In-Circuit Test (ICT) for critical electronic products and systems

In-circuit testing (ICT) is a cornerstone structural testing method in the electronics industry, used to verify the compliance of printed circuit boards (PCBs). It plays a key role in ensuring the quality and reliability of electronic assemblies from the very first stages of manufacturing.

As a member of the Agôn Electronics industrial group, Tame-Test provides comprehensive test solutions that go far beyond basic functional testing, addressing the needs of critical and high-reliability applications. From tech start-ups to major OEMs, we support subcontractors and electronic manufacturers in demanding sectors through our technical expertise and advanced testing capabilities.

We deliver complete in-circuit testing services for third parties, partners, and customers, helping them to:

• Detect defects early,
• Reduce production costs,
• Guarantee the highest quality of their electronic systems—especially for complex PCBs and assemblies.

ICT is a complementary approach to functional test (FCT), which validates the overall system behavior. ICT provides unique advantages:

• Fast debugging when a defect is detected,
• Easier repair and reintegration into production,
• Seamless integration into a Design-for-Test (DfT) strategy,
• Improved test coverage and system testability (e.g., when PCB accessibility is limited).

Still underused in many electronic projects, ICT is an essential complementary solution, enabling precise defect detection and significant time savings during production ramp-up. This powerful tool ensures that system assemblies and PCBAs conform to design specifications.

An ICT tester uses a fixture equipped with probes (fixed or flying) that contact the board through a mechanical interface known as a bed-of-nails. Each fixture is custom-designed based on PCB modeling, schematics, and access points. Tests are then fully automated using dedicated programs developed by engineers.

The main suppliers of ICT systems include:

• Keysight (formerly Agilent), with its broad range of parametric testers,
• Teradyne, known for highly configurable systems,
• Takaya, a specialist in flying-probe ICT solutions,
• SPEA, offering compact and automated testers.

These platforms are particularly suited for high-density boards, complex accessibility constraints, and high-volume industrial production.

At Tame-Test, we rely on industry-recognized platforms such as Keysight and Teradyne, while applying best practices such as:

• ICT with fixed or flying probes,
• JTAG (boundary scan) interfaces,
• Test benches tailored for industrial throughput,
• Integrated DfT (Design for Testability) methods from the design stage.

We also offer combined ICT/FCT solutions for complete coverage.

Our engineers develop tailored test programs and design custom fixtures in full alignment with the strategy defined together at the project’s outset. Tame-Test has all the in-house expertise required to manage your project independently, from start to finish.

The benefits of Tame-Test’s in-circuit testing services include:

• Precise defect diagnostics at the component level,
• Component programming,
• Debugging of complex systems,
• Shortened test times (fast execution),
• Reduced production ramp-up costs.

We deliver tailor-made services for your integration, pre-industrialization, or series-production projects, including:

• Project analysis: taking into account requirements, input data, objectives, and overall test strategy,
• Testability analysis (DfT),
• Design of custom fixtures (nails, probes, interfaces) adapted to PCBAs,
• Test program development (ICT with or without JTAG): modeling, design, simulation, test point definition, and equipment configuration,
• Test execution: inspection, measurement, fault detection, debugging, validation,
• Result analysis: reports, recommendations, and optimization,
• Integration into your production lines / on-site installation,
• User training and test system maintenance.

We operate across the full spectrum—from prototypes to small and medium-volume production runs—on analog, digital, mixed-signal systems, and complex electronic modules.

Our expertise covers:

• Electronic engineering,
• Test engineering,
• Mechanical design,
• Software development.

In-circuit testing is particularly well suited to demanding industries such as:

• Aerospace,
• Space and NewSpace,
• Defense,
• Medical (including critical and implantable devices),
• Railways,
• Nuclear.

It ensures assembly quality, verifies electrical characteristics, measures parametric performance, and reduces production cycles (shorter test times).

In an industrialization context, ICT is a vital lever of competitiveness—securing and accelerating critical electronic projects. Our services seamlessly integrate into your manufacturing processes to speed up time-to-market, cut costs, and increase reliability.

With our advanced technical resources and a dedicated design engineering team, we deliver:

• Complete solutions tailored to every product type and demanding sector,
• Mastery of industry standards and leading platforms (e.g., Keysight, Teradyne),
• Personalized support from design to maintenance,
• Engineering, modeling, industrialization, and continuous optimization services,
• Cross-sector expertise, from prototype to full-scale production.

The results: reliability, accuracy, competitiveness.

By choosing Tame-Test ICT services, you gain full control over the design, production, and validation of your embedded systems and critical electronic equipment.

Looking for expert support for your in-circuit testing? Let’s talk!

Our team is here to design tailor-made solutions that meet your high-reliability industrial challenges. Contact us today to learn how ICT can transform your performance.