Analytical Technique
Analytical method for mapping electrical current flow within the internal layers of a printed circuit board. Using magnetic field data collected from the surface, current density reconstruction identifies deviations from the intended circuit path. This process relies on high sensitivity sensors to detect the magnetic signals produced by flowing electrons.
Spatial Analysis
High sensitivity magnetometers record the magnetic flux density across the surface of the board under test. Software algorithms then process these values to calculate the vector fields of the underlying current. By comparing the resulting map against the original design files, engineers identify hidden defects such as micro-cracks or unintended bridges.
The software solves the inverse problem of the Biot-Savart law to convert field measurements into a detailed visual representation of electron movement. This mapping step occurs without physical contact with the copper traces, preserving the integrity of the assembly during the diagnostic procedure.
Fault Detection
The presence of current leakage or high resistance junctions becomes visible as a distortion in the reconstructed current paths. Because the technique is non-destructive, it allows for the examination of populated assemblies without removing components. Evaluation of these maps helps in pinpointing the exact location of shorts that traditional continuity testing cannot find.
