Is an open architecture tester really achievable?

Summary form only given. Management of tester technology has been a real challenge with Motorola's diverse product portfolio. Global support for multiple tester hardware architectures and operating systems is very expensive, difficult, and time consuming. Migration to new proprietary tester platforms requires massive efforts from design, test engineering, production, maintenance, and other areas. The semiconductor industry is ready for a common OA (open architecture) tester. The OA tester will provide many benefits to semiconductor manufacturers such as: lower costs, faster access to new technology, wider supplier base, and protection from obsolescence. Also, the OA tester will provide benefits to the ATE suppliers such as: substantially reduced support costs, reduced training, and larger market potential. Development and acceptance of the OA tester concept will not be easy, but should be achievable.