Patent ID: 6785844
Filing Date: 2004-08-31
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A computer system factory download automated test process architecture comprising:an automated test system server (ATS Server); an automated test control center (ATCC) software program operable within the ATS Server for performing prescribed functions of a factory download automated test process; an automated test machine (ATM) having a processor, a bootable device, and automated test machine client software, the bootable device for storing the ATM client software, and the processor for executing the ATM client software, in response to a prescribed boot, for controlling an operation of a prescribed download/test process of a respective ATM during the factory download automated test process, and for a respective ATM, the ATM client software for 1) retrieving installation files and test instructions from the ATCC, 2) passing control to the respective ATM upon a receipt of the installation files and test instructions for the ATM to perform at least one automated test according to the installation files and test instructions, 3) responsive to regaining a control subsequent a performance of the automated test by the ATM, the ATM client software for copying any test result files generated by the ATM during the automated test to the ATCC, and 4) awaiting any instructions for any further download/test process from the ATCC; and wherein the ATCC is further for dispatching test cases to the ATM according to a prescribed test schedule, further as a function of prescribed characteristics, wherein the prescribed characteristics include one of the following selected from the group consisting of: a) numerical weights determined as a function of a hardware configuration and performance history of a respective ATM, b) a supported operating system (OS) and hardware combination of a respective ATM, c) a number of queued test cases awaiting execution by a respective ATM, and d) a test case priority.