Test Execution Control Tool: automating testing in spacecraft integration and test environments

In the era of faster, better, cheaper, JPL aims to develop and integrate an ever increasing number of spacecraft. One of the problems JPL faces is to quickly, efficiently and accurately test these spacecraft in a diverse set of environments from the breadboard, to environmental simulation and through launch preparation. The Test Execution Control Tool was developed using a Tool Command Language (Tcl) based test script interpreter to aid engineers in automating test procedures. Using the TECT, a tester can make the diverse collections of ground software, ground support equipment and flight systems work together through automated scripts. By allowing the tester to access and coordinate all the components of the complex testing environment, you not only achieve broader test coverage, leading to higher product assurance, but you achieve more speed and efficiency, leading to lower costs and faster results.