Dow-Key Microwave MMS Mini-Matrix User manual
“There Is No Substitute for Experience”
DOW-KEY MICROWAVE
MMS Mini-Matrix
MMS Series
Operator’s Manual
Rev 2
THE RF/MICROWAVE SWITCHING TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION COMPANY
Copyright Dow-Key Microwave Corporation 2016, 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: 49101-337 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 …………………………………...…………………………. March 2016
Original Release
Revision 2 …………………………………...…………………………. February 2017
Various improvements and clarifications
vi
Table of Contents
1General Information...............................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction......................................................................................................1
1.2 MMS SPDT Matrices.........................................................................................2
1.3 MMS SP6T Matrices ......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.4 Technical Specifications .................................................................................3
1.5 Safety Precaution.............................................................................................4
1.6 Inspection.........................................................................................................4
1.7 Maintenance .....................................................................................................4
1.8 Repacking for shipment ..................................................................................4
2System Layout........................................................................................................5
2.1 Front Panel Layout...........................................................................................5
2.2 Rear Panel Layout............................................................................................6
2.3 Top View Layout...............................................................................................7
2.4 RF configuration ..............................................................................................8
3Connections ...........................................................................................................9
3.1 Power Connection............................................................................................9
3.1.1 Voltage........................................................................................................9
3.1.2 Power Connection.....................................................................................9
3.1.3 Powering Off Safely...................................................................................9
3.2 USB Port .........................................................................................................10
3.2.1 Connecting to a RS-232 Port ..................................................................10
3.2.2 Connecting to a USB Port.......................................................................12
3.3 Ethernet Port ..................................................................................................13
3.3.1 TCP/IP Control .........................................................................................13
3.3.2 HTTP Webpage Control...........................................................................14
3.4 Connecting to a Static IP Address................................................................15
4Configuring the Mini-Matrix for Operation.........................................................16
4.1 Mini-Matrix Configuration..............................................................................16
4.2 Dow-Key GPIO switches................................................................................16
4.3 Adding Switches............................................................................................17
5The Sequencer .....................................................................................................18
5.1 Sequencer.......................................................................................................18
6SCIP Command Operation ..................................................................................19
6.1 Introduction to SCPI ......................................................................................19
6.2 Command Syntax Structure..........................................................................19
6.3 Command Separators and conventions ......................................................20
6.4 Common Commands.....................................................................................21
6.4.1 *IDN?.........................................................................................................21
6.4.2 *OPC? .......................................................................................................22
6.4.3 *RST..........................................................................................................23
6.4.4 SET:DHCP ON/OFF..................................................................................23
6.4.5 GET:DHCP................................................................................................24
6.5 System Commands........................................................................................25
6.5.1 SYST:ERR?...............................................................................................25
6.5.2 SYST:ERRALL?........................................................................................25
6.5.3 SYST:SERIALNUMBER?..........................................................................27
6.5.4 SYST:TCPPORT?.....................................................................................28
6.5.5 SYST:TCPPORT x....................................................................................28
vi
6.5.6 SYST:IPADDRESS? .................................................................................29
6.5.7 SYST:IPADDRESS xxx.yyy.zzz.aaa .........................................................29
6.5.8 SYST:GATEWAY? ....................................................................................30
6.5.9 SYST:GATEWAY xxx.yyy.zzz.aaa ............................................................30
6.5.10 SYST:MASK?.........................................................................................31
6.5.11 SYST:MASK xxx.yyy.zzz.aaa.................................................................31
6.5.12 SYST:MACADDRESS?..........................................................................32
6.5.13 SYST:TIMEOUT?...................................................................................32
6.5.14 SYST:TIMEOUT n..................................................................................33
6.5.15 SYST:NET?............................................................................................34
6.5.16 SYST:VER?............................................................................................34
6.5.17 SYST:SOFTREV?..................................................................................34
6.5.18 SYST:SOFTBUILD?...............................................................................35
6.5.19 SYST:SOFT? .........................................................................................35
6.5.20 SYST:STATUS?.....................................................................................36
6.6 Switch [Module] Command Set.....................................................................37
6.6.1 :SWITch<id>[:VALue] <number>...............................................................37
6.6.2 Setting Switch x to Position n ....................................................................38
6.6.3 Requesting Switch x current position.........................................................39
6.6.4 ROUTE:COUNT? ......................................................................................40
6.6.5 ROUTE:COUNTx? ....................................................................................40
6.6.6 ROUTE:COUNTx n?..................................................................................41
6.6.7 ROUTE:RESCOUNTx v ............................................................................41
7Web Page Server (HTTP).....................................................................................46
7.1 Web Page Server Control..............................................................................46
7.2 Matrix Status...................................................................................................47
7.3 Matrix Control.................................................................................................48
7.4 Mini-Matrix Configuration..............................................................................49
7.5 The Sequencer ...............................................................................................50
7.6 The Log...........................................................................................................51
Appendix A ..................................................................................................................52
Technical Specifications.........................................................................................52
Appendix B ..................................................................................................................53
RF Configuration .....................................................................................................53
Terminated SPDT (TSPDT) Configurations ...........................................................53
Non –Terminated SPDT (SPDT) Configurations...................................................53
Terminated SP6T (TSP6T) Configurations ............................................................54
Terminated SP6T (TSP6T) + Terminated SPDT (TSPDT) Configurations............54
Mini-Matrix RF diagram...........................................................................................55
1
1General Information
1.1 Introduction
The Dow-Key Microwave Mini-Matrix series models are electromechanical RF
miniature benchtop matrices. They come equipped with ENET (Ethernet) and
USB ports which allows the user to easily access and control the Mini-Matrix.
These models are not intended to be used to power or control anything other
than Dow-Key supplied switches.
This user manual covers the Mini-Matrix models. Since most features are the
same among the various models, the user shall focus on the Mini-Matrix model
of interest and skip any section that does not pertain to his/her Mini-Matrix.
Information specific to the user’s model (like technical specifications and RF
configuration) can be found in appendices at the end of this manual.
2
General Information
1.2 MMS SPDT Matrices
MMS stands for Miniature Multiple Switches. It is a Mini-Matrix where a
number of independent latching SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) and/or SPnT
(Single Pole n Throw) switches are populated on the front panel. From an RF
point of view the switches are not interconnected and all of the switch’s RF
ports are available to the user on the front panel of the Mini-Matrix.
Examples of a Mini-Matrix Models
with 2 independent SPDT switches with 1 independent SP6T switch
Part Numbering Examples:
MMS-A26S-2TSPDT Is a Miniature Multi Switch matrix with
following characteristics: A, 26.5 GHz, SMA,
2 Terminated SPDT switches
MMS-A26S-2SPDT Is a Miniature Multi Switch matrix with
following characteristics: A, 26.5 GHz, SMA,
2 non-terminated SPDT switches
The part numbering is interpreted as follows:
MMS-[chassis size][frequency][connector]-[number of switches]/[type of switch]
[chassis size]: A, B, C 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] : SPDT | X (for transfer switch = 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: MMS-A26S-2TSPDT-2SPDT (2 terminated SPDT + 2 non-terminated SPDT)
Example: MMS-A26S-1TSP6T-4SPDT (1 terminated SP6T + 4 non-terminated SPDT)
Note: not all switch configurations and combinations are possible.
3
General Information
1.3 Technical Specifications
Refer to appendix A
4
General Information
1.4 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.
1.5 Inspection
The Mini-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 Mini-Matrix order.
Mini-Matrix
Mini-Matrix Default Network Settings
Mini-Matrix Operation Manual
Wall Plug-In power supply
1.6 Maintenance
The Mini-Matrix requires no periodic maintenance. Should any problems arise,
contact Dow-Key Microwave immediately for necessary repairs. These systems
are not field repairable.
1.7 Repacking for shipment
Should it become necessary to return the Mini-Matrix 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 Mini-Matrix.
Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and the RMA number on
the shipping label.
5
2 System Layout
2.1 Front Panel Layout
Figure 2-1 shows an example of the MMS-Model general layout, which
includes:
Input, output, and common connectors of all switches in the MMS
configuration.
Indicator LEDs for each position of each switch in the MMS
configuration, and one error LED.
Figure 2-1, Example of a Mini-Matrix Front Panel Layout
6
System Layout
2.2 Rear Panel Layout
Figure 2-2 shows the Mini-Matrix model rear panel general layout. All models
have common parts which include:
Power Entry Module
4 USB 2.0 Ports
1 Ethernet Port
Figure 2-2, Mini-Matrix model Rear Panel Layout
7
System Layout
2.3 Top View Layout
Figure 2-3 shows the top view layout of all models.
Figure 2-3, Top View of Mini-Matrix Models
8
System Layout
2.4 RF configuration
Refer to appendix B.
9
3Connections
3.1 Power Connection
3.1.1Voltage
The Mini-Matrix operates at a DC voltage of 12V +/- 5%.
CAUTION: Operating the unit at an incorrect voltage may cause
damage, possibly voiding the warranty.
3.1.2Power Connection
Perform the following steps to correctly power on the Mini-Matrix:
1. Connect all Ethernet cables and/or USB cables before turning on the
Mini-Matrix. This is because the drivers are downloaded on boot up by
a Linux kernel.
2. Connect the male end of the supplied wall plug-in power supply to the
female receptacle on the rear panel.
3. Connect the other end of the supplied wall plug-in power supply to a
grounded AC outlet.
Note: When powering up the Mini-Matrix it takes about 30-40
seconds to boot up and be operational.
3.1.3Powering Off Safely
There is no power off switch for the Mini-Matrix, so follow the directions
below when powering off the Mini-Matrix.
1. Make sure no commands are being executed.
2. Exit out of HyperTerminal, the webpage, or any other control software.
3. Now it is safe to unplug the power.
Caution: Do not power cycle the Mini-Matrix quickly. Power cycling
quickly may corrupt the SD card, and the Mini-Matrix will not work
properly. Wait a minimum of 10 seconds between power cycles.
10
Connections
3.2 USB Port
Communication with the Mini-Matrix through one of the USB ports can be
accomplished by connecting the Mini-Matrix to an RS-232 port on a PC or the
USB port on a PC. Either way a few essential items will be needed.
2 RS-232 to USB cables (Note: If the user will be communicating
with the Mini-Matrix through the RS-232 port of a PC then only 1
RS-232 to USB cable is needed)
1 null-modem cable
Depending on the gender of the port connectors a female to female 9 pin
D-Sub connector
Download PuTTY or another SSH (Secure Shell). A SSH is a command
interface and protocol for securely getting access to a remote computer
or device. The Mini-Matrix is the remote device that will be accessed by
the SSH. PuTTY is the SSH used to demonstrate how to connect to the
Mini-Matrix.
To communicate with the Mini-Matrix through the USB port, follow the steps in
sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2 below.
3.2.1Connecting to a RS-232 Port
To connect the Mini-Matrix to an RS-232 port of a PC perform the following
steps.
1. Connect the USB to RS-232 cable to the Mini-Matrix before turning the
Mini-Matrix on. Note: This is important because the drivers for the
cable are installed during the boot up of the Mini-Matrix.
2. Connect one end of the null-modem cable to the D-Sub connector of the
USB to RS-232 cable.
3. Connect the other end of the null-modem cable to the RS-232 port on a
PC. Depending on the gender of the D-Sub connectors, a female to
female D-Sub connecter may be needed.
11
Connections
4. Open PuTTY. Under ‘Connection Type:’ select ‘Serial’. Then select the
‘Serial Line’, this is the RS232 or USB port that the user connected the
Mini-Matrix to on the PC. In the example COM1 is used, but it may be
different for the user. Set the ‘Speed’ to 9600.
5. Then under ‘Category:’ select ‘Terminal’. Change both the ‘Local
echo:’ and the ‘Local line editing:’ to ‘Force on’. After that click ‘Open’
to begin commanding and operating the Mini-Matrix.
12
Connections
3.2.2Connecting to a USB Port
To connect the Mini-Matrix to the USB port of a PC, two USB to RS-232
cables are required. A simple USB to USB connection from the PC to the
Mini-Matrix will not work. This is because both the PC and the Mini-Matrix
are hosts. Using two USB to RS-232 cables will overcome this problem.
Perform the following steps.
1. Connect the first USB to RS-232 cable to the Mini-Matrix before turning
the Mini-Matrix on. Note: This is important because the drivers for
the cable are installed during the boot up of the Mini-Matrix.
2. Then connect the null-modem cable to the D-Sub connector of the USB
to RS-232 cable that is connected to the Mini-Matrix.
3. Connect the null-modem cable to the RS-232 D-Sub connector of the
second USB to RS-232 cable. Then plug the USB side of the cable into
the USB port of a PC. Depending on the gender of the D-Sub
connectors, a female to female D-Sub connecter may be needed.
4. To communicate with the Mini-Matrix, follow steps 4 and 5 in Section
3.2.1.
13
Connections
3.3 Ethernet Port
There are two ways to control the Mini-Matrix using the Ethernet port. One
method is through TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol),
which is the basic communication protocol of the internet. The second method
for controlling the Mini-Matrix is using the HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)
webpage. HTTP is the foundation of communication on the World Wide Web.
The user will need the IP (Internet Protocol) address to control the Mini-Matrix
using the Ethernet port. IMPORTANT: Read section 3.4 to connect to the
Mini-Matrix using the Ethernet port. The Mini-Matrix has a default static IP
address. It will be necessary to configure a PC to have a similar IP
address in order to connect to the Mini-Matrix properly over Ethernet for
the first time.
3.3.1TCP/IP Control
Follow the steps below to connect to the Mini-Matrix. In the example
pictures PuTTY is being used as the SSH (Secure Shell).
1. Open PuTTY and enter the IP address of the Mini-Matrix in the box
under ‘Host Name (or IP address)’. Change the ‘Port’ number to ‘10’,
and for the ‘Connection Type:’ select ‘Raw’.
Note: The default TCP port number is 10. The TCP port can be
changed once the user is connected to the Mini-Matrix. The IP
address used below is the default IP address of the Mini-Matrix.
14
Connections
2. Then under ‘Category:’ click on ‘Terminal’. Under ‘Local echo:’ and
‘Local line editing:’ choose ‘Force On’. Then click ‘Open’ at the bottom
of the PuTTY Configuration window to begin commanding and operating
the Mini-Matrix.
3.3.2HTTP Webpage Control
The HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the user friendly way to control
the Mini-Matrix. If the user is not comfortable with writing SCPI (Standard
Commands for Programmable Instruments) then the webpage has many
features that make operating the Mini-Matrix easier. The features are
covered in depth in Section 7.
To connect to the Mini-Matrix open a web browser, type in the IP address
‘http://10.180.50.233/’, and press enter. This will take the user to the HTTP
webpage for controlling the Mini-Matrix. Note: The IP address used is the
default static IP address of the Mini-Matrix as delivered.
Table of contents
