Verigy 93k Tester Manual ((full)) Now
Mastering the Verigy 93000 (V93K) Tester: A Comprehensive Guide
In the world of Automated Test Equipment (ATE), the Verigy 93000 (now Advantest V93K) stands as the industry standard for SOC (System-on-a-Chip) testing. Whether you are a test engineer debugging a new silicon wafer or a production manager optimizing throughput, understanding the "manual" operations and architecture of this platform is essential.
This guide serves as a high-level manual for navigating the V93K ecosystem, covering its architecture, software environment, and best practices for test development. 1. Understanding the V93K Architecture
The V93K is unique because of its per-pin architecture. Unlike older testers that share resources across multiple pins, every pin on a V93K has its own independent timing generator, sequencer, and DC resources.
The Test Head: Houses the "pins" or channels. Depending on your configuration (C-Class, PS1600, or the newer EXA Scale), the density and speed of these pins will vary.
The Workstation: Usually a Linux-based controller running the SmarTest software. This is where you write code and control the hardware.
The Cooling System: High-performance testing generates heat; the V93K typically uses liquid or air-chilled systems to maintain thermal stability. 2. Software Interface: SmarTest 7 vs. SmarTest 8
The "manual" for a V93K is largely a manual for SmarTest. There are two primary versions currently in use:
SmarTest 7: The classic version. It is workbook-based (Excel-like interface) where you define levels, timing, and test suites in distinct sheets.
SmarTest 8: The modern evolution. It is object-oriented and utilizes a more streamlined, C++ based environment. It is designed for massive multi-site testing and faster compilation. 3. Key Operational Steps
To run a test on the V93K, you must navigate several core components: A. The Device Development Tool (DDT)
This is where you define the physical mapping. You tell the tester which "Tester Channel" is connected to which "DUT Pin." B. Levels and Timing Levels: Define the voltage thresholds (VIL, VIH, VOL, VOH).
Timing: Define the "Period" of the test and the "Edges" (when a signal should transition or when the tester should strobe the output to check for a pass/fail). C. The Vector/Pattern Files
The V93K uses .avc (ASCII) or compressed binary formats for patterns. These files contain the 1s and 0s that represent the functional logic of the chip. D. Test Methods
These are the C++ or Java-based scripts that execute the tests. A standard manual procedure involves: Setting the levels. Bursting a pattern. Measuring a DC value (like IDDQ or standby current). Returning a "Pass" or "Fail" to the sequencer. 4. Common Troubleshooting (The "Service Manual" Approach)
When the tester isn't behaving, engineers typically follow these steps:
Diagnostic Run: Use the built-in "Self-Test" to ensure the hardware pin cards are calibrated.
Contact Check: Ensure the probe card or test socket is making clean contact with the silicon.
Level Shifting: Manually tweak the VDD levels in the software to see if the part begins to pass (indicating a marginality issue). 5. Best Practices for Test Engineers
Modular Coding: Write reusable Test Methods to save time across different projects.
Multi-site Efficiency: Always design your test flow to test as many chips as possible simultaneously (parallel testing) to reduce the Cost of Test (CoT).
Documentation: Keep a rigorous log of change histories in your SmarTest setup—small changes in timing can lead to massive yield "swings." Conclusion
The Verigy 93000 is a powerhouse of precision. While a physical manual would span thousands of pages, mastering the platform comes down to understanding the SmarTest environment and the per-pin hardware logic. As the industry shifts toward SmarTest 8 and EXA Scale hardware, staying updated on these software transitions is the key to a successful career in ATE.
The Verigy (now ) V93000 (V93K) is a modular, high-speed automated test equipment (ATE) system designed for System-on-a-Chip (SoC) semiconductor testing. Accessing the official manuals requires the Advantest Technical Documentation Center (TDC)
, a standalone help application that provides searchable content, including hardware specs, software guides, and safety ratings. Verigy 93K Hardware Architecture
The system is built on a scalable platform consisting of several key components:
93k Tester 02 Hardware Overview Rev.7.2.2.A.00 | PDF - Scribd
Introduction
The Verigy 93K tester is a high-performance, precision instrument used for testing and measuring the electrical characteristics of semiconductor devices, particularly in the field of wafer probing and device testing. The device is widely used in the semiconductor industry for its accuracy, reliability, and flexibility. To ensure optimal performance and accurate measurements, it is essential to understand the operating principles, features, and procedures outlined in the Verigy 93K tester manual. This essay provides an in-depth review of the Verigy 93K tester manual, covering its key components, operating procedures, and applications.
Overview of the Verigy 93K Tester
The Verigy 93K tester is a modular, high-speed testing system designed to measure the electrical characteristics of semiconductor devices, including parametric test, functional test, and reliability test. The system consists of several key components, including the test head, motherboard, and peripherals. The test head is the core component of the system, housing the precision analog and digital measurement circuitry. The motherboard provides the interface between the test head and the device under test (DUT), while the peripherals include the power supplies, precision voltage sources, and measurement units.
Key Features and Specifications
The Verigy 93K tester manual highlights several key features and specifications of the device, including:
- High-precision measurement capabilities: The Verigy 93K tester offers high-precision measurement capabilities, with an accuracy of ±0.1% and a resolution of 16 bits.
- High-speed testing: The device can perform tests at speeds of up to 1,000 measurements per second.
- Multi-channel testing: The Verigy 93K tester has multiple test channels, allowing for simultaneous testing of multiple devices.
- Wide range of test capabilities: The device can perform a wide range of tests, including DC parametric test, functional test, and reliability test.
Operating Procedures
The Verigy 93K tester manual provides detailed operating procedures for setting up and using the device. These procedures include:
- Initial setup and calibration: The manual outlines the steps required to set up and calibrate the device, including checking the power supply, configuring the test head, and performing initial calibration.
- Test program development: The manual provides guidance on developing test programs, including creating test patterns, setting test conditions, and configuring measurement units.
- Test execution: The manual outlines the procedures for executing tests, including loading the DUT, setting test parameters, and running the test program.
Applications
The Verigy 93K tester is widely used in the semiconductor industry for a variety of applications, including:
- Wafer probing: The device is used for wafer probing, where it measures the electrical characteristics of devices on a wafer.
- Device testing: The Verigy 93K tester is used for device testing, where it measures the electrical characteristics of packaged devices.
- Reliability testing: The device is used for reliability testing, where it measures the electrical characteristics of devices under various stress conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Verigy 93K tester manual provides a comprehensive guide to the operation and use of the Verigy 93K tester. The device is a high-performance, precision instrument used for testing and measuring the electrical characteristics of semiconductor devices. By understanding the key features, operating procedures, and applications outlined in the manual, users can optimize the performance of the device and achieve accurate measurements. The Verigy 93K tester is a valuable tool for the semiconductor industry, and its manual serves as a critical resource for anyone working with the device.
Recommendations
Based on the information provided in the Verigy 93K tester manual, several recommendations can be made:
- Users should carefully follow the operating procedures outlined in the manual to ensure accurate measurements and optimal performance.
- The device should be regularly calibrated and maintained to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Users should develop and validate test programs to ensure that they are accurate and effective.
By following these recommendations and using the Verigy 93K tester manual as a guide, users can get the most out of their device and achieve high-quality results.
Verigy 93K Tester Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
The Verigy 93K tester is a high-performance, precision instrument designed for testing and measurement applications in various industries, including aerospace, defense, and electronics. This manual provides a detailed overview of the Verigy 93K tester's features, operations, and maintenance procedures.
Table of Contents
- Safety Precautions
- System Overview
- Hardware Components
- Operating the Verigy 93K Tester
- Test Setup and Configuration
- Measurement and Test Functions
- Data Analysis and Storage
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Calibration and Verification
- Specifications and Technical Data
1. Safety Precautions
Before using the Verigy 93K tester, ensure you have read and understood the following safety precautions:
- Always follow proper safety procedures when handling electrical equipment.
- Wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when working with the tester.
- Ensure the tester is installed and used in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid exposure to high-voltage or high-current circuits.
2. System Overview
The Verigy 93K tester is a modular, rack-mounted instrument consisting of the following main components:
- Mainframe: The mainframe houses the tester's power supply, control circuitry, and interface modules.
- Test Head: The test head contains the measurement circuitry and is connected to the device under test (DUT).
- Controller: The controller is a user interface that allows you to configure and operate the tester.
3. Hardware Components
The Verigy 93K tester consists of the following hardware components:
- Power Supply: A high-precision power supply providing stable voltage and current outputs.
- Measurement Modules: Interchangeable modules providing various measurement functions, such as voltage, current, resistance, and capacitance measurements.
- Interface Modules: Modules providing connectivity to external devices, such as computers, printers, and other test equipment.
4. Operating the Verigy 93K Tester
To operate the Verigy 93K tester:
- Turn-on: Press the power switch to turn on the tester.
- Self-test: The tester performs a self-test to ensure all systems are functioning correctly.
- Login: Enter your username and password to access the tester's control menu.
5. Test Setup and Configuration
To set up a test:
- Select Test Type: Choose the test type, such as voltage, current, or resistance measurement.
- Configure Test Parameters: Set test parameters, such as voltage levels, current limits, and test duration.
- Connect DUT: Connect the device under test (DUT) to the test head.
6. Measurement and Test Functions
The Verigy 93K tester provides various measurement and test functions, including:
- Voltage Measurement: Measure DC and AC voltages.
- Current Measurement: Measure DC and AC currents.
- Resistance Measurement: Measure resistance using various test methods.
- Capacitance Measurement: Measure capacitance using various test methods.
7. Data Analysis and Storage
The Verigy 93K tester provides various data analysis and storage features, including:
- Data Display: Display measurement results on the controller's screen.
- Data Storage: Store measurement results on the tester's internal memory or external storage devices.
- Data Analysis: Perform statistical analysis and trending of measurement results.
8. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To ensure optimal performance, regularly perform the following maintenance tasks:
- Clean the Tester: Clean the tester's exterior and interior regularly.
- Verify Calibration: Verify the tester's calibration and adjust as necessary.
- Troubleshoot Issues: Follow troubleshooting procedures to resolve common issues.
9. Calibration and Verification
The Verigy 93K tester requires periodic calibration and verification to ensure accuracy and reliability. Follow these steps:
- Calibration: Perform calibration procedures using certified calibration equipment.
- Verification: Verify the tester's performance using certified test equipment.
10. Specifications and Technical Data
The Verigy 93K tester has the following specifications and technical data:
- Measurement Accuracy: ±0.1% ( voltage), ±0.5% (current)
- Test Speed: Up to 1000 readings per second
- Memory Capacity: 100,000 readings
Conclusion
The Verigy 93K tester is a high-performance instrument designed for precision measurement and testing applications. This manual provides a comprehensive guide to operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the tester. By following the procedures outlined in this manual, you can ensure optimal performance and accuracy from your Verigy 93K tester.
Revision History
- Rev 1.0: Initial release
- Rev 1.1: Updated specifications and technical data
Warranty Information
The Verigy 93K tester is covered by a limited warranty. For more information, refer to the warranty documentation provided with the instrument.
Contact Information
For technical support, calibration, or repair services, contact:
[Your Company Name] [Address] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
The Verigy V93000 (often referred to as the 93k) is a premier Automated Test Equipment (ATE) platform used globally for semiconductor testing. While a technical manual provides the "how-to," an essay on the system explores its architecture, its impact on the industry, and the philosophy behind its "universal" design. The Evolution of Semiconductor Testing: The Verigy V93000
The semiconductor industry is defined by an relentless pursuit of complexity and speed. As chips became smaller and more integrated, the equipment used to verify their functionality had to evolve from simple signal checkers into sophisticated, high-speed computing environments. The Verigy V93000 stands as a landmark in this evolution, representing a shift toward modular, scalable, and software-driven testing. 1. A Modular Philosophy
At the heart of the V93000 is the concept of a "platform." Unlike earlier testers that were hard-wired for specific tasks, the 93k was designed with a universal per-pin architecture. This means every pin on the tester can perform multiple functions—digital, analog, or power—without requiring massive hardware reconfigurations.
Scalability: The system grows with the product. A company can start with a small "A-Class" system and scale up to a "L-Class" or "SmartScale" configuration as their chip complexity increases.
Cost Efficiency: By using a single platform for both engineering development and high-volume manufacturing, companies reduce the "time-to-market." 2. The Role of SmarTest Software
A tester is only as capable as the software that drives it. The V93000 utilizes the SmarTest environment (SmarTest 7 and the Java-based SmarTest 8). This software allows engineers to:
Model Reality: It simulates the electrical environment the chip will face in the real world.
Automate Debugging: Advanced tools allow for real-time viewing of waveforms and timing, making it easier to find "bugs" in the silicon.
Data Analytics: It collects massive amounts of data to help manufacturers improve their "yield" (the percentage of chips that actually work). 3. Impact on the Digital World
The V93000 is not just a machine; it is the gatekeeper for the modern world. It is used to test the processors in smartphones, the AI chips in data centers, and the automotive sensors in self-driving cars. Without the precision and speed of the 93k, the cost of these electronics would be significantly higher, and their reliability lower. Conclusion
The Verigy V93000 manual is more than a list of instructions; it is a blueprint for quality in the digital age. By bridging the gap between highly specialized engineering and the demands of mass production, the V93000 remains a cornerstone of the semiconductor ecosystem, ensuring that the chips powering our lives are fast, efficient, and—most importantly—reliable. Key Technical Components of the V93000
Test Head: The physical interface where the chip (DUT) is placed.
Workstation: The computer running SmarTest that controls the hardware.
I/O Cards: High-speed cards (like the PS1600 or Pin Scale 1600) that send and receive signals.
Cooling System: Essential for maintaining stability during high-speed testing.
If you are looking for specific information from the manual, I can help you find details on: Specific Error Codes and how to troubleshoot them. SmarTest 7 vs. SmarTest 8 programming differences. Hardware Calibration procedures for specific cards.
The Verigy 93000 (now the Advantest V93000) manual is no longer a single physical book but a massive digital library integrated into the Technical Documentation Center (TDC).
To access the "complete piece," you must use the Advantest TDC Viewer or the help system built into the SmarTest software. Core Manual Components The documentation is organized into these primary sections:
System Reference: Covers hardware properties, test system components, start-up/shutdown, and device power supply (DPS).
SmarTest Software Guides: Detailed instructions for SmarTest 7 (Eclipse-based) or SmarTest 8, including test flow creation, test method coding in C++, and debugging.
Hardware Specifications: Detailed info on pin scale cards (e.g., PS1600, PS9G) and DC scale instruments like DPS128 or UHC4.
DUT Board Design Guidelines: Critical mechanical and electrical specs for designing loadboards and interface hardware. How to Get the Manuals
Because the full documentation contains proprietary details, it is restricted:
Register at myAdvantest Portal: Access requires an active service agreement with Advantest.
Download the TDC Viewer: For Windows 10/11, you must install the standalone TDC application first, then download the specific documentation packages (e.g., Smart Scale or EXA Scale).
Local Linux Access: On V93000 workstations (RHEL), the viewer is typically pre-installed under the Advantest V93000 menu. External Resources verigy 93k tester manual
If you don't have a service agreement, you can find high-level overviews and training slides on third-party sites:
General System Overviews: Educational summaries like this V93000 Hardware Overview are available on Scribd.
Partner Manuals: If using third-party extensions, MultiLane provides detailed system manuals for high-speed I/O testing on the V93K platform. V93000 Technical Documentation - Advantest
To verify the Verigy V93000 (now Advantest V93K) tester manual or documentation, you must access the official myAdvantest portal
, as most technical manuals are protected and require a service agreement. ADVANTEST CORPORATION How to Access the Official Manuals Log in to myAdvantest : Go to the myAdvantest portal Request Software Center Access : If you don't have it, navigate to Self Services Software Center
. Access usually requires an active service agreement with Advantest. Use SmarTest Help : If you are already on a workstation, you can open the Technical Documentation Center (TDC) directly within SmarTest by selecting Help Contents Dynamic Help
: For specific API verification, highlight the API in the Test Method editor and click Dynamic Help to see relevant info from the TDC. ADVANTEST CORPORATION Key Technical Manuals & Resources System Reference
: Covers startup/shutdown, test head components (CTH/STH), and DUT board design. SmarTest Software Overview
: Essential for understanding test flow generation and the Test Method editor. Hardware Overviews
: Provides details on specific modules like the SMU8 (DC measurement) or AVI64 (analog pins). Direct-Probe™ Evolution
: Documentation on wafer probing and signal integrity at the die level. Utah Nanofab Safety & Connection Essentials Terminal Ratings
: Always check the manual for maximum ratings before making connections to prevent fire or shock. Physical Connections
: Ensure proper connection of "air input" (utility box), power cables for the test head (STH/CTH), and Workstation Ethernet before powering up. hardware pinout for a particular card? V93000 Technical Documentation - Advantest
The Verigy (now Advantest) V93000 tester is a highly scalable Automated Test Equipment (ATE) platform used for semiconductor testing, covering everything from simple microcontrollers to complex SoCs, RF, and High-Speed I/O devices.
The primary repository for all manuals and guidance is the Technical Documentation Center (TDC), which is available as a standalone viewer or integrated directly into the SmarTest software. 1. Accessing the Manuals
Official documentation is proprietary and typically requires a service agreement with Advantest to download from their Software Center.
TDC Viewer: A dedicated application (for Windows and Linux) used to navigate the full suite of V93000 documents.
In-Software Help: Within SmarTest, users can access documentation by selecting Help > Help Contents.
Dynamic Help: Highlighting a specific API in the Test Method editor and selecting Help > Dynamic Help will pull up relevant technical information from the TDC. 2. Core Manual Categories
The documentation suite is divided into several functional areas:
Hardware Overview & Maintenance: Covers system infrastructure, including the different test head classes (A, C, S, and L), power supplies, and cooling systems. It includes procedures for docking loadboards and handling the test head.
SmarTest Software Guide: Detailed manuals for the SmarTest environment (v7.x, v8.x). This includes using the Eclipse-based Workcenter, managing Device Directories, and using editors for timing, levels, and test flows.
Instrument Reference: Specific manuals for hardware cards like:
Pin Scale: Digital testing at various speeds (e.g., PS1600, PS9G).
DC/VI Scale: High-precision DC and device power supply (DPS) modules.
Wave Scale: Modules dedicated to RF and mixed-signal applications.
Programming & Test Methods: Documentation on developing C++ test programs using Universal Test Method (UTM) libraries (e.g., dc_tml, ac_tml, scan_tml). 3. Key Technical Concepts in Documentation
93k Tester 02 Hardware Overview Rev.7.2.2.A.00 | PDF - Scribd
Part 2: Core Sections of the Verigy 93K Tester Manual
A complete manual set is organized into several volumes. Here is what each contains:
5.3 Pattern Compiler (TIL)
The Tester Intermediate Language is the low-level format. The manual teaches:
- Creating timing waveforms with
waveform_table. - Assigning vectors:
vector clk_in = (rise 10ns, fall 50ns);
Part 4: Advanced Topics Only Found in the Fine Print
Seasoned engineers respect the Verigy 93K manual for its coverage of edge cases:
Leakage Current Compensation
The manual's Appendix B includes formulas for subtracting board-level leakage from DUT-level measurements. Ignore this, and you’ll see false IDDQ failures.
Part 9: The Future – From Verigy 93K to Advantest V93000
Today, the systems are called V93000 (Versatile 93000), not Verigy 93K. However, the Verigy 93K tester manual remains 80% relevant. Only the software GUI and a few high-speed pin cards (e.g., PS900) have changed. If you understand the original Verigy manual, you can operate any V93000 with minimal retraining. Mastering the Verigy 93000 (V93K) Tester: A Comprehensive
Manufacturers continue to support "legacy mode" in SmarTest 8 that mimics Verigy SmarTest 5 behavior—proving the enduring value of the original documentation.