Electronic Components Testing

Save money using electronic components testing services to find design flaws
By Tara McClendon, Freelance Writer/Editor Tara McClendon Testing electronic components allows you to save money by finding and isolating problems with the design before production begins. You can find flaws like electrical overstress, circuit layout problems and poor thermal design. If you skip the testing, you may be liable to consumers who buy your product and experience problems with it.

Electronic component testing provides diagnostics and specifications for your products. Not only does this help you sell your product to suppliers, it also gives consumers the information they need to determine whether your product is the best product for them to buy.

Before you decide to perform your own testing of electronics components, consider the following:

1. Evaluate your skill at electronic testing and determine whether you need to hire an outside expert to assist you during this component of the design process.

2. Inventory your tools, and factor in the cost to buy the equipment you need to complete the testing.

3. Keep in mind that consumers appreciate companies who use third-party or independent testing companies.

Rent electronic testing equipment for your business

Renting equipment often costs less than buying the equipment new. If you have a problem or a machine malfunctions, you can return it to the company and get another machine to complete your tests.
Try:  TRA-RenTelco rents electronic component testing equipment to help you test and maintain electrical apparatus. Continental Resources, Inc. rents, sells and leases test and measurement equipment for use in electronic testing.

Buy electronic components testing and measurement equipment

If you plan to do a large quantity of electronic testing, it may benefit you to purchase the equipment. Authorized dealers or distributors often carry a larger line and offer guarantees that non-authorized dealers don't. Usually an authorized dealer must meet expectations for the manufacturer to remain authorized.
Try:  EMSCO, a division of Hammond Electronics, sells test and measurement equipment, including multi-function tools like the AEMC 6470 Multi-Function Ground Resistance Testers. Newark carries a variety of electronic equipment, including thermal imagers.

Hire a company to perform electronic testing for your design

Professional companies know how to test electronic components for a wide array of specifications, including circuitry, continuity, failure analysis, resistance and sensitivity. These companies have all the equipment necessary to test electronic components, which means you won't have to purchase the equipment.
Try:  Get a free quote for services from 360 Degree Test Labs, which provides world-class electronic components testing solutions for large and small corporations. DRA Component Services Inc. offers electronic components testing, including equivalent, environmental and burning-in testing.

• Internet guides offer insider tips and techniques to help you test your own products. Before you pull out your credit card, evaluate the guide to ensure the author has expertise in the field. It's also a good idea to look for a money-back guarantee.