Accelerated weathering testing.

Atlas has introduced the next generation Xenotest® 220 and 440 xenon-arc instruments featuring expanded test method support, and improved integration with lab networks. Designed for demanding applications in the polymer, coatings, automotive and textile industries, the upgrades simplify operation while enhancing test consistency and day-to-day reliability.

The air-cooled, rotating-rack Xenotest 220 and 440 simulate the effects of sunlight, heat, and moisture to accelerate material testing under controlled conditions. Their high sample capacity in a compact footprint, and robust performance make them a trusted platform for lightfastness and weathering evaluations.

Expanded standards and method support.
The range of preloaded test protocols has been significantly extended and now covers all commonly used ASTM, AATCC, GB/T, and SAE standards. A key highlight of the new Xenotest 440 is its capability to perform the globally recognized American automotive tests SAE J2412 for interior components and SAE J2527 for exterior components. Together with its highly flexible specimen holder system, the Xenotest 440 has become a truly compact all-rounder for automotive testing.

"One of my favorite features is the extension of the test libraries," said Dr. Oliver Rahäuser, Senior Product Manager at Atlas. "It makes setting up your Xenotest significantly easier."

A redesigned 10.1-inch XenoTouch® II interface improves visibility and navigation of the Xenotestwhile aligning with the Atlas Ci Weather-Ometer® and SUNTEST® instruments – offering a consistent operator experience across all Atlas’s xenon-arc platforms. Set-point monitoring functionality allows users to define all test parameter tolerances and receive real-time alerts when conditions drift beyond limits.

WXView® II connectivity enables secure, cloud-based access to active and historical test data. Users can monitor progress across locations, compare results, and generate standardized PDF reports to support quality-assurance and audit documentation.

Both models accommodate up to 38 specimens, with supported formats ranging from 90 × 75 mm to 285 × 75 mm and up to 10 mm thick – allowing labs to test everything from thin films to molded parts without requiring the footprint of larger systems. The new Xenotest 220 and 440 also feature an updated exterior design that reflects Atlas’s new industrial styling, bringing visual consistency across its entire xenon-arc portfolio.

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@Atlas_MTT @AMETEKInc @UnnGmbh #TandM

Replacing DIY test rigs!

RTEC Engineering Ltd is on a mission to redefine accuracy standards for dynamometers amid the growing global interest in enhancing engine efficiency and performance. Their cutting-edge technology is grounded in a novel torque measuring technology.

Rob Langton, the Managing Director of RTEC Engineering Ltd and an engineering metrologist with over two decades of experience, sheds light on their innovative approach: "Our sub-division, RTEC Powertrain, is actively engaged in collaborative projects with B2B partners, concentrating on metrology solutions for the automotive industry, including ECM (engine control module) calibration and diagnostics."

Facing the challenge of obtaining a detailed performance profile for a specific engine within a constrained capital budget, Langton took matters into his own hands. Drawing on his extensive engineering expertise, he embarked on designing and manufacturing a dynamometer that replicates the accuracy and reliability of OEM or lab-grade systems but at a more accessible cost for small to medium-sized enterprises.

Striving to surpass the limitations of load cells and RPM sensors commonly found in traditional dynamometers, Langton turned to advanced technology. After researching specialised literature, he discovered Sensor Technology and their non-contact TorqSense transducer.

Engineers from Sensor Technology assessed Langton's requirements and recommended the SGR510/520 series TorqSense. This innovative transducer employs a full four-element strain gauge bridge. A rotor-mounted ultra-miniature microcontroller, powered by a non-contact inductive coil, measures strain values and transmits them digitally to the stator, providing high-precision torque measurements.

Langton highlights the benefits: "The inductive coils eliminate the need for wires with slip ring connections to the shaft, offering the ease of use we desire." 

He underscores TorqSense's remarkable 250% overrange capacity, enabling accurate measurement of sudden load spikes. Additionally, its immunity to noise and signal corruption, common in slip ring setups, along with a 4000/sec sampling rate, aligns seamlessly with their resolution requirements. With Sensor Technology's assistance, RTEC swiftly developed an ideal solution for manufacturing a high-performance dynamometer aligned with their design specifications. Recognising the potential broader applications, Langton explored the market's needs, leading to a realisation of a gap that RTEC aims to fill.

While calibration of elements like the load cell is typically carried out by UKAS accredited laboratories in larger organisations, RTEC identified a market gap for smaller entities. They are now working on a scalable, modular dynamometer design with TorqSense at its core. TorqSense's factory calibration to NPL standards and its self-contained nature, combined with a plug-and-play design, simplify exchanges during calibration, minimising downtime. RTEC's future projects include crafting bespoke test rigs tailored to users' exact specifications and retrofitting TorqSense into existing dynamometers and test rigs, spanning precision instrument drives to heavy vehicle power trains.

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@sensortech #PAuto #Maintenance

Product manager for connectors and test equipment.

Cliff Electronics have appointed Louis Cusack as Product Manager. Louis will be responsible for managing and growing sales in the Midlands and North of England and be involved with new product introduction and development of new markets.

Louis Cusack

John Hall, Managing Director of Cliff Electronics, said, “This is a strategic appointment for Cliff and Louis will be tasked with sales development as well as with helping us develop a road map for new product development and increase the markets we serve. Louis will carry out market research to find future products for Cliff to manufacture as well as assisting with development of our website.”

Staring his electronics career in manufacturing Louis progressed to having a successful career in sales into the Military Aerospace and Defence market where he was involved with specifying and supplying cable assemblies and associated connectivity components.

Louis himself said, “I am very pleased to have joined Cliff Electronics as a Product Manager and I am sure that my experience of selling into a number of high-reliability markets for the last 8 years will be particularly useful in my new role. My background in Cable Harness Assemblies has allowed me to build a wealth of knowledge of connector and associated components which I will use in my new adventure at Cliff. I believe I will bring additional sales and innovative ideas to continue the growth of Cliff Electronics. I will use my drive and hunger for success to develop new sales leads and generate new product ranges moving forward.”

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@proactivefleet #CliffElectronics #PAuto #Electronic

Particle monitoring.

The new VPC260 6-Channel Particle Counter from Teledyne FLIR, is an innovative solution that sets new standards in particle monitoring technology. The instrument provides unparalleled accuracy, intuitive design, and effortless configuration and control.

With six channels, the VPC260 captures an extensive range of particle sizes, delivering precise and reliable data for a comprehensive understanding of your environment's air temperature, humidity, and cleanliness.

It features an intuitive design that is lightweight and portable as well as a user-friendly interface, with data presented clearly on a high-resolution display.

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@flir @mepaxIntPR #TandM #Environment

State of the art IR Thermometers.

Teledyne FLIR has created two new state-of-the-art spot IR thermometers: the FLIR TG54-2 and FLIR TG56-2. Built on the solid foundation of the TG54 and TG56 models, the new thermometers provide professionals in utility, manufacturing, building electricians, and industrial mechanics with advanced tools to perform accurate inspections and detect hazards before any contact is made.

The new TG54-2 is a 20:1 spot IR thermometer is designed to provide non-contact temperature readings swiftly and effortlessly. The tool offers a distance-to-spot ratio of 20:1, allowing users to measure smaller targets from a safer distance. Equipped with infrared technology, Class II laser sighting, and the ability to measure up to a maximum IR temperature of 850°C (1562°F), the TG54-2 ensures pinpoint precision. Built to endure a 3 m (9.8 ft) drop and carrying an IP65 rating, it's ready for even the most demanding applications.

FLIR TG54-2 20:1 Spot IR Thermometer:
Easily perform temperature measurement at safe distances
Accurately target objects at long distances with a 20:1 distance to spot ratio
Quickly adjust settings, set high/low alarms to efficiently perform inspections
Equipped with Class II laser sighting for focused measurements
Maximum IR temperature of 850°C (1562°F) for accurate measurements of high temperature targets.
Store up to 99 measurement points that can be quickly referenced for comparison and trending
Built-in LED worklights to illuminate dimly lit areas for faster and safer inspections
IP65 rating to meet the demands of harsh environments
3m (9.8 ft) drop tested protecting the longevity of the tool

For those dealing with higher temperature readings, the FLIR TG56-2 measures IR temperature up to 1300°C (2372°F) and includes a Type K thermocouple for contact temperature measurements. The TG56-2 is also designed to offer non-contact temperature measurements from an even safer distance, thanks to its infrared technology, 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio and Class II laser sighting. The TG56-2's color display screen is designed for easy viewing of current and reference temperature readings simultaneously.

FLIR TG56-2 30:1 Spot IR Thermometer with Type K Thermocouple:
Easily perform temperature measurement at safe distances
Accurately target objects at long distances with a 30:1 distance to spot ratio
Quickly adjust settings, set high/low alarms to efficiently perform inspections
Equipped with Class II laser sighting for focused measurements
Maximum IR temperature of 1300°C (2372°F) for accurate measurements of high temperature targets.
Store up to 99 measurement points that can be quickly referenced for comparison and trending
Type K Thermocouple to capture contact temperature measurements
IP20 rating for proper operation in common industrial environments
Ergonomic ‘Single Hand’ design for simplified measurements and menu access

Whether the TG54-2 or TG56-2 are chosen, both models are designed to be trusted tools for professionals who require reliable, accurate, safe temperature measurements in their everyday work.

Experience safer temperature readings and achieve pinpoint precision with the TG54-2 and TG56-2 spot IR thermometers.

@flir @mepaxIntPR  #TandM #PAuto

Brake test problems?

Having problems with your brake test sensors???

All wheeled vehicles rely on brakes to safely stop or slow down when the way ahead is blocked or compromised but none are more reliant on the brakes than vehicles that run on rails; trains and trams. With no option to change direction to avoid danger, vehicles on rails are totally reliant on an efficient braking system.

Kistler’s new, brake force measuring system enables simple and reliable verification of the locomotive and carriage braking system whilst stationary, both in the depot and on the track. The system uses a combination of robust and precise piezoelectric force sensors for brake shoe and disc brakes, signal conditioning, data acquisition and analysis to verify the operation of mechanical and pneumatic brake systems by simultaneously measuring both brake force and air pressure.

The mechanical adaptation meets the specification of UIC and the robust sensors are built to withstand the harsh conditions encountered in the railway environment. All the components are housed in a rugged, custom designed case with battery power for convenient use at base and in the field.

The user-friendly, data acquisition system is pre-configured to transmit the measured data by the built in WiFi connection to a laptop running the supplied dedicated railway brake force analysis and reporting software.

Detection of wear and damage to the pneumatic and mechanical parts of the brake system are monitored and recorded. This data enables engineering and maintenance personnel to extend the maintenance cycle of the brake system and confidently ensure safety and security.

#Kistler #Automotive #Testing 

5g Over-The-Air technology vehicular test.

The world’s first 5G OTA^*1 RF test system has been developed by Anritsu in partnership with Toyota‘s and their investment in MVG^*2 OTA test environment using Anritsu 's Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A.

“To deliver a full-vehicle OTA test solution that meets the needs of current and future vehicle testing, we needed to integrate a radio communication test system supporting 5G frequencies. We believe that MVG OTA test environment combined with the Anritsu MT8000A is the right combination to meet the test needs of tomorrow's connected vehicles.” said Per Iversen - MVG Chief Technology Officer

Realizing autonomous driving requires simultaneous communications with the surrounding environment, including other vehicles, road infrastructure, networks, etc. In particular, introduction of 5G supporting large-capacity, low-latency, massive connections are key technology to transferring the large data volumes generated by various sensors, such as vehicle cameras, as well as for 3D high-definition mapping data. Consequently, car manufactures, and Telematics Unit suppliers are pushing forward with development of 5G communications products.

The developed 5G communications products are installed in vehicles as the “connected car”. However, before release, the connected vehicle communications performance must be tested and verified in an OTA environment simulating the actual environment as possible.

Now, Anritsu and Microwave Vision Group (MVG) have partnered to deliver the MT8000A and OTA system to Toyota as the world’s first 5G vehicle OTA RF test system.

Product Outline
The all-in-one Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A is a 5G base-station simulator for 5G RF^*3 and protocol measurements as well as application tests. It supports high-order 4x4 MIMO^*4 and carrier aggregation^*5 (8CA) technologies for fast, large-capacity communications. As well as focusing on smartphone testing, it covers a wide application range, including 5G communications function tests and evaluations of antennas and high-frequency parts.

To characterize an antenna, it is necessary to measure its radiation patterns to determine how well, and in which direction, it radiates. To quickly obtain reliable 3D radiation patterns, antenna performance tests are moving towards Over-The-Air (OTA) test solutions to obtain fast and reliable measurements at the system level. For OTA measurements, the tests are performed through a radio communication tester and are conducted using a near-field measurement method in an anechoic chamber to block external electromagnetic fields and to simulate realistic and complex RF scenarios. Addressing the complexity of measuring highly connected vehicles, MVG offers OTA measurement solutions specifically designed for the complete verification of automotive wireless performance. Thanks to a high precision positioning system (controller and turntable) continuous on-the-fly measurements can be performed. This allows for quick and accurate measurement of directivity, gain and efficiency.

[*1] OTA - Abbreviation for Over-The-Air technology for sending and receiving data via wireless communications.
[*2] MVG - Abbreviation for Microwave Vision Group.
[*3] RF - Abbreviation for Radio Frequency used as carrier in electromagnetic spectrum for wireless communications signals.
[*4] MIMO - Abbreviation for Multiple-Input and Multiple-Output; wireless technology for improving communications quality by using multiple antennas in both transmitter and receiver. 4x4 MIMO uses four antennas each for Tx and Rx.
[*5] Carrier Aggregation - Technology for implementing faster and stable communications to send and receive data over one wireless communications circuit by aggregating multiple different frequency bands; 8CA uses eight frequency bands.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu @NapierPR #Automotive #Test

Pure and stable signals from generator.

The Rubidium™ signal generator family from Anritsu delivers outstanding signal purity and frequency stability, even at high output power levels, across a broad frequency range of 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz. Coupled with built-in, easy-to-use, at-location frequency and power calibration capability, Rubidium offers exceptional overall utility and long-term value in a broad range of aerospace measurement applications.

Signal purity is critical to a wide range of measurement applications ranging from radar testing to testing of ADCs and DACs. The Rubidium signal generator offers groundbreaking low single sideband (SSB) phase noise of -136 dBc/Hz (typical) and -140 dBc/Hz (measured) at 10 GHz and 10 kHz offset that is unmatched in the industry. Coupled with best-in-class harmonic and spurious performance, the Rubidium signal generator enables customers to make measurements with better accuracy.

The Rubidium offers an order of magnitude with better frequency stability compared to other signal generators that use an OCXO based reference. This exceptional frequency stability is achieved either by an optional internal Rubidium reference or by locking the signal generator’s time base to a 1 PPS reference from an optional internal GNSS/GPS atomic clock receiver.

Utility, Ease of Use, and Long-Term Value
The Rubidium signal generator features built-in, on-site frequency, and level calibration that is easily accessible with the touch of a button on the GUI interface. This feature ensures customer level, accurate frequency desired, timesaving, enhancing convenience, and increasing instrument availability. An Anritsu CW USB power sensor is required for onsite level calibration. An internal GNSS/GPS atomic clock receiver or ultra-stability rubidium time base option is required for onsite frequency calibration.

The Rubidium’s AM, FM/PM, and pulse modulation capabilities enables a wide range of complex analog modulated signals. An internal low frequency generator can generate seven different waveform types to modulate the carrier. Additionally, simultaneous modulation of AM/FM, AM/PM, or FM/Pulse is possible to generate complex modulation waveforms such as chirps. Broad signal simulation capabilities are built into the signal generator for pulsed radar testing.

The Rubidium is housed in a 3U chassis with a 7-inch touch screen on the front panel with a traditional keypad/dial interface. A wide range of options are offered to achieve optimum cost-to-function and measurement flexibility.

Applications
The Rubidium signal generator can be used in a variety of applications. It is ideal for applications which require low phase noise such as testing radar subsystems, up/down converters, or high-speed ADCs/DACs. The signal generator is well suited for conducting nonlinear measurements without additional filters because of the exceptionally low harmonic, subharmonic, and non-harmonic performance at standard and high output power levels. They can be used for a variety of interference measurements, as a signal source to test devices and systems, and as a frequency reference in calibration and metrology labs.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu @NapierPR #Aerospace #Metrology

Homecoming for test automation.

A virtual celebration event with workshops, interactive sessions with instructors, giveaways and more...

Test Automation University (TAU) has surpassed 100,000 enrolled students Applitools has announced. This marks the single largest free online education community for test automation in the world.

"It has been such a joy to witness the growth of Test Automation University. The community of students and instructors is remarkable," said Angie Jones, Head of Developer Relations at Applitools and Executive Director of Test Automation University. "Just two years after TAU began, we are thrilled to be celebrating this 100,000 student milestone with a virtual event for the community to learn and celebrate. Reminiscent of homecoming celebrations in traditional colleges, this event will be fun, interactive and unlike anything the community has experienced.”

To celebrate this milestone, TAU will be hosting a virtual event beginning December 1, 2021 called, “TAU: The Homecoming.” This is a free two-day virtual conference where TAU instructors will teach live workshops and lead engaging sessions on critical topics in test automation. The event will also feature games, a live DJ, and more.

Confirmed speakers include:

• Angie Jones, Executive Director of Test Automation University
• Jason Arbon, Chief Technology Officer at Test.ai
• Andrew Knight, Lead Software Engineer in Test for PrecisionLender at Q2
• Carlos Kidman, Director of Engineering and Open Source Developer
• Marie Drake, Quality Engineering Manager at Zoopla
• Julia Pottinger, Head of Training and Development at QualityWorks Consulting Group, LLC
• Paul Merrill, Principal at Beaufort Fairmont, LLC
• Beth Marshall, Staff Quality and Test Engineer at Smoothwall
• Manoj Kumar, Principal Technologist at Thoughtworks
• Mike Clark, QA Engineering Manager at iSpot.tv
• Corina Pip, Senior Test Automation Engineer at Sage Intacct, Inc.
• Filip Hric, QA lead at Slido
• Rudolf Groetz, Agile Engineering Coach / Guild Lead Test & Test Automation at Raiffeisen Bank International AG
• Patrick Döring, Chief Architect Testautomation & Portfolio Manager Testautomation at ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE

TAU aims to help people of all skill levels advance their careers. Since announcing its first course in January 2019, the program’s 43 renowned instructors have produced a curriculum of 60 individual courses and 13 unique learning paths. The instructors of TAU help guide students on their upskilling journey with materials that cover web, API, mobile, and codeless automation frameworks and provide training in multiple programming languages, such as Java, JavaScript, C#, Python, Ruby and Swift.

• See also Cookbook in Kitchen for automation & test. (9/4/2021)

@Applitools @TestAutomationU @testdotai @ispottv #Pauto #TandM

Changing of the guard.

The founding generation (Therese Havemann, Klaus Havemann, Dr. Axel Hunsche) of German testing machine manufacturer TesT passing the baton to the succeeding generation (Jan Havemann, Arne Havemann, Julia Kiewitter (neé Hunsche) in the form of a spanner

Twenty six years ago, Dr Axel Hunsche, Therese Havemann and Klaus Havemann decided to found TesT. At that time, they were already able to contribute their experience and expertise in measurement and testing technology and mechanical engineering as a tried and tested team. This is how they laid a strong foundation for a company which has been successful on this day.

The second generation now follow in commitment to the SME family business. Julia Kiewitter (née Hunsche), Arne Havemann and Jan Havemann succeed to the management of TesT from 2021 as co-managing directors. They have already been well established in the company for years and have passed through all company divisions in various roles. 

In addition, due to their respective education in business administration, physics and mechanical engineering, the new management trio ideally complements each other professionally regarding the orientation of the company. At the annual company anniversary celebration in October 2020, the baton was already ceremoniously passed to the next generation in the form of a spanner. Julia Kiewitter, Arne Havemann and Jan Havemann are looking forward to embarking onto the future - together with the entire TesT family .

@PresseBox #TesT #PAut #TandM 

Vibration testing of bolt connections.

TesT has launched the next generation of Junker testing machines with transverse displacement amplitude control. This new technology allows simulation of the conditions in the field even more realistically.

A bolted connection often bears a lot of responsibility: e.g. in railroad or aeronautical engineering. But what can it withstand and how long before it loosens? The Junker test has always been the preferred method to get the required answers for quality assurance. It is used in particular to measure the service life of a bolted connection under dynamic transverse load. But the established method still had its weaknesses. 

Up to now, it has only been possible and standardized on a vibration test stand to adjust the transverse stroke without specimen before the test. During the test, however, the actual resulting stroke declined because the bolted connection was tightened. If the bolt then loosened during the test, the stroke continued to change. 

In the field it is ultimately the forced transverse stroke that leads to the loosening of bolt connections. In order to enable a more differentiated test setup, the new TesT 208.200kN allows to control the transverse stroke in a closed loop as desired during the running test. The transverse displacement amplitude can be kept constant. Any desired ramps or other sequences can be simulated. 

The product innovation already anticipates the new aviation standard ISO 16130, which describes amplitude regulation during the execution of experiments as preferred. It meets DIN 65151, DIN 25201-4, DIN 16130 and can be used to test all elements of bolt connections and locking systems. With the 208.200kN, TesT has further developed the Junker test decisively, setting new standards in the quality assurance of bolted joints. 

@PresseBox #TandM #Safety

Addressing emerging high-speed design test requirements.

Anritsu's W1 (1.0 mm) component line has been expanded with the introduction of bias tees, DC block, and semi-rigid cables that operate to 110 GHz and provide broadband frequency scalability in high-frequency device characterization and optical networking applications.

The addition of the new W1 components provides Anritsu with the broadest millimeter wave (mmWave), coaxial component portfolio in the market, and they can be integrated in test systems, so engineers have greater confidence in their emerging high-speed designs.

Anritsu’s component technology leadership in millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies is re-enforced with the introduction of the W1 components. No other company has a more complete set of 110 GHz components for frequency and time domain use.

With operable frequency of DC to 110 GHz, the new W1 components generate metrology-grade quality results with high repeatability. Further ensuring flexibility for customer testing, these new components provide a component solution where conventional devices, including waveguide, do not exist. The W1 coaxial interface allows for a direct connection to the instrument test port, which saves time and simplifies system setup.

The new components can be used as part of a test system consisting of 110 GHz vector network analyzers (VNAs), oscilloscopes and Bit Error Rate Testers (BERTs), as well as for optical transceivers, laser diodes, photodiodes and optical modulators. Development of switches and routers using NRZ and PAM4 modulation schemes with 56 Gbps and 112 Gbps data rates, and 800G technology are applications, as well.

@AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #Pauto 

Exciter system for Large-Scale Modal Testing.

MB Dynamics, Inc. (MB) has announced its Modal 1000 exciter system for large-scale modal and structural testing.

The MB Modal 1000 can excite sine forces of up to 4000N (900 lbf), with a 2-inch (50 mm) peak-to-peak stroke and 1. 5 m/s peak velocity (60 inches per second), at frequencies from DC to 2000 Hz. Both thermal shutdown protection and overtravel control are provided as standard features.

The unique armature design of the MB Modal 1000 incorporates a “weak” suspension. The suspension may be fine-positioned to the test article using DC current. This is a particularly useful feature within lower-frequency response applications, such as ground vibration testing, where a DC-coupled exciter/amplifier may be in use. The armature’s lower weight further minimizes mass loading effects on the test article while reducing force drop-off at resonance. This avoids test article contamination during parameter extractions at each natural frequency. Additionally, the use of weak suspension means that the armature applies no extra force. Exciter dynamics are therefore de-coupled from measured test article dynamics for improved measurement data integrity.

The MB Modal 1000 exciter system may be used as either a stand-alone unit or paired with an MB P-Series power amplifier. The amplifier is housed within a 750 mm high, 19-inch rack cabinet and operates from 208-240V AC single-phase power. Supporting stingers, used to apply forces to the test article without exciter interference, are also available, measuring hex rod x 400 mm long with ¼-28 threads on each end.

Beyond its unique standard features, the MB Modal 1000 exciter system is offered with several customization options. Among them, the end-user capability to operate supporting amplifiers directly from a PC, allowing for amplifier positioning closer to the exciters. Test reliability is therefore improved, as drive cable lengths are minimized, with reduced risks of diminished force outputs caused by cable voltage drops. Also available is an optional automated ON/OFF exciter cooling package. Here, the cooling package engages only when the exciter heats up, in direct response to increasing levels of requested modal excitation forces. This protects the exciter from overheating, a particularly useful feature when end-users must oversee multiple test setups. As the package only engages when necessary, energy requirements of both the exciter and cooling package are optimized. The cooling package may be further specified with an optional <60 dBA Quiet Enclosure. Other optional accessories include piezoelectric force sensors to 4448 N (1000 lbs.), in tension and compression modes, with 5 mV/lb. (1.1 mV/N) sensitivities; and a supporting accessory kit. Full engineering consulting support is also available upon request, with all services provided by recognized industry experts of more than 35 years.

Typical applications for the MB Modal 1000 exciter system include structural damage detection; larger-scale advanced structural dynamics investigations, of buildings, bridges and commercial aircraft; aerospace ground vibration testing; large-scale experimental modal analysis, incorporating MIMO, MISO, SISO and SIMO techniques; FEM correlation and validation; and smaller-scale structural testing with higher-level vibration inputs.

#MB #PAuto #Test

Testing PCBs.

Seica and Mentor (A Siemens Business) have announced the availability of a new release of their jointly-developed Test Programming solution.

The new release offers advanced Design-for-Test (DFT) capabilities to ensure right-first-time electrical test of PCBs as well as accelerated test programming. Customers using the Seica PILOT family of Flying Probe Testers can now enjoy the industry-leading test flow offered by the integrated solution.

“Our new integrated solution offers a breakthrough in test engineering addressing the rising complexity and density of printed circuit boards that our customers manufacture,"  said Antonio Grassino, President of Seica Spa. “With this new release we are able to import product data either in its original CAD form or in the form of machine programs and convert into optimized PILOT test programs in a matter of seconds even for highly complex boards with over 25,000 components”.

“Our joint solution leverages best-in-class technology from both Seica and Mentor to left-shift testability analysis and accelerate new product introduction”, said Dan Hoz, General Manager of the Valor Division at Mentor, “this is another fine example of how the use of digitalization enables smart manufacturing of electronics.”

@seica #Electronics @mentor_graphics

Flying probe test platform.

In their new row of educational videos, here now Pilot V8 Next > series Seica introduce what they consider to be the most complete flying probe test platform on the market. It provides up to 20 mobile resources for testing an electronic board, including test probes which can each apply up to 2A current, high resolution cameras for automatic optical inspection, barcode and data matrix reading, laser sensors, capacitive probes, pyrometers, optical fiber sensors for LEDs, minifixtures for boundary scan and On Board Programming, high-frequency probes able to measure signals at frequencies over 1.5 GHz (an absolutely unique performance on the market).



Engineered for medium/high volume production, the Pilot V8 Next > series is available in a fully-automated version, capable of hosting from 1 to 12 racks of boards to be tested (even of different types) or for direct connection to board loading/unloading and tilt modules, compatible with any standard assembly line. The Pilot V8 Next > can be configured to satisfy the full range of different board test requirements: the HR version extends the performance to include probing of extremely miniaturized devices (down to 30 µm), while in the XL version expands the standard work area of 610 x 540 mm to 800 x 650 mm, able to accommodate and test “extra-large” boards.

All of the Next> series solutions have Seica’s Industrial Monitoring Solution on board, with the potential for remote monitoring of current and voltage consumption, mains supply, temperature, light indicators and other parameters useful to indicate correct operation, to provide information enabling predictive maintenance and in general to render the systems compatible with today’s Industry 4.0 standards.

#Seica #Maintenance #PAuto

Partnership increases test coverage.

XJTAG and Flying Test Systems, a leading provider of electronic test solutions in Britain and Ireland, have announced the signing of a joint Technology Partner Agreement.

Flying Test Systems offer electronic circuit board test and repair services, Design for Test (DFT) consultancy services along with in-circuit, SPEA flying probe and bespoke functional test equipment for production.

Commenting on the agreement with XJTAG, Nigel Priest, Managing Director, Flying Test Systems, says: “Test engineers face increasing pressure with devices that have little or no access to their pins, and space for test points is under pressure. At Flying Test Systems we are constantly looking out for the best test solutions for our clients and found that XJTAG boundary scan offers great functionality that is priced competitively, user-friendly and comes with a flexible licensing model.”

XJTAG has been working with a variety of test solution providers including flying probe vendors in order to offer the best-in-class test capability and value for clients. Ensuring continuous DFT improvement and that testing Ball Grid Array (BGA) devices on dense boards does not impact test coverage now means combining JTAG boundary scan, bed-of-nails and flying probe machines to achieve the best results. Powerful and easy to use, integrated testing enables engineers to minimise test time while maximising test coverage by using boundary scan.

Simon Payne, CEO of XJTAG, says: “We are delighted to be working closely with Flying Test Systems and to have them as a Technology Partner. They have a large installed base of clients across defence, aerospace, automotive, medical, industrial & semiconductor throughout the UK. Flying Test Systems understand the day to day challenges of test and can help find the right solution for testing electronics.”

As electronic circuits become more complicated the collaboration between leading suppliers is not only helping address the challenges facing engineers today but is also creating test solutions fit for the future.

 @XJTAG #TandM #PAuto #FlyingTestSystems

Noise & vibration testing.

Following the setting up of an acoustic calibration laboratory last year, Svantek UK – part of the AcSoft Group – is now offering in-house calibration of its wide range of high performance noise and vibration instrumentation for occupational health and environmental monitoring applications.

SV103 personal vibration meter

The company has replicated the acoustics calibration system used at Svantek’s facility in Poland meaning it can now perform a full factory calibration on all noise and vibration analysers and meters. As a result, new instruments shipped to customers have a fresh calibration certificate every time.
They have added a vibration calibration fixture using a Data Physics 16kg shaker together with Listen’s SoundCheck software and a Dytran reference accelerometer to give a wider range of capabilities. This enables it to calibrate vibration meters according to ISO 8041 and tri axial or single axis accelerometers.

Vibration analysers are calibrated by applying electrical signals to test the frequency response, linearity, overload/range limits, etc. The vibration meter is tested using mechanical excitation either with Svantek’s working standard reference accelerometer or with the customer's sensor.

The filter characteristics of the meters are also tested in accordance with the applicable standard either electrically or vibrationally using the Svantek reference sensor.

For accelerometers, the vibration test system allows the company to measure both sensitivity at the reference frequency and the frequency response of the sensor. This is completed by performing the back to back calibration method.

@Svantek_UK @PAuto #Calibration #Britain @elhcomms

System testing of advanced 3D chips wins award.

Imec has announced the successful development of a fully-automatic system for pre-bond testing of advanced 3D chips. Pre-bond testing is important to increase the yield of 3D stacked chips. The new system enables probing and hence testing of chips with large arrays of 40µm-pitch micro-bumps, on 300mm wafers. The relevance of this new tool is underlined by winning the 2017 National Instruments Engineering Impact Award at a ceremony in Austin (TX USA)

The test system as installed in imec’s Fab-2

As an emerging technology, 3D IC stacking still has many open options and technical challenges. One of these challenges is probing of the individual chips, before being stacked, to ensure a good yield of the 3D stacked ICs. The inter-chip connections of 3D stacked ICs are made by large arrays of fine-pitch micro-bumps which makes probing these bumps a challenge. Until today, the probing solution is to add dedicated pre-bond probe pads to the to-be-stacked dies, but this requires extra space and design effort and increases test time.

Imec and Cascade Microtech have now developed a fully automatic test cell that can provide test access by probing large arrays of fine-pitch micro-bumps. The system is based on a Cascade Microtech CM300 probe station and National Instruments PXI test instrumentation, complemented by in-house developed software for automatic test generation, data analysis, and visualization. The system allows testing of wafers up to 300mm diameter, including thinned wafers on tape frame with exposed through-silicon vias. After several years of intense collaboration between imec and Cascade Microtech, partly supported by the EU-funded FP7 SEA4KET project, good results were achieved with Cascade Microtech’s Pyramid Probe® prototype RBI probe cards on imec’s 300mm wafers with 40µm-pitch micro-bumped chips.

--> At the heart of the test system is this probe core with MEMS-based probe tips that contact the large arrays of fine-pitch micro-bumps.  “Imec provided us with unique early insights into the test requirements for 3D ICs, which drove the development of this system,” said Jörg Kiesewetter, director of engineering at Cascade Microtech Dresden (D). “Also the availability of imec’s dedicated micro-bump test wafers has helped us to fine-tune both the probe station and the probe cards for this application.”

“At imec, we are using the system now on a routine basis to test our 40µm-pitch micro-bumped wafers,” stated Erik Jan Marinissen, principal scientist at imec. “As everything in the semiconductor realm, also micro-bumps are subject to downscaling. Hence, with Cascade, we have started experiments to also probe our 20µm-pitch micro-bump arrays, and those look promising.”

@imec_int #NIweek @FormFactorInc #TandM

Accelerating design and build of automated test systems.

National Instruments have announced new ATE Core Configurations which deliver core mechanical, power and safety infrastructure to help users accelerate the design and build of automated test systems in industries ranging from semiconductor and consumer electronics to aerospace and automotive.

ATE Core Configurations help simplify the design, procurement, assembly, and deployment of smarter test systems at a lower cost and shorter time to market by empowering test organizations with a platform for standardization. These 19-in., rack-based configurations are available in various rack-unit heights, and offer scalable power profiles to match the needs of nearly any application and geography. Test organizations can benefit from highly integrated safety features such as thermal shutoff, emergency power off (EPO), optional uninterruptible power supplies and IEC 61010 certification.

Key benefits include:

• Highly customizable – Choose what is included in the system, and where within the rack, including PXI instrumentation, signal conditioning, kW power supplies, cooling and more

• Streamlined procurement – Simplify bill of materials management with consolidated part numbers and fewer vendor transactions

• Readily deployable – Benefit from IEC 61010 certified systems which are backed by more than 1,500 NI sales, system and support engineers worldwide

• Expansive ecosystem – Work directly with NI Alliance Partners to specify a turn-key system, including mass interconnect and fixturing, test software development, system maintenance, lifecycle support and more

“Building a test system is a difficult job – one that even the best organizations spend many months accomplishing purely because of the number of components, suppliers and interoperability challenges present,” said Luke Schreier, director of automated test product marketing at NI. “The new ATE Core Configurations can help users dramatically simplify the purchasing process for a common set of requirements and reduce the time and cost of building a system. And when you ultimately want a turn-key system, they form a great bridge to the integration expertise of our Alliance Partner Network.”

ATE Core Configurations also benefit from NI’s high-performance PXI instrumentation and extensive test software portfolio. This includes more than 600 PXI instruments ranging from DC to mmWave featuring high-throughput data movement using PCI Express Gen 3 bus interfaces and sub-nanosecond synchronization with integrated timing and triggering. ATE Core Configurations can also include TestStand test management software and LabVIEW code module development software, extensive API and example program support for PXI instruments, and more than 13,000 instrument drivers for third-party box instruments.

 @niukie #PAuto #NIWeek  #TandM

Tiger ensures clean air in New England!

Following an increase in demand for its services, Massachusetts-based Civil & Environment Consultants Inc. (CEC) has added a streamlined TigerLT VOC (volatile organic compound) monitor to its growing portfolio of Ion Science handheld PIDs (photoionisation detectors). This latest instrument was chosen for its durability in the field, extremely competitive price point and anti-contamination and humidity resistant design.

CEC Inc. provides comprehensive market-oriented consulting services that advance client strategic business objectives. The company is recognised for delivering innovative design solutions and integrated expertise in civil engineering, ecological sciences, environmental engineering and sciences, waste management and water resources.

Kyle Fortin, Project Scientist at CEC Inc. comments: “We implement projects that range from overseeing hazardous / non-hazardous contamination clean-ups to designing and maintaining landfills. Our equipment rental company, US Environmental Rental Corporation, has typically recommended Ion Science handheld Tiger PIDs in the past for headspace screening of total organic vapours (TOVs) in soil, ambient air screening during chemical clean-ups and VOCs in landfill soil gas probes.

“US Environmental Rental Corporation is extremely trustworthy and has helped our business significantly over the years. As a result, we are happy to go with their suggestion that a specific instrument is superior to comparable VOC monitors on the market.”

Offering worldwide intrinsically safe (IS) certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, the recently launched TigerLT is a streamlined, lower cost version of Ion Science’s well-proven Tiger instrument.

Kyle continues: “Our office has doubled in size during the past three months so we had an urgent need for an additional PID. The TigerLT was a great choice because of its competitive price point and proven reliability of the Ion Science instruments we have experienced in the past.”

The TigerLT incorporates Ion Science’s market-leading MiniPID 2 technology with advanced patented fence electrode system. The three-electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field, as well as considerably reduced drift issues and extended run time.

“We generally use the TigerLT for field screening of VOCs in dusty or humid conditions therefore the anti-contamination and humidity design is crucial for our line of work in the environmental field. The durability and reliability of the TigerLT is exceptional for outdoor use especially in New England where temperature and weather can experience extremes.”

With a detection range of 0 to 5,000 parts per million (ppm) with a 0.1 parts per million (ppm) minimum sensitivity, TigerLT offers a response time of just two seconds and is equally quick to clear down.

Simple to operate and service, TigerLT allows easy access to the lamp and sensor whilst the batteries can be safely replaced in the field. It also meets required ATEX, IECEx, UL and CSA standards.

“We are using the TigerLT up to three times per week with data recorded in our field books. The calibration is easy and keeps the accuracy and reproducibility within an acceptable range,” adds Kyle.

The TigerLT six pin MiniPID detector cell with anti-contamination design dramatically extends run time in the field. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes, minimising downtime.

The instrument features long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries which give up to 24 hour usage. Fast battery charging allows it to be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while up to eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time. Performing basic functions does not require complicated set up procedures using a PC.

TigerLT features a protective, removable boot for harsh environments and large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. It is IP 65 rated against water ingress. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas. Other features include a loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support.

Kyle continues: “The distributor recently gave a presentation on the Ion Science product range at a seminar my young professionals committee helped to organise. It was very useful for other companies to see the reliability and durability of the Tiger instruments.

“We have nothing but good things to say about the Ion Science Tiger series of handheld PIDs and the distributor is always very helpful when questions arise.” 

@ionscience #PAuto #USA