User configuration portable ATE

A portable tester that will support commercial users and the two-level maintenance (TLM) philosophy of the military ATE (automatic test equipment) user is discussed. The tester integrates the total spectrum of capabilities of a given cell to maximize its assets without creating redundant functions. The system has a central processor/controller that handles the operator interface, test executive, and the necessary programming languages (ATLAS, Ada, etc.). The system supports a number of buses, giving the end user who wants to alter the tester for upgrades or enhancements greater flexibility. The following features are examined: architecture, control module, multifunction card interface module, multifunction cards, power module, and packaging. The current configuration of the portable test system is a basic building-block approach that gives the user the ability to perform digital, analog, and RF testing. Other capabilities considered are electrooptical testing with an electrooptical module coupled with the control module