Utilize integration of devices and techniques

To utilize the proper test techniques that expand our test and diagnosis process we should regularly evaluate and integrate new devices and new techniques. Willingness to embrace change is the major requirement for successful technology integration. Test technology is continuously and rapidly evolving. It is an ongoing process and demands continual research and understanding. Effective integration of technology is achieved when engineers and managers are able to select technology to help transform the test and diagnosis process. To do this we must analyze and trial product the technology and test it professionally. If the technology (hardware or software) proves viable, it should be an integral part of our process improvements. It is sometimes difficult to describe how technology can impact test and diagnosis because the term "technology integration" is such a broad umbrella that covers so many varied tools, instruments and techniques. There are many ways new technology can become an integral part of your depot test area. Surprisingly enough in today's environment new technology tools and ideas emerge quickly so we should be open and ready to appraise in due time. Diagnostic issues and No-Fault-Found weaknesses continue to plaque the test industry. Sometimes thinking outside the box to solve issues is not utilized. There are specific Unit Under Test (UUT) output pins which can be identified as more telling to solve a No-Fault-Found (NFF) or Diagnostic weakness. These pins can be identified by various means. Further UUT testing can take place by adding a second measurement on certain pins or further evaluating a signal by inspecting a measurement buffer. The additional measurement can be taken using an alternate instrument like a Spectrum Analyzer or by further evaluating an instrument's data storage. Open season now exists for technology integration and usage. This pertains to hardware, software and new techniques. You should never say "We can't use the technology; we have a system in place." If your system is an open plug and play system with an open system operating environment, you should utilize the full extent of the open system concept. The open system concept refers to any system that is configured to allow non-resident hardware and software integration. TPSs should run on any ATE or platform that contains adequate resources. Utilizing more than one Test Executive or other software products on an ATE is certainly doable and actually proper in today's open system environment. Other software like alternate Test Executives can be function called from the main Test Executive. In our present society, it is no longer an argument to use a single software interface or limit test techniques based on the user's inability to use and understand a software interface. Engineers and Managers must always be open to technology improvements. This paper will discuss various ways in which technology can be integrated, samples of unique new techniques, how to select a technology or techniques and the meaningful things we must consider before we reject any idea of improving our test and diagnosis site.