PXI Multiplexers Tout High Density and Performance
Pickering Interfaces unveiled a family of high-density PXI and PXIe multiplexer modules for high-voltage applications, the 40-321-1xx (PXI) and 42-321-1xx (PXIe) one- or two-pole multiplexers. Provided in various bank quantities and channel counts, the multiplexers can perform hot or cold switching up to 1,000 V DC or 1,000 V AC peak. The MUX range offers 20 different module configurations, with channel counts from four to 48, in bank quantities from one to six, allowing switching solutions to be tailored closely to test system requirements.
The multiplexers feature high-quality ruthenium relays from the company’s relay division, enabling a hot switching capability from 750 V in the existing ranges to 1 kV, with cold switching up to 1 kV. All modules include RFI suppression circuitry to extend relay contact life in hot switching applications and during control surges from high-voltage transients under cold switching. The suppressors ensure safe operation with a high-voltage source that has cable assemblies that otherwise may generate transients or create RFI problems.
The multiplexers also include a hardware interlock to prevent switch operation until the interlock signal is present, or as a means to return all functional switches to their default unpowered state to protect the test system and operator. The interlock signal can also be daisy-chained between modules for independent or ganged operation. The 4x-321 modules are supported by Pickering’s eBIRST test tools for preventative maintenance tests as well as fast fault finding to minimize system downtime.
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Pickering Interfaces
PXI and PXIe multiplexer modules