Pickering Interfaces have a
range of very high density VXI switching modules. All System
30 modules are SCPI programmed, Message based, C sized cards.
They are suitable for complex functional test applications
requiring very high density switching with fast switching
times.
The initial range includes very high density matrix
modules containing up to 2340 relays per module. With this
level of density we will be offering a "Switching System
On A Card". System 30 matrix modules will be available
both with and without automatic relay self test. They are
available in a wide variety of formats with many other configurations
available to order.
All System 30 cards are self contained message
based VXI modules, they do not require special master adapters
to be added to the first switching card (these convert VXI
instructions into a propriety serial local bus protocol, locking
you into that cards manufacturer).
Built In RS-232 Port
All System 30 VXI modules have an RS-232 port built right
on the front panel. This offers the following significant
advantages:
- Full SCPI command set functionally.
- RS-232 port allows easy familiarization and debugging
of your final VXI code from any RS-232 terminal.
- Module re-configuration may be done via RS-232 port
(no banks of confusing DIP switches). This is all assisted
with built-in help screens.
- Firmware updates may be downloaded from the Web (or
floppy disc/CD ROM) using the RS-232 port (firmware includes
all code and gate array configurations).
- May be used as an RS-232 controlled standalone switching
module (no VXI chassis or slot 0 controller required).
Please contact Pickering Interfaces for further information.
- Choice of 8 baud rates up to 57600 and higher.
Very High Density VXI Switching Pickering Interfaces
VXI cards offer very high density switching. Up to 2340
relays per card, this is up to 10X the switching capacity
of competing VXI switching cards (from HP, Tektronix, Racal,
etc). So one high density System 30 matrix card will have
the equivalent switching capacity of a fully loaded VXI
chassis using competing modules. This greatly increases
switching density and will reduce overall system cost.
Reed Relays For Maximum Performance and Reliability
All high density switching cards use only high quality
reed relays (not inferior electromechanical relays as in
most competing products), these give very long life (over
100000000 operations) and very consistent contact resistance
in a hermetically sealed reed relay (very important for
low level signal switching).
SCPI Message Based Interface with Built-In Self
Test
All modules have a built in 32 bit embedded microprocessor
together with a custom gate array for fast loading of switching
patterns. Operating speed is close to register based modules
but with the flexibility and ease of programming of a SCPI
message based interface. The embedded microprocessor allows
our matrix cards to have extensive Built-in Self Test, some
cards have relay self test with diagnosis down to reed relay
level including switch contact test.
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