicated boards.

Automatic Laser Test (ALT) Measurement

The ALT uses lasers to measure and scan printed circuit boards. The ALT system uses the lasers’ positions to identify the placement and height of individual components. I analyze reflectivity as the light bounces off the PCB components. T e ALT system may compare empirical measurements to a schematic or specifications.

In-Circuit Testing (ICT)

ICT relies on an electrical probe to check the functioning of an assembled PCB. The electric probe’s working principle is simple. I generate an electric current through the board, informing you of each component’s placement. 

Next, it tests for short and open circuits and assesses important PCB qualities like resistance and capacitance.

Manual Visual Inspection (MVI)

Manually inspecting PCBs under a microscope

Fig 5: Manually inspecting PCBs under a microscope

From the name, MVI is when a human inspector studies the board for defects. Most PCB companies use the MVI method as a last resort, as human handling may introduce board defects. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, you must conduct regular inspections in all PCB manufacturing areas to reduce the number of errors and defects. It’s only in this way that you can correct production errors that may spread to other boards. 

As boards are getting more complex, we can no longer rely on manual inspection only but incorporate AOI tests. Contact us for more information or to procure the AOI test technology.

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Hommer Zhao
Hi, I'm Hommer Zhao, the founder and Chief Editor at WellPCB. With extensive experience in the PCB industry, I oversee all content to ensure it meets the highest standards of accuracy and insight. We proudly serve over 4,000 customers globally. For inquiries or more information, don't hesitate to reach out. Your satisfaction is my top priority!