Featuring enhanced hot switching up to 1kV and designed for tasks like circuit board testing and semiconductor monitoring, these modules combine advanced technology and safety features to meet the most demanding test environments.
Pickering Interfaces has unveiled its newest product line: the high-density PXI and PXIe multiplexer (MUX) modules designed for high-voltage applications. This latest release, featuring models 40-321-1xx (PXI) and 42-321-1xx (PXIe), introduces robust 1- or 2-pole multiplexers, configurable with different bank sizes and channel counts ranging from four to 48. These modules are engineered for both hot and cold switching, capable of handling up to 1000 VDC or 1000 VAC peak, all integrated with high-quality reed relays.
The key features include:
- Ideal for High-Voltage Tasks: Suited for circuit board isolation testing, relay testing, semiconductor breakdown monitoring, and cable harness insulation testing.
- Advanced Relays: Features advanced ruthenium relays, enhancing hot switching capabilities up to 1kV—a significant increase from the previous 750V capacity.
- Quality Components: Utilizes miniature instrumentation-grade reed relays designed for longevity and precise performance at low signal levels.
- Compact Design:Boasts a compact and high-density form factor, optimizing space and functionality.
The new MUX range is tailored to meet diverse system requirements, offering 20 distinct module configurations. These include variations in the number of banks, channel counts, and the choice between single or dual slot-width PXI modules. Connectivity is facilitated via one or two D-type connectors mounted on the front panel, supported by a comprehensive suite of standard and custom cables, connectors, and breakouts. Enhancing safety and operational longevity, each module includes RFI suppression circuitry to manage surges and transients during hot and cold switching scenarios.
The hardware interlock prevents switch operation until a specific interlock signal is present, ensuring both system and operator protection. This feature can be daisy-chained for coordinated module operation. Moreover, the 4x-321 series is backed by Pickering’s eBIRST test tools, facilitating preventive maintenance and fast fault localization to minimize downtime. Offered with comprehensive driver support for all major software programming environments and operating systems, the 4x-321 range comes with a three-year warranty and a promise of long-term product support, reinforcing Pickering Interfaces’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Steve Edwards, Switching Product Manager at Pickering, highlights the range’s versatility, noting its capability to double the switch payload compared to existing or competing PXI/PXIe products. A hardware interlock mechanism further reinforces safety.
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Akanksha Sondhi Gaur is a journalist at EFY. She has a German patent and brings a robust blend of 7 years of industrial & academic prowess to the table. Passionate about electronics, she has penned numerous research papers showcasing her expertise and keen insight.
