Inspection & Test Services for PCB Assembly
Ensuring Reliability, Consistency and Long-Term Performance
At Phase One Electronics, we provide detailed inspection and testing when requested by the customer or required by the project specification. With over 35 years of experience, our trained technicians carry out visual inspection, continuity testing, functional testing and customer-defined verification processes — all completed at our Portsmouth, UK facility.
Why Phase One Electronics Is Trusted for PCB Inspection & Test
Our inspection and testing service is built around customer requirements, accuracy and more than 35 years of hands-on manufacturing experience. Every PCB is checked by trained technicians who understand how faults occur — and how to prevent them.
Over 35 Years of Quality Control Experience
We have inspected thousands of PCBs across every industry, product type and complexity level.
Skilled Technicians Trained to Industry Standards
Our inspection team follows structured procedures aligned with J-STD-001 and recognised industry guidelines.
Proven Processes That Identify Defects Early
We catch issues during assembly, not after — preventing expensive failures and protecting long-term performance.
Suitable for All PCB Types
We inspect SMT, through-hole and mixed-technology boards, including dense multi-layer designs.
100% UK-Based Inspection Facility
All inspection and testing is completed in Portsmouth — giving you full traceability and no offshore risks.
Flexible Testing Options
Choose from visual inspection, continuity checks, functional testing or customer-defined procedures.
Ideal for High-Reliability Applications
Trusted for defence, medical, marine, automotive, transportation and industrial electronics.
Our Full Inspection
& Test Workflow
Our inspection and test workflow has been refined over decades to ensure accuracy and consistency. Testing is performed only where required by the customer or the assembly specification.
1. Incoming Inspection & Documentation Review
We verify customer documentation, BOM details, polarity notes and handling requirements. Free-issue components and supplied materials are checked for accuracy, quantity and suitability before assembly begins.
2. Visual Inspection During Assembly
Throughout SMT and through-hole assembly, technicians perform ongoing checks to identify issues early — reducing rework and improving yield. Checks include solder quality, alignment, polarity and component condition.
3. Final Visual Inspection (Post-Assembly)
Every component, solder joint and mechanical feature is inspected according to strict guidelines. We ensure correct polarity, lead trimming, solder fillets, alignment, cleanliness and mechanical reliability.
4. Optical & Magnified Inspection
Microscopes and magnification tools are used to examine fine-pitch components, micro-joints and critical solder areas — ensuring no defects are missed on dense or complex assemblies.
5. Continuity Testing (When Requested)
We verify that all electrical connections are correct, ensuring there are no open circuits, short circuits, solder bridges or incorrect routing issues that could cause field failures.
Advanced Testing, Validation
& Final Quality Assurance
Additional testing options are available when defined by the customer’s requirements.
6. Functional Testing (Customer-Defined)
We carry out customer-defined functional tests including power-up checks, signal verification, interface checks, communication tests and behaviour testing for programmed circuits. Fixtures and test jigs can be used or developed to support your requirements.
7. Programming & Firmware Loading (Optional)
We support microcontroller and EEPROM programming, bootloader installation, serial numbering, configuration loading and pre-test firmware updates — ensuring each unit is ready for functional validation.
8. Mechanical Testing & Fit Checking (Optional)
Where PCBs are part of a larger system or enclosure, we verify connector alignment, mounting hole accuracy, standoff positions, clearance, and cable compatibility to ensure trouble-free integration.
9. Burn-In Testing (Optional)
For high-reliability or mission-critical applications, we offer burn-in testing under controlled conditions. This identifies early-life failures and validates performance for demanding environments such as defence, medical, industrial and automotive sectors.
10. Documentation, Reporting & Full Traceability
We provide optional detailed inspection reports, test results, batch traceability, serial number logs and build documentation. Ideal for regulated industries and long-term production projects.
Industries That Rely on Our Inspection & Test Service
We work with organisations whose products must perform reliably under demanding conditions.
Our inspection and testing processes are trusted by industries where long-term stability, safety and consistency are essential.
Marine &
Offshore
Electronics that must withstand corrosion, moisture, vibration and long-term exposure to harsh environments.
Defence &
Military
Reliable, secure, safety-critical circuits designed for mission-ready performance and strict quality standards.
Automotive &
Electric Vehicles
Electronics exposed to constant vibration, heat cycling and extended operating lifetimes.
Medical &
Healthcare Equipment
Safety-critical systems that require complete stability, cleanliness and predictable long-term operation.
Telecommunications &
Surveillance
Electronics that must deliver signal integrity, uptime and reliable data processing in varied environments.
Industrial Automation &
Robotics
Precision control systems used in 24/7 environments where failure is unacceptable.
Rail, Transport &
Infrastructure
Durable electronics designed for heavy-duty, mission-critical applications in transport and public infrastructure.
Audio & Music Industry
Electronics used in live sound, studio recording and broadcast environments, requiring ultra-low noise performance, stable signal processing and long-term reliability under continuous operation.
Flexible Testing Options: From Prototype to Production
Our inspection and testing service is designed to support every phase of your product’s lifecycle. Whether you are developing early prototypes or managing long-term production, we offer a range of testing levels to ensure your PCB assemblies are validated correctly.
1
Prototyping
Fast, detailed inspection to help refine early-stage designs and identify potential build improvements before production begins.
2
Small Batch Production
Reliable, consistent inspection for low-volume assemblies, ideal for product launches, testing phases or specialist builds.
3
Ongoing Production
Repeatable inspection routines and test procedures to maintain long-term quality and ensure stable, dependable production batches.
4
Choose Your Inspection Level
Select the testing package that suits your project: visual inspection, inspection + continuity testing, full functional testing, or custom test routines built around your product.
Local, Reliable PCB Inspection & Testing in Portsmouth, Hampshire
To ensure your assemblies meet the highest standards of quality and performance, our Portsmouth facility provides fast, accurate and fully traceable PCB inspection and testing services. We offer clear communication, dependable turnaround times and expert support throughout your project.
Faster Turnaround
Local manufacturing means your inspection or testing job is processed quickly, without the delays associated with overseas transport or customs.
No Offshore Shipping Delays
Your PCBs remain within the UK, removing the risk of long transit times, lost shipments or unexpected international hold-ups.
Direct Engineering Communication
Speak directly with the technicians working on your project, ensuring faster clarification, fewer misunderstandings and smoother progress.
No Language or Time-Zone Barriers
Communication stays clear and immediate, avoiding overnight delays or misinterpretations that can slow project progress.
Quick Design Feedback
We provide rapid DFM recommendations, highlighting potential issues early so you can make confident design adjustments before production.
Traceability
Every stage of inspection and testing is fully documented and traceable, giving you complete visibility and confidence in the quality process.
Easier Updates and Modifications
If changes are required—whether design tweaks, test updates or rework—we can implement them quickly with minimal disruption.
Preferred by Many UK Customers
Local support, reliable turnaround and transparent communication make UK manufacturing the trusted choice for engineers and buyers across the country.