What Does Boundary Scan Mean?
A boundary scan is a testing standard which helps in defining the architecture and the techniques for solving hardware issues related to components such as printed circuit boards (PCBs) and integrated circuits. Traditional in-circuit testers are not well suited to testing highly complex and dense PCBs. Short test times, increased diagnostic capability, higher test coverage and lower capital device cost are some of the potential benefits from the use of a boundary scan.
Techopedia Explains Boundary Scan
Development of surface-mounted packaging, development of multi-layer board to accommodate extra interconnects and miniaturization of device packaging were some of the factors leading to the development of boundary scan technology. It was developed as a long-term solution for circuit testing. A boundary scan can determine if each device is inserted properly and soldered onto the PCB or IC with the help of the dedicated test logic built into modern integrated circuits.
