Pickering UK Introduces New High Voltage LXI Scalable Matrix Platforms

Pickering, a leading manufacturer of signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, today introduced the new 65-218 series of 50x4 single-pole LXI matrix plug-in modules.

Pickering, a leading manufacturer of signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, today introduced the new 65-218 series of 50x4 single-pole LXI matrix card modules. These modules fit into Pickering's 65-200-002 LXI modular chassis and together build scalable, high-voltage matrix modules.

These modules can be installed in Pickering's 65-200-002 LXI modular chassis to create a scalable, high-voltage matrix platform that offers unit sizes up to 50x4 and total matrix sizes up to 300x4.

This series of modules is available in cold switching voltages of up to 400VDC or 750VDC (pulsed 1kV), both with a maximum current of 2A (pulsed 1kV).

Both have a maximum current of 2A (switching and load) and a maximum switching power of 60W. The single-pole matrix modules use high-quality solenoid relays that provide a long service life.

The modular structure of the LXI Expandable Platform provides a high degree of flexibility - additional cards can be added as needed, and the control software automatically detects and recognises the new configuration.

Plug-in cards can be inserted into the chassis through the front panel, making it easy to configure and maintain the unit.

If one module needs to be removed, the others can be left in the test system and connected via external cables to keep them working.

The 400V version (65-218-101 series) uses the analogue bus inside the 65-200 chassis to connect 50x4 plug-in modules to build larger matrices.

The 750V version (65-218-111 series) uses external cables to expand the matrix.

The front panel connectors on all 65-218 Series plug-in modules use high voltage 9-pin and 50-pin D-type connectors.

The Series 65-200 platforms provide built-in scan sequence storage with triggering.

By loading pre-defined test sequences into the unit and executing them automatically, test system efficiency is greatly enhanced.

The modules have been optimised in design to minimise channel resistance, which is less than 200mΩ per card channel.

This design facilitates reduced on-board power consumption and improved signal integrity; with a thermal offset of <4μV (typical), it may also be suitable for low signal level applications.

Steve Edwards, Switching Product Manager at Pickering, explains the new product: ‘With a chassis height of only 2U, the

Scalable high voltage switching solutions built using the 65-218 series of 50x4 matrix modules minimise the amount of cabinet space required for test systems.

These high voltage solutions are suitable for aerospace test application development as well as other industries such as automotive.’

In addition, Pickering offers a wide range of support accessories, including Pickering's diagnostic tools - the Built-In Relay Self-Diagnostic (BIRST) tool and the Switching System Inspection Tool, eBIRST.

can help users quickly and easily locate relay faults within a module. The new product, like all Pickering products, comes with a three-year warranty.

In addition, Pickering offers a range of standard or customisable interconnect accessories for Series 65-218 modules.