The Test Floor
Compiled by Jeff Chappell -- EDN, July 16, 2001
Photon Dynamics Acquires Intelligent Reasoning Systems
San Jose-based Photon Dynamics Inc. continues to expand from the flat-panel display industry into the electronics manufacturing arena, having signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Intelligent Reasoning Systems Inc. (IRSI). IRSI, based in Austin, manufactures automated optical inspection (AOI) systems based on its patented adaptive knowledge-based software. Photon Dynamics (nasdaq: PHTN) said the acquisition will provide increased growth opportunities in the printed wiring assembly and high-density interconnect markets. The company expects to close the transaction this month. In the fall of 1999, Photon Dynamics acquired AOI X-ray inspection toolmaker CR Technology.
Advantest Unveils Latest Mixed Signal SOC Testers
Advantest Corp. has released two mixed signal system-on-a-chip (SOC) test systems, the T6683 with a maximum testing speed of 1GHz and up to 2,048 testing pins, and an updated version of the T6672, the T6673, for testing speeds up to 500MHz using a maximum of 1,024 pins. The T6683, like the T6682, possesses Advantest's fly-by architecture, which can quickly switch between driving data into, and receiving data out of, I/O pins. For testing of high-pin count ASICs, the T6683 has also inherited the T6682's ability to control each I/O pin independently, allowing users to test with a maximum of 1,024 input and 1,024 output channels. The T6683 also sports a beefed-up pattern generator, increased precision and expanded timing capabilities, according to the Tokyo-based Advantest. In the T6673, Advantest improved the operating time of the T6672's internal CPU and, by accelerating its bus speed, is offering a wide range of analog testing options, the company said. Both the T6683 and T6673 run Advantest's Viewpoint operating system.
Third Millennium Test Finds Chinese Distributor
Automated test equipment start-up Third Millennium Test Solutions Inc. (3MTS) has a new distribution agreement with Cogent International Inc., a provider of capital equipment to Chinese chipmakers. Cogent will provide sales, service and applications engineering in China for San Jose-based 3MTS' new 3M Series of testers, including its 3M10 RF and mixed signal system-on-a-chip tester.
Racal Rolls Out VXI Frequency Response Analyzer
Irvine, Calif.-based Racal Instruments Inc. last week introduced a VXI frequency response analyzer (FRA) designed to improve system density and reliability for military and functional tests. The VXI FRA Model 2583 features a modular design and exceeds the performance of spectrum analyzers, according to Racal. Its single-sine correlation technique completely rejects unwanted harmonics, high noise and DC, making it ideal for use in aerospace, automotive, power generation, power-supply tests and transducer calibration, Racal said. The VXI FRA Model 2583 includes VXI plug-and-play-compliant support for Windows operating systems and is now available at $15,995.
BridgePoint Technical Manufacturing Acquires OnQ
Assembly and test house Bridgepoint Technical Manufacturing has purchased the domestic assets of OnQ Technology Inc. for an undisclosed amount. OnQ, which specializes in post-packaging services, including tape and reel packaging, has operations in Austin and Penrose, Colo.
