About Device Under Test

Device Under Test

Device under test is a common term used to indicate the manufactured unit or product that is being tested for correct and flawless operation. DUT is usually carried out with a connection system called automated test equipment.

Automated Test Equipment

Testing an instrument which is used to test the integrated circuits, printed circuit boards and other similar electronic modules or product components. These ATE instruments are usually controlled by computers, by relay controls and custom designed controllers.

Concept behind ATE

ATE is just like digital multi-meter, the measurements and operating modes of which is analyzed and controlled by a complex system containing lots of test devices which are capable of diagnosing and testing faults in an electronic system.

Semiconductor ATE

ATE system can also be used for testing semiconductor device, which can test the variety of electronics systems and instruments, including components like resistors, inductors, capacitors, printed circuit boards and integrated circuit boards with completely assembled electronic systems.

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Instruments in Semiconductor ATE

Semiconductor ATE has various instruments like parametric measurement unit, digitizer, utility supply, digital power supply, digital IOs etc. these instruments function as different measurement units. All these would be synchronized in order to enable them to capture the waveforms.

Device Testing using ATE

Testing the device, may require some parameters depending on the functionalities selected by the end user. ATE systems interface with the handler which is an automated placement tool, and places the DUT (device under test) which is measured by the equipment. Any type of interface, even ITA (interface test adapter) can be used.

ATE in electronics

ATE is widely used by various electronic manufacturing industries and firms to test the electronic systems and components after they are fully fabricated. For example, in the domain of test avionics systems on military aircraft and commercial fields, ATE can be used. Also, Electronic modules can be tested with automated test equipment. Device under test can also be applicable for all general electronic test equipments.

Electronic test equipment

• Test gear which can be used for creating signals and capturing responses from DUTs; hence the proper operation of DUT can be traced and repaired with this ETE (electronic test equipment).
• Practical engineering works and assembly is required to use the different variety of electronic test equipment.
• Advanced electronic test equipment is necessary for developing electronic systems and circuits while doing troubleshooting and production testing.
• Basic types of test equipments are, Voltmeter; ohmmeter; multi meter; power supply; pulse generator; digital pattern generator; signal generator etc.

General electronic testing
Cell phone under test is a perfect practical example for DUT, that is, cell phones coming off an assembly line given a last test like the earlier tested individual chips.

Therefore, device under test is an integral part of any manufacturing process, to ensure flawless and defect free product to its customers. An organization that emphasizes on DUT will undoubtedly build goodwill for its products.

Article published December 21st, 2009
Versatyle.com – Device Under Testing