General automation test system based on the cooperation of software and hardware

In this paper, we use virtual instruments (VI) and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technique to construct a portable general automatic test system (ATS). The system´s function were realized by using PXI based modular architecture in its automatic test equipment (ATE). While its test program set (TPS) was compiled on the basis of the graphical development platform - LabVIEW8.2. By using powerful data acquisition (DAQ) function and excellent multi-board-synchronization ability of the PXI, the ATS system can satisfy various demands of automatic test perfectly. The system has already been used in the department as vehicle rush repair equipment. This paper also mentions the implementation aspects of a general ATS in the field of the microwave remote sensing radar (MRSR) testing.