pickering 40-42-586B-001 PXI/PXIe 2 A 1-Pole High Density Matrix Module User Manual

40/42-586B User Manual
PXI/PXIe 2 A 1-Pole High Density Matrix ModuleIssue 1.1 March 2023
pickeringtest.com

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

© COPYRIGHT (2023) PICKERING INTERFACES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, translated or stored in any form, or by any means without the written permission of Pickering Interfaces.
Technical details contained within this publication are subject to change without notice.

ISO 9001
Reg No. FM38792

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

For Technical Support please contact Pickering Interfaces either by phone, the website or via e-mail.

WARRANTY

All products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces are warranted against defective materials and workmanship for a period of three years, excluding programmable power supplies, from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. Any product found to be defective within this period will, at the discretion of Pickering Interfaces be repaired or replaced.
Products serviced and repaired outside of the warranty period are warranted for ninety days.
Extended warranty and service are available. Please contact Pickering Interfaces by phone, the website or via e-mail.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Pickering Interfaces operates under an environmental management system similar to ISO 14001.
Pickering Interfaces strives to fulfil all relevant environmental laws and regulations and reduce wastes and releases to the environment. Pickering Interfaces aims to design and operate products in a way that protects the environment and the health and safety of its employees, customers and the public. Pickering Interfaces endeavours to develop and manufacture products that can be produced, distributed, used and recycled, or disposed of, in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
Worldwide Technical Support and Product Information
pickeringtest.com
Pickering Interfaces Headquarters
Stephenson Road Clacton-on-Sea CO15 4NL United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1255-687900
E-Mail: [email protected]
USA
Tel: (West) +1 541 471 0700
Tel: (East) +1 781 897 1710
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Sweden
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E-mail: [email protected]
Czech Republic
Tel: +420 558 987 613
E-mail: [email protected]
China
Tel: +86 4008 799 765
E-mail: [email protected]

PRODUCT SAFETY

SAFETY SYMBOLS
The following safety symbols may be used on the product and throughout the product documentation.

MEANING / DESCRIPTION
PROTECTIVE EARTH (GROUND)
To identify any terminal which is intended for connection to an external conductor for protection against electric shock in case of a fault, or the terminal of a protective earth (ground) electrode.
DANGEROUS VOLTAGE
To indicate hazards arising from dangerous voltages.
WARNING / CAUTION
An appropriate safety instruction should be followed or caution to a potential hazard exists.
Refer to the relevent instructions detailed within the product manual.
HEAVY
If this product is heavy reference should be made to the safety instructions for provisions of lifting and moving.
STATIC SENSITIVE
To indicate that static sensitive devices are present and handling precautions should be followed.

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

WARNING HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENTS
This product is not specifically designed for use in hazardous environments, for example in explosive atmospheres. If the product is to be used in hazardous environments we recommend that the user ensures suitable protective measures are taken.
WARNING DANGER OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
This module may contain hazardous voltages. Before removing the module from the rack remove all supplies and disconnect user I/O signals.
Unused slots in the PXI/LXI chassis are populated with blanking plates to prevent access to user I/O signals that may be present. Blanking panels are available to order from Pickering in a variety of slot widths. If the product is not used in this manner for example by using an extender card then additional care must be taken to avoid contact with exposed signals.
Not to be used in safety critical circuits, refer to the Pickering Interfaces’ terms & conditions of sale.
This module must not be used for the switching of Mains Circuits. For the switching of voltages up to the module’s full specification, Secondary Circuit power supplies and the Device Under Test must be fully isolated from the Mains Circuit and the safety earth.
The host chassis must be correctly installed and be connected to mains or factory safety ground, please refer to your chassis installation manual.

Diagram Showing Separation Between The
Mains Circuit and Secondary Circuit / DUT

For the purposes of this document, a Mains Circuit is an installation classified as Overvoltage Category II up to 300V. Separation between the Secondary Circuit and Mains Circuit is achieved by a transformer in which the primary windings are separated from the secondary windings by reinforced insulation, double insulation, or a screen connected to the protective conductor terminal.
CAUTION – HANDLING OF ELECTROSTATIC-SENSITIVE SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES
Certain semiconductor devices used in this equipment are liable to damage due to static voltage. Observe the following precautions when handling these devices in their unterminated state, or sub-assemblies containing these devices:

1. Persons removing sub-assemblies from equipment using these devices must be earthed by a wrist strap and a resistor at the point provided on the equipment.
2. Soldering irons used during the repair operations must be low voltage types with earthed tips and isolated from the mains voltage by a double insulated transformer.
3. Outer clothing worn must be unable to generate static charges.
4. Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) fitted with these devices must be stored and transported in anti-static bags.

CAUTION PRODUCT DOCUMENTATION
Suitably qualified & trained users should ensure that the accompanying documentation is fully read and understood before attempting to install or operate the product.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
All cleaning and servicing requires the equipment to be isolated and disconnected from the power source and user I/O signals (refer to the Maintenance Section).

• Appropriate manual handling procedures should be followed as dictated by the weight of the individual module or the combined weight of the modules & chassis.
• Should a fault occur with the module or chassis, immediately isolate and disconnect the incoming power to the chassis and the user I/O signals.
• Ensure the equipment is installed, operated and maintained by trained and authorised personnel.
• For suitably equipped products in the event of an emergency press the red “emergency stop” button situated on the front of the unit.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

• Available as PXI or PXIe Modules
• High Density Single-Slot 3U PXI 2 A Matrix with 256 Crosspoints
• 32×8 Single Pole Configuration
• Maximum Current 2 A Hot or Cold Switching
• Switch up to 300 VDC/250 VAC and up to 60 W Max Power
• Uses Gold-Plated Contact Electro-mechanical Relays
• Drivers Supplied for Windows & Linux, Plus Support for Real-time Systems
• PXI Version Supported by PXI or LXI Chassis
• Supported by BIRST ™ and eBIRST ™ Test Tools
• 3 Year Warranty

The 40-586B (PXI) 42-586B (PXIe) are 256 crosspoint matrices with single pole switching and a configuration of 32×8 using electro-mechanical relays with 2 A current handling.
The module is designed for switching medium voltage and power signals, typical applications include signal routing in ATE and data acquisition systems. The user signal connections are via a 50-pin D-type connector that is fully supported by our wide range of cable and connector accessories.
Built-In Relay Self-Test – BIRST
BIRST provides a quick and simple way of finding relay failures. No test equipment is required, simply disconnect the UUT from the module, launch the BIRST application and it will run a diagnostic test that will find all relays with faulty contacts. For more information go to: pickeringtest.com/birst

Pickering’s Range of 256 Crosspoint
2A PXI/PXIe Matrix Modules

Matrix Size| Poles| Max Current| Model No.
32×8| 2| 2A| 40-580-001
16×16| 40-5824-001
64×4| 40-583-001
128×2| 1| 2 A| 4x-5844-001
64×4| 40-585A-001
32×8| 1| 2 A| 4x-586B-001
16×16| 1| 2 A| 40-587B-001

Supported by eBIRST
This module is also supported by our eBIRST test tools. These tools simplify fault-finding by quickly testing the system and graphically identifying the faulty relay.
For more information go to: pickeringtest.com/ebirst
Updated Product Information
This product has been introduced as an update to the 40-586A, the changes are an updated PXI/ PXIe interface and a reduced path resistance of <400 mΩ compared to 500 mΩ for the previous version. Aside from the path resistance the electrical performance of the 40-586A and 4x-586B are identical.
Switching Specification

42-586B-001
300 VDC/250 VAC
300 VDC/220 VAC
Max Power:| 62.5 VA, 60 W from 30 V
to 220 VDC, 30 W to
300 VDC (resistive load)
Max Switch Current:| 2:00 AM
Max Continuous Carry Current:| 2:00 AM
Max Pulsed Carry Current Example (for a single switch path):| 6 A for 100 ms (up to 10 % duty cycle)
Initial On Path Resistance:| <400 mΩ
Off Path Resistance:| >10 9 Ω
Thermal Offset:| <5 µV
Max Number of Simultaneously Closed Crosspoints:| 100
Operate Time:| <3 ms
Expected Life (Operations)
Very low power load:| >1×10 8
Low power load:| >1.5×10 7 (0.1 A, 20 VDC)
Medium power load:| >5×10 6 (1 A, 30 VDC)
Full power load:| >1×10 5 (2 A, 30 VDC)

1×10 5 (0.1 A, 300 VDC)

• For full voltage rating, signal sources to be switched must be fully isolated from mains supply and safety earth.
  RF Specification

100 kHz: -55 dB
1 MHz: -35 dB
10 MHz: -20 dB
Isolation (typical):| 10 kHz: 60 dB
100 kHz: 60 dB
1 MHz: 40 dB
10 MHz: 20 dB

Power Requirements – 40-586B

130 mA
(typical)| 500 mA (typical)
1.3 A (max)| 70 mA
(typical)| 0

Power Requirements – 42-586B

Mechanical Characteristics
40-586B – Single slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card).
42-586B – Single slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot.
Module weight: 400 g
3D models for all versions in a variety of popular file formats are available on request.
Connectors
40-586B – PXI bus via 32-bit P1/J1 backplane connector.
42-586B – PXIe bus via XJ3 and XJ4 backplane connectors.
Signal via front panel 50-pin male D-type connector, for pin outs please refer to the operating manual.
PXI & CompactPCI Compliance – 40-586B
The module is compliant with the PXI Specification 2.2. Local Bus, Trigger Bus & Star Trigger are not implemented.
Uses a 33 MHz 32-bit backplane interface.
PXIe Compliance – 42-586B
The module is compliant with the PXIe Specification 1.0. Local Bus, Trigger Bus & Star Trigger are not implemented.
Safety & CE Compliance
All modules are fully CE compliant and meet applicable EU directives:
Low-voltage safety EN61010-1:2010,
EMC Immunity EN61326-1:2013,
Emissions EN55011:2009+A1:2010.
Product Order Codes

Product Customization
Pickering modules are designed and manufactured on our own flexible manufacturing lines, giving complete product control and enabling simple customization to meet very specific requirements.
Customization can include:

• Alternative relay types
• Mixture of relay types
• Alternative number of relays
• Different performance specifications

All customized products are given a unique part number, fully documented and may be ordered at any time in the future. Please contact your local sales office to discuss.
Operating/Storage Conditions

Support Products
eBIRST Switching System Test Tool
This product is supported by the eBIRST test tools which simplify the identification of failed relays, the required eBIRST tools are below. For more information go to: pickeringtest.com/ebirst

Spare Relay Kits
Kits of replacement relays are available for the majority of Pickering’s switching products, simplifying servicing and reducing down-time.

For further assistance, please contact your local Pickering sales office.
Mating Connectors & Cabling
For connection accessories for the 4x-586B module please refer to the 90-005D 50-pin D-type Connector data sheet where a complete list and documentation can be found.

42-586B-001 32×8 1-Pole
Matrix Module in PXIe Format

Chassis Compatibility
The PXI versions of this module are compatible with the following chassis types:

• All chassis conforming to the 3U PXI and 3U Compact PCI (cPCI) specification
• Legacy and Hybrid Peripheral slots in a 3U PXI Express (PXIe) chassis
• Pickering Interfaces LXI or LXI/USB Modular Chassis The PXIe versions of this module are compatible with the following chassis types:
• All chassis conforming to the 3U PXIe specification
• PXIe and Hybrid Peripheral slots in a 3U PXI Express (PXIe) chassis

Chassis Selection Guide
PXI and PXIe (with PXIe and/or Hybrid slots) Chassis from any Vendor:

• Mix our 1000+ PXI/PXIe switching & simulation modules with any vendor’s PXI/PXIe instrumentation
• Embedded or remote Windows PC control
• Real-time Operating System Support
• High data bandwidths, especially with PXI Express
• Integrated module timing and synchronization

Pickering LXI or LXI/USB Modular Chassis
Only accept our PXI Switching & Simulation Modules:

• Choose from 1000+ Pickering PXI Modules
• Ethernet or USB control enables remote operation
• Low-cost control from practically any controller
• LXI provides manual control via Web browsers
• Driverless software support
• Power sequencing immunity
• Ethernet provides chassis/controller voltage isolation
• Independence from Windows operating system

Connectivity Solutions
We provide a full range of supporting cable and connector solutions for all our switching products—20 connector families with 1200+ products. We offer everything from simple mating connectors to complex cables assemblies and terminal blocks. All assemblies are manufactured by Pickering and are guaranteed to mechanically and electrically mate to our modules. These accessories are detailed in Connector Accessories data sheets, where a complete list and documentation can be found for each accessory.

| | | |
---|---|---|---|---
Connectors & Backshells| Multi-way Cable Assemblies| RF Cable Assemblies| Breakouts| Connector Blocks

We also offer customized cabling and have a free online Cable Design Tool that can be used to create custom cable solutions for many applications.

• Fully supported on modern browsers and tablet operating systems.
• Built-in tutorials and videos allow you to get quickly up to speed.
• Store cable assemblies in the Cloud and develop over time.
• Each cable design has a downloadable PDF documentation file detailing all specifications

Start designing your custom cabling, go to pickeringtest.com/cdt

Mass Interconnect
We recommend the use of a mass interconnect solution when an Interchangeable Test Adapter (ITA) is required for PXI/LXI based test systems. Our modules are fully supported by Virginia Panel and MacPanel.
Pickering Reed Relays
We are the only switch provider with in-house reed relay manufacturing capability via our Relay Division. These instrument grade reed relays feature SoftCenter™ technology, ensuring long service life and repeatable contact performance.
To learn more go to pickeringrelay.com

Programming
Pickering provide kernel, IVI and VISA (NI & Keysight) drivers which are compatible with all Microsoft supported versions of Windows and popular older versions.
For more information go to pickeringtest.com/os
The VISA driver support is provided for LabVIEW Real Time Operating Systems (Pharlap and Linux-RT). For other RTOS support contact Pickering. These drivers may be used with a variety of programming environments and applications including:

• Pickering Interfaces Switch Path Manager
• National Instruments products (LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Switch Executive, MAX, TestStand, VeriStand, etc.)
• Microsoft Visual Studio products (Visual Basic, Visual C++)
• Programming Languages C, C++, C#, Python
• Keysight VEE and OpenTAP
• Mathworks MATLAB, Simulink
• Marvin ATEasy
• MTQ Testsolutions Tecap Test & Measurement Suite

Drivers for popular Linux distributions are available, other environments are also supported, please contact Pickering with specific enquiries. We provide Soft Front Panels (SFPs) for our products for familiarity and manual control, as well as comprehensive documentation and example programs to help you develop test routines with ease.
To learn more about software drivers and development environments go to pickeringtest.com/software
Signal Routing Software
Our signal routing software, Switch Path Manager, automatically selects and energizes switch paths through Pickering switching systems. Signal routing is performed by simply defining test system endpoints to be connected together, greatly accelerating Test System software development.
To learn more go to pickeringtest.com/spm

Diagnostic Relay Test Tools
eBIRST Switching System Test Tools are designed specifically for our PXI, PCI or LXI products, these tools simplify switching system fault-finding by quickly testing the system and graphically identifying the faulty relay.
To learn more go to pickeringtest.com/ebirst

Three Year Warranty & Guaranteed Long-Term Support
All standard products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces are warranted against defective materials and workmanship for three years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. Extended warranty and service agreements are available with various levels for your requirements. Although we offer a 3-year warranty as standard, we also include guaranteed long-term support—with a history of supporting our products for typically 15-20 years.
To learn more go to pickeringtest.com/support
Available Product Resources
We have a library of resources including success stories, product and support videos, articles and white papers as well as application-specific brochures to assist you. We have also published reference books on switching technology and the PXI and LXI standards.
To view, download or request any of our product resources go to pickeringtest.com/resources

MINIMUM SWITCH CURRENT
Minimum switch current for the 4x-586B is dependent upon usage. The relay type used in these models has gold plated contacts, a metal that does not tarnish with time and is usually considered well suited for low level switching. Gold is a soft metal, so when contacts come together they tend to make good electrical contact.
Also, the relays used here are sealed to RT V (which is hermetically sealed under the IEC61810 category of protection), minimizing the threat of contact contamination with age.
Under lower level signal conditions, these models will reliably switch current below 1nA. However, under higher signal level conditions there is an increased risk of erosion (especially for DC signal switching where metal transfer is potentially a significant problem) which exposes the underlying contact material. Hence, minimum switch capacity may be impacted when switching small loads after hot switching the same path under heavy load conditions.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.1. The PXI version of the module is powered by the +3.3V, +5V & +12V supplies from the backplane via Compact PCI connector J1. The PXIe version of the module is powered by the +3.3V & +12V supplies from the connectors XJ3 & XJ4. The interface to the user’s equipment is via the front panel mounted 50-pin male D-type connector, J2.
The module comprises a mother board and a daughter board populated with 1-pole electro-mechanical relays configured as a 32×8 matrix. The relays are energised via control signals from the relay drivers on the mother board and daugher board. Each relay driver is loaded with serial data from PCI bridge U1 to operate the required matrix crosspoint.The main PCI interface circuitry and the drivers and relays that make up one half of the matrix are built onto the mother board. The daughter board is fitted on top of the mother board and is populated with the drivers and relays that make up the other half of the matrix. Signals are sent between the two halves of the matrix via an interPCB connector. Module and bridge configuration information is stored in serial memory devices.

Figure 2.1 – 2 A 1-Pole HD Matrix Module 4x-586B: Functional Block Diagram

INSTALLATION

Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
Modular products require installation in a suitable PXI/LXI chassis. The module is designed for indoor use only.
PREOPERATION CHECKS (UNPACKING)

1. Check the module for transport damage and report any damage immediately to Pickering Interfaces. Do not attempt to install the product if any damage is evident.
2. Position the chassis relative to any other equipment the module(s) will connect with. Ensure the chassis is not connected to the electrical supply.
3. Ensure that the designated area for the chassis containing the module is of flat and solid construction to withstand and support the combined weight of the module and chassis.

HARDWARE INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL CONNECTION (CHASSIS)

1. The chassis containing the module must be electrically installed in accordance with local regional electrical codes by a qualified engineer.
2. The chassis containing the module must be grounded.

Electrostatic discharge can damage the components on the module. To avoid such damage in handling the board refer to page VII.
Ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
The module should be installed in accordance with the following procedure:

1. Ensure that the system is turned OFF but still connected to mains so that it remains grounded.

2. Choose an appropriate slot in the rack.

3. Remove the blanking plate for the chosen slot.

4. Ensure that the injector/ejector handle is in its downward position. Align the module with the card guides on the top and bottom of the slot. Do not raise the injector/ejector handle whilst inserting the module as the module will not insert properly.

5. Hold the handle whilst slowly sliding the module into the card guides until the handle catches on the injector/ejector rail (refer to Figure 3.1).

6. Raise the injector/ejector handle until the module firmly seats into the backplane. The front panel of the module should be flush with the front panel of the chassis.

7. Secure the front panel of the module using both screws to the chassis front panel mounting rails.

8. In a system employing a remote control interface to connect an external controller to a PXI chassis or to link multiple chassis, power-up the system as follows:
   a. For a system comprising an external controller and one chassis, power up the chassis before powering up the external controller.
   b. For a system comprising more than one chassis, turn ON the last chassis in the system followed by the penultimate, etc, and finally turn ON the external controller or chassis containing the system controller.

9. For Pickering Interfaces modular LXI installation there is no requirement to use any particular power up sequence.

Figure 3.1 – Installing the module
into a PXI/PXIe/cPCI/LXI Chassis

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
First install the appropriate Pickering PXI switch card drivers by running the installer program Setup.exe (provided in a compressed Zip file), either from the CD-ROM supplied, or by downloading the latest version from our website pickeringtest.com – the recommended method. Setup is accompanied by a ReadMe file containing additional installation information. A single installation covers all cards in the System 40, System 45 and System 50 ranges.
When installation completes, the installed drivers’ ReadMe file is offered for display. It can also be displayed later using a shortcut on the Programs>>Pickering menu.
If you are not a LabVIEW user you should choose the “full” version, and once that has been installed run the LabVIEW Runtime Engine installer via the shortcut on the Programs>>Pickering menu. In the absence of LabVIEW the Runtime Engine is required to support the Pickering Test Panels application.
TESTING OPERATION
After installation of the hardware and Pickering PXI Driver software package start the General Soft Front Panel (GSFP) using the desktop icon or via the Start menu (Start Menu-> Pickering Interfaces Ltd -> General Soft Front Panel).

Figure 3.2 – General Soft Front Panel Icon

A selector panel will appear, listing all installed Pickering PCI, PXI or LXI switch cards and resistor cards. Click on the card you wish to control, and a graphical control panel is presented allowing operation of the card. Panels can be opened simultaneously for all the installed cards.

More details how to use the GSFP can be found in the manual, via menu Help\Manual

PROGRAMMING

PROGRAMMING OPTIONS FOR PICKERING INTERFACES PXI/PXIe MODULES
For information on the installation and use of drivers and the programming of Pickering’s products in various software environments, please refer to the Software User Manual.
This is available as a download from: https://www.pickeringtest.com/support /software-drivers-and-downloads
Also, it can be accessed from the DVD supplied with the product: \downloads\Documentation\Software- Manual.pdf

PROGRAMMING THE HIGH DENSITY MATRIX
The 4x-586B is a single pole switching matrix with 32 connections on the X-axis and 8 connections on the Y-axis. Connections are made by operating the relays at the crosspoints between X and Y lines allowing single X-Y connections, or X-X connections using a Y line as a path. The matrix architecture is shown in the diagrams below:

The entire matrix is treated as a single programming sub-unit designated as Sub-Unit 1. The following page gives some simple examples using the provided drivers: the IVI driver, the Direct IO driver, and the IVI compliant driver.
USING THE IVI DRIVER, DIRECT DRIVER OR VISA DRIVER
This section provides some code fragments which show how to control the Very High Density Matrix using the IVI Driver, Direct I/O Driver or the VISA Driver.
Once the drivers are installed the manual “Sys40Prg.pdf” and driver help files which fully describes these functions can be found in the Pickering folder(s) or the Pickering entries on your Start Menu.
The card must be opened before use and closed after using the following function calls:
Direct I/O Driver – Open with PIL_OpenCards or PIL_OpenSpecifiedCard and close with PIL_CloseCards or PIL_CloseSpecifiedCards respectively.
VISA Driver – Open with pipx40_init, and close with, pipx40_close.
Setting a Matrix Crosspoint:
Using the IVI driver:
pi40iv_Connect(vi, “x1”, “y2”); //set crosspoint x1, y2 to on
pi40iv_Disconnect(vi, “x1”, “y2”); //set crosspoint x1, y2 to off
Using the Pickering Direct I/O driver:
DWORD SubUnit = 1;
PIL_ClearSub(CardNo, SubUnit); //clear all crosspoints to off state
PIL_OpCrosspoint(CardNo, SubUnit, 2, 1, 1); //set crosspoint x1, y2 to on
PIL_OpCrosspoint(CardNo, SubUnit, 2, 1, 0); //set crosspoint x1, y2 to off
Using the VISA driver:
ViUInt32 SubUnit = 1;
pipx40_clearSub(vi, SubUnit); //clear all crosspoints off state
pipx40_setCrosspointState (vi, SubUnit, 2, 1, VI_ON); //set crosspoint x1, y2 on
pipx40_setCrosspointState (vi, SubUnit, 2, 1, VI_OFF); //set crosspoint x1, y2 off

CONNECTOR INFORMATION

Figure 5.1 – 2 Amp 1-Pole 32×8 Matrix Module 4x-586B-001:
50-pin D-type Male Connector Pinout
(Viewed From Front of Module)

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
INSTALLATION PROBLEMS
The Plug & Play functionality of Pickering switch cards generally ensures trouble-free installation.
If you do experience any installation problems you should first ensure that all cards are properly seated in their slots. Improperly mated cards may go undetected by the operating system, or may be detected as a card of an unknown type. They can also cause the computer to freeze at various stages in the boot sequence.
If your system employs a remote control interface you should check the integrity of all remote control interface links. When the system is powered up, and during Windows start-up, you should expect to see periodic activity on the remote control interface RX/TX
(yellow) indicators, clearing to leave only the PWR/ LNK (green) LEDs illuminated. The RX/TX indicators should show activity when you attempt to access a card.
DIAGNOSTIC UTILITY
The Pickering Diagnostic Utility (accessible through the Programs>>Pickering>>PXI Utilities menu) generates a diagnostic report of the system’s PCI configuration, highlighting any potential configuration problems. Specific details of all installed Pickering switch cards are included. All the installed Pickering switch cards should be listed in the “Pilpxi information” section – if one or more cards is missing it may be possible to determine the reason by referring to the PCI configuration dump contained in the report, but interpretation of this information is far from straightforward, and the best course is to contact Pickering support: [email protected] , if possible including a copy of the diagnostic report.
DIAGNOSTIC UTILITY
In the “VISA information” section, if VISA is not installed its absence will be reported. This does not affect operation using the Direct I/O driver, and is not a problem unless you wish to use VISA. VISA is a component of National Instruments LabWindows/ CVI and LabVIEW, or is available as a standalone environment.
If VISA is present and is of a sufficiently recent version, the section “Pipx40 information” should present a listing similar to “Pilpxi information”.
Please note that the Diagnostic Utility cannot access cards if they are currently opened by some other application, such as the Test Panels or Terminal Monitor.
SWITCHING SYSTEM TEST TOOLS
Please refer to Section 7 – Maintenance Information

MAINTENANCE INFORMATION

Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
This product and its corresponding chassis do not require any periodic maintenance.
GENERAL CLEANING

• Isolate the electrical power from the chassis and ensure that no user I/O signals are being applied.
• Wipe the product & chassis surfaces with a clean dry anti-static cloth only.

SOFTWARE UPDATE
For PXI modules operating in a PXI chassis, no module software updates are required. For the latest version of the driver please refer to our web site pickeringtest.com  where links to our Software Download page will provide the latest version of the driver software for the various programming environments encountered.
For PXI modules which are supported in one of Pickering Interfaces’ Modular LXI Chassis (such as the 60-102B and 60-103B) no module software update is required. If the module was introduced after the LXI chassis was manufactured the module may not be recognized, in this case the chassis firmware may need upgrading. This is a simple process which is described in the manual for the Modular LXI Chassis.
SWITCHING SYSTEM TEST TOOLS
USING BIRST ™ (BUILT-IN RELAY SELF TEST)
The Pickering Interfaces BIRST (Built-In Relay Self Test) Tool provides a simple means of testing selected Pickering Interfaces switching products, including this model. The tool can be used to find relay faults or to provide confirmation that a product is operating correctly, either as part of the regular system calibration or because a system fault is suspected and the switch system needs to be eliminated from the fault finding procedure.
BIRST SOFTWARE
The application program for BIRST is supplied with the support disc included when the product is shipped. Alternatively the program can be downloaded from Pickering Interfaces web site: pickeringtest.info/downloads/BIRST/
Warning: The BIRST facility requires that the UUT is disconnected from the products front panel connector(s). Failure to disconnect could result in either misleading results or damage to the BIRST hardware within the product.
Please refer to the documentation accompanying the application for detailed usage / operation details.
For further general information on BIRST click here.
USING eBIRST
We recommend the use of eBIRST to provide a check of the correct operation of relays and to identify the location of any faulty relay. For more information on eBIRST click here.
RELAY LOOK-UP TABLES
The following pages provide a cross reference between the signal paths of the product and the physical relays on the PCB. The tables can be used in the fault finding process and should be used in conjunction with the corresponding PCB layout diagrams to identify the position of faulty relays. Users of eBIRST switching system test tools do not need to use this information to locate faulty relays.
4x-586B RELAY LOOK-UP TABLES
The tables should be used in conjunction with the PCB layout diagrams in Figures 7.1 and 7.2 (Mother Board and Daughter Board for PXI version) or Figures 7.3 and 7.4 (Mother Board and Daughter Board for PXIe version).

4x-586B RELAY CROSS REFERENCE – MOTHER BOARD

Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
X| Y| X| Y| X| Y| X| Y
1| 1| RL1| 1| 2| RL33| 1| 3| RL65| 1| 4| RL97
2| 1| RL2| 2| 2| RL34| 2| 3| RL66| 2| 4| RL98
3| 1| RL3| 3| 2| RL35| 3| 3| RL67| 3| 4| RL99
4| 1| RL4| 4| 2| RL36| 4| 3| RL68| 4| 4| RL100
5| 1| RL5| 5| 2| RL37| 5| 3| RL69| 5| 4| RL101
6| 1| RL6| 6| 2| RL38| 6| 3| RL70| 6| 4| RL102
7| 1| RL7| 7| 2| RL39| 7| 3| RL71| 7| 4| RL103
8| 1| RL8| 8| 2| RL40| 8| 3| RL72| 8| 4| RL104
9| 1| RL9| 9| 2| RL41| 9| 3| RL73| 9| 4| RL105
10| 1| RL10| 10| 2| RL42| 10| 3| RL74| 10| 4| RL106
11| 1| RL11| 11| 2| RL43| 11| 3| RL75| 11| 4| RL107
12| 1| RL12| 12| 2| RL44| 12| 3| RL76| 12| 4| RL108
13| 1| RL13| 13| 2| RL45| 13| 3| RL77| 13| 4| RL109
14| 1| RL14| 14| 2| RL46| 14| 3| RL78| 14| 4| RL110
15| 1| RL15| 15| 2| RL47| 15| 3| RL79| 15| 4| RL111
16| 1| RL16| 16| 2| RL48| 16| 3| RL80| 16| 4| RL112
17| 1| RL17| 17| 2| RL49| 17| 3| RL81| 17| 4| RL113
18| 1| RL18| 18| 2| RL50| 18| 3| RL82| 18| 4| RL114
19| 1| RL19| 19| 2| RL51| 19| 3| RL83| 19| 4| RL115
20| 1| RL20| 20| 2| RL52| 20| 3| RL84| 20| 4| RL116
21| 1| RL21| 21| 2| RL53| 21| 3| RL85| 21| 4| RL117
22| 1| RL22| 22| 2| RL54| 22| 3| RL86| 22| 4| RL118
23| 1| RL23| 23| 2| RL55| 23| 3| RL87| 23| 4| RL119
24| 1| RL24| 24| 2| RL56| 24| 3| RL88| 24| 4| RL120
25| 1| RL25| 25| 2| RL57| 25| 3| RL89| 25| 4| RL121
26| 1| RL26| 26| 2| RL58| 26| 3| RL90| 26| 4| RL122
27| 1| RL27| 27| 2| RL59| 27| 3| RL91| 27| 4| RL123
28| 1| RL28| 28| 2| RL60| 28| 3| RL92| 28| 4| RL124
29| 1| RL29| 29| 2| RL61| 29| 3| RL93| 29| 4| RL125
30| 1| RL30| 30| 2| RL62| 30| 3| RL94| 30| 4| RL126
31| 1| RL31| 31| 2| RL63| 31| 3| RL95| 31| 4| RL127
32| 1| RL32| 32| 2| RL64| 32| 3| RL96| 32| 4| RL128

4x-586B RELAY CROSS REFERENCE – DAUGHTER BOARD

Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.| | Crosspoint| Relay No.
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
X| Y| X| Y| X| Y| X| Y
1| 5| RL129| 1| 6| RL161| 1| 7| RL193| 1| 8| RL225
2| 5| RL130| 2| 6| RL162| 2| 7| RL194| 2| 8| RL226
3| 5| RL131| 3| 6| RL163| 3| 7| RL195| 3| 8| RL227
4| 5| RL132| 4| 6| RL164| 4| 7| RL196| 4| 8| RL228
5| 5| RL133| 5| 6| RL165| 5| 7| RL197| 5| 8| RL229
6| 5| RL134| 6| 6| RL166| 6| 7| RL198| 6| 8| RL230
7| 5| RL135| 7| 6| RL167| 7| 7| RL199| 7| 8| RL231
8| 5| RL136| 8| 6| RL168| 8| 7| RL200| 8| 8| RL232
9| 5| RL137| 9| 6| RL169| 9| 7| RL201| 9| 8| RL233
10| 5| RL138| 10| 6| RL170| 10| 7| RL202| 10| 8| RL234
11| 5| RL139| 11| 6| RL171| 11| 7| RL203| 11| 8| RL235
12| 5| RL140| 12| 6| RL172| 12| 7| RL204| 12| 8| RL236
13| 5| RL141| 13| 6| RL173| 13| 7| RL205| 13| 8| RL237
14| 5| RL142| 14| 6| RL174| 14| 7| RL206| 14| 8| RL238
15| 5| RL143| 15| 6| RL175| 15| 7| RL207| 15| 8| RL239
16| 5| RL144| 16| 6| RL176| 16| 7| RL208| 16| 8| RL240
17| 5| RL145| 17| 6| RL177| 17| 7| RL209| 17| 8| RL241
18| 5| RL146| 18| 6| RL178| 18| 7| RL210| 18| 8| RL242
19| 5| RL147| 19| 6| RL179| 19| 7| RL211| 19| 8| RL243
20| 5| RL148| 20| 6| RL180| 20| 7| RL212| 20| 8| RL244
21| 5| RL149| 21| 6| RL181| 21| 7| RL213| 21| 8| RL245
22| 5| RL150| 22| 6| RL182| 22| 7| RL214| 22| 8| RL246
23| 5| RL151| 23| 6| RL183| 23| 7| RL215| 23| 8| RL247
24| 5| RL152| 24| 6| RL184| 24| 7| RL216| 24| 8| RL248
25| 5| RL153| 25| 6| RL185| 25| 7| RL217| 25| 8| RL249
26| 5| RL154| 26| 6| RL186| 26| 7| RL218| 26| 8| RL250
27| 5| RL155| 27| 6| RL187| 27| 7| RL219| 27| 8| RL251
28| 5| RL156| 28| 6| RL188| 28| 7| RL220| 28| 8| RL252
29| 5| RL157| 29| 6| RL189| 29| 7| RL221| 29| 8| RL253
30| 5| RL158| 30| 6| RL190| 30| 7| RL222| 30| 8| RL254
31| 5| RL159| 31| 6| RL191| 31| 7| RL223| 31| 8| RL255
32| 5| RL160| 32| 6| RL192| 32| 7| RL224| 32| 8| RL256

Figure 7.1 – 40-586B Component Layout – Mother Board (PXI Version) Figure 7.2 – 40-586B Component Layout – Daughter Board (PXI Version) Figure 7.3 – 42-586B Component Layout – Mother Board (PXIe Version) Figure 7.4 – 42-586B Component Layout – Daughter Board (PXIe Version)

PXI/PXIe 2A 1-Pole High Density Matrix 4x-586B
Issue 1.1 March 2023
pickeringtest.com

References

• The Reed Relay Leaders | Reed Relays | Pickering Electronics
• PXI, LXI, USB & PCI switching & simulation for Test & Measurement
• BIRST - Built-in Relay Self-Test
• Cable Design Tool for Custom Cable Assemblies | Pickering Interfaces
• eBIRST - Switching System Test Tools | Pickering Interfaces
• Operating System Support for Pickering Products
• Resources
• Software Drivers and Application Software Packages | Pickering Interfaces
• Switch Path Manager Signal Routing Software| Pickering Interfaces
• Support | Pickering Interfaces
• Pickering Downloads
• Software Drivers & Downloads

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