Development, training & service
The decisive factor for a test system is the software architecture with which test processes are controlled, measuring devices are connected, devices under test are communicated, results are evaluated and test data is stored. MCF combines test software and automation technology – clearly separated and reliably coordinated.
Modern test systems do not only consist of mechanics, measurement technology and contacting. MCF combines expertise in two areas that have to work closely together in test systems: test software and automation technology. This creates solutions in which the test sequence, measurement technology, DUT communication, operation, automation, data storage and process integration are clearly coordinated with one another.
Our expertise
MCF combines three competencies under one roof that intertwine at test systems: automation technology, PLC programming and test software development. All three disciplines work in the same team - with clear interfaces and a common understanding of the overall system.
We design and integrate complete automation – from pneumatics and actuators to robotics and handling.
Experienced PLC developers program controls in all common environments.
Software developers for OpenTAP, LabVIEW and high-level languages implement test procedures in a flexible and maintainable manner.
Automation, control and test software come from a single source at MCF. This avoids interface problems between trades and ensures systems that work reliably together.
Test software platforms
MCF develops test software based on OpenTAP, LabVIEW or customer-specific software platforms depending on customer requirements.
Ecosystem partnersBevorzugt für modulare Systeme
Flexible architecture for test sequences, instruments, DUTs, test steps, result listeners and plugins. test systems can be constructed modularly and adapted to different products, testing processes and measuring devices.
Für bestehende Standards
If existing systems, customer standards or project requirements specify LabVIEW, we also develop, expand or modernize test software in this environment - including test procedures with NI TestStand.
Für eigene Frameworks
Many customers use their own high-level language-based test frameworks. MCF also develops test software directly in these environments - in .NET/C#, Python or other high-level languages, integrated into your existing system landscape.
OpenTAP & Tap.X
MCF uses OpenTAP together with Tap.X for modern test systems. Tap.X complements OpenTAP with a practical user interface, test and DUT management, user management, data storage and project-specific extension options.
Particularly suitable if test systems are to be standardized, reusable and scalable across multiple products or systems.
OpenTAP plugins
MCF not only develops complete test system software, but also individual OpenTAP plugins for customers who already use OpenTAP or want to expand an existing environment - specifically supplemented without rebuilding a complete platform.
Control of measuring devices, power supplies, switching matrices, IO systems, sensors or customer-specific hardware.
Communication with devices under test via CAN, LIN, Ethernet, USB, Serial, Modbus, digital IOs or customer-specific protocols.
Individual test steps, measurement processes, communication processes or evaluation functions.
Storing, forwarding or processing test results.
Communication with MES, ERP, database or traceability systems.
Generation of customer-specific PDF test reports or test protocols.
Parameter management, limit value logic, calibration, diagnostics or service functions.
Development of individual plugins according to your requirements – for special hardware, protocols, test procedures or interfaces.
Are you not looking for an individually developed plugin, but rather an immediately available plugin? Under Products you will find already developed OpenTAP plugins that you can purchase directly.
Complete test systems
In addition to individual plugins, MCF also develops the complete software for complete test systems - depending on the project, from architecture and implementation to integration and commissioning to documentation.
MCF has both LabVIEW programmers and experts in high-level language programming. This allows us to flexibly implement classic test systems, modern OpenTAP architectures, customer-specific applications and industrial interfaces.
Software architecture
A clean software architecture is crucial for long-term maintainable test systems. That's why we rely on clear abstraction layers and reusable components - test procedures are not hard-coded, but rather structured, parameterizable and expandable.
Separates the testing software from the actual hardware. Measuring devices, power supplies, IO modules or switching matrices can be exchanged or expanded without rewriting the entire test logic.
Describes measurements at a technical level. The test logic works with the required measurement function instead of with a specific device - this improves reusability, maintainability and standardization.
Advantages
Consulting
Many companies operate several test systems that have historically been structured differently - with different operating concepts, data formats, interfaces and maintenance efforts. MCF supports the conception of standardized software architectures with a view to long-term scalability across multiple products, systems and locations.
The goal is a software platform that not only operates a single test system, but can also serve as the basis for additional test stations and product variants in the long term.
Automation & PLC
In addition to the test software, MCF also develops automation software for manual, partially and fully automated test systems - designed so that it works reliably with the test software without unnecessarily relocating test sequences to the PLC.
Whether a PLC is needed at all depends on the complexity of the automation: For simpler processes, the automation can be completely mapped in OpenTAP - there is no need for an additional interface to the PLC and the system remains leaner. A dedicated PLC is only used for complex automation with extensive actuators, safety and handling.
Tasks
Interaction
A powerful test system is only created through the controlled interaction of test software and automation.
The test software knows which device is being tested, which parameters apply, which measurements need to be carried out and which results are saved.
Automation ensures that the device under test is correctly positioned, contacted, protected, handled and released.
Both worlds must communicate reliably with each other, but should not be mixed. This is exactly where MCF's strength lies: We understand the requirements of both sides and define clear interfaces and robust state models.
Integration
Not every project starts on a greenfield site. If a customer uses their own framework, software standards or PLC specifications, we also develop the software within this environment and integrate our testing and automation expertise into the existing system landscape.
Software in test systems has to do more than carry out individual measurements. It must be stable, comprehensible and operable in daily operation - not just during commissioning, but in the long term in the production environment.
Describe your device under test, testing task and boundary conditions – we will develop the right concept.