PCB Reverse engineering
Do we have any standard to govern PCB Reverse engineering?
Before understanding the steps used for PCB Reverse engineering, let’s understand, is it ethical to use Reverse engineering or are there any standards which mentions about reverse engineering ? Reverse engineering as such is a wide term and is applicable in multiple fields of mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, software engineering, chemical engineering, and systems biology.
From software perspective In 1990, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) had defined reverse engineering as “The process of analyzing a subject system to identify the system’s components and their interrelationships and to create representations of the system in another form or at a higher level of abstraction”, where the “subject system” is to be considered as the end product of software development.
In electronic engineering there is as such, no standard or guidelines which mentions about reverse engineering. Jerry can, Panzerschreck, Tupolev Tu-4, SCR-584 radar, V-2 rocket
BGM-71 are historic few examples which are reverse engineered to make similar powerful weapons.
Top Reasons for Reverse Engineering.
- Obsolescence : Obsolete part replacement
- Interfacing of different parts of system.
- Product security analysis.
- Cost Optimization
- Re-positioning of obsolete components.
- Competitor Analysis and gain
Tools used for PCB Reverse Engineering
- Good multi-meter
- Continuity Tester
- Inductive short tracer
- Milli-Ohm meter
- Microscope
- Light panel & Torch for detailed PCB inspection.
- X-Ray imaging of PCB
- Lot of Patience & Passion
Steps for PCB Reverse Engineering
- Assign reference designations (U, J, R, C, D) to unmarked components before starting PCB reverse engineering.
- Create a Component level BOM
- Design -Identify the system’s components and their interrelationships.
- Components Placement & Mechanical
- XY locations of Connectors, LED, Switches etc
- Board mechanical Mounting holes & any special cuts on Boards, Board size etc
- Download datasheets, application notes, and architecture information
- Create net list
- Make the Schematic Drawing and PCB Layout
PCB reverse engineering is grueling process which seems impossible sometimes but right experience, dedication and success gives paramount satisfaction and overshadows the hurdles faced in the journey. .
Argus Embedded System Re-Engineering Services are designed and developed in accordance with the specific customer’s needs and demands. If the product or the PCB is re-engineered by us, we take responsibility of the custom developed hardware to test the functionality as per the original product. This assurance can not be given by most of the design bureau as either they are in to only manufacturing or only in the electronic product design.
Our services are widely appreciated by the clients for their quality, timely execution and genuine prices.
Where we can help
- Obsolete products where the artwork no longer exists.
- Obsolete products with no circuit diagrams
- Products Re-designed for RoHS/ WEEE compliance
- Through-hole to SMD parts Migration
- While retaining the core features and logic of existing systems migration to emerging technologies.
- Design Changes
- To improve operations, maintenance and support issues on older circuit Boards
- For increased performance.
- Reduced life-cycle costs and lower System Cost.
Argus Embedded System is Industry’s leading company in providing electronic product design and Electronics Manufacturing for Security, Home and Industrial automation, Medical, Transport & Logistics, Automotive, Networking, Telecom, IoT and Connected devices. Our IoT Product line can help you in defining and designing any of your product ideas.
Our professional experts are available via phone or email for your consultation. Ask for a free quote on any of our services or products. Our Major customers are from India, Australia, USA and UK.
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