The modular ATE/UUT interface

It is noted that modular ATE architecture design is now becoming recognized as a cost-effective approach to reconfigurability. However, the majority of modular ATE approaches ignore the ATE/UUT interface. In the study described here, different ATE/UUT interface approaches are discussed, and an ATE/UUT interface that provides a truly modular ATE is presented. The approach involving stimulus and measurement buses with a central switch module is optimized for small size, low weight, and recurring cost, with a penalty in nonrecurring cost. The modular ATE/UUT interface is optimized for nonrecurring cost, reconfigurability, and expandibility; its penality is in recurring cost.