The role of ACTIVEX and COM in ATE

The Component Object Model (COM) is an object-oriented standard for reusable binary components. COM reusability is based not only on component reuse, but on interface reuse. Client programs access COM objects only through defined interfaces, which may be reused from object to object. Interfaces hide implementation details (encapsulation). Interface reuse and inheritance provide runtime polymorphism. Interfaces can be precisely described with type libraries to development environments, and can be accessed remotely with little additional effort. COM technology has incredible potential for ATE. This paper focuses on ways that COM will be used to transform instrument driver technology, and on the resulting benefits for test systems in general. Runtime polymorphism supports syntactical interchangeability. The SCPI Consortium and the IVI Foundation are currently pursuing technologies that promise to deliver this level of interchangeability to the ATE market. COM will also provide natural solutions for driver deployment/integration, remote access, and a variety of other benefits as well. Ultimately COM will be used "in the box" to combine the functionality of driver and firmware.