Industrial Equipment, Machinery & Capital Goods calculator
FAT Workload Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate factory acceptance test effort before shipment. It is written for machine builders running IO checks, sequence tests, safety validation, performance tests, customer witness runs, and punch list retests.
What this calculator does
- Estimate factory acceptance test workload from FAT checkpoints, test throughput, and retest allowance.
- Use it when planning test technicians, controls support, customer witness time, and documentation for FAT.
- The result estimates hours needed to complete the FAT scope.
Formula used
- Base FAT time = FAT checkpoints and test cases ÷ FAT completion throughput
- Required FAT workload = base FAT time × retest and customer witness allowance multiplier
Inputs explained
- FAT checkpoints and test cases: Count IO points, safety checks, sequence tests, performance runs, inspection items, and customer witness checks.
- FAT completion throughput: Use a measured test pace from similar machines, test stand history, or FAT procedures.
- Retest and customer witness allowance: Add time for failed checks, controls edits, customer questions, punch list documentation, and reruns.
How to use the result
- Use it to schedule test stands, controls engineers, customers, and shipment readiness.
- It depends on test procedure maturity, machine debug status, customer witness requirements, and first-pass test yield.
Common questions
- What is the FAT workload calculator for? It estimates the workload required to complete factory acceptance testing.
- What information should I enter? Use FAT checkpoint count, completion throughput, and retest or witness allowance.
- What does the result tell me? The result helps plan test resources and shipment timing.
- When is the result only an estimate? It is only an estimate when test scope, customer witness time, failures, or documentation needs change.
Last reviewed 2026-05-12.