GenRad Inc, Concord, Massachusetts, has picked DEC’s MicroVAX II as the platform for the latest addition to its line of automated testing systems. The 3200V Computer System runs the MicroVMS operating system and is configured specifically for GenRad’s 32-bit applications, which the new ATG-32 automatic test generation package for its 227X family of in-circuit/functional test systems. The 3200V and ATG-32 form an off-line test program preparation system that allows users to develop 227X test programs from four to eight times faster than with GenRad’s old DEC PDP-11-based ATG program. With the 3200V, GenRad claims, test engineers now have the 32-bit computer power that is needed to generate test programs for complex VLSI boards containing application specific integrated circuits, gate arrays, and programmable logic devices. Other 32-bit applications supported by the 3200V are the DataTrace-32, relational database system for the TRACS test and repair analysis control system; test procedure management, using the GRnet networking protocol, and the GRUtilities collection of VMS tools for user environment and system support and management. DataTrace-32 is used for analysing relationships within the TRACS database to isolate and to correct manufacturing process and product quality problems. GRnet test procedure management integrates the board test workcell by automatically transferring test programs generatad with ATG-32 from the 3200V to any 227X test system on the network. The 3200V also supports the DECnet networking protocol and includes Ethernet hardware for linkage with GenRad and non-GenRad hosts in other parts of the manufacturing floor. The 3200V comes with 9Mb, two 160Mb Winchesters, a GenRad power sequence module that allows for the addition of two further 160Mb drives; a DEC TK50 streaming tape drive with 95Mb tape cartridge; and eight terminal ports with modem control, all as standard. Options available include an additional hardware bay housing up to three DEC RA81 Winchesters disk drives, each with 456Mb to increase mass storage to 2Gb; memory expansion to 16Mb; eight additional terminal ports; and an Okidata printer. The 3200V is $58,900 for the basic system, plus $9,800 for the 3200V System start-up package, including software, documentation, training diagnostic and basic 12-month, system hardware and software support, costs $9,800.
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