National Instruments 778572-41 PXI RF Matrix Switch Module

The National Instruments 778572-41 (or PXI-2541) is a PXI RF matrix switch module. It is an 8x12 RF signal switching matrix that is specially designed to offer high performance in test systems. Its non-blocking design allows simultaneous connections between any row and column within the matrix. 

The 778572-41 can handle a maximum switching voltage of 60 V DC (42.4 Vpk) and a maximum current of 0.5 A per channel. It supports a maximum RF power of 10 W per channel in a 50 Ω system. It can manage up to three channels (simultaneously) at this power level up to 300 MHz. The initial DC path resistance is typically less than 2.1 Ω that can increase to 3.1 Ω by the end of the relay's life.

This NI 778572-41 module offers strong RF performance characteristics. The nominal characteristic impedance of this unit is 50 Ω. The insertion loss for signals up to 300 MHz is less than 3 dB from row in to column, and less than 1 dB from row in to row out. The VSWR is kept below 2.2 from row in to column and below 1.8 from row in to row out. This RF matrix switch module supports column expansion by connecting multiple 778572-41 modules to create larger matrices like 8x24 or 8x36.

The dynamic characteristics of the 778572-41 include a simultaneous relay drive limit of 40 relays along with a maximum operate and release time of 0.25 ms. The relay life is exceptional with mechanical endurance of up to 10 million cycles. The electrical endurance of relay varies on the load conditions.

The triggering capabilities include input and output triggers through PXI trigger lines, with a minimum pulse width of 150 ns and programmable output pulse width from 1 μs to 62 μs. The 778572-41 unit features 28 MCX jacks for I/O connectivity and operates within a temperature range of 0 °C to 55 °C. It complies with several safety and EMC standards.