High speed interfaces and data protocols are creating an inflection point in test systems. Technologies are merging rapidly and future systems are more dependent on the operability of the interconnects that support data transfer as a backbone for product compliance. Advanced connectivity raises the bar on network flexibility, making it possible to configure and re-configure test platforms to fit different types of performance and availability requirements.
End-of-line (EoL) testers are responsible for testing the overall functionality of the product during the manufacturing process. Within the manufacturing environment, test systems must simulate certain operational conditions, while also measuring and validating the equipment being tested. The EoL electromechanical design becomes even more critical when high speed transfer is being tested on updated hardware.
In the 8 Key factors for Automated EOL (End of Line) Testing Interconnects and Docking, the following 8 criteria were submitted for consideration.
In our product the first point, Product Upgradability and Flexibility, the need for high speed data protocols were addressed. At minimum a testing system should be able to incorporate the following data protocols from the following standards: USB®1 (USB®1 IF), HDMI®1 (EIA/CEA-861) DisplayPort (VESA), Ethernet (ANSI/EIA/TIA-568). While test product is not itself certified with logo, it must be able to adhere to the stringent requirements of the standards groups.
An adapted design must be integrated using a systems approach that has been validated for the 8 criteria above. This is perfectly acceptable in some instances where performance expectations are lower and ease of use is considered a priority.
HIGH-SPEED CONNECTOR
Mating cycles: min. 5,000
TIAA/TIAB/Profinet®1/CAT 5 /CAT 6A
8 contacts
TECHNICAL NOTES
There are several advantages to this approach. The first being that even standard interfaces and standard cable that may be certified fall out of compliance during production. However, a customized interface allows for more manufacturing control over the end product. Additionally, every interface is adaptable and verified for each protocol. And finally, the interface can also be optimized to meet the mechanical demands of production testing such as durability. The termination and assembly also fully utilize the cable shielding. This is atypically referred to as shielded implementation.
SHIELDED FEEDTHROUGH / HIGH-SPEED CONNECTOR
Mating cycles: min. 10,000
CAT 5, USB® 2.01
2 - 14 contacts
TECHNICAL NOTES
The disadvantage is there is increased complexity for wire and cable termination. However, the advantage is the system is allowed to take full advantage of test module capabilities such as space savings and durability up to 100,000 mating cycles.
In series production, reliable testing is crucial for test organizations to ensure that certified product also is manufactured as compliant product. Successful compliance testing provides ensures interoperability when connected to a real device in the real world. Your customers need to be assured that the products you deliver will work in their OEM environments. By testing with product capable of achieving these data rates you can deliver product that is validated to conform to industry standards. Your customers must have the confidence that your products conform to applicable standards and will work effectively in their designs.
1These ODU specific connectors can transmit common data transmission protocols such as USB®, HDMI®, Profinet®, Profibus®, FlexRay® and FireWire® but they are not USB®, HDMI®, Profinet®, Profibus®, FlexRay® and FireWire®-standard connectors.