Universal Port - AST Module

Accelerated Stress Testing or HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Testing) is a design verification tool using thermal and vibration stresses that quickly uncovers design flaws and precipitates latent defects. Left untested, these defects might otherwise turn into field failures and warranty problems. HALT stimulates products inside and outside of their specifications and significantly compresses the time needed for testing - a cost effective step in bringing the highest quality product to market in the shortest period of time.

Gallery

SE interfaced with AST Module

AST Module Vibration Table

Accelerated Stress Testing or HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Testing) is a design verification tool using thermal and vibration stresses that quickly uncovers design flaws and precipitates latent defects. Left untested, these defects might otherwise turn into field failures and warranty problems. HALT stimulates products inside and outside of their specifications and significantly compresses the time needed for testing - a cost effective step in bringing the highest quality product to market in the shortest period of time.

The AST Module, interfaced through the patented Universal Port fitted on Thermotron SE or SL chambers, addresses many typical concerns associated with HALT:

• Lower Capital Cost - The AST Module easily interfaces to standard SE or SL chambers through the Universal Port. A one-time purchase of a Test Chamber with Universal Port provides the benefit of using it for multiple testing purposes.
• Lower Operating Expense - The AST Module does not require liquid nitrogen, thereby reducing operating expense and safety concerns.
• Improved Utilization Rates - The Environmental Test Chamber component of the test set can be operated as a standalone temperature and humidity test resource during those times when HALT testing is not being performed.

The floor of the AST Module is a fully functional Six-Axis Repetitive Shock Vibration platform, capable of producing acceleration levels up to 50 Grms. The AST Module works in conjunction with a Thermotron SE or SL Environmental Chamber to provide quick, well-controlled incremental changes in product temperature. The AST Module is also capable of simultaneous temperature and vibration control through a single easy-to-use interface.

Thermotron has successfully provided solutions involving the AST Module interfaced with SE chambers via the Universal Port. A manufacturer of windmill controls came to Thermotron to meet their needs for accelerated reliablity testing equipment. In addition to the windmill controller market, AST Modules have been sold to clients serving the medical electronics industry, commercial lighting industry, and automotive suppliers.

Protected under United States Patent No. 6,976,340.