PCB Reverse Engineering

PCB Reverse Engineering, also called PCB clone, or PCB Copy, is a reversely research technology on physical printed circuit board (PCB) or its assembly, which is deconstructed to get Gerber files and BOM. These files will be used for prototype PCB manufacturing, components sourcing and prototype PCB assembly for achieving the same PCBA samples provided by customer.

• BOM Re-generation
• PCB CAD File Re-generation
• Schematic Re-generation
• PCB and PCBA Prototypes
• IC decryption
• IC Programming

 

Reverse Engineering Introduction

 

• Taking photos of the PCBA sample from 2 sides, especially for the component sides
• Removing components from the assembled PCB
• Scanning and saving HD photos of the outer layers
• Digitizing outer layers into Gerber data
• Generating accurate test points
• Extract netlist from bare PCB
• Editing the netlist data upon the BOM provided
• Input netlist into cad software
• Auto route inner layers
• Generating new Gerber Files
• Generating schematics & PCB fabrication drawings
• Generating complete Gerber Files & NC drill
• Put the Gerber Files & drawings into PCB production
• Assembling PCB with components
• Assembled PCBs are now ready for intended applications

PCB Reverse Engineering Example of a 4-Layer PCB

 

Here we only show the Gerber files re-generation process of 4 copper layers.

Schematic Re-Make Service

 

Sometimes, some components are old and cannot obtain now, and customer may ask schematic. Firstly, make schematic diagram upon Gerber files and BOM. Then re-make a new schematic file, which can be modified with available components, and to make a new PCB design.

IC Decryption Service

 

IC decryption is to extract the IC programming code from the programmable ICs. Bin or Hex code will be obtained, then used to burn in new ICs, therefore the new board functions the same as the sample board. What you need to do is to provide us the sample ICs, 2pcs each are better, for removing the cap to read out the programs inside the ICs. Sometimes, the decryption process may burn out bonding wires and need work on the 2^nd IC. When IC decryption succeeds, you will receive IC program in Bin or Hex file for burning new ICs by yourself, or you will get 2 new IC samples burnt by us for your testing. The sample ICs provided by you will be broken, cannot work and will not be returned.

In MADPCB, we are always ready to provide PCB reverse engineering, clone, copy services to your unique requirements. Let’s provide the missing pieces to your puzzle. Contact MADPCB now.