Abstract: A method for detecting a failure in an electronic device having an electric circuit. The method includes the steps of coating the electric circuit with a liquid crystal having a transition temperature between nematic and isotropic phases. A voltage is applied across the electric circuit so that the temperature of the liquid crystal at the failure approximates the transition temperature of the liquid crystal. The voltage applied is cycled across the electric circuit between a first nonzero voltage which is greater than the transition temperature and a second nonzero voltage which is less than the transition temperature. The cycling of the voltage reduces transient optical effects in the liquid crystal which have an appearance similar to the isotropic phase of the liquid crystal. A tester and liquid crystal for use in the method are provided.

Abstract: A fixture for use in non-encapsulated cross-sectioning of a sample adapted to permit adjustment of the angle of cross-sectioning having a mounting block with front and bottom surfaces and a recess extending through the front and bottom surfaces. An elongate saddle having first and second end portions is pivotably mounted in the recess on the mounting block. A resilient member is disposed between the mounting block and the second end portion of the elongate saddle for applying a yieldable force between the mounting block and the second end portion. A set screw is threaded into the mounting block and engages the first end portion of the elongate saddle for adjusting the position of the first end portion of the elongate saddle with respect to the mounting block. A sample holder is mounted on the elongate saddle for holding the sample.

Abstract: A fixture for use in the non-encapsulated cross-sectioning of a composite structure. The fixture comprises a base having a ridge formed in the lower surface thereof for supporting the base on a grinding disc for cross-sectioning of the composite structure. The fixture further comprises a mounting member removably secured to that end of the base opposite the ridge. The mounting member extends outwardly from the base, and the composite structure is mounted on a front face of the mounting member. The front face of the mounting member has two contiguous but discontinuous surfaces on which the structure may be mounted. Either perpendicular or angled sections may be formed in the structure, depending upon which surface of the front face the structure is mounted.