AXIe-based tester provides the best of modular and monolithic
Based on the AXIe standard for modular systems, the AX-Series RF/mixed-signal semiconductor test systems for characterization/production testing of consumer ICs are fully integrated testers that modularly defy obsolescence. With full software support that can make them turnkey ready or user configurable, the ATE systems are relatively inexpensive — prices start at $95,000 — to satisfy the needs of fabless-semiconductor companies and integrated-device manufacturers (IDMs).
Filling the gap between monolithic, big-iron ATE systems — with excessive pin counts, size, and pricing — and PXI-only testers with limited channels and performance, the AX-Series meets the full range of dc, digital, mixed-signal, and RF requirements. Systems are initially available in five basic configurations: WRX, AX500, AX520, AX1020, and AX1040.
The WRX is a turnkey, 20 slot PXI RF system for typical configurations of 2 to 16 bidirectional vector ports that support S-parameters, continuous-wave, multitone, and full modulation testing to 6 GHz on each port. The AX500 is a 5-slot AXIe system for configurations of 12 to 48-device power supplies and 48 to 192 400-Mbyte digital pins, while the AX520 integrates the 5-slot AXIe system with a 20-slot PXI system with 2 to 16 RF ports. The AX1020 and AX1040 are 10-slot AXIe, 20- or 40-slot PXI systems, respectively.
The systems are also compatible with AXIe and PXI instrument cards and software from third parties. Yet the system software provides a fully integrated environment, such that even third-party gear becomes a fully integrated system resource. The system software is designed to support the many complex modulation schemes that are being deployed today, as well as allowing for development of even more advanced technologies. (From $95,000 — available now.)
By Richard Comerford
Aeroflex , Plainview , NY
Sales 800-835-2352
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