NI and Astronics collaborate on aerospace, defence test systems

Jim Mulato, President of Astronics Test Systems Inc., says: "We are focused on providing the latest technology to our customers. This move from VXI to PXI will retain the investments made in test program sets (TPSs) while providing a seamless upgrade path for our popular legacy instruments. The ability to collaborate with NI, a leader in PXI, will be a tremendous boost to the long-term sustainability of DoD test systems as we narrow the gap between commercial and military products."

The first product to be delivered as a result of the collaboration is the Astronics Frequency Time Interval Counter (FTIC) for PXI Express, modelled after the Astronics VXIbus 200MHz Universal Counter. Designed for full TPS compatibility, the instrument can replace existing VXI-based FTICs and deliver the same capability in a newer PXI-based subsystem. This upgrade was achieved by using the analogue circuitry, firmware and driver software in the existing VXI module. Once available, customers can purchase the Astronics FTIC for PXI Express and future products expected to become available as a result of the collaboration, as well as support service, through the worldwide NI sales channel.

Eric Starkloff, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at NI, says: "As creator of the PXI platform, and as a long-term technology supplier to the aerospace and defence ATE community, we are excited to see Astronics Test Systems VXI technology making its way into PXI. This collaboration to make available products that support legacy capability along with our continuing investment in software-designed and synthetic instruments will significantly extend the life of current test programs."

Both companies have showcased their technology at AUTOTESTCON in Maryland November 2 - 5. For more information, visit www.ni.com/pxi and www.astronicstestsystems.com.