Pickering Interfaces augments PXI microwave MUX

The 40-785C (PXI) and 42-785C (PXIe) modules feature internal relay terminations that can improve signal integrity. Devices feature panel and remote mount options that enable users to locate the switches at the most convenient location for their application; remote mount options occupy a single chassis slot but can control up to three switches, saving space.

The 4x-785C family is based on industry-leading superior quality Radiall mechanical microwave switches. The addition of 67GHz 50 Ω internally terminated switches allows unused channels of a test system to be terminated in the characteristic impedance of the signal path, thus maximizing signal integrity.

Remote mount options connect each switch to the control module via a 1.5M cable providing flexibility in switch positioning. This reduces the length of RF connections, maximising performance and minimising cabling costs. Chassis slot count is minimised as only three slots are required for a single configuration - or six slots for dual panel mount switch - or just a single slot for the remote mount versions.

Steve Edwards, Switching Product Manager at Pickering Interfaces commented, "To aid with test system health monitoring, the 4x-785C family is provided with a switch cycle counting feature. Determining the number of operations per channel can help manage the wear-out process by allowing alternate lower usage paths to be substituted for high-use channels."

Pickering also offers a range of high-quality interconnection cables to support RF applications, and their standard three-year warranty covers all modules.