Functional Test Fixtures Owned by the Factory or the Buyer
Buyer-owned test fixtures require explicit PO line items, complete source files, and calibrated limit audits to prevent factory lock-in.
Fault Attribution
Origin Assignment
Investigative procedures identify the party responsible for a product failure during the assembly or testing phase. In the context of electronics manufacturing, fault attribution distinguishes between errors caused by poor design and errors caused by workmanship. This process determines whether the cost of repair or replacement falls on the component supplier, the contract manufacturer or the design firm.
It governs the entire period from the start of production until the end of the warranty term.
Causal Determination
Determining the root cause of a failure requires a combination of cross-sectional analysis and electrical testing. During fault attribution, technicians examine the solder joints to see if a fracture was caused by thermal stress or a mechanical shock during shipping. If the failure is linked to a layout error on the printed circuit board, the designer is held responsible for the rework costs.
Conversely, if the assembly machine damaged a sensitive part, the manufacturer must cover the loss. This objective evidence is vital for resolving disputes between the buyer and the supplier. Detailed reporting ensures that the corrective action targets the actual source of the problem rather than a secondary symptom.
Commercial Liability
The final decision on responsibility dictates the financial settlement of the claim. Effective fault attribution reduces friction in the supply chain by providing a clear path for cost recovery. It ensures that the responsible party pays for the necessary corrective actions.