pickering 40-42-780B-524 PXI PXIe Microwave Relay User Manual

pickering 40-42-780B-524 PXI PXIe Microwave Relay

Specifications

• Product Name: PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B
• Issue: 3.2
• Date: July 2022
• Manufacturer: Pickering Interfaces
• Website: pickeringtest.com
• ISO Certification: ISO 9001 Reg No. FM38792
• Warranty: 3 years against defective materials and workmanship (excluding programmable power supplies)
• Extended warranty and service available
• Environmental Policy: Operates under an environmental management system similar to ISO 14001, aims to protect the environment and the health and safety of employees, customers, and the public

Product Usage Instructions

Contacting Technical Support
If you require technical support for the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B, you can contact Pickering Interfaces through the following channels:

• Phone: +44 (0)1255-687900 (Headquarters)
• Email: sales@pickeringtest.com
• Website: pickeringtest.com

Warranty Information
All products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces, including the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B, are covered by a warranty of three years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. If a product is found to be defective within this period, Pickering Interfaces will repair or replace it at their discretion. Products serviced and repaired outside of the warranty period are warranted for ninety days. Extended warranty and service options are also available. To learn more, please contact Pickering Interfaces through the provided channels.

Product Safety

Safety Symbols
The following safety symbols may be used on the product and throughout the product documentation:

• PROTECTIVE EARTH (GROUND): This symbol identifies any terminal intended for connection to an external conductor or protective earth (ground) electrode for protection against electric shock in case of a fault.
• DANGEROUS VOLTAGE: This symbol indicates hazards arising from dangerous voltages.
• WARNING / CAUTION: This symbol indicates that an appropriate safety instruction should be followed or caution that a potential hazard exists.
• Refer to the relevant instructions detailed within the product manual.
• HEAVY: If the product is heavy, reference should be made to the safety instructions for proper handling.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Q: How long is the warranty for the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B?
   A: The warranty for the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B is three years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser.

2. Q: Can the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B be repaired or replaced if found to be defective?
   A: Yes, if the product is found to be defective within the warranty period, Pickering Interfaces will repair or replace it at their discretion.

3. Q: Are there extended warranty and service options available for the PXI/PXIe Microwave SPDT Relay Modules 40/42-780B?
   A: Yes, extended warranty and service options are available. Please contact Pickering Interfaces for more information.

© COPYRIGHT (2022) 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.

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 fulfill 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: sales@pickeringtest.com.

USA

• Tel: (West) +1 541 471 0700
• Tel: (East) +1 781 897 1710
• E-mail: ussales@pickeringtest.com

France

• Tel +33 9 72 58 77 00
• E-mail frsales@pickeringtest.com

Germany

• Tel: +49 89 125 953 160
• E-mail: desales@pickeringtest.com

Sweden

• Tel: +46 340-69 06 69
• E-mail: ndsales@pickeringtest.com

Czech Republic

• Tel: +420 558 987 613
• E-mail: desales@pickeringtest.com

China

• Tel: +86 4008 799 765
• E-mail: chinasales@pickeringtest.com.

PRODUCT SAFETY

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

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 host 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.

CAUTION – HANDLING OF ELECTROSTATIC-SENSITIVE 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.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

• Available as PXI or PXIe Modules
• 1, 2, 3 or 4 SPDT Relays Per Module
• 1, 2 or 3 SPDT Relays From Remote Version
• 12.4 GHz, 18 GHz, 26.5 GHz, 40 GHz, 50 GHz & 67 GHz Bandwidth in 50 Ω
• 2.5 GHz Bandwidth in 75 Ω
• High Power N-Type Options
• Tree Networks may be Constructed by Inter-Linking Individual Modules
• Failsafe & Latching Relay Options
• Relay Cycle Counting Included
• LED Indication (Failsafe Versions Only)
• PXI Version Supported by PXI or LXI Chassis
• VISA, IVI & Kernel Drivers Supplied for Windows
• 3 Year Warranty

The 40-780B (PXI) and 42-780B (PXIe) Microwave switching modules consist of one, two, three or four SPDT switches capable of switching frequencies to 67 GHz in 50 Ω or 2.5 GHz in 75 Ω. Connections are made via front panel mounted high-quality RF coaxial connectors, SMA/N-Type for 50 Ω and 1.6/5.6 in 75 Ω versions. Remote versions are also available which can support up to three SPDT relays in a single slot. The remote versions, as well as occupying less panel space in the case of the triple options, allow the microwave relays to be placed closer to the UUT and RF test equipment. This can shorten the length of cables and improve system performance. Remote multiplexers are supplied with a 1.5 m interface cable.

The 4x-780B range gives you the highest RF and microwave switching performance available within a Pickering switching system. Although designed for microwave applications, they have many uses in the RF spectrum where extremely low insertion loss and ultra-high isolation are critical. They may also be used for lower frequency RF applications where power handling to 240 W is required (700 W for N-Type options).

Product Compatibility
The 4x-780B range has been introduced as an update to the existing 40-780A family. These remain orderable but the new 4x-780B is recommended as it provides additional options such as the PXIe control interface. The RF performance of the 4x-780B is identical to the 40-780A.

Relay Type
To provide maximum flexibility this range is available with either failsafe or latching relays. For definition, the contacts of failsafe relays return to the default state when the system power is removed whereas latching relay contacts retain their last set state when the power is removed.

Relay Cycle Counting
To aid with module “health” monitoring all versions are provided with a relay cycle counting cycle feature. The number of operations per contact are stored on the module and can be used to determine if a relay is approaching EOL. This information could allow system connections to be revised so that signals applied to heavily used contacts are swapped with lightly used contacts to prolong the working life of the relay(s).

Remotely Mounted Microwave Relay Versions

18 GHz & 26.5 GHz Versions

40 GHz & 50 GHz Versions

67 GHz Versions

12.4 GHz N-type Versions

2.5 GHz 75Ω Versions

General Specification

Configuration:| SPDT Microwave Switch,

1 to 4 independent banks.

---|---
Indicators:| Blue LEDs indicate activated relays

(failsafe versions only)

Operate Time:| 15 ms for 12.4 GHz relays,

10 ms for all others

Expected Life:| >2 million operations for 67 GHz relays,

10 million operations for all other relays

Power Requirements – 40-780B Failsafe Versions

Power Requirements – 42-780B Failsafe Versions

Power Requirements – 40-780B Latching Versions

Power Requirements – 42-780B Latching Versions

Connectors
40-780B – PXI bus via 32-bit P1/J1 backplane connector. 42-780B – PXIe bus via XJ3 and XJ4 backplane connectors. Signals via front panel mounted coaxial connectors:

• 2.5 GHz versions – 75 Ω 1.6/5.6 connectors
• 12.4 GHz versions – 50 Ω N-type connectors
• 18 GHz versions – 50 Ω SMA connectors
• 26.5 GHz versions – 50 Ω SMA connectors
• 40 GHz versions – 50 Ω SMA 2.9 connectors.
• 50 GHz versions – 50 Ω SMA 2.4 connectors.
• 67 GHz versions – 50 Ω SMA 1.85 connectors.

Mechanical Characteristics

Front panel mounted switches:

• 40-780B single & dual (except -511 & -512)
  Single-slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)

• 40-780B-511
  Double slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)

• 40-780B-512
  Triple slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)

• 40-780B triple & quad
  Double slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)

• 42-780B single & dual (except -511 & -512)
  Single-slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot

• 42-780B-511
  Double slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot

• 42-780B-512
  Triple slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot

• 42-780B triple & quad
  Double slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot

Remote mounted switches:

• 42-780B single, dual & triple remote mount versions
  Single-slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot

• 40-780B single, dual & triple remote mount versions
  Single-slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)

Remote-mounted switch versions are supplied with a 1.5 m interface cable for each of the supplied microwave relays.

• Module weight: 200 g (40-780B-522).

3D models for all versions in a variety of popular file formats are available on request.

Operating/Storage Conditions

• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to +55 °C
• Humidity: Up to 90 % non-condensing
• Altitude: 5000 m
• Storage Temperature: -20 °C to +75 °C
• Humidity: Up to 90 % non-condensing
• Altitude: 15000 m

Product Order Codes

Example part numbers:

• A PXI dual, SPDT 26.5 GHz, failsafe, the panel-mounted module would require part number 40-780B-532
• A PXIe single, SPDT 18 GHz, latching, remote-mounted module would require part number 42-780B-521-E-LA
• Please refer to the user manual for all individually defined valid part numbers.

Connection Accessories
For a complete list of connection accessories and documentation for the 4x- 780B module please refer to our RF connectors datasheet (90-011D).

Warranty
This module carries a 3-year warranty. The warranty specifically applies to only the cold-switching operations of the relay within the stated lifetime.

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.

• PXI & CompactPCI Compliance – 40-780B
  • The module is compliant with the PXI Specification 2.2. Local Bus, Trigger Bus and Star Trigger are not implemented.
  • Uses a 33 MHz 32-bit backplane interface.
• PXIe Compliance – 42-780B
  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.

The 4x-780B is part of a range of switching modules suitable for RF and microwave applications.

Pickering’s Range of PXI & PXIe Microwave Switching Modules

Switch Type| Banks| Frequency Range| Model No.
SPDT

Unterminated

| 1, 2, 3 or 4 Panel Mount,

1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount

| 2.5 GHz (75Ω) or 12.4 – 67 GHz (50Ω)| 4x-780B
SPDT

Terminated

| 1 or 2 Panel Mount| 18 – 50 GHz (50Ω)| 4x-781A
Transfer Switch| 1 or 2 Panel Mount| 18 – 50 GHz (50Ω)| 4x-782B
SP4T or SP6T

Unterminated

| 1, 2 or 3 Panel Mount,

1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount

| 6 – 40 GHz (50Ω)| 4x-784B
SP4T or SP6T

Terminated or Unterminated

| 1 or 2 Panel Mount,

1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount

| 2.5 GHz (75Ω) or 3 – 67 GHz (50Ω)|

4x-785C

SP8T, SP10T or SP12T

Terminated or

Unterminated

|

1 or 2 Panel Mount,

1 or 2 Remote Mount

|

8 – 26.5 GHz (50Ω)

|

4x-788

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.

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 provides 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 is also compatible with Real-Time Operating Systems such as LabVIEW 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++)
• Keysight VEE and OpenTAP
• Mathworks MATLAB, Simulink
• Marvin ATEasy
• MTQ Testsolutions Tecap Test & Measurement Suite
• Python

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.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.1. The module is powered by +5V (PXI), +3.3V and +12V supplies via PCI Bus connectors mounted on the mother board. The interface to the user test equipment is via the microwave relay’s SMA, N-type or 1.6/5.6 connectors. The module comprises a PCB populated with control logic and a front panel that provides mounting for 1, 2, 3 or 4 failsafe or latching changeover microwave relays (the remote -E option controls 1, 2 or 3 relays via a 1.5m screened cable). The relays and front panel LED indicators (failsafe versions only) are energised via control signals from the relay driver device. The relay driver is addressed by PCI bridge U1, to output the required signal. Module configuration and setup information for the PCI bridge is stored in Serial EPROM devices.

Figure 2.1 – PXI Microwave Relay Module 40/42-780B: Functional Block Diagram

INSTALLATION

Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
Modular products require installation in a suitable PXI/PXIe/LXI chassis. The module is 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(s) and chassis.

HARDWARE INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL CONNECTION (CHASSIS)

1. The chassis must be electrically installed in accordance with local regional electrical codes by a qualified engineer.
2. The chassis must be grounded.
3. Electrostatic discharge can damage the components on the module. To avoid such damage in handling the board.
4. 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 blank 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:

   • For a system comprising an external controller and one chassis, power up the chassis before powering up the external controller.
   • 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.

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. The 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 the 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).

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

PROGRAMMING GUIDE

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.

MODULE ARCHITECTURE
The 40/42-780B modules are microwave changeover relays with single, dual, triple, or quad switches mounted on the front panel, or single, dual, or triple switches controlled remotely via cables. The number of switches and maximum frequency handling is dependent upon the product order code. They are available in either failsafe or latching versions. The contacts of failsafe relays return to the default state when the system power is removed whereas latching relay contacts retain their last set state when the power is removed.

In the default state, the relay signal path is between the Com and the NC position as shown in the diagrams below.

One sub-unit is used to control all the module’s relays as shown below. Enabling a particular bit energizes the corresponding relay, opening the Com to NC connection and closing the Com to NO connection.

Changeover (SPDT) Relay Module

Sub-Unit

|

Bit

| Triple SPDT Relay (40/42-780B-xx1, 40/42-780B-xx1-LA,

40/42-780B-xx1-E &

40/42-780B-xx1-E- LA)

Signal Path When Relay Enabled

| Triple SPDT Relay (40/42-780B-xx2, 40/42-780B-xx2-LA,

40/42-780B-xx2-E &

40/42-780B-xx2-E- LA)

Signal Path When Relay Enabled

| Triple SPDT Relay (40/42-780B-xx3, 40/42-780B-xx3-LA,

40/42-780B-xx3-E &

40/42-780B-xx3-E- LA)

Signal Path When Relay Enabled

|

Quad SPDT Relay (40/42-780B-xx4 & 40/42-780B-xx4-LA)

Signal Path When Relay Enabled

1

| 1| Com 1 to NO 1| Com 1 to NO 1| Com 1 to NO 1| Com 1 to NO 1
2| –| Com 2 to NO 2| Com 2 to NO 2| Com 2 to NO 2
3| –| –| Com 3 to NO 3| Com 3 to NO 3
4| –| –| –| Com 4 to NO 4

PROGRAMMING THE MODULE
Here are some simple examples of using the drivers with the 40/42-780B quad SPDT relay module.

Using PILPXI
To operate a relay the user could use the simple OpBit command or the WriteSub commands

OpBit

DWORD sub_unit = 1;
PIL_OpBit( card_num, sub_unit, 1, 1); // Operates Relay 1 (Connects Com to NO) PIL_OpBit( card_num, sub_unit, 1, 0); // Releases Relay 1 (Connects Com to NC) PIL_OpBit( card_num, sub_unit, 2, 1); // Operates Relay 2 (Connects Com to NO)

WriteSub

• // Sub-unit is 4 bits wide, so 1 DWORD is needed to hold the pattern DWORD data[1];
• data[0] = 1; // Sets lowest bit to 1, Operates Relay 1 PIL_WriteSub( card_num, sub_unit, data); data[0] = 0x2; // Sets 2nd bit, Operates Relay 2
• // All other relays are set to off PIL_WriteSub( card_num, sub_unit, data);

Using PIPX40
setChannelState

ViUInt32 sub_unit = 1;

• pipx40_setChannelState(vi, sub_unit, 1, VI_ON); // Operates Relay 1
• pipx40_setChannelState(vi, sub_unit, 1, VI_OFF); // Releases Relay 1
• pipx40_setChannelState(vi, sub_unit, 2, VI_ON); // Operates Relay 2

setChannelPattern

• // Sub-unit is 4 bits wide, so 1 ViUInt32 value is needed to hold the entire pattern ViUInt32 data[1];
• data[0] = 1; // Sets lowest bit to 1, Operates Relay 1 pipx40_setChannelPattern( vi, sub_unit, data);
• data[0] = 0x2; // Sets 2nd bit, Operates Relay 2
• // All other relays are set to off pipx40_setChannelPattern( vi, sub_unit, data);

Using pi40iv
The IVI driver treats each relay as a unit and labels the channels using com/no or com/nc labeling tags.

• pi40iv_Connect(vi, “com1”, “no1”); // Operates Relay 1 (Connects Com to NO)
• pi40iv_Disconnect(vi, “com1”, “no1”); // Releases Relay 1 (Disconnects Com from NO)
• // This is required by IVI, “com1” must be disconnected before it can be connected to // another node i.e. “nc1”.
• pi40iv_Connect(vi, “com1”, “nc1”); // These two commands are included
• pi40iv_Disconnect (vi, “com1”, “nc1”); //for clarity but they have no effect
• pi40iv_Connect (vi, “com2”, “no2”); //Operates Relay 2 (Connects Com to NO)

The IVI Switch driver specification contains no bulk setting capabilities.

CONNECTOR INFORMATION

NOTE

1. Only the correct SMA connector series should be mated with these modules. The 40/42-780B range uses SMA, SMA-2.9, SMA-2.4 & SMA-1.85 connectors for 18-26.5, 40, 50 & 67GHz as shown in the table, and the user should only mate the correct type to the module, failure to do so may result in damage to the connector.
2. It is important that the SMA connector’s nut is properly tightened to the correct torque with a 5/16 inch wrench. This should be 3-5 in·lbs (0.3 to 0.6 N·m) for brass, and 7-10 in·lbs (0.8–1.1 N·m) for stainless steel connectors.

NOTE

1. Only the correct SMA connector series should be mated with these modules. The 40/42-780B range uses SMA, SMA-2.9, SMA-2.4 & SMA-1.85 connectors for 18-26.5, 40, 50 & 67GHz as shown in the table, and the user should only mate the correct type to the module, failure to do so may result in damage to the connector.
2. It is important that the SMA connector’s nut is properly tightened to the correct torque with a 5/16 inch wrench. This should be 3-5 in·lbs (0.3 to 0.6 N·m) for brass, and 7-10 in·lbs (0.8–1.1 N·m) for stainless steel connectors.
3. For the remote versions, the relays must not be disconnected from the module when it is energised as this can result in failure of the relay drivers.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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 are missing it may be possible to determine the reason by referring to the PCI configuration dump contained in the report, but the interpretation of this information is far from straightforward, and the best course is to contact Pickering support: support@pickeringtest.com, if possible including a copy of the diagnostic report.

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.

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 website 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 that 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.

PART NUMBER LIST

The tables below show the complete list of part numbers for all the possible operating frequencies, channel counts, and bank number combinations for the 4x-780B microwave relay range of modules.

Product Order Codes – Panel Mounted Microwave SPDT Relays – Failsafe Versions

 | 12.4 GHz, 50 Ω (N-Type)| 18 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 26.5 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 40 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.9)

| 50 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.4)

| 67 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 1.85)

| 2.5 GHz, 75 Ω (1.6/5.6)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Single Failsafe| PXI| 40-780B-511| 40-780B-521| 40-780B-531| 40-780B-541| 40-780B-551| 40-780B-571| 40-780B-751
PXIe| 42-780B-511| 42-780B-521| 42-780B-531| 42-780B-541| 42-780B-551| 42-780B-571| 42-780B-751
Dual Failsafe| PXI| 40-780B-512| 40-780B-522| 40-780B-532| 40-780B-542| 40-780B-552| 40-780B-572| 40-780B-752
PXIe| 42-780B-512| 42-780B-522| 42-780B-532| 42-780B-542| 42-780B-552| 42-780B-572| 42-780B-752
Triple Failsafe| PXI| —| 40-780B-523| 40-780B-533| 40-780B-543| 40-780B-553| 40-780B-573| 40-780B-753
PXIe| —| 42-780B-523| 42-780B-533| 42-780B-543| 42-780B-553| 42-780B-573| 42-780B-753
Quad Failsafe| PXI| —| 40-780B-524| 40-780B-534| 40-780B-544| 40-780B-554| 40-780B-574| 40-780B-754
PXIe| —| 42-780B-524| 42-780B-534| 42-780B-544| 42-780B-554| 42-780B-574| 42-780B-754

Product Order Codes – Remote Mounted Microwave SPDT Relays – Failsafe Versions

 | 12.4 GHz, 50 Ω (N-Type)| 18 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 26.5 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 40 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.9)

| 50 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.4)

| 67 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 1.85)

| 2.5 GHz, 75 Ω (1.6/5.6)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Single Failsafe| PXI| 40-780B-511-E| 40-780B-521-E| 40-780B-531-E| 40-780B-541-E| 40-780B-551-E| 40-780B-571-E| 40-780B-751-E
PXIe| 42-780B-511-E| 42-780B-521-E| 42-780B-531-E| 42-780B-541-E| 42-780B-551-E| 42-780B-571-E| 42-780B-751-E
Dual Failsafe| PXI| 40-780B-512-E| 40-780B-522-E| 40-780B-532-E| 40-780B-542-E| 40-780B-552-E| 40-780B-572-E| 40-780B-752-E
PXIe| 42-780B-512-E| 42-780B-522-E| 42-780B-532-E| 42-780B-542-E| 42-780B-552-E| 42-780B-572-E| 42-780B-752-E
Triple Failsafe| PXI| 40-780B-513-E| 40-780B-523-E| 40-780B-533-E| 40-780B-543-E| 40-780B-553-E| 40-780B-573-E| 40-780B-753-E
PXIe| 42-780B-513-E| 42-780B-523-E| 42-780B-533-E| 42-780B-543-E| 42-780B-553-E| 42-780B-573-E| 42-780B-753-E

Product Order Codes – Panel Mounted Microwave SPDT Relays – Latching Versions

 | 12.4 GHz, 50 Ω (N-Type)| 18 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 26.5 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 40 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.9)

| 50 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.4)

| 67 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 1.85)

| 2.5 GHz, 75 Ω (1.6/5.6)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Single Latching| PXI| 40-780B-511-LA| 40-780B-521-LA| 40-780B-531-LA| 40-780B-541-LA| 40-780B-551-LA| 40-780B-571-LA| 40-780B-751-LA
PXIe| 42-780B-511-LA| 42-780B-521-LA| 42-780B-531-LA| 42-780B-541-LA| 42-780B-551-LA| 42-780B-571-LA| 42-780B-751-LA
Dual Latching| PXI| 40-780B-512-LA| 40-780B-522-LA| 40-780B-532-LA| 40-780B-542-LA| 40-780B-552-LA| 40-780B-572-LA| 40-780B-752-LA
PXIe| 42-780B-512-LA| 42-780B-522-LA| 42-780B-532-LA| 42-780B-542-LA| 42-780B-552-LA| 42-780B-572-LA| 42-780B-752-LA
Triple Latching| PXI| —| 40-780B-523-LA| 40-780B-533-LA| 40-780B-543-LA| 40-780B-553-LA| 40-780B-573-LA| 40-780B-753-LA
PXIe| —| 42-780B-523-LA| 42-780B-533-LA| 42-780B-543-LA| 42-780B-553-LA| 42-780B-573-LA| 42-780B-753-LA
Quad Latching| PXI| —| 40-780B-524-LA| 40-780B-534-LA| 40-780B-544-LA| 40-780B-554-LA| 40-780B-574-LA| 40-780B-754-LA
PXIe| —| 42-780B-524-LA| 42-780B-534-LA| 42-780B-544-LA| 42-780B-554-LA| 42-780B-574-LA| 42-780B-754-LA

Product Order Codes – Remote Mounted Microwave SPDT Relays – Latching Versions

 | 12.4 GHz, 50 Ω (N-Type)| 18 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 26.5 GHz, 50 Ω (SMA)| 40 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.9)

| 50 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 2.4)

| 67 GHz, 50 Ω

(SMA 1.85)

| 2.5 GHz, 75 Ω (1.6/5.6)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Single Latching| PXI| 40-780B-511-E-LA| 40-780B-521-E-LA| 40-780B-531-E-LA| 40-780B-541-E-LA| 40-780B-551-E-LA| 40-780B-571-E-LA| 40-780B-751-E-LA
PXIe| 42-780B-511-E-LA| 42-780B-521-E-LA| 42-780B-531-E-LA| 42-780B-541-E-LA| 42-780B-551-E-LA| 42-780B-571-E-LA| 42-780B-751-E-LA
Dual Latching| PXI| 40-780B-512-E-LA| 40-780B-522-E-LA| 40-780B-532-E-LA| 40-780B-542-E-LA| 40-780B-552-E-LA| 40-780B-572-E-LA| 40-780B-752-E-LA
PXIe| 42-780B-512-E-LA| 42-780B-522-E-LA| 42-780B-532-E-LA| 42-780B-542-E-LA| 42-780B-552-E-LA| 42-780B-572-E-LA| 42-780B-752-E-LA
Triple Latching| PXI| 40-780B-513-E-LA| 40-780B-523-E-LA| 40-780B-533-E-LA| 40-780B-543-E-LA| 40-780B-553-E-LA| 40-780B-573-E-LA| 40-780B-753-E-LA
PXIe| 42-780B-513-E-LA| 42-780B-523-E-LA| 42-780B-533-E-LA| 42-780B-543-E-LA| 42-780B-553-E-LA| 42-780B-573-E-LA| 42-780B-753-E-LA

Pickering Interfaces Headquarters

• Stephenson Road Clacton-on-Sea CO15 4NL United Kingdom
• Tel: +44 (0)1255-687900
• E-Mail: sales@pickeringtest.com.

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• E-mail: chinasales@pickeringtest.com.

References

• The Reed Relay Leaders | Reed Relays | Pickering Electronics
• PXI, LXI, USB & PCI switching & simulation for Test & Measurement
• 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
• PXI, LXI, USB & PCI switching & simulation for Test & Measurement
• Software Drivers & Downloads

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