Testing for Faults in Wiring Networks

An algorithm is derived for multiprobe testing for shorts, opens, and wiring errors in any multiterminal wiring network, such as a printed circuit board, wiring harness, multiconductor cable, or backplane wiring board. For behavioral testing the minimum number of tests required, always achievable, is equal to p - 1 + [log2q], where p is the number of terminals in the largest interconnected cluster in the network, and q is the total number of clusters, including isolated terminals. For structural testing the number of tests required is less, and can be as small as [log2q] + 1 depending upon the assumptions made regarding the types of faults that can occur.