Pxi Switch Modules
Pxi Switch Modules
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Contents
PXI Matrix Switch Modules
PXI Multiplexer Switch Modules
PXI Relay Modules
PXI RF Matrix Switch Modules
Software
What is PXI?
PXI Instrumentation
Supporting Documentation
Configure a Custom NI System
Hardware Services
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PXI Matrix Switch Modules
PXI-2529, PXIe-2529, PXIe-2531, PXI-2532B, PXIe-2532B, PXI-2533, PXI-2534, PXI-2535, PXI-
2536, PXIe-2737, PXIe-2738, and PXIe-2739
FIGURE 1
PXIe-2737, PXIe-2529, PXIe-2532B
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support 1- and 2-wire options
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 544 crosspoints in a single PXI slot
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, relay health monitoring, onboard relay count tracking,
and a wide variety of reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These
advanced features offer a smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and
defense.
55 V DC
PXI-2533 1A 1.5 MHz Solid-state 4x64, 1-wire matrix
30 V AC
55 V DC
PXI-2534 1A 2 MHz Solid-state 8x32, 1-wire matrix
30 V AC
120 V DC
PXI-2535 100 mA 1 MHz FET 4x136, 1-wire matrix
8 V AC
12 V DC
PXI-2536 100 mA 1 MHz FET 8x68, 1-wire matrix
8 V AC
Table 1: NI offers a variety of PXI Matrix Switch Modules, varying in topology, density, relay type, and voltage/current rating, allowing you to select the model that best fits
your needs.
Reconfigurable
topology
Onboard relay
count tracking
100 V CAT I, UL
Certified
Fastening screw
Key Features
Reconfigurable Topologies
As referenced in Table 1, many PXI Matrix Switch Modules can be reconfigured to achieve multiple topologies within a single device, allowing
you to select the topology that best suits your application. For example, the PXIe-2532B can be reconfigured into various matrix topologies,
ranging from a single 4x128, 1-wire matrix to a 16-bank 2x16, 1-wire matrix.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 3
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM.
FIGURE 4
The NI Switch Health center provides advanced relay health monitoring options, including functional and resistive self-tests, onboard relay count tracking, and report
generation.
The NI Switch Health Center is available on some NI switches. To check if this feature is supported by a switch module, reference the
following KnowledgeBase article: Which NI Switch Modules Support Resistive Self Test and Temperature Monitoring?
The NI Switch Health Center is a free application that installs with the NI-SWITCH driver that can be used to monitor individual relay health,
guide relay replacement, and generate user reports. The NI Switch Health Center verifies the condition of each relay by sending a signal
through a combination of routes and alerting users if a relay has failed stuck open or closed. Additionally, large changes in contact resistance
over time can indicate that a relay is approaching, or has reached, the end of life. The NI Switch Health Center tests for changes in resistance
using the integrated relay resistance test, allowing you to view the resistance change across individual relays and determine whether a relay is
nearing the end of its usable life. A large change in resistance from the baseline indicates that you will soon need to replace the relay.
For more information on the Switch Health Center, relays, or switch topologies, see the NI Switch Health Center white paper.
FIGURE 5
PXIe-2527, PXIe-2575, PXI-2530B
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support 1-, 2-, and 4-wire options
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 196 channels
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, onboard relay count tracking, and a wide variety of
reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These advanced features offer a
smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
Table 2: NI offers a variety of PXI Multiplexer Switch Modules, varying in topology, channel density, relay type, and voltage/current rating, allowing you to select the model that
best fits your needs.
Reconfigurable topology
Key Features
Reconfigurable Topologies
As referenced in Table 2, many PXI Multiplexer Switch Modules can be reconfigured to achieve multiple topologies within a single device,
allowing you to select the topology that best suits your application. In some cases, such as the PXIe-2524, this operation can be done in
software, without any additional hardware, by using internal relays to reshape the topology. In other cases, such as the PXI-2530B, it requires
different terminal blocks, which connect various signal paths to reshape the topology.
FIGURE 7
PXIe-2568, PXI-2564, PXIe-2569
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support SPST, SPDT, DPST, and DPDT options
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 100 relays
Up to 300 V or 12 A
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, onboard relay count tracking, and a wide variety of
reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These advanced features offer a
smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
16 SPST, non-latching
PXI-2564 150 V 5A 30 MHz EMR
8 DPST, non-latching
Table 3: NI offers a variety of PXI Relay Modules, varying in relay configuration, channel density, relay type, and voltage/current rating, allowing you to select the model
that best fits your needs.
Connectivity to cabling of
terminal block
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 9
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM.
FIGURE 10
PXIe-2540 and PXIe-2541
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Bandwidth up to 500 MHz
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Onboard relay count tracking
Ability to store RF path calibration information in NI Switch
Executive
Table 4: NI offers a variety of PXI RF Matrix Switch Modules, varying in topology, density, relay type, and bandwidth, allowing you to select the model that best fits your
needs.
Industry-standard connectivity
Fastening screw
FIGURE 12
Column expansion is straightforward using purchasable accessories with the PXIe-2541.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 13
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 14
PXIe-2543, PXI-2545, PXI-2596, PXI-2796
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Bandwidth up to 40 GHz
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Unterminated and terminated options
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, onboard relay count tracking, and a wide variety of
reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These advanced features offer a
smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
16-channel RF multiplexer
8-channel RF multiplexer
PXIe-2593 500 MHz 50 Ω No EMR
2-bank, 8-channel RF multiplexer
2-bank, 4-channel RF multiplexer
Table 5: NI offers a variety of PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Modules, varying in topology, channel density, relay type, and bandwidth, allowing you to select the model that
best fits your needs.
90 V CAT I, UL certified
Key Features
Reconfigurable Topologies
As referenced in Table 5, some PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Modules can be reconfigured to achieve multiple topologies within a single device,
allowing you to select the topology that best suits your application. For example, the PXIe-2593 can be reconfigured in software, without any
additional hardware, allowing you to reshape the topology into four different multiplexer configurations, with termination options.
FIGURE 16
The PXIe-2593 is one example of a PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Module that can be reconfigured into various multiplexer topologies, ranging from a 16-channel, unterminated
RF multiplexer to a 2-bank, 4-channel, terminated RF multiplexer.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 17
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 18
PXI-2599, PXI-2548, PXI-2549
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Bandwidth up to 40 GHz
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Unterminated and terminated options
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, onboard relay count tracking, and a wide variety of
reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These advanced features offer a
smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
Table 6: NI offers a variety of PXI RF Relay Modules, varying in relay configuration, channel density, relay type, and bandwidth, allowing you to select the model that best
fits your needs.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 20
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 21
NI-2816A, NI-2810A
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Up to 2,000 crosspoints in a single carrier
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 8,000 crosspoints in a single 18-slot PXI chassis
Additionally, SwitchBlock systems offer advanced features, such as relay health monitoring and onboard relay count tracking, providing you
with an intelligent way to monitor the health of your switching system. These advanced features offer a smarter way to tackle difficult
applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
Table 7: NI offers a variety of Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock, varying in topology, density, relay type, and voltage/current rating, allowing you to select the model that
best fits your needs. Each PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock can hold up to six Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock.
Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock cannot be used in a PXI chassis without a PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock, shown in Figure 22, which
serves as a sub-chassis within a PXI system. Each PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock can hold up to six Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock.
Figure 22. Detailed View of the PXI-2800 Carrier Module for SwitchBlock
Occupies four PXI
slots
Holds up to six
Matrix Modules for
SwitchBlock
Integrated analog
bus for easy matrix
expansion
Option to combine
multiple carriers
Fastening screw
100 V CAT I, UL
Certified
Key Features
Relay Health Monitoring
To simplify relay maintenance and increase reliability in high-channel-count systems, NI Matrix Switch Modules for SwitchBlock offer
advanced relay health monitoring features, such as onboard relay count tracking, which is available on all NI switch modules, and functional
relay self-tests, available through the NI Switch Health Center.
FIGURE 24
The NI Switch Health Center provides advanced relay health monitoring options, including functional and resistive self-tests, onboard relay count tracking, and report
generation.
The NI Switch Health Center is available for all Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock, but the resistive relay self-test feature is only available on
some PXI Matrix Switch Modules. To find out which devices support the resistive relay self-test feature, reference the KnowledgeBase article:
Which NI Switch Modules Support Resistive Self Test and Temperature Monitoring?
For more information on the Switch Health Center, relays, or switch topologies, see the NI Switch Health Center white paper.
FIGURE 25
The PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock (PXI-2800) occupies four PXI slots, can hold up to six 1-slot Matrix Modules for SwitchBlock, and has an integrated analog bus
designed to combine those matrix modules into a single large matrix, without additional external wiring.
The PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock (PXI-2800) has an integrated analog bus, allowing for easy matrix expansion without the need for
additional external cabling. Each Matrix Module for SwitchBlock has analog bus relays that connect its rows to the analog bus of the carrier,
effectively combining any matrices that are connected to the analog bus.
FIGURE 26
SwitchBlock is designed for easy matrix expansion, allowing up to 2,000 crosspoints in a single PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock (PXI-2800). Simply close the analog bus
relays to connect that Matrix Module for SwitchBlock with any other devices connected to the analog bus.
FIGURE 27
Type A modules provide column access and row access through the front connector, allowing for row-to-column connections and column-to-column connections.
Conversely, Type B modules only provide column access and are restricted to column-to-column signal routes, unless joined to a Type A card through the analog bus.
A single PXI Carrier Module for SwitchBlock can create a 2,000-crosspoint matrix in four PXI slots. For larger matrices up to 8,000
crosspoints in an 18-slot PXI chassis, you can combine multiple PXI Carrier Modules for SwitchBlock by inserting a SwitchBlock Expansion
Bridge (NI-2806) between two or more PXI Carrier Modules for SwitchBlock.
FIGURE 28
To create larger matrices, you can connect the analog buses of multiple PXI Carrier Modules for SwitchBlock by inserting a SwitchBlock Expansion Bridge (NI-2806)
between the two or more PXI Carrier Modules for SwitchBlock. However, you must remove the analog bus cover before inserting the SwitchBlock Expansion Bridge.
For more information on SwitchBlock, see the NI SwitchBlock Hardware Architecture white paper.
FIGURE 29
PXI-2567
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Control up to 64 external relays
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Source up to 50 V or 600 mA per channel
Source up to 25 A per module
Additionally, the PXI Relay Driver Module offers advanced features, such as hardware triggering and scanning to improve throughput, offering
a smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
25 A (per module)
PXI-2567 64 50 V
600 mA (per channel)
Table 8: NI PXI Relay Driver Modules provide a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) solution for controlling individual relays, allowing you to select various relay types and
design custom switch topologies, regardless of relay location.
Connectivity to cabling of
terminal block
The PXI-2567 can provide up to 50 V and 600 mA of drive capacity per channel when connected to an external power supply. Without an
external power supply, it can source up to 1.25 A from the 5 V pin or 500 mA from the 12 V pin provided by the PXI backplane. For added
protection, the eight banks of eight relay drivers are protected against overvoltage and overcurrent conditions. When the condition clears, the
channel is automatically reset so no disassembly of the module is required. Additionally, a Zener diode is included to protect against damage
from inductive loads.
FIGURE 31
Example configuration for connecting a single-coil, non-latching relay using one channel of the PXI Relay Driver Module and an external power supply.
FIGURE 32
Example configuration for connecting a two-coil, latching relay using two channels of the PXI Relay Driver Module and an external power supply.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 33
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 34
PXIe-2512, PXIe-2514, PXI-2510
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Two analog buses for fault and signal insertion
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 68 channels
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering and onboard relay count tracking, providing a smarter
way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
50 V DC
PXIe-2512 7 10 A 800 kHz FET
30 V AC
28 V DC
PXIe-2514 7 40 A 800 kHz FET
19.8 V AC
Table 9: NI offers a variety of PXI Signal Insertion Switch Modules, varying in channel density, relay type, and voltage/current rating, allowing you to select the model that
best fits your needs.
LED indicators
Connectivity to cabling
50 V CAT I, UL certified
FIGURE 36
An FIU can insert fault conditions between automated test equipment, such as hardware-in-the-loop simulation systems and devices under test. This FIU schematic is
capable of numerous example faults, including open circuit fault, short to ground, short to power, and pin-to-pin short.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 37
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 38
PXI-2598, PXI-2798
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Bandwidth up to 40 GHz
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Onboard relay count tracking
Ability to store RF path calibration information in NI Switch
Executive
Additionally, NI switch modules offer advanced features, such as hardware triggering, onboard relay count tracking, and a wide variety of
reconfigurable models, providing you the option to modify the topology of the switch based on your needs. These advanced features offer a
smarter way to tackle difficult applications in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace and defense.
Table 10: NI offers a variety of PXI Transfer Switch Modules with varying bandwidth, allowing you to select the model that best fits your needs.
You can store a list of switch connections in memory onboard the switch module and then use the integrated hardware scanning and
triggering engine to advance the switch sequence and rapidly communicate with any PXI instrument that can send and receive digital
triggers, such as DMM or oscilloscope. This advanced switching method removes the software overhead and reduces the bus latency
associated with traditional software-controlled switching operations for faster test execution with more repeatable timing.
FIGURE 40
Depiction of the Scanning Process from the NI-SWITCH API to the DMM
FIGURE 41
PXIe-2727, PXIe-2725
Software: Includes interactive Soft Front Panel API support Built-in DMM port for easy connectivity and path verification
for LabVIEW and text-based languages, shipping examples,
and detailed help files Up to 16 kΩ range
Table 11: NI offers a variety of PXI Programmable Resistor Modules, varying in resistance range, resolution, and density, allowing you to select the model that best fits your
needs.
60 V CAT I, UL certified
FIGURE 43
PXI Programmable Resistor Modules use banks of series resistors with optional, low-resistance parallel paths, enabled or disabled through relay actuation.
FIGURE 44
The NI-272x Reference VIs use a simple user interface that accepts inputs in units of temperature or resistance and configures the resistance across each channel.
FIGURE 45
Use the NI-SWITCH Soft Front Panel for interactive control of your switches.
NI-SWITCH API
In addition to the soft front panel, the NI-SWITCH driver includes a best-in-class API that works with a variety of development options such as
LabVIEW, C, C#, and others, allowing you to control individual relays within the PXI Programmable Resistor Module. The driver also provides
access to help files, documentation, and dozens of ready-to-run shipping examples you can use as a starting point for your application.
FIGURE 46
LabVIEW VI Using the NI-SWITCH API for Making Connections on a Switch.
FIGURE 47
Switch Executive Graphical Interface for Routing Connections.
Graphical programming environment that Data analytics software for measurement Test executive software that accelerates
engineers use to develop automated data search, inspection, analysis, and system development for engineers in
research, validation, and production test automated reporting. validation and production.
systems.
Display data in multiple 2D-axis Call and execute tests in LabVIEW,
Acquire data from NI and third-party systems Python, C/C++, or .NET
hardware and communicate using Perform calculations with a simple Conduct complex tasks, such as
industry protocols point-and-click interface parallel testing
Use configurable, interactive display Automate your measurement data Create customer operator interfaces
elements analysis workflow, from import to and robust tools for deployment and
Take advantage of available analysis analysis debugging
functions
Development software that helps No-code data acquisition software Application software that simplifies setup
engineers create web-based user engineers use to build validation and and configuration of NI PXI hardware
interfaces wihtout the need for traditional verification test applications.
web development skills. Customizable layouts for monitoring
Interactive visualization tools for multiple instruments at once
Data transfer APIs for connecting to monitoring tests with drag-and-drop Interactively debug in tandem with
systems written in LabVIEW, Python, charts, graphs, and controls code
or C# Ability to set alarms that monitor TDMS file export containing
Pre-built objects for data display and single channels or groups for instrument settings, measurements,
user input unexpected behavior and raw data
Included hosting on SystemLink™
Cloud
Computer Instrumentation
PXI Embedded Controller PXI Modules
Windows and Real-Time OS options, Intel DC to mmWave, oscilloscope, programmable
Xeon processing, peripheral ports, display power supply, switch/MUX, DMM, VSA, VSG,
output, integrated hard drive VST, AWG, SMU, DAQ
System Configuration, NI technicians assemble, install software in, and test your
• •
Assembly, and Test¹ system per your custom configuration prior to shipment.
System Return Material NI accepts the delivery of fully assembled systems when
•
Authorization (RMA)¹ performing repair services.
1 This option is only available for PXI, CompactRIO, and CompactDAQ systems.
2 This option is not available for all products in all countries. Contact your local NI sales engineer to confirm availability.
3 Expedited calibration is only available for the Traceable calibration level.
4 This applies to non-RF products only. Standard extended repair coverage for RF products is <15 working days + standard shipping.
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