MIL-STD-334-SUP Displayed Messages for Automatic Test Equipment No S/S DocumentThis standard sets uniform requirements for written or graphical information delivered to users of automatic test equipment ATE by computer-controlled output devices. Such devices include, but are not limited to, cathode-ray tubes, plasma displays, liquid crystal displays, printers, and plotters. This information, herein called displayed messages, may be directive and/or informative in nature. Displayed messages are included within the definition of official equipment publications.

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MIL-STD-334B(TM)

5.6     Error control.

5.6.1  Error correction.  Where operators are required to make entries into the system, the display sequence shall provide an easy means for correcting erroneous entries.

5.6.2  Internal software checks.  The operator shall be notified, to the maximum practical extent, of any input errors detectable by internal software checks for validity of item, sequence of entry, completeness of entry, etc.

5.6.3  Critical entries.  The user shall be required to acknowledge critical entries prior to their being implemented by the system.

5.7     Fault messages.

5.7.1  Diagnostic responses.  Responses, directed primarily toward the repairman (not necessarily an

ATE operator), shall occur as either replace statements or adjustment messages.

5.7.2  Replace statement.  Replace statements must identify a specific defective component or a component ambiguity group.  The defective components called out in an ambiguity group shall be listed in descending order of failure probability; however, high-cost components may be placed last or separately, upon Government approval. The tern\m last or separately, upon Government approval.  The term "REPLACE" shall be used in all fault statements, (e.g., "REPLACE SUBASSEMBLY A1" or "REPLACE R1, C1, VR1").

5.7.3  Adjustment messages.  These messages shall identify a required adjustment procedure or provide additional maintenance instructions to determine a malfunction.

5.8     Peripheral device limitation.

5.8.1  Input and output constraints.  When a specific requirement of this standard exceeds the physical constraints of an ATE system, (e.g., small formal displays such as narrow paper tape or short read outs), the ATE shall be exempt from that requirement only.  All other requirements shall remain in effect.

5.8.2  Clarity.  Regardless of format or type of peripheral equipment, the basic requirements of clarity and usability by the target audience shall be the same for all displayed messages.

5.9     Provisions for multiple experience level coverage.

5.9.1  General.  Messages shall be suitable for the entire range of probable users.

5.9.2  Selective underlining.  Key words and critical data shall be highlighted by underlining except where such information has been emphasized in another manner for reasons other than providing for multiple experience levels.

5.9.3  Option to suppress.  When a program displays lengthy sequences of operator instructions or general information that becomes familiar with use, the user shall be given the option of viewing or suppressing these displays.

5.10   Usability criterion.  Displayed messages shall be technically accurate, complete, properly sequenced, compatible with related hard-copy equipment publications and understandable by all levels of the target audience.

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