Air Force modular automatic test equipment development program

The paper examines the Air Force modular automatic test equipment (MATE) development program. It is noted that problem areas with automatic test equipment (ATE) are the proliferation of different configurations, software incompatibilities, erroneous test results, late deliveries of new equipment and high development costs. The MATE family will permit interchangeable modules (hardware and software) to be used at all levels of maintenance, thereby reducing the problem of units passing tests at one level of maintenance and failing at another. Attention is given to the objectives of the MATE program which include reducing the life cycle cost of weapon system support, reduce proliferation of ATE, and improve ATE procurement practices. In conclusion it is stressed that a commitment to supply the necessary resources to the program office must be made by the highest levels of the policy-making machinery.