This guide walks through the complete process of generating a Design for Test (DFT) report in FixturFab Studio. The tool analyzes your PCB design and provides recommendations for test fixture development.

Step 1: Create New Report#

Start by clicking either the NEW DFT REPORT button in the toolbar or from the menu. This opens the report creation wizard.

Step 2: Select Netlist#

Upload your design file (ODB++ or IPC-D-356):

Change the default project name if preferred
Select your design file — an ODB++ archive (.zip or .tgz) or an IPC-D-356 netlist (.d356 or .ipc)
Review the preview showing all test records from your design
Press Continue to advance

Need help exporting? See our guides for ODB++ or IPC-D-356 with instructions specific to your ECAD tool.

Step 3: Set DUT Dimensions#

The system estimates your device width and depth using the maximum extent values from the netlist test records.

Review the estimated dimensions
Update measurements if they appear inaccurate
For early-stage designs, default estimates are acceptable to proceed

Accurate dimensions help ensure proper fixture sizing and probe placement calculations.

Step 4: Select Test Points#

A table displays all identified test records from your netlist. Selected points highlight in gold within the preview window.

Filtering Options#

Use filters to efficiently navigate large designs:

Reference designator or net name — Search for specific components or signals
Board side — Filter by top, bottom, or both sides
Common IPC prefixes — Quick filters for test points (TP), connectors (J), and other standard designators
Selected only — Show only currently selected test points

Select the test points you need to probe for your test strategy. You don't need to select every available point—focus on the nets critical for your functional and structural tests.

Step 5: Configure Through-Hole Components#

All through-hole components default to "Populated" status.

Populated — Component will be present during testing; use standard cup-style probes
Unpopulated — Component absent during testing; use arrow-style probes that can reach into the hole

Deselect components that won't be populated at the time of testing to ensure the correct probe style is specified.

Step 6: Select Locating Holes#

Identify mounting or tooling holes for DUT positioning. Selected holes display in purple in the preview.

Filtering Options#

Reference designator search — Find specific holes by name
Common IPC prefixes — Quick filters for holes (H), mounting holes (M, MH, MNT)

Select at least two holes for reliable DUT positioning. Three or more holes provide better stability and repeatability.

Step 7: Review Analysis Results#

The system runs Design for Test analysis and categorizes findings by severity:

Errors#

High-risk issues that could affect manufacturing feasibility. These require attention before proceeding with fixture design. Common errors include:

Insufficient probe spacing
Inaccessible test points
Mechanical conflicts

Warnings#

Moderate-risk concerns that may affect fixture reliability or cost. Review these to understand trade-offs:

Marginal spacing that may reduce probe life
Test points near board edges
High component density areas

Issues appear in an expandable issue tree for detailed review. Address errors before finalizing your fixture configuration.

Next Steps#

After generating your report:

Review the analysis — Understand any errors or warnings flagged
Download the report — Export PDF for team review or records
Proceed to configuration — Use insights to configure your fixture

For help interpreting specific metrics and recommendations, see the DFT Report Guide.