UK's Pickering significantly increases RF switch density

Introducing New 300MHz 32x8 PXI and PXIe Modules

Compact 4x-724 series modules for high performance RF switching systems

Achieve scalability and shorter testing cycles

Pickering, a leading manufacturer of signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, has recently launched a new 32x8 integrated PXI RF matrix module - the matrix density that can be accommodated in a single chassis slot has increased by 33% . The new compact PXI 40-724 and PXIe 42-724 series modules do not contain extended structure products with high performance of 300MHz available bandwidth.

The new module also offers a version with a Y-axis expansion port to meet the requirements of larger-scale application expansion matrices and achieve convenient scalability. To achieve maximum saturation in test system construction, the 4x-724 series offers four matrix sizes: 16x4, 16x8, 32x4 and the largest 32x8. Each size of matrix module offers a version with an expansion port. Unlike other RF matrix products, the expansion port is directly connected to the matrix, allowing X to X signal channels to be created between different boards when multiple modules are cascaded. This useful feature increases the flexibility of the test system but slightly reduces RF performance.

Commenting on the new product, Steve Edwards, Switch Product Manager at Pickering Interfaces said: “ The new product builds on Pickering’s existing RF matrix module technology by increasing the maximum matrix size to 32x8 for 50Ω test applications. This significantly increases density compared to the previous product, allowing complex switch systems to be built in just two chassis slots.”

The 4x-724 series RF matrix modules use high-quality sputtered ruthenium alloy reed relays to ensure an extremely long service life. In addition, the reed relay operation time is only 0.5ms (typical), which is much faster than electromagnetic relays, minimizing test cycle time and increasing test throughput.

The new products provide two control interfaces, PXI and PXIe, which are more flexible and convenient in chassis selection. All versions of the modules use the industry-standard SMB connector to maximize system performance while facilitating connection to external instruments and devices under test.

The new 4x-724 series RF matrix modules are suitable for general RF testing in a variety of applications, including emergency radio and semiconductor testing. Pickering's eBIRST switch system detection tool supports all versions of the 4x-724 module and can be used for preventive maintenance testing to determine if relays are approaching the end of their service life. In addition, the eBIRST tool can be used for rapid fault finding to minimize system downtime. Pickering's Connectors Division provides both standard and custom cable solutions to help customers integrate the modules into their test systems.