ABBET architecture: baseline for test systems of the future

The ABBET (A Broad Based Environment for Test) standards initiative provides a standard environment for future test systems. As a broad based standard, ABBET considers test application environments from design verification through field test and technologies from product description methods through instrument description and control. The ABBET standards group is comprised of representatives from commercial firms, government agencies, ATE manufacturers, instrument manufacturers, and test program developers. Each of these groups provide emphasis and focus on their respective areas of expertise. As a result, the interests and needs of each group are represented within the standard. This paper describes the ABBET architecture. The architecture is meant to be a roadmap for implementers and users of ABBET compliant systems. This presentation, like the standard itself, utilizes object-oriented concepts since these notions lead to a modular approach which can be easily understood and implemented.