General purpose PXI matrix offers up to 70MHZ bandwidth
Claimed to offer the industry’s highest bandwidth in a general purpose PXI matrix, the two-slot PXI model 40-588 and the PXIe model 42-588 are available from Pickering Interfaces.
They are offered in 16 x 8, two-pole, or high density 32 x 8, two-pole switching configurations, with bandwidths ranging from 35 to 70MHz depending upon path selected and a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) below 1.5:1 to 85MHz.
The model 40-588 and model 42-588 formats are constructed using telecommunications-grade electromechanical relays which are capable of hot or cold switching up to 2.0A at 220V DC/250V AC. Every signal has an accompanying analogue ground connection on the front panel connectors for interfacing with cabling accessories. Simple matrix expansion is facilitated by two groups of front panel Y-axis connections on the 32 x 8 variant.
According to Steve Edwards, switching product manager at Pickering, “The 40/42-588 modules’ increased bandwidth provides compatibility with higher frequency test signals. With careful matrix design and isolation switching, a high switching capacity can still be offered while maintaining excellent RF performance. These modules also offer electrically compatible replacement of another vendor’s legacy VXI switching product. This compatibility is part of Pickering’s VXI to PXI replacement program.”
The 40-588 and 42-588 high capacity, high bandwidth switching matrix modules are suitable for upgrades to legacy systems or new automated test equipment (ATE) designs in demanding environments, such as automotive and defence applications.
The modules are supported by Pickering’s eBIRST diagnostic test tools. They carry a three-year warranty, and are supplied with spare relays that allows customers—with appropriate training—to do repairs on-site, which minimises system downtime. A range of interconnect accessories is also available to support the 40-588 and 42-588 modules.
Pickering Interfaces designs and manufactures modular signal switching and simulation for use in electronic test and verification. The company claims to offer the largest range of switching and simulation products in the industry for PXI, LXI, and PCI applications. Pickering also provides supporting cables and connectors, diagnostic test tools and its own application software and software drivers which are created by our in-house software team.
