Scalable Test Platform Code Update via PCIe Fabric
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated test equipment systems are often rigid and proprietary, making them difficult to adapt and scale for testing various electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A scalable test platform that compares and updates code, including firmware and driver updates, via a PCIe-based event fabric, allowing for automated test processes and component interfacing, enabling remote code retrieval and integration for system maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If automated test equipment systems use proprietary design with fixed architecture, then system stability is maintained, but adaptability and scalability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent modular components (signal generator, source under test, measurement device, controller) that can be individually selected, configured, and updated. Each module communicates through standardized interfaces, allowing the system to be customized for different testing needs without redesigning the entire architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with universal functionality to manage diverse testing scenarios across multiple domains (RF, digital, mixed-signal). The system supports testing of various device types (transceivers, antennas, sensors) using the same platform, achieving scalability through standardized test sequences and configurable parameters rather than dedicated hardware for each application.
2Productivity
If code updates are performed manually for subsystems, then system reliability is maintained through careful verification, but time consumption and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors subsystem status, detects code update requirements, and triggers update procedures. After updates, the system automatically verifies subsystem functionality through test sequences, providing feedback confirmation that reliability requirements are met before resuming normal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller autonomously manages the entire code update process including retrieving new code, coordinating with subsystems for code installation, verifying update success, and restoring system operation. This self-service capability eliminates manual intervention while maintaining reliability through automated verification procedures that ensure system integrity after updates.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computer program product, and computing system for, upon the occurrence of a computer-related event, comparing code utilized by one or more subsystems included within a scalable test platform to code available from a remote location. If the code available from the remote location is newer than the code utilized by one or more subsystems, the code available from the remote location is obtained, thus defining newer code. The code utilized by one or more subsystems is updated with the newer code.