Test Hardware/Software
Automated Test Equipment is comprised of test hardware and software. Using industry standard computer interfaces, a custom test program can control off-the-shelf instrumentation to implement a variety of automated tests scenarios.
If supported by the product, the ATE can communicate with the Unit-Under-Test using various communication protocols (e.g., RS-232 Serial, CAN Bus, ARINC-429).
Tests are designed to run with minimal operator intervention. Often a test is as straightforward as connecting the Unit-Under-Test (UUT), initiating the automated test software, and printing the Test Report when complete. When manual intervention in the test process is required, detailed step-by-step instructions are provided to the operator.
Each designwave test stand includes Self-Test capability. The ATE Self-Test is designed to validate functionality using loop-back techniques to the extent possible.
designwave will design the hardware and write the software providing a complete automated test system.
Typical Tests
- Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP)
- Environmental Stress Screening Tests (ESS)
- Production Troubleshooting
- Field Return / Repair Tests
- Functional Verification Testing (FVT)
- Accelerated Life Testing (ALT)
- Qualification Testing
- EMI Testing
- Hi-Pot / Dielectric / Insulation Resistance Testing
Other Common ATE Use
- Product Programming (e.g., installation of application code)
- Product Data Retrieval and Storage (e.g., NVM data download and storage)
- Data Analysis
- Manual Interface Control for engineering, development, troubleshooting, etc.
