Using Emulation-Based ATE

Emulation based ATE is an appropriate technique to use when testing complex / microprocessor based boards containing one or more microprocessors, microprocessor-emulation-based ATE is an appropriate technique to be considered for testing. By using microprocessor emulation, the unit under test can be stimulated and controlled from its microprocessor buses. This technique often can complement other test strategies, providing test capability during the boardÕs complete life cycle from design through manufacture, system integration, and field test and repair. There are a number of testability guidelines that can reduce program development time and test fixture complexity. These techniques are often simple to design in and require very little board real estate. ROM-based emulation techniques are described in detail, where reset and boot ROM memory space are the primary tester interfaces. Cases are presented from actual board designs and several testing challenges are discussed, including: multiprocessors, dual ported devices, redundant processors, surface mounted processors, ASICÕs which contain processors, and boards which must be coated.