- Pickering Interfaces, a provider of modular switching and signal simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, announces the 65-218 Series 1-pole 50×4 plug-in matrix modules.
- These modules can fit into Pickering’s 65-200-002 Series 2U LXI modular chassis to form a scalable high-voltage matrix platform that enables matrixing up to 300×4 in steps of 50×4.
The single-pole matrix modules, incorporating electromechanical relays, are available in two variants capable of providing cold switching at 400 VDC or 750 VDC (1 kV pulse), up to 2 A (switching and transport) and a maximum switching power of 60 W.
The modular platform in LXI format is characterized by its flexibility. As requirements change, plug-in modules can be added. The control software automatically detects the new hardware configuration.
The plug-in matrices are inserted into the chassis from the front. This makes it easy to configure and maintain the switch unit. When one module needs to be removed, the others can remain in the test system with the external wiring connected to the functional plug-ins.
The 65-218-101 (400 V) module can use the internal analog bus of the LXI chassis (65-200) to connect the 50×4 matrix plug-ins to form a larger matrix. The 65-218-111 (750 V) module uses external wiring to expand the matrix.
The front panel connections for these plug-in modules are via 9-pin and 50-pin high-voltage D-type connectors.
The LXI platform (65-200) has built-in memory blocks to provide instruction sequencing (Scan List) and triggering capabilities. This allows predefined test sequences to be loaded onto the unit and executed automatically.
The module design has been optimized to minimize the path resistance to less than 200 mΩ per plug-in path. This design promotes on-board power dissipation and improves signal integrity. A thermal offset of less than 4μV (typical) makes it possible to implement low signal level applications.
This solution supports Pickering’s diagnostic tools such as BIRST (Built-in Relay Self-Test) and eBIRST (Switching System Test) which provide a quick and easy way to find failed relays in modules.
