Adapter Module for Electronic Tester Signal Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compliance testing systems require DUT-specific hardware and software for each type of device under test, leading to complex and labor-intensive manual preparation and operation mode settings, which hinders efficient testing.
Innovation Solution
An electronic tester comprising a test fixture, test instrument, test controller, and adapter module that uses generic control signals translated into DUT-specific signals by the adapter module, allowing automated testing without DUT-specific hardware and software for each type of device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DUT-specific hardware and software are used for each type of device under test, then testing accuracy and device compatibility are improved, but system complexity and manual operation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal test controller that can handle multiple types of devices under test through a standardized generic control interface. The adapter module translates device-specific protocols into universal control signals, allowing one test controller to serve multiple device types without requiring DUT-specific hardware or software for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module acts as an intermediary between the generic control interface and the device under test. It receives generic control signals from the test controller, translates them into device-specific control signals, and transmits them to the appropriate device interface, thereby bridging the gap between universal testing and device-specific requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DUT-specific hardware and software are used for each type of device under test, then device compatibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual preparation and mode settings
Solution Approach 1:
The generic control interface provides a unified method for controlling different device types through standardized signal types (control signals, data signals, acknowledgment signals). This universal interface eliminates the need for manual configuration and mode settings, as the same interface methodology applies to all supported devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module automatically performs protocol translation and signal adaptation without requiring manual intervention. The system self-configures by selecting appropriate adapter modules based on the device type, eliminating manual preparation steps and mode settings that would otherwise be required.
3Reliability
If manual preparation and operation mode settings are performed, then device-specific testing requirements are met, but productivity and testing efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Adapter modules are pre-configured with device-specific protocol translations and control signal mappings. This preliminary preparation of translation rules allows the system to automatically handle device-specific requirements during testing, eliminating the need for manual setup while maintaining compliance with device-specific testing standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where the test controller receives acknowledgment signals from the device under test and automatically adjusts control signals through the adapter module. This closed-loop control ensures testing compliance is maintained while eliminating manual intervention, thereby improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an electronic tester comprising at least one test fixture that couples to a device under test, at least one test instrument coupled to at least one of the test fixtures that measures signals in the device under test, a test controller that controls the device under test while the test is performed, and an adapter module comprising a general control interface that is coupled to the test controller, and a DUT-specific communication interface that couples to the device under test to communicate with the device under test, wherein the test controller controls the device under test with generic control signals sent to the general control interface, and wherein the adapter module translates the general control signals into DUT-specific control signals and transmit the DUT-specific control signals to the device under test. Further, the present disclosure provides a respective method.