Abstract: A method uses a digital data processor and a manifestation of an electrical circuit for producing a digitally coded test program list. The test program list is for controlling the operation of a circuit test system in testing a printed wiring board containing the electrical circuit for electrical characteristics, the electrical circuit comprising electrical circuit components connected to conductors. The method includes the steps of selecting a sequence of test node characters that are in a sequential order between a first and last character. The data processing is controlled to generate digitally coded representations of a common list of unique pairs of test node characters, a first test node character in each pair in the list comprising a representation of a common test node character and a second test node character in each pair comprising a representation of the other test node character in the sequence of test node characters.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for making electrical contact with test points on a generally thin planar test member. The test member is mounted for movement to a location for test. A plurality of conductive probe heads, each having a contact point are arranged so that the contact points lie generally in a plane that is co-planar with the location for test. At least one flexible inflator is mounted adjacent the test member. Upon distension, the inflator urges the test member against the probe heads such that the contact points of the probe heads contact selected test points on the test member.

Abstract: A low insertion force actuable interface assembly having a carrier mounting an array of electrical contacts and a carrier moving means. The carrier moving means has at least one movable cam member guided for movement in a substantially straight line. The cam member has first and second cam portions for guiding a cam follower. The cam follower in following the first cam part causes the carrier to move the contacts parallel with the axes thereof. A first cam part, connected to the carrier, forces a second cam part, connected for movement with the cam member, to move the carrier substantially transverse to the axes of the contacts while the cam follower follows the second cam portion. The guide means comprises at least one first bearing on the cam member, and at least one second bearing on the cam member. At least one first bearing and at least one second bearing are provided, each being provided oppositely facing on the cam member.