PXI / PXIe 5A power relay modules double the switching density
High density power relay modules released by Pickering Interfaces are claimed to offer twice the switching density of the nearest competitor available today.
The 40/42-153 and 40/42-158 can hot switch to 1250VA with low path resistance and thermal offset. The two 5A module families are available in PXI and PXIe formats.
They are suitable for switching heavy AC or DC loads or for controlling large external relays, contactors and solenoids. Configuration options are up to 50 SPST (single pole single throw) relays (-153) or 32 SPDT (single pole double throw) relays (-158). The additions to Pickering’s range of 5A switching modules use industrial-grade EMR power relays and support various power testing requirements. The 40/42-153 family offers 18, 25, 36 or 50 off SPST relay loadings, and the 40/42-158 provides eight, 16, 24 or 32 off SPDT versions. Devices can hot-switch inductive / capacitive loads up to 5A at 250V AC to a maximum power of 150W/1250VA (-153) or 175W / 1250VA (-158). Cold-switching performance is up to 400V DC /250V AC peak. The power relay modules offer low path resistance of less than 35mOhm with a thermal offset of just 3.0microV (typical) and typical bandwidths of 65MHz (-153) and 100MHz (-158) at the -3dB point.
All modules are available with an optional hardware interlock that, when activated, returns all fully functional relays to the default unpowered (open) state. The interlock status is also monitored by the control software and will notify the user when attempting to operate relays when the interlock is activated. This feature is especially useful where relay operation is to be prevented until specific hardware conditions occur. Hardware interlocking can be used as a functional stop to de-energise the relays.
The 40/42-153 & 40/42-158 PXI/PXIe power relay module families have been designed to maximise switch payload while minimising the physical footprint and maintaining performance, commented Steve Edwards, switching product manager, at Pickering. “The single-slot footprint, available with a PXI or PXIe control interface, provides flexibility in chassis selection and minimises PXI, PXIe, or LXI chassis slot count,” he said.
The high density power relay modules can be used in automotive, aerospace and defence ATE systems as well as general purpose switching applications.
Partially populated options duplicate the front panel connector interface and pin-out of existing Pickering 5.0A products, to provide a transition to a PXIe control interface. VISA, IVI and Kernel drivers are supplied for Windows operation.
The PXI / PXIe power relay modules come with a three-year warranty.
