Automatic test system switching test equipment allows for high-speed testing of a device or devices in a test situation, where strict sequences and switching combinations must be observed. Automating the process in this way minimizes test errors and inaccuracies, and only systematic errors are generally encountered due to an incorrectly programmed test condition. This eliminates errors due to human factors and allows the application of a standard test sequence repetitively. The design of a test system’s switching configuration is governed by the test specification derived from the functional tests to be performed.
A typical test system would involve connecting the input and outputs of the device under test to the test equipment, which is usually controlled by an electronic program generated by a computer or a programmable logic controller.