Test bits

Free device-test apps

Keithley Instruments has just released The Semiconductor Device Test Applications Guide, which features such topics as on-the-fly thermal voltage measurements for bias temperature instability characterization, increasing production throughput of multi-pin devices, optimizing switched measurements, test sequencing instruments, the fundamentals of the LXI communication protocol, and test scripts. To request a free copy, visit www.ggcomm.com/Keithley/May08PR_SemiAppsGuide.html or call 888-KEITHLEY.

Assault on battery test cost

In the production of large-format lithium-ion batteries for hybrid/electric vehicles, the test costs can by as high as $500,000 per battery design when tests are done in accordance with the United Nations’ Manual of Tests and Criteria . Noting that the these mandated tests have not been updated since 2000, while battery technology has made colossal strides, the Portable Rechargeable Battery Association has proposed modifications to those tests. A copy of the proposed changes can be found at the PRBA’s Web site: www.prba.org/laws_and_regulations/international_/Default.ashx.

Buyer’s market

A recent report from Global Industry Analysts (www.strategyr.com) notes, “An important sign of the relative maturity of the oscilloscopes market is the increasing price-performance ratio of the testing tools. The market is now mature for pricing pressures, and corporate endurance centers upon the ability to provide improved product functionalities at reduced costs and prices.”