Reducing the cost of ATE software development

With the new architecture, test programs are standardized both in look and functionality through sharing of a common interface and data and instrument handling routines. Programming time is greatly reduced with the separation of non-test related functions and through the inherent nature of code reuse. Verification and validation time is also reduced since testing is only required on the modified components. New ATE software development can now be measured in weeks versus months. Through its modular design and database/hardware abstraction, the software is highly scalable and flexible. Overall operator time is reduced, either in diminished training or in the ability to troubleshoot on the auto test system. Data is easily accessible from anywhere and can be queried with a multitude of tools, including SPC.