Multifunctional distributed analysis tool and method for using same

Abstract

A multi-function, intelligent, distributed analysis test tool (MFDAT) suitable for performing maintenance on complex, 5 sophisticated electronic systems. MFDAT replaces ordinary test instruments such as spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, power meters, frequency counters and digital multimeters with modular virtual test instruments that perform the identical functions but use a single display and human interface. Setup 10 information stored internally allows automatic selection and set up the instruments for a particular test. MFDAT provides a “virtual” system to the technician whereby when a second system under test is unavailable, a previous good reading stored by MFDAT is available for comparison. MFOAT provides 15 three operating modes that allow the operator to develop, modify, or refine test procedures, use the embedded test instruments as they would use standard instruments, or to step through predefined test procedures. A go/no-go portion of MFDAT prevents a technician from proceeding past an 20 unacceptable measurement.

1 . A method for maintenance of a complex electronic system using an integrated test tool having a single portable housing with at least two virtual test instruments, a processor and a display integrated in said housing, the method comprising the steps of:
 a. measuring a signal at a selected test point in the system under test disposed externally thereto using at least one virtual test instrument of the at least two virtual test instruments, the at least one virtual test instrument is assigned to the test;   b. providing a measured value representative of said respective measured signal by said at least one virtual test instrument to create a measured value;   c. comparing said measured value to at least one of the group: a known good, previously-measured value associated with said selected test point stored in said integrated test tool, and a previously determined value stored in said integrated test tool; and   d. analyzing a result of the said comparing step to determine a condition of said system.   
     
     
         2 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step of automatically displaying a diagram associated with the selected test point. 
     
     
         3 . The method as recited in  claim 2 , further comprising the step of:
 a. determining a selection of a maintenance mode, an administrator mode, or a test development mode.   
     
     
         4 . The method as recited in  claim 3 , further comprising the step of:
 a. providing for viewing and selection of specific test instruments of the at least two virtual test instruments pertinent to the system undergoing the test and a maintenance procedure in the maintenance mode.   
     
     
         5 . The method as recited in  claim 3 , further comprising the step of:
 a. in the administrator mode, troubleshooting the system under the test and conducting non-standard testing, fault detection, isolation, or correction.   
     
     
         6 . The method as recited in  claim 3 , further comprising the step of:
 a. in the test development mode, creating diagrams associated with a current test point;   b. assigning the diagrams with a unique identifier to provide a quick reference to the system under the test, the test to he performed, and the at least one virtual test instrument.   
     
     
         7 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step of communicating test results taken by the at least one virtual test instrument for remote monitoring concurrently with an operator of said integrated test tool. 
     
     
         8 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the measuring step includes the step of:
 a. performing an automated test process using said at least one virtual test instrument, said at least one virtual test instrument being selected from the group: oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, digital multimeters, logic analyzers, and network analyzers.   
     
     
         9 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step on
 a. using information stored in said tool to configure said at least one virtual test instrument to perform a measurement associated with said selected test point prior to performing said measurement thereat.   
     
     
         10 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step of:
 a. storing said measured value in the tool to provide a previously measured value associated with said test point.   
     
     
         11 . The method as recited in  claim 10 , wherein said comparing step comprises the step of comparing said measured value to at least two known good, previously-measured values associated with said test point, said at least two known good, previously-measured values being stored in said tool. 
     
     
         12 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step of:
 a. storing by said tool documentation associated with said system; and   b. displaying by said tool said documentation specifically associated with said selected test point.   
     
     
         13 . The method as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising the step of:
 a. displaying, on said display of said tool, two result display areas configured to display the measured value and the known good, previously measured value.