Specifying an IVI class for digital test instrumentation

This paper presents an overview of work being done by Teradyne in conjuncti on with the IVI Foundation to specify an IVI class for digital instrumentat ion. The Interchangeable Virtual Instruments (IVI) Foundation was formed in August 1997 to define standard specifications for programming common test instrument capabilities. The paper will present the major architectural aspects of digital test inst rumentation and how those features can be grouped into classes for the purp ose of writing an instrument independent driver. Topics discussed will incl ude derivation of capability classes, class extensions, simulation, and ran ge checking. Examples of how the IVI digital class would apply to the Terad yne M9-Series Digital Test Instrument will be included. Conclusions will summarize the unique attributes of digital test instrument ation, the benefits which can be achieved through standardization, and the tradeoffs associated with utilizing class extensions.