Boundary Scan Testing
Boundary Scan Testing
Boundary Scan Testing / JTAG is fast becoming a normal test platform for digital assemblies. It is essential that the JTAG test ports are designed into the board and thought is given to routing signals out and in via analogue/ interconnects to improve coverage.
Programming and interfaces are relatively inexpensive and the system is normally reasonably production friendly if fixtures are produced that can withstand plugging in and out on a continual basis.

Boundary Scan Testing / JTAG at a glance
Set Up Costs
- Programming is normally £1K – £2K
- Fixtures can be added if more complex
- At NOTE’s facility in Windsor we have JTAG Tech, XJTAG, Goepel and Corelis systems
- Some custom interfacing may be needed which may cost extra
Speed
- Good test speed
- Minutes normally
Coverage
- Variable
- Depends on your design and if you use fixtures
Operator Level Required
- Good
- Some technical knowledge
Fault Finding
- Good
- Fault information is normally component or net level
- Fault tables can be hard to interpret.
Running
- Cost Excellent
- Very low test and maintenance costs
“They provide excellent service, with professionalism, great quality and the set up is top level. Personal service – feels like dealing with a small company but they have the corporate support and backing. They have nailed it.”