Multi-Vendor Platform Performs In-Fixture Functional Test
By bringing measurement, switching, power, communications, and I/O through shared hardware interfaces and software tools, a multi-vendor platform from Testblox reduces the size, complexity, and cost of functional test. With nearly 40 COTS-rated modules available at launch, the devices share a compact, playing-card-sized form factor, common interfaces, and a coordinated software workflow.
The fixture is the tester, and no rack of instruments or extra floor space is required. The isolated modules reduce cabling and ground-loop risks, while shorter signal paths reduce resistance, noise, and connection uncertainty, improving signal integrity. Testers are easier to replicate and maintain, and fewer parts and modular replacement simplify build, fault isolation, and service.
Formed by Pickering Interfaces and Wireflow, the Testblox multi-vendor solution draws upon three specialist engineering teams which are contributing to one common Testblox platform: Testblox has developed backplanes, software and selected I/O; Wireflow has delivered multifunction I/O and power supplies; and Pickering has provided switching and digital multimeters. All Testblox modules are designed and manufactured in Europe, and the architecture as well as the commercial model are designed to support broader qualified participation over time.
Testblox modules can be wired directly to exposed pins within the test fixture using standard D-Sub connectors, or can be slotted into a custom interface board, enabling direct, wire-free DUT (Device Under Test) interfacing, while module-to-backplane isolation helps reduce ground loops. Test engineers can discover, configure, troubleshoot, and monitor test systems over USB using Brygga, the Testblox test management environment, and APIs are available for Python, C#, and NI LabVIEW.
Among the Testblox modules available at launch are a DMM, multiplexers, matrix switches, relays, DUT communication, multifunction, digital and analog I/O, a programmable PSU, and backplanes. All Testblox modules carry a three-year warranty along with a commitment to keep hardware available for at least 20 years.
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About the Author
Alix PaultreAlix Paultre
Editor-at-Large, Microwaves & RF
Alix is Editor-at-Large for Microwaves & RF.
An Army veteran, Alix Paultre was a signals intelligence soldier on the East/West German border in the early ‘80s, and eventually wound up helping launch and run a publication on consumer electronics for the U.S. military stationed in Europe. Alix first began in this industry in 1998 at Electronic Products magazine, and since then has worked for a variety of publications, most recently as Editor-in-Chief of Power Systems Design.
Alix currently lives in Wiesbaden, Germany.