TABLE OF CONTENTS A load board is a PCB assembly that is used to route all of the tester resources to a central point, which then allows for the DUT to perform as required during its test time. This assembly may also be referred to as a DUT interface board (DIB).
The load board is independent of the tester and is almost always unique to each DUT that is tested. One of the most time-consuming elements of developing a full production test solution is the design and fabrication of the load board. Engineers must take into account the fact that all of the dc power supply, digital control, mixed signal, and RF signal lines must coexist and be routed among each other on a common board. This inevitably requires a multilayered load board to be fabricated. Creating a load board is a process that includes design, layout, fabrication, assembly and test, and possibly multiple redesigns. Fabrication of the load board is very similar to that of the actual DUT, although not as complicated, and ample time for this effort should be included in a project schedule.
Another often overlooked difficulty is the final impedance matching and tuning that is necessary after the board is fabricated. Time should be allowed for this effort, especially if it is being done for the first time. Having an RF circuit tuning expert on the team would help save significant time in this area. Alternatively, close communication with the DUT designer can provide time-saving tips, because...
