InfraTec E-Lit system setup

Automated Lock-In Thermography for Failure Analysis and Semiconductor Inspection

The E-LIT Electronics & Semiconductor Testing Solution by InfraTec is a modular, automated lock-in thermography platform designed for non-contact failure analysis, quality assurance, and semiconductor inspection. 

By combining high-performance infrared imaging with advanced lock-in measurement techniques, E-LIT enables the detection and localization of thermal anomalies that are invisible to conventional thermal imaging systems. Defects generating temperature differences in the milli-Kelvin and even micro-Kelvin range can be reliably identified and analyzed.

From semiconductor devices and integrated circuits to multilayer PCBs, power modules, LEDs, and battery cells, E-LIT provides engineers and researchers with a powerful tool for identifying electrical and thermal failures during product development, validation, and production quality control.

Side by Side comparison of defect in traditional thermal image vs with lock-in thermography

Detect Hidden Defects with Exceptional Sensitivity

E-LIT utilizes synchronized electrical excitation and lock-in thermography techniques to reveal defects that are undetectable using conventional thermal imaging. The system identifies minute thermal signatures associated with:

  • Leakage currents
  • Localized power loss
  • Resistive vias
  • Cold solder joints
  • Latch-up effects
  • Internal shorts
  • Oxide defects
  • Transistor and diode failures
  • Wire bond failures
  • Heat sink connection issues

Even faults producing temperature variations in the µK range can be accurately located and characterized.

Electronics circuit board imaged with Lock-in Thermography using different lens options for inspection of small components

Analyze Components from Board-Level to Microscopic Scale

E-LIT delivers complete failure analysis capabilities across multiple levels of electronic assemblies. From entire circuit boards to microscopic semiconductor structures, the platform provides detailed thermal and geometric analysis within a single workstation. High-resolution infrared cameras and microscope optics enable geometric resolutions as fine as 1.3 μm per pixel.

Semiconductor Failure Analysis: Rapidly identify and localize defects within integrated circuits, semiconductor dies, power devices, and packaged components. E-LIT supports both development and production environments where fast and accurate fault isolation is critical.

PCB and Electronics Inspection: Detect manufacturing defects and reliability issues in printed circuit boards, including shorts, soldering defects, overheating components, and electrical connection failures.

Quality Assurance and Process Control: Integrate lock-in thermography into quality control processes to identify defects early, improve production yields, and reduce costly downstream failures. E-LIT provides a non-contact inspection method suitable for both laboratory and production environments.

Advanced Packaging Validation: Analyze thermal behavior and defect locations in advanced semiconductor packaging technologies, including stacked-die devices, multi-chip modules, and complex electronic assemblies.

E-Lit solution setup with a thermal image of an electronics board and  zoomed in image of small defect detected

Flexible Modular Configuration

Every application presents unique testing requirements. E-LIT can be configured with:

  • Motorized or manual X-Y-Z positioning stages
  • Precision scanning systems
  • Multiple optics options
  • Customized sample holders
  • Advanced electrical contacting solutions
  • Integrated high-voltage testing capabilities
  • IV curve characterization tools

The modular architecture allows the system to be tailored to specific semiconductor, electronics, and R&D workflows.

Examples of IRBIS 3 Active software user interface for electronics imaging

Advanced Analysis with IRBIS 3 Active Software

E-LIT is powered by IRBIS 3 Active software, providing a comprehensive environment for semiconductor and electronics testing. F

Software features include:

  • Real-time thermal visualization
  • Automated defect analysis and classification
  • Live and amplitude image fusion
  • Phase-angle analysis
  • Drift compensation
  • Power loss measurement
  • User and protocol management
  • Optional IV measurement integration
  • Industrial communication interfaces

The intuitive software platform simplifies data acquisition, analysis, reporting, and documentation while supporting advanced research and failure analysis workflows.

E-LIT Key Benefits:

  • Modular Customization: Easily adjustable setup depending on the size of the target.
  • Component Flexibility: Optics, holding devices and contacting options are adjustable for your specific application.
  • Highest Resolution: Thermal resolution in the microkelvin range and geometrical resolution up to 1.3 µm per pixel with microscope lenses.
  • High-voltage test station with mandatory contact protection and operating status indicator light.
  • Integrated high-voltage source meter up to 3 kV and IV curve tracer for i-v characterization.
  • Online lock-in measurement with the highest sensitivity.
  • Automatic scanning of larger samples due to precision mechanics.
E-Lit system setup in cabinet with monitor showing electronics analysis

Ideal Solution For:

  • Semiconductor Manufacturing
  • Electronics Manufacturing
  • PCB Production
  • Power Electronics
  • Research & Development Labs
  • Aerospace Electronics
  • Automotive Electronics
  • Battery Development and Testing