Devices with integrated USB-C hubs — such as monitors, docks, and KVMs — must support a broad range of USB power and data modes. Validation and testing of these devices is challenging due to the number and variety of ports, the mix of upstream- and downstream-facing ports, and role-switching behavior.
This case study presents how an automotive supplier was able to automate firmware and OS provisioning and End-of-Line (EOL) functional final assembly testing using Acroname industrial USB hubs and switches and their USB Host switching features. This automation resulted in reduced cycle times, less manual intervention and fewer errors while supporting a mix of software versions on the same production line.
This case study demonstrates how a device lab resolved its USB issues using Acroname’s industrial USB hubs, making the lab more robust and ready to accommodate future expansion.
Hardware device labs need reliable equipment. Often, these labs develop in an ad hoc manner, adding equipment as needed. The reliability and power capabilities of the USB hub itself are often overlooked.
For device compatibility and mobile application development labs (commonly called “device farms” or “CI or continuous improvement labs”), battery swelling in mobile devices is a common, costly, and potentially dangerous problem. Not only are devices themselves expensive and labor-intensive to replace, but older or legacy devices are often difficult to source. Last but not least, swollen batteries can leak, cause fires, or even explode, damaging much more than the mobile device itself.