Keithley's New Reed Relay Matrix Card Combines Ultra-High Density and Superior Configuration Flexibility

Matrix switching configurations offer system designers wide testing flexibility by allowing them to connect multiple inputs to multiple outputs; matrices are particularly useful for applications in which the system must make connections between several instruments and a multipin device. The Model 3732 has four banks of high-speed reed relays; each bank has four rows and 28 columns (4x28), providing a total of 448 single-pole crosspoints. These relays can be configured in a number of different ways, enabling the matrix size to be easily adapted to existing or future applications. For example, bank-configuration relays included on the card allow configuring the matrix banks automatically as a single 4x112 matrix or as two isolated 4x56 matrices, with no need for external wiring. The card also has analog backplane relays that allow expanding columns across cards automatically, up to a maximum of 4 rows by 672 columns in a single mainframe using six Model 3732 matrix cards. The Model 3732 also supports two-pole switching by automatically pairing relays to create either a dual 4x28 or a single 4x56 configuration.

The card uses dry reed relays that offer both low contact potential and low current offset to minimize the switching errors that often accompany this relay technology. Additionally, these relays will switch up to 200V at carry currents up to 1.2A, specifications not available in other high-density, card-based matrix solutions. The fast-switching, long-life reed relays have a switching speed of 0.6 milliseconds and are rated for more than 109 no-load operations, both necessary specifications for switching systems used in automated testing applications.

The Model 3732 uses two 78-pin male D-sub connectors for signal and configuration connections. Accessories available include matching D-sub cables and screw terminal blocks. Three- and five-year extended warranties are also available.

Series 3700 System Switch/Multimeter Family

The Model 3732 is the latest addition to the Series 3700 System Switch/Multimeter and Plug-in Card Family. These combination instruments offer users the accuracy and flexibility of instrument-grade switching integrated with low-noise, high performance multimeter measurements. With up to 7-1/2-digit resolution, these one-box solutions are well-suited to a wide range of research and product development applications.

Series 3700 instruments include a variety of capabilities optimized for multi-channel testing, including multiple remote interfaces (LXI Class B, GPIB, and USB) and a wide assortment of cards. For Ethernet users, an embedded graphing toolkit provided through the instrument’s onboard web page allows for easy, point-and-click system configuration, test sequencing, and data analysis. Keithley's embedded Test Script Processor (TSP®) technology offers unparalleled system automation, throughput, and flexibility by bringing PC-like functionality into the instrument. TSP‑Link, a high-speed communication bus that simplifies expanding systems to keep pace with changing test demands, also provides for seamless integration with Series 2600A System SourceMeter® instruments, for adding high-speed I-V source and measurement capabilities.