11-10 Limit Testing
Binning systems
The SourceMeter can be used with a component handler to perform binning operations on
DUT packages. With this system, you can test single-element devices (i.e., resistor). Adding a
scanner to the system allows binning operations on multiple-element DUT packages. See Limit
test programming example at the end of this section.
Handler interface
The SourceMeter is interfaced to a handler via the Digital I/O port as shown in Figure 11-6.
The I/O port has four lines for output signals and one line for input signals. The output lines are
used to send the test pass/fail signal(s) to the handler to perform the binning operation.
Digital I/O connector
These digital I/O lines are available at the DB-9 Digital I/O connector on the rear panel of
the SourceMeter. A custom cable using a standard female DB-9 connector is required for con-
nection to the SourceMeter. See Digital I/O port in Section 12 for more information.
Digital output lines
The four output lines output a specific bit pattern based on the pass/fail results of the various
limit tests. (See Types of limits earlier in this section). In the 3-bit output mode, Line 4 can also
be used either as an EOT (End of Test) or BUSY signal depending on the END OF TEST
mode. (See Configuring limit tests later in this section.)
SourceMeter
Handler
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Gnd
Dig I/O
1
6
5
9
+5V
Input (SOT)
Line 1
Line 2
Line 3
Line 4 (EOT or BUSY)
SOT Strobe Line
/INT
Gnd
Figure 11-6
Handler interface
connections