Testing instruments versus power testing systems.

This is really a false dilemma. A test instrument performs a standard function at a generic level. On the contrary, a testing system is designed to test multiple variables and multiple functions on multiple levels. A system tester is typically customized to a specific application and consists of an integrated assembly of hardware and software. A system is also designed for more complex applications than standard instruments.

When can you get by with instruments and in-house solutions and when do you need a customized system? You need a system when the failure of the unit under test is mission critical. You can get by with standard instruments or improvised in-house solutions when the consequences of power failures in the application you are testing don’t have any major consequences.

What does “mission critical” mean? It becomes obvious in certain industries like aerospace, the military, medical and power generation. It is also obvious in certain manufacturing situations. In most aerospace applications, the failure to detect failing power sources can lead to huge losses of very valuable equipment and even loss of life. Mission critical situations are also common in military applications, such as the testing of power source units for the night vision goggles, or the testing of power supply sources of nuclear missiles, both engineered and built by Autotest.

Many industrial applications in manufacturing can also be labeled as mission critical, when, for example, failures can lead to very costly interruptions in continuous production processes.

The question then becomes this: is your testing done on elements that can be considered mission critical? If so, you need a company with the expertise of Autotest. Are you not sure when answering this question? Then you probably are dealing with a mission critical application that needs customized solutions. Autotest can help you determine what kind of solution makes the most technical and economic sense for you. If a power test system is called for, Autotest can design, build and service the exact solution you need which will address 100% of your testing needs with state-of-art testing systems.