Creating a Test Point CSV File

A test point CSV file provides the coordinate and net information FixturFab Studio needs for accurate fixture estimates. This guide covers the required format and how to generate it from common ECAD tools.

Required CSV format

Your CSV file must include these columns:

Column	Description	Example
Net	The net name attached to the test point	GND, VCC, SDA
Name	Reference designator for the test point	TP1, J3.2, R5
X Coord	X coordinate in millimeters	25.4
Y Coord	Y coordinate in millimeters	50.8
Side	Layer designation	Top, Bottom, or Both
Type	Pad type designation	SMD or Through-Hole

Generating from ECAD tools

Altium Designer

Altium can generate the CSV automatically using the Test Point Report feature. See the Altium Test Point Report tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

Eagle and KiCad

For Eagle and KiCad, open the PCB design file and manually identify the coordinates for each test point. Export your design data and extract the relevant coordinate information for each test pad you intend to probe.

Manual entry

For simple designs, or when automated export isn't available, enter test point data by hand using the template spreadsheet below.

Template spreadsheet

A public Google Sheets template is available for creating your test point CSV:

1. Make a copy of the template to your own Google Drive.
2. Enter your test point data in the appropriate columns.
3. Download as CSV (File → Download → Comma-separated values).

Locating features

Beyond test points, your fixture design benefits from locating features that position the DUT (Device Under Test) accurately over the probes.

Mounting holes

The preferred approach uses three or more mounting holes with spring guide pins to support and position the DUT. When specifying locating holes in your CSV:

• Include the hole coordinates in a separate section or sheet.
• Note the hole diameters.
• Specify whether they are plated or non-plated.

Edge locating

When mounting holes aren't available, guide pins can be placed at board edges. Document the board outline dimensions and any edge features that can serve as locating references.

Pressure pin placement

Pressure pins apply downward force to ensure consistent probe contact. When planning pressure pin locations:

• Use 3 mm diameter tips as the standard size.
• Distribute pressure pins evenly across the PCB surface.
• Avoid placing pressure pins over components.
• Position pins near dense probe areas where good contact is critical.

Tips for accurate data

• Verify the coordinate system — use the same origin point as your ECAD tool.
• Double-check units — coordinates must be in millimeters.
• Include all accessible nets — don't forget power, ground, and communication nets.
• Note component heights — tall components on the bottom side may affect pressure-plate design.
• Document board thickness — 1.6 mm is assumed unless specified otherwise.

Submitting your file

Once your CSV is complete, upload it through FixturFab Studio as part of the fixture configuration process. The DFT Report analyzes your test points and provides feedback on testability and coverage.