Patent ID: 7576552
Filing Date: 2009-08-18
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
1. A fault detection apparatus for detecting a fault in a surface mount package of a circuit board assembly configured for mounting within a chassis of an electronic device via a plurality of circuit board mounting holes; said circuit board assembly comprising an electrical component mounted to a surface of a circuit board via said surface mount package; said apparatus comprising: a retainer for releasably securing said circuit board assembly; said retainer including a plurality of retainer mounts corresponding to said circuit board mounting holes; at least one electrical solenoid for applying a reciprocating mechanical force to said circuit board when said circuit board assembly is secured within said retainer and while a test signal is passed through said circuit board; said solenoid including a core portion and a rod; said rod movable between a retracted position and an extended position; said rod being disposed in relation to said circuit board such that changing between said positions causes deflections in said circuit board; said reciprocating mechanical force for disturbing a mechanical defect in said surface mount package; and a controller for applying said test electrical signal to said surface mount package while said electrical solenoid applies said reciprocating mechanical force; said test signal configured to indicate a presence of said mechanical defect when said mechanical defect is disturbed by said reciprocating mechanical force.