In Singapore’s high-tech manufacturing sector, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a unique challenge: achieving consistent, high-quality test results despite limited production volumes and tight budgets. For such businesses, adopting scalable, advanced Automated Test Equipment (ATE) solutions—like the Keysight i3070, i1000, and Teradyne platforms—can be the difference between maintaining competitive edge or falling behind.
For more background on how Petracarbon supports ATE across industries, explore this behind-the-scenes look at our engineering team.
The Testing Dilemma for Low-Volume, High-Mix Production
Singaporean SMEs often operate in low-to-medium production volumes but with high customization needs. This creates challenges for traditional test setups, which either over-deliver and cost too much, or underperform and risk quality. ATE platforms like i3070, i1000, and Teradyne offer modular solutions—capable of adjusting test coverage, footprint, and cost according to your production size.
These systems also integrate well with industries like telecommunications, where signal reliability is non-negotiable. Learn how RF solutions enhance signal integrity in telecom.
Platform Profiles: Keysight and Teradyne at a Glance
- Keysight i1000
Designed for low-volume or prototype-level production lines, the i1000 is compact, affordable, and fast to deploy. It’s ideal for startups and SMEs who need basic ICT (in-circuit testing) without the full overhead of larger systems.
- Keysight i3070
Built for high-density board testing, the i3070 can scale from standalone stations to full inline systems. With up to 5,184 test nodes, it’s suited for complex products like smart devices and industrial electronics.
If you’re evaluating test sockets or connectors for these platforms, see our guide on reliable test sockets and battery connectors.
- Teradyne Systems
Known for flexibility and wide application—from memory testing to complex functional testing—Teradyne excels in modular design and deep analytics. For SMEs entering smart tech or 5G-enabled devices, it’s a future-proof solution.
How to Choose the Right Platform for Your SME
| Requirement | i1000 | i3070 | Teradyne |
| Production Volume | Low (≤2,000/month) | Mid-High (>2,000/month) | Flexible (modular, scalable) |
| Test Type | Digital ICT only | Digital + Analog + LED | Functional, wireless, mixed-signal |
| Fixture Reuse | Limited | High (via adapter compatibility) | High |
| Integration with Analytics | Basic | PathWave-ready | Teradyne analytics tools |
Building a Scalable Test Strategy
How Does It Work?
- Start Small
Begin with an i1000 for quick test deployment and lower capital investment.
- Upgrade Smartly
Begin with an i1000 for quick test deployment and lower capital investment.
- Integrate Analytics
Use Keysight’s PathWave or Teradyne’s analytics platforms to identify yield issues and optimize test coverage.
To better understand fixture development, check our article on streamlining PCB testing for Keysight and Teradyne systems.
Case Example: Singapore-Based Smart Device SME
A Singapore-based company manufacturing IoT-enabled devices began with i1000 to test 1,500 units/month. As demand grew, it moved to i3070, leveraging existing fixtures via adapters. This transition reduced fixture costs by 35% and increased first-pass yield by 18%. Integration with PathWave gave real-time insights into defect clusters, helping reduce rework rates.
To ensure optimal signal quality in your test environment, learn about coaxial cable shielding.
Partnering with Petracarbon
Petracarbon offers:
- Fixture design and fabrication for i3070, i1000, and Teradyne platforms
- Refurbished system sourcing and support
- In-circuit test consulting for SMEs
- Ongoing maintenance and calibration services
Our expertise supports customers across oil & gas, telecom, and precision electronics. Discover how we support multiple industries.
Conclusion
A strategic investment in the right ATE platform—whether it’s Keysight i3070, i1000, or Teradyne—can give your SME a long-term edge. With the right mix of platform, programming, and support, Petracarbon helps you future-proof your production while ensuring world-class test accuracy.
