Frequently asked questions

Board files and privacy

Do my board files get uploaded?

No. Your boardviews and schematics are read on your own computer and never leave it. When the bench syncs, only the part references, net names, readings and photos you chose go to your workspace. See Sync.

Does NextProbe supply boardviews or schematics?

No. You open your own files. NextProbe matches them to the board, remembers where they are and draws the board from them. Encrypted FZ files need your own key. See Open your board files.

Which board file formats does it read?

BRD, BRD2, BDV, BVR, BV, FZ (with your key), CAD, GenCAD, ASC, XZZ .pcb and CST, plus PDF schematics. The full table is on Open your board files.

Meters and hardware

Do I need a particular meter?

No. Any multimeter works: each step names the mode, you set the meter and type what it shows. A supported meter on USB streams its readings and takes each one by itself once it holds steady.

Why does the red lead go on ground in diode mode?

That is how diode readings are published for board repair, so your figures compare with forums, videos and other techs' notes. Voltage readings put black on ground. Every step says where each lead goes. See Where the leads go.

Can I work with gloves on, or from a step back?

Yes. Bench mode makes every control larger and the step readable from a metre away. The foot pedal takes readings with your hands on the probes, and voice commands move the session along.

Using NextProbe

Does it work offline?

The board viewer, the fault trees the bench has used, readings, verdicts, reports, jobs and voice commands all work with no connection. Everything syncs when the connection comes back. Signing in, new boards and Ask need a connection. See Working offline.

Which boards are covered?

Phones, tablets, laptops, consoles and single-board computers, starting deep on Apple. Search the picker by board number, model number or name. If NextProbe doesn't know a board, open your file and use Add this board to send it to us. See Pick a board.

Where do the expected ranges come from?

From readings other techs took on the same board, shown with the number of samples and contributors, from the board's profile, from connector pinouts and from datasheets. Each range says where it came from. Findings from a web search are labelled "From the web" and never become a reference value.

Can I use it to train juniors?

Yes. Trainee mode gives hints first and shows the expected range only after the reading. Instructors review trainee sessions in the web app's Training page.

Can my customer see the report online?

Yes. Make a share link for the customer report in the web app. The customer opens it in any browser with no account, and you can see when they have. See Send the customer report.

Account and plans

What does the free plan include?

Board profiles, the board viewer, typed readings and three guided sessions a month, with no card needed. Plans and prices are on nextprobe.ai/pricing.

Can I export my data or delete my account?

Yes, from Settings in the web app: Export my data downloads everything in one file, and Delete my account removes your account. See Web app settings.

What happens to a customer who asks to be forgotten?

Open the customer and press Erase customer…. Their name and contact details are removed from the bench and your workspace; their jobs keep the device and the sessions. See Customers.

What NextProbe will not do

NextProbe fixes hardware. It doesn't unlock devices, remove an activation lock or iCloud account, change an IMEI or serial number, or help defeat any security feature.