Dover Dow-Key Microwave MS Matrix Series User manual

i
“There Is No Substitute for Experience”
DOW-KEY MICROWAVE
MS, MP, CB Matrix Series
MP-2U18S-30-GPIB
CAN BUS RF SWITCH MATRIX
Operator’s Manual
Rev 2
THE RF/MICROWAVE SWITCHING TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION COMPANY

ii
Copyright ©Dow-Key Microwave Corporation 2010, all rights
reserved.
Information in this publication supersedes that in all previously
published material. Specifications and price change privileges
reserved.
Printed in the U.S.A.
Dow-Key is a registered trademark of Dow-Key Microwave Corp.
Document Number: 49101-264 Revision 2
4822 McGrath Street, Ventura, CA 93003
Tel: (805) 650-0260 Fax: (805) 650-1734
Visit at www.dowkey.com

iii
WARRANTY
Dow-Key Microwave Corporation warrants this product to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of 1 year from date of shipment. This warranty
does not apply to defects resulting from product tampering or modification without Dow-
Key’s express written consent. This warranty also does not apply to software, non-
rechargeable batteries, power supplies, or problems arising from normal wear or failure
to follow instructions.
To exercise this warranty, contact Dow-Key Microwave headquarters in Ventura,
California. You will be given prompt assistance and return instructions. Send the
product, transportation prepaid, to the Dow-Key headquarters. Repairs will be made
and the product returned within the quoted period of time, transportation prepaid.
Repaired or replaced products are warranted for the balance of the original warranty
period, or at least 90 days.
NEITHER DOW-KEY MICROWAVE CORPORATION NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES
SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF ITS INSTRUMENTS
AND SOFTWARE EVEN IF DOW-KEY MICROWAVE CORPORATION HAS BEEN
ADVISED IN ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SUCH
EXCLUDED DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COSTS OF
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF INJURY
TO ANY PERSON, OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

iv
Manual Revision History
The revision history shown below lists all revisions and addendums created for this manual. The
revision level increases numerically as the manual undergoes subsequent updates. Addendums
are released between revisions and contain important change information that the user should
incorporate immediately into the manual. When a new revision is created, all addendum
associated with the previous revision of the manual are incorporated into the new revision of the
manual. Each new revision includes a revised copy of this history page.
Revision 1 (Document Number 49101-264) ………………………………. July 2013
Original Release
Revision 2 ……………………………………..………………………. November 2013
Corrected section 7.3
- Max number of concatenated commands send in one string is 8.
- Max number of character that can be read (received) at once is 100.
Correction section 7.5.3
- Updated description paragraph.

vi
Table of Contents
1 General Information...................................................................................................... 1
1.1Introduction ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2MS Matrices ....................................................................................................... 2
1.3MP Matrices ....................................................................................................... 3
1.4CB Matrices........................................................................................................ 4
1.5Technical Specifications..................................................................................... 5
1.6Safety Precaution............................................................................................... 6
1.7Inspection........................................................................................................... 6
1.8Maintenance....................................................................................................... 6
1.9Repacking for shipment ..................................................................................... 6
2 System Layout ............................................................................................................. 7
2.1Front Panel Layout............................................................................................. 7
2.2Rear Panel Layout for 2U models ...................................................................... 8
2.3Rear Panel Layout for 3U models ...................................................................... 9
2.4Rear Panel Layout for 4U models .................................................................... 11
2.5Top View Layout .............................................................................................. 13
2.6RF configuration............................................................................................... 14
3 Connections ............................................................................................................... 15
3.1Power Connection............................................................................................ 15
3.1.1Line Voltage............................................................................................... 15
3.1.2Line Power Connection.............................................................................. 15
3.1.3Line Fuse Replacement............................................................................. 15
3.2Ground Connection .......................................................................................... 16
3.3RS232 Connection ........................................................................................... 17
3.4CAN Bus Connection ....................................................................................... 18
3.5GPIB Control Connection................................................................................. 19
3.5.1GPIB Control Connector............................................................................ 19
3.5.2Interface Signals........................................................................................ 20
3.5.3Data Lines ................................................................................................. 20
3.5.4Handshake Lines....................................................................................... 21
3.5.5Interface Management Lines ..................................................................... 21
3.6USB Port .......................................................................................................... 22
4 Configuring the Matrix for Operation .......................................................................... 23
4.1Matrix Configuration ......................................................................................... 23
4.2Dow-Key CAN bus switches............................................................................. 23
4.3Adding and Deleting Switches.......................................................................... 24
5 Manual (LOCAL) Operation........................................................................................ 26
5.1The Touch Screen Interface............................................................................. 26
5.2Main Menu ....................................................................................................... 28
5.2.1Switching Operations................................................................................. 28
5.2.2Error Operations ........................................................................................ 30
5.2.3System Settings......................................................................................... 31
5.2.4Ethernet Options........................................................................................ 33
5.2.5LCD Options .............................................................................................. 33
5.2.6Set RS232 Baud Rate ............................................................................... 33
5.2.7Set GPIB Address ..................................................................................... 33
6IEEE 488.2 Register model.................................................................................... 34
6.1Introduction to IEEE 488.2 ............................................................................... 34

vi
6.2Condition Register............................................................................................ 34
6.3Event Register.................................................................................................. 34
6.4Enable Register................................................................................................ 34
6.5The Status Byte Register ................................................................................. 35
6.6The Standard Event Register ........................................................................... 36
6.7IEEE 488.2 Common Commands .................................................................... 37
7Remote Operation.................................................................................................. 38
7.1Introduction to SCPI ......................................................................................... 38
7.2Command Syntax Structure ............................................................................. 38
7.3Command Separators and conventions ........................................................... 39
7.4Common Commands ....................................................................................... 41
7.4.1*CLS ............................................................................................................. 41
7.4.2*ESE ............................................................................................................. 41
7.4.3*ESE? ........................................................................................................... 42
7.4.4*ESR? ........................................................................................................... 42
7.4.5*IDN?......................................................................................................... 43
7.4.6*OPC............................................................................................................. 43
7.4.7*OPC? ....................................................................................................... 44
7.4.8*RST.......................................................................................................... 45
7.4.9*STB? ........................................................................................................... 45
7.4.10*SRE.......................................................................................................... 46
7.4.11*SRE?........................................................................................................ 46
7.4.12*WAI .......................................................................................................... 46
7.5System Commands.......................................................................................... 47
7.5.1SYST:ERR?............................................................................................... 47
7.5.2SYST:SERIALNUMBER? .......................................................................... 51
7.5.3SYST:STATUS? ........................................................................................ 52
7.5.4SYST:SCREENSAVER? ........................................................................... 53
7.5.5SYST:SCREENSAVER x .......................................................................... 53
7.5.6SYST:GPIBADDRESS? ............................................................................ 54
7.5.7SYST:GPIBADDRESS x............................................................................ 54
Remote Operation ..................................................................................................... 55
7.6Switch [Module] Command Set ........................................................................ 55
7.6.1:SWITch<id>[:VALue] <number>............................................................... 55
7.6.2Setting switch x to position n ..................................................................... 56
7.6.3Requesting Switch x current position......................................................... 57
Appendix A.................................................................................................................... 61
Technical Specifications ............................................................................................ 61
Appendix B.................................................................................................................... 62
RF Configuration........................................................................................................ 62

1
1General Information
1.1 Introduction
The Dow-Key Microwave MS, MP, CB Switch Matrix series are
electromechanical RF matrices. They come equipped with a GPIB (IEEE 488)
port which allows the user to easily access the matrix remotely. Other
interfaces included are an RS-232 port, an USB (used as virtual serial port) and
a CAN Bus port. Any model 2 RU or higher also comes equipped with a touch
screen LCD front panel display for manual (Local) operation. These models are
not intended to be used to power or control anything other than Dow-Key
supplied switches. Connection of other CAN Bus products or other devices not
described herein will void quality certifications and the warranty.
This user manual covers all three matrix series since most features are the
same among the various models. The user shall focus on the matrix series of
interest and skip any section that does not pertain to his matrix.
Information specific to your model (like technical specifications and RF
configuration) can be found in appendices at the end of this manual.

2
General Information
1.2 MS Matrices
MS-Series stands for Multiple Switches. It is a matrix where a number of
independent switches are populated on the rear panel or inside the matrix
enclosure. From an RF point of view the switches are not interconnected and
all switch’s RF ports are available to the user on the rear panel of the matrix.
Depending on the size of the switch and the quantities needed, the matrix size
can grow from 1RU to 4RU (or even larger).
SW1
SW2
SW3
SW4
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Input
Input
Input
Input
Example of an MS series matrix with four independent SP4T switches.
Part Numbering Examples:
MS-2U18S-4/X-GPIB A Multi Switch matrix with the following characteristics:
2U, 18 GHz, SMA, 4 transfer switches, GPIB
MS-2U26S-4/6T- GPIB A Multi Switch matrix with the following characteristics:
2U, 26 GHz, SMA, 4 Terminated SP6T, GPIB
MS-4U18N-12/10- GPIB A Multi Switch matrix with the following characteristics:
4U, 18 GHz, N connectors,12 SP10T, GPIB
The part numbering is interpreted as follows:
MS-[chassis size][frequency][connector]-[number of switches]/[type of switch]-[remote control
type]
[chassis size]: 1U | 2U | 3U | 4U etc.
[frequency]: 12 (for 12.4 GHz) | 18 (for 18 GHz | 26 (for 26.5 GHz) | 40 (for 40 GHz)
[connector]: B (for BNC) | N (for N) | S (for SMA) | K (for 2.9 mm)
[number of switches]: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |… |16 (or more if chassis size allows)
[type of switch] : 2T (terminating one port DPDT Æterminated SPDT) | X (for DPDT)
| 4 (for SP4T) | 6 (for SP6T) | 8 (for SP8T) | 10 (for SP10T) |12 (for
SP12T).
If switch type is terminated, add ‘T’ to the number.
Example: 6T (terminated SP6T)
[number of switches]/[type of switch]: If different switch types are combined, repeat this section
as needed. Example: MS-1U18S-2/X-2/6T-GPIB
[remote control type]: ENET (for Ethernet, RS-232, USB) | GPIB ( for IEEE-488, USB)

3
General Information
1.3 MP Matrices
MP-Series stands for Multiplexer. It is a matrix with one input connecting to
many outputs (only one at the time) or, since the RF switches are bi-directional,
many inputs connected to one output (only one at the time).
The switches are populated either on the rear panel or inside the matrix
chassis. From an RF point of view the switches are interconnected and all
input/output RF ports are available to the user on the rear panel of the matrix.
Depending on the size of the switch and the quantities needed, the matrix size
can grow from 1RU to 4RU (or even larger).
Input
SW2
SW1
SW3
SW4
SW5
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
Out 5
Out 6
Out 7
Out 8
Out 9
Out 10
Out 11
Out 12
Out 13
Out 14
Out 15
Out 16
Example of an MP series matrix with 1 input/output and 16 outputs/inputs.
Part Numbering Examples:
MP-4U18S-100-GPIB
A Multi Plex matrix with the following characteristics:
4U, 18 GHz, SMA, 100 outputs, GPIB
MP-4U18S-20- GPIB
A Multi Plex matrix with the following characteristics:
4U, 18 GHz, SMA, 20 outputs, GPIB
MP-[chassis size][frequency][connector]-[number of ports]-[remote control type]
[chassis size]: 1U | 2U | 3U | 4U etc.
[frequency]: 12 (for 12.4 GHz) | 18 (for 18 GHz) | 26 (for 26.5 GHz) | 40 (for 40 GHz)
[connector]: B (for BNC) | N (for N-type) | S (for SMA) | K (for 2.9 mm)
[number of ports]: 20 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 70 | 80 | 90 | 100 (and more ports if chassis size
allows)
If ports are internally terminated, add ‘T’ to the number.
Example: 20T, .. , 100T
[remote control type]: ENET (for Ethernet, RS-232, USB) | GPIB (for IEEE-488, USB)
Note: There is always one only input and a certain number of outputs. So no need to indicate
the ‘1’ (for the input).

4
General Information
1.4 CB Matrices
CB-Series stands for Crossbar. It is a matrix with several inputs connecting to
several outputs. Only one input can be connected to one output at any given
time.
The switches are populated inside the matrix chassis and are interconnected so
that any input can connect to any output and vice versa. All input/output RF
ports are available to the user on the rear panel of the matrix. Depending on the
size of the switch and the quantities needed, the matrix size can grow from
2RU to 4RU (or even larger).
SW1
SW2
SW3
SW4
Output 1
Output 2
Output 3
Output 4
Input 1
Input 2
Input 3
Input 4 SW8
SW7
SW6
SW5
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
Example of a CB series matrix with 4 input and 4outputs.
Part Numbering Examples:
CB-4U18S-10X10-GPIB
A CrossBar matrix with following characteristics:
4U, 18 GHz, SMA, 10 inputs 10 outputs, GPIB
CB-4U18N-8X8- GPIB
A CrossBar matrix with following characteristics:
4U, 18 GHz, N connectors, 8 inputs 8 outputs, GPIB
CB-2U18S-4X4- GPIB
A CrossBar matrix with following characteristics:
2U, 18 GHz, SMA, 4 inputs 4 outputs, GPIB
CB-[chassis size][frequency][connector]-[number of inputs]X[number of outputs]-[remote control type]
[chassis size]: 1U | 2U | 3U | 4U etc.
[frequency]: 12 (for 12.4 GHz) | 18 (for 18 GHz) | 26 (for 26.5 GHz) | 40 (for 40 GHz)
[connector]: B (for BNC) | N (for N) | S (for SMA) | K (for 2.9 mm)
[number of inputs]: 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 … 10 | 12 | 16| 20 (or more if chassis size allows)
[number of outputs]: 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 … 10 | 12 | 16| 20 (or more if chassis size allows)
[remote control type]: ENET (for Ethernet, RS-232, USB) | GPIB (for IEEE-488, USB)

5
General Information
1.5 Technical Specifications
Refer to appendix A

6
General Information
1.6 Safety Precaution
Safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any
associated instrumentation. This product is intended for use by qualified
personnel who recognize the safety precautions required to avoid possible
injury.
1.7 Inspection
The Matrices were carefully inspected, both electrically and mechanically before
shipment. After unpacking all items from the shipping carton, check for any
obvious signs of physical damage that may have occurred during transit.
Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately. Save the original
packing carton for possible future reshipment. The following items are included
with every Model matrix order.
•Switch matrix
•Switch matrix Operation Manual
•Power Cord, Part Number 40203-005
1.8 Maintenance
The matrix requires no periodic maintenance. Should any problems arise,
contact Dow-Key Microwave immediately for necessary repairs. These
systems are not field repairable.
1.9 Repacking for shipment
Should it become necessary to return the matrices for repair, carefully pack the
unit in its original packing carton or the equivalent, and follow these instructions:
•Call the Repair Department at 1-805-650-2327 for a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number.
•Advise as to the warranty status of the matrix.
•Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and the RMA number on
the shipping label.

7
2 System Layout
2.1 Front Panel Layout
2 Note: The matrices shown below are with the LCD on the front panel and rear
mounted switches. Matrices with front mounted switches have same
dimensions regardless of switch location. See also Appendix A and B.
Figure 2-1 shows the 2U, 3U and 4U Model general layout, which includes:
•2 handles
•A touch screen LCD
Figure 2-1, 2U, 3U and 4U Front Panel Layout

8
System Layout
2.2 Rear Panel Layout for 2U models
Figure 2-2 shows the general layout of the rear panel of a variety of 2U models.
All models have common parts which include:
•Power Entry Module with built in Fuse
•Chassis Ground Post
•9-Pin D-Sub Female RS232 Connector
•4-Pin XLR Female CAN Bus Connector
•GPIB (IEEE 488) 25 pin Centronics Connector
•USB type A Connector
Other parts that are not common to all models are Coaxial RF switches and/or
RF connectors.
2U MS series (with external switches)
2U MS series (with internal switches) or MP series or CB series
2U MS series combined with MP series or CB series
GND stud
Figure 2-2, Various 2U Models Rear Panel Layout

9
System Layout
2.3 Rear Panel Layout for 3U models
Figure 2-3 shows the general layout of the rear panel of a variety of 3U models.
All models have common parts which include:
•Power Entry Module with built in Fuse
•Chassis Ground Post
•9-Pin D-Sub Female RS232 Connector
•4-Pin XLR Female CAN Bus Connector
•GPIB (IEEE 488) 25 pin Centronics Connector
•USB type A Connector
Other parts that are not common to all models are Coaxial RF switches and/or
RF connectors.

10
System Layout
3U MS series (with external switches)
3U MS series (with internal switches) or MP series or CB series
3U MS series combined with MP series or CB series
GND stud
Figure 2-3, Various 3U Models Rear Panel Layout

11
System Layout
2.4 Rear Panel Layout for 4U models
Figure 2-4 shows the general layout of the rear panel of a variety of 4U models.
All models have common parts which include:
•Power Entry Module with built in Fuse
•Chassis Ground Post
•9-Pin D-Sub Female RS232 Connector
•4-Pin XLR Female CAN Bus Connector
•GPIB (IEEE 488) 25 pin Centronics Connector
•USB type A Connector
Other parts that are not common to all models are Coaxial RF switches and/or
RF connectors.

12
System Layout
4U MS series (with external switches)
4U MS series (with internal switches) or MP series or CB series
4U MS series combined with MP series or CB series
GND stud
Figure 2-4, Various 4U Models Rear Panel Layout

13
System Layout
2.5 Top View Layout
Figure 2-5 shows the top view layout of all models.
Note: The dimension indicated on the drawing is for 3U and 4U models.
For 2 U models the depth dimension is 15.625” D (without handles)
Figure 2-5, Top View of 2U, 3U and 4U Models

14
System Layout
2.6 RF configuration
Refer to appendix B.
This manual suits for next models
11
Table of contents
Other Dover Switch manuals
Popular Switch manuals by other brands

Perle
Perle IDS-509CPP Hardware installation guide

Cisco
Cisco 4503-E - Catalyst Data Bundle Switch brochure

Cudy
Cudy GS105D Quick installation guide

Waters Network Systems
Waters Network Systems ProSwitch FlexPort- 2600M Installation guide and operating manual

PowerBox Systems
PowerBox Systems Digiswitch V2 instruction manual

Veris
Veris Hawkeye 909 installation guide