Direction for growth in automated tools

Government sponsored technology-infusion related to automated tools and their application to military and commercial technologies, such as automotive, airline and consumer systems is presently being planned through the Automatic Test Systems (ATS) strategy. This ATS strategy is proceeding in a direction which includes a DoD and industry organization that will standardize the test interfaces for the application of tools for design, production and support. This standardization relates to the development of an Interface Information Exchange Standard. At present the majority of automated tools operate as stand alone entities not allowing for multiple program application without major modifications tailored to the target system. This paper addresses the requirement to establish and implement standardized interfaces that allow interchangeability, flexibility and reusability of automated tools to satisfy both government and commercial requirements. This paper will also discuss the requirements that must be established to meet the above goals as well as the method of implementation and the contributions required by both government and industry