National Instruments 781421-15 Matrix Switch Card

The National Instruments 781421-15 (NI 2815B) Matrix Switch Card is a high density versatile switching solution designed for the NI SwitchBlock platform. This switch card is optimized for matrix configuration that allows flexible routing of signals in automated test systems. It is compatible with other NI 2810 series cards and enables users to configure multi card SwitchBlock devices for complex testing requirements. The 781421-15 card offers robust performance for switching between high voltage signals with a maximum switching voltage of 100 V (DC and CAT I). Its maximum switching current per channel is 0.25 A with a maximum carry current of 0.3 A per channel. The card ensures 3 W maximum switching power per channel. This provides sufficient power handling for various test scenarios. It features low DC path resistance starting at less than 1 Ω when new.

This switch card delivers excellent isolation and low crosstalk. Typical isolation exceeds 65 dB at 10 kHz and 50 dB at 100 kHz. Crosstalk levels are low especially at lower frequencies with values like -60 dB at 10 kHz. These specifications make the card suitable for precision measurements and sensitive applications requiring low noise interference. The 781421-15 card's relay operate/release times are optimized for efficient switching with operation times of less than 1 ms for up to 8 relays and less than 2 ms for up to 50 relays. This ensures high speed operation in automated test setups. Its relay life is rated at 2.5 × 10^8 mechanical cycles under no load conditions.

The NI 781421-15 switch card consumes 63 mW per relay and the overall power consumption limit is capped at 3.9 W per card. The card's physical characteristics include 96 position plastic SCSI connectors and a compact design with dimensions of 11.2 cm x 1.2 cm x 17.1 cm. The model weighs 320 grams. These specifications allow for easy integration into existing test setups without significant space constraints. The 781421-15operates effectively between 0 °C to 55 °C and withstands humidity levels of 10 % to 90%. It meets multiple safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards including IEC 61010-1, UL 61010-1 and EN 61326-1.