Automatic test equipment control device

A shutdown module for automatic test equipment (ATE) of the type wherein an electronic device to be tested is inserted into an ATE receiver that enables the UUT to receive power from at least one ATE power supply during test, and wherein the UUT is extracted from the ATE receiver after test, the shutdown apparatus comprising:

• a first connector configured to be coupled to the ATE power supply for enabling and disabling the ATE power supply;
• a second connector for receiving a first signal indicating that the device is properly engaged with the receiver;
• and
• a third connector configured for receiving a rapid shutdown signal from a user control signal device on the ATE when the rapid shutdown signal is activated.

A method for providing power to a unit under test (UUT) to be tested with ATE of the type which includes at least one electronic device and wherein the UUT is inserted into an ATE receiver that is configured to couple the UUT to the electronic device, and wherein the UUT is extracted from the ATE receiver after test, the method comprising:

• monitoring the position of the UUT as it is inserted into and extracted from the receiver;
• coupling the electronic device to the receiver in response to a position of a mechanical actuator and when a signal generated by the ATE indicates that the UUT is completely engaged with the receiver;
• and
• disconnecting the electronic device from the receiver in response to a position of the mechanical actuator and prior to extraction of the UUT from the receiver.