User Manual Q&AAnswer
Mar 25, 2025 - 11:03 AM
To integrate RF testing and characterization into your standard test flows for the Silicon Labs AN718 PCB, you can follow the recommended phases of testing outlined in the AN718 PCB Resources document. These phases include:
1. Prototype Testing: This phase involves fully verifying the design on a small number of devices. It includes bench tests with test equipment and is usually not automated. Prototype testing should cover the full environmental product requirements, including temperature range and voltage supply range. It should also include certification and compliance testing, as well as general qualification testing according to JEDEC standards.
2. Characterization Testing: This phase verifies the functionality and repeatability of the product. It is performed on a higher volume of hardware and uses automated test programs. Characterization testing should include RF functionality testing on all applicable channels or a subset of these channels, as well as testing at various transmit output power levels or receiver input power levels. The results from this phase help determine the tests to be executed in the manufacturing phase and the test limits to be applied.
3. Low-Volume Manufacturing Testing: This phase is a subset of the characterization testing and is performed on a lower volume of hardware. It includes testing a subset of the applicable channels or transmit output power levels to reduce test time without compromising test coverage. The results from the characterization phase help determine the tests to be executed in this phase.
4. High-Volume Manufacturing Testing: This phase is simpler and faster than the previous phases. It only requires a quick "go/no go" transmit and receive functional test to verify operation. Minimal testing may be required depending on the customer and application. Test time and cost are minimized in this phase.
To perform these tests, Silicon Labs provides embedded software tools such as NodeTest, Manufacturing Library, RAILtest, and Direct Test Mode (DTM). These tools allow you to control the test equipment and device under test (DUT) using a PC. They provide access to RF testing, DC testing, and peripheral testing functionalities. The specific usage instructions for these tools can be found in the AN718 PCB Resources document.
Additionally, regulatory and compliance testing should be performed to validate and certify the product's compliance with regulatory rules. RF measurements should be conducted to ensure compliance. The test tools provided by Silicon Labs can be used to validate the RF performance of the device.
For more detailed information and guidelines on manufacturing test flows, test definitions, and test recommendations, refer to the AN718 PCB Resources document and the associated AN700.1: Manufacturing Test Guidelines for the EFR32 Family.
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