An introduction to coaxial RF probing solutions for mass-production tests

Our objective is to demonstrate advantages of using spring-loaded contacting solutions for high-volume testing of RF PCBs and modules. The test point can be either a pad on the surface of the board or a coaxial interface. The frequency range can be up to and even more than 12 GHz, provided that the test setup is properly calibrated, that the pad-shape or the interface is fully specified up to this frequency and that sophisticated probe fixturing methods are used.

I. Introduction

In this document we describe the functionality of spring-loaded RF-probes for mass-production test applications. Wireless and high-speed data technologies are an ubiquitous part of our world. Companies all over the world are producing countless modules with RF techngology each day to meet the demands of the 21^st century. Prior to dispatching the items to the vendors, those devices have to be tested with sophisticated measurement techniques in order to guarantee proper functionality (production-line tests). Imagine having to test an MMIC-5 GHz amplifier unit with 2 SMA-jacks. RF Engineers would probably take a VNA, the right cables and plugs. But what if not one unit has to be tested, but for example 5,000 each day?