Specifying an IVI class for digital test instrumentation

This paper presents an overview of the work being done by Teradyne in conjunction with the IVI Foundation to specify an IVI class for digital instrumentation. The interchangeable Virtual Instruments (IVI) Foundation was formed in August of 1997 to define standard specifications for programming common test instrument capabilities. The paper presents the major architectural aspects of digital test instrumentation, and how those features can be grouped into classes for the purpose of writing an instrument independent driver. Topics discussed include derivation of capability classes, class extensions, simulation, and range checking. Examples of how the IVI digital class would apply to the Teradyne MS-Series Digital Test Instrument are included. Conclusions summarize the unique attributes of digital test instrumentation, the benefits which can be achieved through standardization, and the tradeoffs associated with utilizing class extensions