Tester Synchronization for Multi-Device Communication Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for testing multiple wireless communication devices simultaneously face challenges due to differences in synchronization timing, leading to disrupted coordinated execution of predefined test sequences and potential errors in packet error rate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that synchronizes multiple communication devices before initiating a test sequence, using signals with varying magnitudes or device identifiers to ensure all devices are ready, allowing for simultaneous execution of predefined test sequences, including data packet transmission and reception tests with synchronized signal frequencies and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple devices are tested simultaneously using a single tester, then test time per device is reduced, but synchronization timing differences cause disruptions in coordinated execution of predefined test sequences
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary synchronization actions before initiating the actual test sequence. The tester sends synchronization packets to all DUTs and receives confirmation packets to ensure all devices are ready before starting the coordinated test execution, preventing synchronization issues during the test
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where DUTs send confirmation packets back to the tester to indicate their synchronization status. The tester uses this feedback to determine when all devices are ready to begin the coordinated test sequence execution
2Loss of time
If predefined test sequences are used to minimize control interactions, then test time is reduced, but simultaneous testing of multiple devices becomes difficult due to synchronization challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a universal synchronization protocol that works across multiple different DUTs simultaneously. The synchronization packets and confirmation mechanism provide a common framework that enables coordinated predefined test sequence execution across multiple devices with different synchronization timings
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary synchronization actions before initiating the actual test sequence. By establishing synchronization status in advance through packet exchange, the system enables predefined test sequences to execute simultaneously across multiple devices without requiring continuous control communications during execution
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for initiating testing of a plurality of communication devices. The tester and devices under test (DUTs) are first synchronized as a way of confirming test readiness on the part of the DUTs, Following that, a test sequence is initiated by the tester. The synchronization and test initiation can be accomplished using signals with differing signal magnitudes or device identifiers. The test sequence can be a DUT transmit signal test in which each DUT transmits data packets in accordance with one or more predefined test sequences. Alternatively, the test sequence can be a DUT receive signal test in which the tester transmits data packets to the DUTs with differing signal frequencies or signal magnitudes.