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Exchange a TIM

Request RMA  Send Diagnostic Data with Show Full Results Option along with System & TIMs Serial Numbers to Support.

Swapping a Failed TIM takes just minutes. All configuration and calibration data is automatically loaded via Guru™. Procedure to exchange Cassini Test Instrument Module (TIM) in 4 steps. Detailed step-by-step process available in theCassini Reference Guide, Chapter 4: Service, Section 1: Exchanging a New or Repaired TIM

Step 1) Prepare for TIM Exchange

  • Import Cal Data into Guru from the email attachment sent to the site's primary maintenance manager or contact who opened the RMA (Filename = CalData_<serial#>.gzp)
  • Unlatch and Lower Testhead from Handler and Remove Fixture.
  • Choose System > Check from Main System Window (Fixture removed from Configuration)
  • Remove TIM From Shipping Box. Do Not Trash TIM Box, Keep For Return Shipment.

Step 2) Exchange TIM

  • Depending on the TIM model number, choose the appropriate step:
  • Perform System > Check (Instrument(s) Removed from Configuration)
  • Install New TIM in the same T-location labeled on TIM. Example:
    Slide TIM Horizontally Until Touching Testhead, Slide TIM Vertically Until In Position, Press Top Latch Down
  • Perform System > Check (Instrument(s) Added to Configuration). Start Warm Up Timer (20 minutes)
  • Choose Tester > Save menu from the Configuration window to save the configuration.

Step 3) Verify and Release to Production

  • Latch Diag/Cal Plate from Diagnostic Kit
  • Perform System > Check (Fixture Added to Configuration)
  • Open Configuration window ( System > Tester ) Perform Targeted Diags (Tester > Diagnose, Select Plans for Instrument Model #s)
    NOTICE! Wait for the TIM to warm up at least 20 minutes before running Diagnostics
  • If Diags Pass, Unlatch Diag/Cal Plate, Latch Fixture and Release to Production (Skip To Step 4)
  • To Confirm Recent Cal Data, Select Instrument from Config Window, RMB Menu Choose Calibration > Restore... > OK. If One or More Dates Do Not Appear, Import Cal Data (contact Manager) and Choose System > Startup. Perform Targeted Diags Again.
  • If Diags Fail, Run Full Diags, then Perform Targeted Calibration (TIM or Complete RF System)

Step 4) Document and Return Failed TIM

  • Prepare return shipping documents according to Return Shipment Instructions (RSI) (HTC, value, description)
  • Write Serial Number if not already included on RSI. Include any relevant information (Diag data, symptoms)
  • Ship Failed TIM in provided TIM Box. If a TIM Box is not available, follow these Safe Packing Instructions.

When to Calibrate?

Always import the provided factory calibration data (.gzp). Never calibrate "stand-alone" TIMs outside of the standard calibration interval because they only interface with the Fixture and DIB and so their Calibration data is valid when used in any tester. Calibration may only be needed when changing TIMs with "RF System" connections. The "RF System" is any cable connection between TIMs found on the Diag/Cal Interface Plate (Diag Fixture). Fixture Calibration may be required on Fixtures that use the "calPerTester=True" attribute in the Device Connection Editor. Always follow theCassini Reference Guide, CH 5: Diagnose procedure after changing TIMs and prior to releasing the tester for production.

"Stand-Alone" TIM Models
TIM Model Description of Stand-alone TIMs (Standard Calibration Interval)
RI8535 Universal Digital TIM (1 Yr)
RI8546 Device Power TIM (1 Yr)
RI8572 Waveform TIM (1 Yr)
RI8575 Phase Noise Measure (Lifetime) - Return to factory
RI8589 FET Pulser TIM (1 Yr)
RI8594 Waveform TIM with Low Noise Clock (1 Yr)

Maintenance Schedule

Detailed Maintenance Schedule information and procedures are in theCassini Reference Guide, CH 3: Care & Maintenance.

Item to Inspect Time Period As Needed Time to Complete Role/Login Required Tools Notify Support
Socket Daily Mfg. Suggestion 1-2 min Operator Standard Tools, Magnifier
DIB Monthly >10% Yield Change 5 min Maintenance Standard Tools, Voltmeter, Magnifier
Test Head TIM Blocks Monthly 1000 Fixture Docks 2 min Operator Connector Cleaner (lube free), Compressed Air
Aux Rack SMA Cables Yearly 20 GHz Source Exchange 1-2 min Maintenance SMA Torque Wrench
Fixture Inserts Daily 1000 DIB Installs 1 min Operator Connector Cleaner (lube free)
Calibrate Fixture Never Modification Varies Developer Calibration Kit
Docking Hardware Monthly 1000 Docks 1 min Operator None (Eyes) If wear is found
Handler POD/RIFL Cable Quarterly Frequent Handler Changes 1 min Operator Standard Tools
Diagnose/Verify Monthly Yield Drops 5-30 min Maintenance Diagnostic Kit On Failure
Calibrate TIMs Yearly TIM Repair 5-30 min Maintenance Diag & Calibration Kit
Calibrate RF System Yearly TIM Exchange 2-6 hours Maintenance Diag & Calibration Kit Yes

Diagnose and Calibration

Detailed Diagnose and Calibration information and procedures are in the Cassini Reference Guide, CH 5: Diagnose and CH 6: Calibration.