High-Density Multiconfiguration Matrix Modules
NI PXI-2529, NI PXIe-2529, NI SCXI-1129 NEW!
■ ■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
8 matrix configurations Switch capacity 150 VDC, 150 Vrms CAT I 1 A switching/2 A carry 32,000-step scan list for deterministic scanning Fully software programmable Effortless matrix expansion Multiple-module synchronization with hardware triggers Electromechanical relays Available in both PXI and PXI Express versions for optimal slot placement NI PXI-2529/PXIe-2529 128-crosspoint matrix 4x32 and 8x16 2-wire matrix configurations NI SCXI-1129 256-crosspoint matrix Six 2-wire matrix configurations
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Operating Systems Windows XP/2000/NT
■
Recommended Software LabVIEW LabWindows™/CVI Measurement Studio for Visual C++ NI Switch Executive
■ ■ ■ ■
Other Compatible Software Visual Basic ANSI C/C++
■ ■
Driver Software (included) NI-SWITCH
■
Overview
The NI PXI-2529, PXIe-2529, and SCXI-1129 are high-density matrix relay modules built for applications with high-channel counts. The modules are two-wire matrices that are configurable with front mounting terminal blocks to achieve many different matrix configurations. Table 1 provides a complete list of possible configurations. Expanding the matrix channel count is as easy as adding more modules. With the SCXI-1129, you can pass analog signals between two or more switch modules via a high-voltage backplane (HVAB), matrix expansion cables, or matrix expansion plugs. Using these connections, you can instantly expand your matrix without external wiring. The NI 2529 modules are designed to work well with both low- and high- voltage levels. They use relays with low thermal offset to ensure accurate low-voltage measurements. These relays can switch up to 150 Vrms or 150 VDC.
configurations by simply changing the terminal block. For example, you can create an 8x32 two-wire matrix by using the NI SCXI-1335 terminal block with an SCXI-1129 module. You can easily transform the same SCXI-1129 module into a 16x16 two-wire matrix by simply replacing the SCXI-1335 with an NI SCXI-1336 terminal block. The NI 2529 modules use latching relays in the matrices to ensure that the state of each matrix remains unchanged in the event of accidental power loss. This feature prevents instruments and units under test from switching during potentially damaging conditions. All relays open when power returns.
Automatic Scanning
NI 2529 modules can maximize throughput in automated test applications with the use of scanning. Scanning improves throughput by downloading a list of up to 32,000 connections to the switch and cycling through the list using an event (trigger) without any interruption from the host processor. You can most efficiently implement scanning by mating an NI 2529 or SCXI-1129 with an instrument such as the NI PXI-4070 6½-digit FlexDMM, which issues a trigger after each measurement.
Matrix Operation
The NI 2529 modules are general-purpose, two-wire matrices used to route differential signals. Through software, you can control the matrices to connect any row to any column. One of the key advantages of these modules is their adaptability to your switching needs. You can configure
Figure 1. The matrix expansion plug simplifies expansion.
Safety Disconnect
The SCXI-1129 incorporates a safety interlock that disconnects the SCXI high-voltage analog bus from the matrix if the front terminal block is removed. This arrangement prevents potentially hazardous voltages from appearing on exposed front panel connector pins.
the SCXI-1129 in six different matrix configurations and an NI 2529 in two
High-Density Multiconfiguration Matrix Modules
Terminal Block SCXI-1333 Configuration (Row by Column) Quad 4x16 Column Expansion Via Row Connection External wires With HVAB or matrix expansion cable. Examples: 4x128, 4x256 With matrix expansion cable (2 cables required). Examples: 8x64, 8x128 External wires External wires External wires External wires External wires Row Expansion Via Column Connection With matrix expansion plug. Examples: quad 8x16, quad 16x16 With matrix expansion plug. Examples: 8x64,16x64, 32x64 With matrix expansion plug. Examples: 16x32, 32x32 With matrix expansion plug. Examples: 32x16, 64x16 External wires External wires External wires External wires
SCXI-1334
4x64
NI SCXI-1129
SCXI-1335
8x32
SCXI-1336 SCXI-1337 SCXI-1339 NI 2529 TB-2634 TB-2635
16x16 Dual 8x16 Dual 4x32 4x32 8x16
Table 1. NI 2529 and SCXI-1129 Configuration and Matrix Expansion
Expansion with the SCXI-1129
Matrix modules can serve as building blocks for creating configurations well beyond the size of a single module. Connecting the rows of two modules doubles the column count. Likewise, connecting the columns of two modules doubles the row count. For example, you can expand a 4x64 matrix, made up of one SCXI-1129 module and one SCXI-1334 terminal block, to a 4x128, 4x192, 4x256, and so forth, by connecting the columns of multiple SCXI-1129 modules via the terminal block. To expand the columns of the SCXI-1129, you can use expansion cables. Expansion cables connect four differential signals. Hence, you must use two matrix expansion cables for each expansion with the SCXI-1335 because it has eight rows. You can expand the row count of the SCXI-1129 with expansion plugs, which connect the columns of two adjacent switch modules as shown in Figure 1. With the expansion plugs, you can create the 128x16 matrix in less than five minutes. For further information on matrix expansion, refer to the tutorial, Matrix Switch Expansion Guide, at http://zone.ni.com/devzone/cda/tut/p/id/3628.
SCXI Analog Routing
You can increase the flexibility of your switch system with the addition of the high-voltage analog bus (HVAB). Using the HVAB, you can easily route highvoltage or low-voltage analog signals between multiple switch modules or instruments without the need for external wiring (assuming it is safe to do so). For example, you can use the HVAB to effortlessly create a 4x256 matrix from four SCXI-1129 modules in the 4x64 matrix configuration (SCXI-1334 terminal block). Without the HVAB, the 4x256 matrix requires external wiring or cables. The HVAB works with the SCXI-1127, SCXI-1128, and SCXI-1129 modules.
Signal Connections
You can choose from several solutions for your signal connections:
■
Terminal blocks provide screw terminals, solder cups, or headers for easy connections A shielded backshell features a 180-pin connector housing to accommodate custom cables on the SCXI-1129 Mass interconnect solutions from industry leaders
■
■
SCXI Relay Control
Every SCXI switch system requires an external switch controller. The switch controller uses the digital communications bus on the SCXI chassis to control the switch circuitry. An NI 4021 switch controller, available for both PCI and PXI, is the recommended SCXI switch controller.
Contact your local National Instruments sales representative for information on these products.
Software
All National Instruments PXI and SCXI switch modules are shipped with NI-SWITCH, an IVI-compliant driver that offers complete functionality for all switch modules. For additional assistance in configuring, programming, and managing higher-channel-count switching systems, NI Switch Executive software provides an easy-to-use, intelligent switch management and visual routing environment.
BUY ONLINE at ni.com or CALL 800 813 3693 (U.S.)
2
High-Density Multiconfiguration Matrix Modules Specifications
Specifications subject to change without notice. Visit ni.com/manuals for the latest full specifications.
Environment
Operating temperature NI 2529 ............................................. NI SCXI-1129 .................................... Storage temperature ............................. 150 Vrms or 150 VDC (channel-to-channel and channel-to-ground) Relative humidity .................................. Pollution degree .................................... Approved at altitudes up to 2,000 m. 0 to 55 °C 0 to 50 °C -20 to 70 °C 5 to 85% noncondensing 2
Input Characteristics
Maximum switching voltage.................
Maximum switching current ................. Maximum carry current ......................... Maximum module current NI 2529 ............................................. NI SCXI-1129 .................................... Maximum switching power .................. Path resistance......................................
1 A (per channel) 2 A (per channel)
Ordering Information
8A 5A 37.5 VA, 30 W (per channel) 10 MHz