PXI and PXIe 5.0A power relay modules have low path resistance

Two 5.0A power relay modules have been released by Pickering Interfaces for switching AC or DC loads or controlling large external relays, contractors and solenoids. The 40/42-153 and 40/42-158 modules  offer twice the switching density with double the channel count of the nearest competing product, says the company.

The power relay modules can hot switch to 1250VA with low path resistance and thermal offset. They are available in multiple configurations - 18, 25, 36 or SPST (single pole single throw) relay loadings (40/42-153) or eight, 16, 24 or 32 SPDT (single pole double throw) relays (40/42-158). According to the company, they are the highest density 5.0A switching PXI modules with twice the channel count of the nearest competing product.

They use industrial-grade electromagnetic relays (EMRs) and can hot-switch inductive/capacitive loads up to 5.0A at 250V AC to a maximum power of 150W/1250VA (-153) or 175W/1250VA (-158). Cold-switching performance is up to 400V DC/250V AC peak and path resistance is less than 35mΩ with a thermal offset of just 3µV. Typical bandwidths are 65MHz (-153) and 100MHz (-158) at the -3dB point.

All modules are available with an optional hardware interlock that returns all fully functional relays to the default unpowered (open) state, when activated. The interlock status is also monitored by the control software and will notify the user when attempting to operate relays when the interlock is activated. This enables users to prevent operation until specific hardware conditions are reached. Hardware interlocking can be used as a functional stop to de-energise the relays.

The relay modules maximise switch payload while minimising the physical foot print of the modules. According to Steve Edwards, Pickering’s switching product manager, the single slot footprint with a PXI or PXIe control interface makes the modules flexible and minimises the number of PXI, PXIe, or LXI chassis slots required. A spare relay is included on each module for quick on-site repairs by customers with PCB rework skills, to minimise system downtime.

The modules can be used in automotive, aerospace and defence ATE systems. They can also be used as general-purpose switching applications where customers construct their own systems based on uncommitted relays, said Edwards.

Partially populated options are also available. These duplicate the front panel connector interface and pin-out of the company's existing 5.0A products, allowing user to transition to a PXIe control interface. VISA, IVI and Kernel drivers for Windows are supplied.

These new PXI/PXIe power relay modules are covered by a three-year warranty.