What is Automatic Test Equipment?
Automatic test equipment (ATE) refers to common data acquisition and diagnostic tools that are used for the testing of numerous electronics. Utilized in industries ranging from aerospace to industrial automation, ATE ensures that electronic equipment functions as intended and is safe to use. As a result of their utilization and the industries that they serve, ATE are crucial for avoiding accidents and danger associated with malfunctioning electronics. To help you better understand the use of such systems, we will discuss their design, construction, and applications.
Coming in the form of computerized machinery, automatic test equipment utilizes test instrument components to determine an electronic device’s functionality, quality, performance, and more. Due to being automatic in design, the ATE can carry out all of its testing with minimal human interaction. Automatic test equipment may be called automated test equipment, but both names are synonymous for the same type of machinery. Additionally, the systems or components that are being assessed are called the device under test (DUT), equipment under test (EUT), or the unit under test (UUT).
In the present, there are many types of devices and components that are tested with ATE, ensuring their operability for the individuals that directly or indirectly benefit from such systems. Generally, the most common tested devices are integrated circuits, printed circuit boards, hard disk drives, automobile modules and systems, line-replaceable units, aircraft electronics and avionics, spacecraft devices, satellite components, and much more. As such, ATE is crucial for countless applications and settings.
For a standard set of automated test equipment, such assemblies will consist of hardware, software, test instruments, signal sources, and test probes. In regard to hardware, the ATE will take advantage of 19-inch rack mount servers and workstations, featuring interface modules, power supplies, PCIe backplanes, embedded controllers, analog outputs and inputs, AC/DC outlets, and more. On the software side, the ATE will utilize various programs for the management of data collection, storage, reporting, and analysis. The data that the software handles is provided through the use of test instruments, those of which include a digital storage oscilloscope, digital multimeter, and an inductance, capacitance, or resistance meter. In regard to used signal sources, the ATE will utilize an arbitrary waveform generator, pulse generator, function generator, or radio frequency generator.
Depending on the components that are used, and whether the ATE is an all-in-one test station or not, the equipment will vary in size and portability. As a result, ATE can be a small test station placed on wheels, or a massive test tower that is stationary like a server cabinet. When procuring equipment or components for an assembly, it is extremely important to understand that hardware, software, and other parts will vary based on the equipment on hand and how it is used.
Capable of measuring voltage, current, resistance, inductance, capacitance, and much more, there are many benefits to ATE. With their ability to carry out automatic inspections, one can reduce test and cycle times. Automation also minimizes the chance of data input errors, better guaranteeing optimal device conditions. Lastly, engineering resources will be more efficiently used, and tests will be carried out quickly with ease.
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