Microwave ATE System

Vektrex developed software test modules for several communications test systems. Each test module tests one component of the product. The product is a point-to-point 26 GHz digital radio link for Internet Service Providers (ISPs). ISPs use this to extend high-speed data services into areas without cable or fiber infrastructure. The test modules control VXI and rack-mounted test assets (including switches, power supplies, and communication test instruments), and provide interactive user interfaces. Additionally, engineers can develop automated tests by integrating the test modules into higher-level test applications. 

A Typical Control Panel

Expertise Used

National Instruments LabVIEW software, VXI, RF/Microwave, VXI, Custom Hardware.
 

Additional Information

A key challenge of this project involved integrating a client-provided electronic load module into the VXI test architecture, and transforming a manual test process into an automated one, with minimal production downtime. Vektrex designed and integrated a semi-custom VXI electronic load module to meet this requirement. Well-defined interface requirements, and the Vektrex Metamorphosis™ process, enabled Vektrex to convert, test, and prove the transformation with a production downtime of less than 48 hours.

Semi-Custom VXI Electronic Load Module