An Integrated Approach to High-Volume Production and Automated Testing of Microwave Power Modules, Using Distributed PCS

Abstract

By integrating GPIB ATE control, database management, production control and personal computer functions into a distributed network of PCs, required resources can be widely shared, at the same time as the nodes are controlling the ATE systems - while databasing and statistical functions are still centralized. Further, computer-aided design and drawing as well as Production Control functions can be integrated into the same system - permitting immediate data sharing between these functions. ATE and software techniques used to achieve run rates in excess of 100 5W power modules per week, in building over 2400 modules to date - for application in a T/R phased array, are described; as is the distributed ATE system architecture used for MMIC-based Ku-Band 1W peak and X-Band 10W peak power module pilot production.