UTP - Universal Tester Platforms

UTP

UTP Software

The UTP software framework represents the software-based implementation of a standardized concept for tester systems by NOFFZ. Due to its modular software architecture this framework allows consistent access to different hardware and software recourses. This access can be carried out locally or by a remote system

The application of various plug-ins provides for an exactly tailored software solution offering simple updating and modification. When developing the UTP software framework a special focus was put on the simple integration of the programming systems LabVIEW and TestStand by National Instruments.

The following plug-ins build the basement for the UTP software framework:
  • NOFFZ UTP Test Execution Frontend
    - Adaptable GUI (extendable according to customized requirements)
    - Choice of the product type to be produced
    - Control of an overall tester system and parallel test cycles
    - Indication of the testing procedure
  • NOFFZ UTP Inbound Data Management
    - Database-driven configuration of testers, users und product types
    - Adjustment of parameters and limiting values
    - Import and export functionality
    - UTP Test Execution Frontend can be extended with a configuration user interface
  • NOFFZ UTP Outbound Data Management
    - Recording of selected test results with a consistent structure
    - UTP Test Execution Frontend can be extended with a user interface for the indication of testing procedures
  • NOFFZ UTP Statistic
    - Interfaces for UTP Outbound Data Management
    - Simple statistic evaluation based on data provided by the UTP Outbound Data Management Module
    - Yield and cpk analysis, presentation of all measurement data as a histogram
    - Choice of test data to display on tester, product and machinery level
    - UTP Test Execution Frontend can be extended with a user interface for the indication of statistical data

Furthermore, there are several plug-ins for the control of digital I/Os, DMM, scopes, power supplies etc.

Using NI Teststand as an executing sequencer, including external libraries for various programming system such as LabVIEW, CVI, C/C++ or .NET, it is possible to implement flexible testing sequences for different production environments by means of the UTP software framework. Such structured operational sequences are applied for the automated optical inspection, in circuit testing, functional testing and for analysis systems and repair shops.

Advantages

  • Flexible and scalable software solution for tester systems
  • Modular software architecture
  • Integrated solutions for TestStand, LabVIEW, .NET, CVI and other environments
  • Short development times due to standardization


Conclusion
The UTP Software framework is a flexible solution for the generation of AOI, FCT, ICT, analysis and repair systems. Because of its modular concept and is numerous, versatile interfaces, it allows simple integration into different production environments.

One of its characteristics is the database-driven architecture allowing type and variant management as well as storage of test results and test data reporting.