Typically used in electronics test and measurement systems to provide a versatile connection between system instrumentation and the device under test (DUT). Mass Interconnect is modular, rugged and can be thought of as a large and highly configurable plug and socket.

Mass Interconnect solutions are available in a variety of styles to meet the I/O and mechanical needs of an application. So which one is right for you? It depends largely on application requirements; the main choices are either traditional cabled mass interconnect or the newer advanced mass interconnect designs…

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Small I/O Connectors

DUTs can be connected to the test system using cable connections. Multiple DUTs can be connected using one ITA system, to either test several identical DUTs in one test or test different devices using the same hardware.

DUT

One of the many options for connecting to the device under test is a bed of nails type fixture that can be mounted on top of the enclosure.

ITA Enclosure

A sheet metal box that is attached to the ITA. It can take many forms to suit the connection requirements to the DUT/UUT. The enclosure will contain wiring, PCBs or a mixture of both to ensure that the correct signals are routed from the test system through to the device being tested. These enclosures come in many shapes and sizes and are completely customizable to the customer requirements.

Interchangeable Test Adapter

Commonly referred to as an ITA, this is the core component of our mass interconnect plug. When the receiver operating handle is activated the ITA is pulled into the receiver in such a way that all ITA modules are connected simultaneously to their corresponding receiver modules. The ITA will be specified to match the receiver style.

ITA Connector Modules

These are mounted into an ITA frame in the same configuration as the receiver connector modules. Each ITA module corresponds with its counterpart in the receiver. Similar to the system side, connections will be made from these modules as required by the test application. For example signals can be routed out to the DUT, other measurement instruments or back into the test system as appropriate. The modules can be connected using cables or PCB, dependent on the application.

Receiver Connector Modules

These are mounted into the receiver and provide connections to all the system measurement resources. They can be used in many configurations to customize the connection to suit the customer’s requirements. Many different styles are available, including signal, power, coax, optical and pneumatic. Dependent on the receiver choice, cables or DAKs (Direct Access Kits) will be used to connect from these modules to the test system resources

Test System

Configured with multiple instruments required to achieve all the measurement and switching requirements of the customer application.

Mass Interconnect Receiver

A mounting frame for the connection modules and interface engagement mechanism. It’s effectively the core component of our mass interconnect socket. The receiver, also commonly referred to as an ICA, comes in many shapes and sizes from a 2 slot version all the way up to 50 slots with the capability of connecting 10,000 signals in one operation. Each slot can be fitted with a variety of modules to ensure that the configuration exactly matches the test system requirements.