An Application of ATE in the Manufacturing Process--ATE from Circuit Board to System

A number of automatic test equipment (ATE) stations have been assembled for the purpose of calibrating and testing a complex electronic guidance system. Different kinds of ATE stations are used in testing the smallest subassemblies, which perform an assigned functional task on up through intermediate assemblies and on to the final guidance system. Criteria used in the station selection and assignment is presented. Careful planning of the overall ATE approach has led to an automatic test station complex which efficiently serves the factory group producing the guidance system.