Test and Measurement
Pickering Interfaces increases RF switching density with new 300 MHz 32x8 PXI & PXIe modules
P
ickering Interfaces, the supplier of modular signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, has introduced new integrated PXI RF matrix modules with a 32x8 topology — representing a 33 per cent increase in matrix density per chassis slot. The new compact-footprint 40-724 PXI & 42-724 PXIe modules provide high performance with a usable bandwidth of 300 MHz for non-loop-thru models. Facilitating simple scalability, the modules have options with loop-thru ports on the Y-axis for larger applications requiring matrix expansion. To provide the maximum granularity of test system construction, the 4x-724 family is available in four matrix sizes: 16x4, 16x8, 32x4 and the fully populated 32x8. Loop-thru enabled options are provided for each matrix size. The loop-thru ports are connected directly to the matrix, which — unlike other RF matrix products — allows the creation of X-to-X signal paths between cards when cascading multiple modules. This helpful feature increases test system flexibility but with reduced RF performance.
Steve Edwards, switching product manager at Pickering Interfaces, said: “The family builds on existing Pickering RF matrix module technology to increase the maximum matrix size to 32x8 for use in 50Ω test applications. The increased density, representing a marked increase over existing products, allows complex switching systems to be produced while requiring only two chassis slots.” 4x-724 RF matrix modules feature high-quality, ruthenium-sputtered reed relays, ensuring a long service life. Also, reed relays have an operating time of just 0.5 ms (typical), significantly shorter than electromechanical-based solutions, minimizing the test cycle duration and increasing product test throughput. The modules are available with a PXI or PXIe control interface providing flexibility in chassis selection. All versions use industry-standard SMB connectors to maximize system performance while simplifying the interface to external instrumentation and DUTs.
The new 4x-724 RF matrix modules are aimed at general-purpose RF testing in many
applications, including emergency radios and semiconductor test. All versions of the 4x-724 are supported by Pickering’s eBIRST switching system test tools that can be used for preventative maintenance tests to determine if relays are approaching end- of-life. In addition, the eBIRST tools allow
fast fault finding, thus minimizing system downtime. Pickering’s connection division offers both standard and custom cable solutions that can aid with the integration of the module into the test system.
www.pickeringtest.com Logging and reducing electricity use and costs S
ince 1995, Voltcraft have been supplying a wide range of energy meters capable of both logging actual power consumption and storing related data, such as reactive and apparent power as well as AC phase shifts. The products are easy to set up and use, and allow engineers and energy-conscious end consumers to collect and analyse a large volume of data. Right in time for their 40th company anniversary, Voltcraft have released their latest SEM 6500 electricity meter, made available via the Conrad Sourcing Platform.
The SEM6500 looks like an ordinary mains socket adapter, however, as soon as you plug in an appliance the seamless colour change of the stylish LED ring light encodes the current power consumption. If the light is dark green, this indicates a very efficient use of energy. If the light turns red, you are in energy-guzzling territory. Susanne Storch, senior product expert at Conrad Electronic, said: “The SEM 6500
28 April 2022
is a shining example of how to combine innovative and accurate measurement technology, a large variety of functions and a compact and very contemporary design.” The large volume of usage data can be easily evaluated on a PC, smartphone or tablet, after exporting the readings as a CSV. Whether it’s days, weeks, months or even years, logging long- term data won’t be a problem at all thanks to hardware-
independent cloud storage. Looking at various time periods and comparing them with each other whenever the need arises lets you keep an eye on the energy efficiency of equipment and machinery. “The SEM6500 allows comparing
Components in Electronics
directly the energy consumption of older and newer appliances over a time period specified by the user,” said Susanne Storch. “This makes evaluating the energy- saving potential of new products a very
straightforward process. And True RMS readings displayed down to the thousandth provide a high level of accuracy.” Using the TUYA app enables operating the wireless Wi-Fi mains socket remotely. You can also log on to the cloud to view and analyse any data collected by the device. This includes logging the exact time of power outages which may prove important if you want to make a home insurance claim.
However, the SEM6500 isn’t just an electricity meter: the built-in timer allows programming individual time slots during which electrical appliances switch on and off. This also works if there is no Wi-Fi coverage. Moreover, the Burglar Deterrent mode turns lights, monitors or TV sets on in a random pattern, to simulate home occupancy, thereby lowering the probability of the property being burgled.
www.conrad.com
www.cieonline.co.uk
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