Definition of ATE
Automated Test Equipment, also referred to as Automatic Test Equipment or ATE, is any type of equipment that’s used to test a device – but it’s not nearly as simple as it sounds.
The type of ATE used will vary, as will the device being tested. The device that is being tested is often referred to as either a Unit Under Test, or UUT, or a Device Under Test, or DUT.
ATE can be simple, like a basic multimeter, or more advanced and complex. The sophistication of the device being tested will determine how advanced the ATE should be; some ATE has several components.
Roles of ATE
An ATE test will do two main things:
- test if the DUT is working correctly
- diagnose the problem if the DUT is not working properly
The first test is simple; it’s the diagnostic test that requires the most technology and cost. After all, if all ATE did was test without evaluating the results, it would not be much help.
Uses of ATE
The electronic manufacturing industry often uses ATE when testing the systems being created. The automobile industry also uses automated test equipment to test electronic modules and avionics. Military personnel will use ATE when testing their wireless communication devices and radar tools.
