A Holistic Approach
There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to PCB diagnostics; more often than not, it depends on what kind of PCB and failure you're up against. While there may be visible and obvious signs that point you to the source of a problem, such as a burnt or blown component, you shouldn't expect these as the norm. There are engineers who swear by a specific tool or technique that they claim to be as reliable as clockwork, but even that is no guarantee to work every time or fool-proof against any PCB. "Well, it's fine with me so long as I'm comfortable with the method of my choice." Sure. But why limit yourself if there are better and more effective ways to do a job? After all, if you intend to make repairing PCB a lifelong career or passion, it makes sense to learn as much as there is to learn about this trade, to seek continuous improvement and a whole new level of experience. This is what distinguishes a professional from an amateur, or a craftsman from a mere worker.
What I'm advocating in this book is a holistic approach to PCB diagnostics that is based on practical, real-life examples. This includes case studies from my own work experience using various tools and techniques, as well as that of some field engineer friends of mine who are generous enough to share their expertise. There is a Chinese saying, "It is not beyond one's dignity to learn from the wisdom of others." In a company of three we can always find a teacher who can endow new knowledge, or a master who can impart a useful skill. One of the most important trait of a good engineer is a willingness to be open to opportunities of learning to further enhance one's abilities. This is something that cannot be attained in a classroom, but only by emulating other good engineers.
