Boundary Scan essentially means “testing at the periphery (boundaries) of a circuit”.

In addition to the core logic and the test points, an IC (Integrated Circuit) also features some test control logic. The test points are integrated between the core logic and the physical pins of the IC. This special IC architecture and the test bus connections among each chip are preconditions for the use of Boundary Scan. If they are met it is possible.

• Test particular components
• Test the connections among the ICs on the board
  
• Test the function of complete boards under operating conditions