Manual vs Automated: The Evolution of Testing with Automated Test Equipment

For today’s manufacturers to meet the high-speed throughput of products, many of the steps outlined in the traditional test method would need to be automated. We achieve this by developing a computerised platform. This removes many actions that are typically performed by humans and simultaneously automates many of the repeatable steps and actions.

These systems are commonly termed as Automatic Test Equipment (A.T.E).

How an automated AVi solution overcomes the challenges of traditional testing:

1) Test Procedure Automation
The test procedure is now coded into the system as a sequence of steps, rather than relying on any documentation manually provided by the company.

2) Integrated Test Equipment

We integrate all the pieces of test equipment into a single enclosure; as a result, they are connected over a single communications bus (i.e., LAN), which also links to a computer. This approach reduces the need for manual setup and configuration, thus streamlining the overall process.

3) Automated Configuration
All of the equipment is fixed in one place and interconnected. Configuration and the set-up of data can be sent over a communication cable(s) by the host computer, eliminating the need for repetitive and time-consuming manual setup.

4) Test Fixture
To perform tests on various points of a unit, a ‘Test Fixture’ is used. The fixture’s role is to hold the item under test in position. This allows for a seamless connection and a more streamlined process.

5) Automated Testing & Reporting
The central computer will automatically take control of all of these duties by configuring each piece of test equipment individually and setting up tests parameters. When the tests are complete, the computer will automatically produce a report and safely power-down the equipment under test.

Learn more about how our Automated Test Equipment can help improve your product verification processes. Contact us on sales@abvi.co.uk or call 01865 408 352.