Computer-assisted operation of an electronic maintenance test system

Application of a small digital computer to improve the operation of an automatic test system has been investigated. The test system had been designed for production testing of digital electronic circuitry, but it was being used for diagnostic testing in maintenance of electronic equipment. The objectives of using a computer as a control element were: ( 1) improved communication between the test system and its operator, and (2) a reduction in the number of system tests required for diagnostic testing. Interface circuits and operating programs were designed and built, and the test system was operated under computer control to study the practicality of improving the performance of the test system. The test system proved easier to operate when the computer teletype was used as a communication device, and a reduction of 30 per cent or more in the number of tests was achieved. Unexpectedly large amounts of computer memory were required to support the teletype communications system, and it was discovered that a careful balance must be made between message clarity and length. Interface hardware was most effective when it had the simplest form, and it was concluded that whenever a choice is possible, software rather than hardware should bemore » used to implement a control function. (auth)« less