Abstract: An area- and product-independent test automation system and a method for synchronizing testing of multiple devices are disclosed. The test automation system may include a test sequence being written in a script language common to different products or test areas in an electronic component manufacturing or testing facility. Executable test modules control the testing of individual devices under test. The test sequence includes commands that reference the test modules. A sequencer reads the commands in the test sequence and executes the corresponding test modules. A test messaging medium receives commands from the modules and stores test status information. Device-specific controllers monitor the test messaging medium for commands and communicate with test hardware to execute the commands. The device-specific controllers also write test status information to the test messaging medium.