SunPower Corporation
ELECTRICAL PATHWAY INTERMITTENT FAULT DETECTION

Abstract:

Testing to detect intermittent electrical pathways is described. Applied currents may be reversed to fully test all components of a workpiece. Various testing methodologies may be employed. These methodologies may include Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR), mechanical agitation, dark current/voltage testing, (dark IV), i.e., electrical testing of a workpiece using applied electricity, and thermographic imaging, e.g., infra-red thermal imaging. The sensed voltage during agitation may be compared to a benchmark voltage to determine whether or not an intermittent failure exists.