Probers — Used Cascade Microtech FPD-100 (Cascade Microtech)

How Much Does Used Cascade Microtech FPD-100 Cost in 2026?

The Used Cascade Microtech FPD-100 typically sells in the $250 range in 2026, depending on its condition and sourcing channel. Units in condition grade B, which is common for secondhand FPD-100s, usually fall within this price range. If you're looking for a higher-grade unit (A or A-), expect to pay up to $500, though these are rare and often sourced directly from refurbishment vendors like Axus Technology or Ferrotec. New FPD-100 units, by comparison, can cost between $600 and $800, meaning buyers can save 40–60% by opting for a used model.

Buying a used FPD-100 can save a small fab or test lab $300–$500 per unit, which can be critical for budget-sensitive operations. However, if a unit is improperly maintained or misdiagnosed, it can lead to unplanned downtime of 1–3 days during setup and calibration, costing $1,000–$2,500 in lost production. Always verify the unit's maintenance history and test logs before purchase. Units over 10 years old may require more frequent maintenance, and if not properly serviced, could fail within 6 months of installation.

Used Cascade Microtech FPD-100 Specifications and Compatible Tools

The FPD-100 is a benchtop wafer prober designed for low-volume testing and R&D applications. It typically supports wafer sizes up to 4 inches and has a probe tip travel range of 100 mm. The unit commonly has a 1000-cycle life rating, though actual performance can vary based on usage and maintenance. Most used units in the market are from the 2010–2015 production run, and they are compatible with older Cascade Microtech probe cards, such as the P4000 series.

However, the FPD-100 is not compatible with newer high-density probe cards like the P9000 series, which were introduced in 2018. Attempting to use incompatible probe cards can lead to misalignment and damage to both the prober and the probe card, potentially costing $500–$1,000 in repairs. Always confirm compatibility with your existing probe card inventory before purchase. Units with more than 15,000 RF-hours or 5,000 test cycles may show signs of wear and require more frequent recalibration.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Cascade Microtech FPD-100 in 2026

1. Verify Production Year: Units produced before 2012 may have outdated motor controllers that are no longer supported. A unit made after 2012 is preferable for better compatibility with modern test systems.

2. Check Probe Tip Travel Accuracy: Use a laser alignment tool to confirm that the prober’s X/Y/Z axes are within 0.001 mm of specification. If the travel is off by more than 0.005 mm, the unit may cause repeated test failures.

3. Inspect Probe Card Interface: Ensure the probe card interface is free of corrosion and that all contact points are intact. A corroded interface can lead to intermittent contact, causing up to 30% false test results and requiring re-testing.

4. Review Maintenance Logs: Ask for the last service date and any known issues. If the unit hasn’t been serviced in over 3 years or has more than 10,000 test cycles, expect higher maintenance costs post-purchase.

5. Reject If: The unit has a cracked baseplate or damaged probe arm. These are structural failures that can lead to catastrophic failure during operation, potentially costing $2,000–$3,000 in repairs or replacement.

Purchasing a unit without these checks can lead to a failed integration, which may delay your testing schedule by 1–2 weeks and cost $1,500–$3,000 in downtime and repair labor.

FAQ

Q: How does the FPD-100 compare to the FPD-200 in terms of performance?
A: The FPD-200 offers a 200 mm probe travel range and supports 6-inch wafers, whereas the FPD-100 is limited to 4-inch wafers. For labs working with 4-inch or smaller wafers, the FPD-100 is sufficient and more cost-effective.

Q: Can I use the FPD-100 with a modern ATE system like the Advantest T2000?
A: Yes, but only if the ATE system has a compatible interface module. Units from 2012 onward typically support USB 2.0 and GPIB interfaces. Older models may require an adapter, which can cost $150–$250.

Q: Should I buy a used FPD-100 if I only need it for 6 months?
A: If you need it for less than 6 months, it may not be cost-effective. The setup and calibration can take 1–2 days, and if you don’t use it long enough to justify the cost, you may end up spending more than renting.

Q: How long can I expect a used FPD-100 to last with regular use?
A: With proper maintenance, a used FPD-100 can last 3–5 years. Units with more than 10,000 test cycles may need a full service every 12–18 months, which can cost $300–$400.

Q: What is the average cost of a full service for the FPD-100?
A: A full service typically costs $300–$400 and includes recalibration, motor alignment, and probe tip replacement. Units with more than 15,000 RF-hours may require more extensive work, pushing the cost to $500–$600.