Developing Custom Test Fixtures and Interface Test Adapters

custom test fixturesWhile there are some types of manufacturing that allow for the use of “off the shelf” testing equipment for safety, function, and reliability, much of today’s advanced technology production needs a more custom approach. Specialty testing solutions, such as radiofrequency RF functional test fixtures and RF test adapters, often need the support of engineers and technicians who are experienced in the development of custom test fixtures. EMC Technologies has worked extensively with aerospace, military, and military contractor clients to develop highly custom radiofrequency testing solutions, as well as advanced solutions for other industries. Some of our specific areas of proficiency include tight tolerance, high speed, temperature, test racks, and RF test fixtures.

RF Functional Test Fixtures

Unlike standard test fixtures and interface test adapters, the needs for radiofrequency testing solutions are very specific and unique, often requiring a custom approach. Our custom test fixtures designed for specialty and unique testing demands have been very successful. We partner with each client to determine the techniques and strategies that will be required to design custom test fixtures to meet their needs. Our design team has developed a variety of RF test adapters and test stations that are created specifically for testing RF circuit assemblies and microwave sub-assemblies. Some of the features that we have used include a complete six-sided metal enclosure sealed with electromagnetic interference EMI gaskets and RF silicone. This approach helps to isolate the unit under test from interference throughout the testing process for more accurate results.

Other methods used in our designs include rigid coax cables characterized by lab and semi-rigid triple-shielded coax tensolite cables. Our use of SMA and BNC connectors, along with matched impedance traces in the printed circuit board PCB design and PCBs fabricated with Rogers Material, have also been extremely beneficial to radiofrequency testing solutions. RF rotary switches, RF power sensors, and coax switches are also used in our custom RF functional test fixtures. We are proud of the work that our engineering team has been able to accomplish in this area to create valuable RF test adapters, test fixtures, and solutions for our clients. We have also achieved success in the design of custom manufactured wage guide adapters for many of the radiofrequency test applications that we have worked on in recent years.

Custom Test Fixtures and Solutions

Our team has also become highly proficient in the design, development, and manufacture of custom cables. Regardless of the complexity required for your cabling, you can count on the EMC Technologies specialty team to deliver a product of the highest quality. Our in-house inventory of various cable connectors and materials helps to ensure that lead times can be significantly reduced to meet project requirements. A team of experienced and professionally trained technicians at EMC Technologies has the skills, background, and tools necessary to fabricate nearly any type of cable. Our technicians are certified bi-annually to the J-STD-001 standard. We can create cables that are Mil-Standard or Best Commercial Practices, offer services that include automated cutting and crimping, continuity and Hipot testing, as well as other required testing measures.

Experienced with the most popular types of connections and contacts, we can also provide services related to custom wiring for simple and complex projects. We have worked with a wide range of fixtures, which has provided us with the insight necessary to work directly with state-of-the-art custom wiring solutions for all of your needs. You can see examples of our work with custom wiring and custom cabling solutions for specialized testing requirements on our website or speak with one of our sales engineers to learn more about the services we can provide in this area. From simple projects to the most complex fixtures, we can provide custom test fixtures, RF functional test fixtures, custom cabling, wiring, and solutions to meet any industry demands or government regulations.

Engineering and Design Services

Our team goes above and beyond the basic box approach used by many contract designers and manufacturers – even in the custom test fixtures industry. We provide each client with full-service contract design and manufacturing in its true meaning. Our team will work with you from the very beginning to address your project as a complete system, keeping our focus on the intended use of the finished product. Evaluation of package limitations, dimensioning and tolerance issues, environmental constraints, mounting requirements, and interfacing conditions are just some of the issues we can provide support to ensure the success of your project. Our mastery in electro-mechanical design and experience in this area helps us to produce manufacturable world-class designs more efficiently and effectively.

To speak with one of our team members or to get a FREE estimate for any of the services that we provide, contact EMC Technologies directly by calling 508-672-0808. We are ITAR registered, ISO 9001: 2015 certified and ready to help you achieve your goals. Make sure to ask about our specialty development services for RF test adapters and RF functional test fixtures to meet all of your industry and technology demands.