National Instruments SCB-12 Terminal Block

The National Instruments SCB-12 (Part Number: 787419-01) Terminal Block makes it easier to convert a Molex Nano-Pitch connector to a QSFP28 connector, allowing I/O signals to be interfaced for plug-in data capture. The QSFP28 version of the quad small form-factor pluggable (QSFP) transceiver is intended to facilitate high-capacity data transfer, and this Terminal Block is built to accommodate it. With support for the Nano-Pitch I/O Interconnect System, it guarantees low-noise signal termination via shield cables and provides data transfer rates of up to 24 Gbps per lane. It can also work with many protocols, including SAS, SATA, and PCI Express.

The SCB-12 breaks out the NanoPitch connector to a QSFP28 connector and an 8-pin connector for general-purpose DIO signals. It uses standard connections to enable access to DIO signals from a Molex Nano-Pitch I/O cable. However, employing signal voltages higher than those allowed by the FlexRIO module linked to the SCB-12 could cause harm to the SCB-12 and any attached instruments.

On the front panel of the SCB-12, there is a power LED that indicates when the external power connection is made. The NI-9913 DIN rail mounting kit, which comes with a clip for secure installation, can be used to mount it on a typical 35 mm DIN rail. Because of its four bottom holes, the SCB-12 allows for a variety of mounting options.

The SCB-12 has a maximum power consumption of 9 W and offers a line rate of 10.3125 Gb/s. It operates inside Class 1 for optical cable power, with a maximum power of 1.5 W. An external power supply for optical cable power is available for the terminal block in a kit (NI part number 723537-01), and the voltage input range for external power is 5.9 V DC.

This terminal block can be used in a variety of environmental settings, with a non-condensing operating humidity range of 10% to 90% and an ambient operating temperature range of 0 °C to 55 °C. For storage purposes, the SCB-12 can withstand temperatures ranging from -40 °C to 71 °C and relative storage humidity ranging from 5% to 95%, non-condensing. It is capable of functioning at altitudes of up to 2,000 m (800 mbar) at 25 °C ambient temperature and is designed to operate in environments with a pollution degree of 2.