System Enhancement ensures safe Operation of Test Systems

22 May 2012 - For the protection of operators and maintenance personnel, the machines and systems used in electronics production must incorporate relevant safety functions. Rohde & Schwarz Messgeraetebau GmbH has developed a system enhancement specifically for automatic test systems to reliably ensure the specified level of safety. The enhancement is applicable for a wide range of test systems and can even be retrofitted.

To prevent accidents, the EU has regulated the safety of machines and systems in Machinery Directive 2006/42/EG and other standards. These standards also apply to automatic test systems in applications where high voltages, high currents, compressed air or vacuums can occur or where mechanical actuators are used. It must be possible to quickly and safely turn off these systems in an emergency situation, but implementation in line with standards can be complex and time-consuming.

Rohde & Schwarz Messgeraetebau offers the R&S PFSC4 interlock unit, a standalone, universally applicable test system enhancement. This interlock unit makes it easier to meet the relevant safety requirements, such as the EN954-1/ISO 13849-1 control standard. All key system functions, e.g. pneumatics, vacuums and various control functions (PPS/FPS) are covered and available at a system interface. The R&S PFSC4 can be customized to user requirements, making it easy to integrate in systems. It is available as a 19" plug-in and can also be used in non-Rohde & Schwarz systems. Existing testers can also be retrofitted.

The R&S PFSC4 interlock unit is now available from Rohde & Schwarz Messgeraetebau GmbH.