National Instruments 786444-01 Fault Insertion Module

The National Instruments 786444-01 (SLSC-12251) is a 16-channel Fault Insertion Module (FIM) designed for testing and validating electronic systems. This module integrates into NI’s Switch Load and Signal Conditioning (SLSC) platform and provides reliable fault insertion and load switching capabilities. A maximum continuous current of 8 A is supported by each channel, and flexible switching configurations are possible wherein any channel can be linked to a load. The highest switching voltage that the FIM can manage is 100 Vpeak, ensuring compatibility with high power applications.

Each channel is equipped with a current measurement output that offers proportional voltage for accurate monitoring. This feature enables real time current measurement with a full scale output of ± 2 V. This makes it possible to precisely measure the current through an external device. The 786444-01 also supports current and overtemperature protection that ensures robust operation even in demanding environments. Overcurrent limits for the DUT and buses range from 10 A to 29 A.

The 786444-01 module utilizes dual FET technology with a maximum switching rate of 30 Hz. The switches are durable and offer unlimited switch life when used within specified limits. With fast transition times, the module ensures quick response during test sequences with typical open and close times of 5.0 µs and 3.6 µs, respectively. This fast operation ensures minimal disruption in fault insertion and load switching which is critical in automated testing setups. The NI 786444-01 module also includes built-in temperature sensors for real time thermal monitoring. The sensor offers a measurement range from - 40 °C to 150 °C and provides high accuracy with a tolerance of ± 2 °C. This feature ensures the module operates safely within its thermal limits and reduces the risk of overheating during high current operations.

This fault insertion module fits into a single SLSC slot and has compact dimensions of 175 mm × 31 mm × 336 mm. The connections consist of a matching female connector for the load and an 18-pin Positronic Scorpion male connector for the DUT. The module is built to survive challenging operational conditions. It can operate within a broad temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C and store data between -40 °C and 85 °C.