Marvin GX6377 User manual

GXSW
Switching Instruments
GX6377
Multifunction Switching Card
User’s Guide
Last Updated: December 13, 2016

GX6377 User’s Guide i
Safety and Handling
Each product shipped by Marvin Test Solutions is carefully inspected and tested prior to shipping. The shipping box
provides protection during shipment, and can be used for storage of both the hardware and the software when they
are not in use.
The circuit boards are extremely delicate and require care in handling and installation. Do not remove the boards
from their protective plastic coverings or from the shipping box until you are ready to install the boards into your
computer.
If a board is removed from the computer for any reason, be sure to store it in its original shipping box. Do not store
boards on top of workbenches or other areas where they might be susceptible to damage or exposure to strong
electromagnetic or electrostatic fields. Store circuit boards in protective anti-electrostatic wrapping and away from
electromagnetic fields.
Be sure to make a single copy of the software CD for installation. Store the original CD in a safe place away from
electromagnetic or electrostatic fields. Return compact disks (CD) to their protective case or sleeve and store in the
original shipping box or other suitable location.
Warranty
Marvin Test Solutions products are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12
months. Marvin Test Solutions shall repair or replace (at its discretion) any defective product during the stated
warranty period. The software warranty includes any revisions or new versions released during the warranty period.
Revisions and new versions may be covered by a software support agreement. If you need to return a board, please
contact Marvin Test Solutions Customer Technical Services Department via Error! Hyperlink reference not
valid./ - the Marvin Test Solutions on-line support system.
If You Need Help
Visit our web site at Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. for more information about Marvin Test Solutions
products, services and support options. Our web site contains sections describing support options and application
notes, as well as a download area for downloading patches, example, patches and new or revised instrument drivers.
To submit a support issue including suggestion, bug report or questions please use the following link:
https://www.MarvinTest.com/magic/
You can also use Marvin Test Solutions technical support phone line [phone]. This service is available
between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM Pacific Standard Time.
Our address (check our website for latest address): Marvin Test Solutions, 1770 Kettering, Irvine, CA 92614, USA.
Disclaimer
In no event, shall Marvin Test Solutions or any of its representatives be liable for any consequential damages
whatsoever (including unlimited damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business
information, or any other losses) arising out of the use of or inability to use this product, even if Marvin Test
Solutions has been advised of the possibility for such damages.

ii GX6377 User’s Guide
Copyright
Copyright 2003-2016 by Marvin Test Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this document can be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Marvin Test Solutions.
Trademarks
ATEasy , CalEasy, DIOEasy®, DtifEasy, WaveEasy
Marvin Test Solutions, Inc.
(prior name was Geotest –
Marvin Test Systems, Inc.)
C++ Builder, Delphi
Embarcadero Technologies
Inc.
LabView, LabWindowstm/CVI
National Instruments
Microsoft Developer Studio, Microsoft Visual C++, Microsoft Visual Basic,
.NET and Windows.
Microsoft Corporation
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

GX6377 User’s Guide iii
Table of Contents
Safety and Handling...................................................................................................................................................i
Warranty ....................................................................................................................................................................i
If You Need Help.......................................................................................................................................................i
Disclaimer..................................................................................................................................................................i
Copyright ................................................................................................................................................................. ii
Trademarks .............................................................................................................................................................. ii
Chapter 1 - Introduction .............................................................................................................................1
Manual Scope and Organization...............................................................................................................................1
Manual Scope.......................................................................................................................................................1
Manual Organization............................................................................................................................................1
Conventions Used in this Manual .............................................................................................................................1
Chapter 2 - Overview ..................................................................................................................................3
Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................3
Features.....................................................................................................................................................................3
Board Description.....................................................................................................................................................4
Side view of the GX6377.....................................................................................................................................4
Architecture ..............................................................................................................................................................5
High Current Form A SPST Relays .....................................................................................................................5
Form A SPST Relays ...........................................................................................................................................5
Form C SPDT Relays...........................................................................................................................................6
Switch Matrix Groups..........................................................................................................................................6
Basic (default) configuration of two groups of 2x16:...........................................................................................6
Configuration programmed to one group of 2x32:...............................................................................................7
Configuration via jumpers to a 4x16 switch matrix..............................................................................................7
Ground and Guard................................................................................................................................................8
Specifications............................................................................................................................................................8
High Current Relays.............................................................................................................................................8
Form A & Form C Relays ....................................................................................................................................8
Switch Matrix Relays...........................................................................................................................................9
Environmental......................................................................................................................................................9
Physical................................................................................................................................................................9
Virtual Panel Description........................................................................................................................................10
Virtual Panel Initialize Dialog............................................................................................................................11
Virtual Panel Setup Page....................................................................................................................................12
Virtual Panel About Page...................................................................................................................................13

iv GX6377 User’s Guide
Chapter 3 - Installation and Connections...............................................................................................15
Getting Started........................................................................................................................................................15
Packing List........................................................................................................................................................15
Unpacking and Inspection..................................................................................................................................15
System Requirements.........................................................................................................................................15
Installation of the GXSW Software ........................................................................................................................16
Setup Maintenance Program...................................................................................................................................16
Overview of the GXSW Software...........................................................................................................................17
Installation Folders..................................................................................................................................................17
Configuring Your PXI System using the PXI/PCI Explorer...................................................................................18
Board Installation....................................................................................................................................................19
Before you Begin ...............................................................................................................................................19
Electric Static Discharge (ESD) Precautions .....................................................................................................19
Installing a Board...............................................................................................................................................19
Plug & Play Driver Installation..........................................................................................................................21
Removing a Board..............................................................................................................................................21
Connectors and Jumpers .........................................................................................................................................22
Connectors and Accessories....................................................................................................................................23
J6 Connector...........................................................................................................................................................24
Header JP2 –Group A Columns to Group B Columns...........................................................................................25
Chapter 4 - Functions Reference............................................................................................................. 27
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................27
GX6377 Functions..................................................................................................................................................28
Gx6377GetBoardSummary.....................................................................................................................................29
Gx6377Initialize .....................................................................................................................................................30
Gx6377InitializeVisa..............................................................................................................................................31
Gx6377MatrixClose................................................................................................................................................32
Gx6377MatrixGetChannel......................................................................................................................................33
Gx6377MatrixGetConfiguration.............................................................................................................................34
Gx6377MatrixGetRow............................................................................................................................................35
Gx6377MatrixOpen................................................................................................................................................36
Gx6377MatrixSetConfiguration .............................................................................................................................37
Gx6377MatrixSetRow............................................................................................................................................38
Gx6377Panel...........................................................................................................................................................39
Gx6377RelayClose .................................................................................................................................................40
Gx6377RelayGetChannel .......................................................................................................................................41

GX6377 User’s Guide v
Gx6377RelayGetChannels......................................................................................................................................42
Gx6377RelayOpen..................................................................................................................................................43
Gx6377RelaySetChannels.......................................................................................................................................44
Gx6377Reset...........................................................................................................................................................45
GxSWGetErrorString..............................................................................................................................................46
Index...........................................................................................................................................................49

vi GX6377 User’s Guide

Introduction 1
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Manual Scope and Organization
Manual Scope
This manual provides all the information necessary for installation, operation, and maintenance of the GX6377 PXI
Switch Matrix Board. The manual also covers the GXSW software package that includes the GX6377 driver. This
manual assumes the reader has a general knowledge of PC based computers, Windows operating systems, and a
general knowledge of modular test equipment.
Manual Organization
The GX6377 manual is organized in the following manner:
Chapter
Content
Chapter 1 –Introduction
Introduces the GX6377 manual and shows warning conventions used in the
manual.
Chapter 2 –Overview
Provides the GX6377 list of features, description of the board, architecture,
specifications and the virtual panel description and operation.
Chapter 3 –Installation and
Connections
Provides instructions about how to install a GX6377 board and the GXSW
software.
Chapter 4 –Functions
Reference
Provides a list of the GXSW driver functions for the GX6377. Each function
description provides syntax, parameters, and any special programming
comments.
Conventions Used in this Manual
Symbol Convention
Meaning
Static Sensitive Electronic Devices. Handle Carefully.
Warnings that may pose a personal danger to your health. For example, shock
hazard.
Cautions where computer components may be damaged if not handled carefully.
Tips that aid you in your work.

2GX6377 User’s Guide
Formatting
Convention
Meaning
Monospaced Text
Examples of field syntax and programming samples.
Bold type
Words or characters you type as the manual instructs. For example: function or panel
names.
Italic type
Specialized terms. Titles of other references and information sources. Placeholders for
items you must supply, such as function parameters

Overview 3
Chapter 2 - Overview
Introduction
Users of the Marvin Test Solutions GX6377 Switching instruments must be familiar with the GXSW User’s Guide
for a more thorough understanding of the following topics:
The GX6377 is a single slot 3U PXI high-density multifunction switching instrument.
Theory of Operation of Switching Systems
Control GXSW Switching instruments using various programming languages
Setup and Installation of GXSW Switching instruments
Caution - Do not attempt to insert or remove a switching instrument until you are familiar with GXSW
User’s Guide Chapter 3 “Setup and Installation”.
Features
The GX6377 is a one-slot 3U PXI high-density switch matrix instrument supporting the following features:
5 individual high-current SPST relays.
4 individual Form A SPST relays.
4 individual Form C SPDT relays.
2 groups of 2x16 Switch Matrix.
Switch Matrix can be programmatically configured as one group of 2x32.
Switch Matrix can be configured through jumpers as 4x16.
Occupies single PXI/CompactPCI 3U bus slot.

4GX6377 User’s Guide
Board Description
The GX6377 is a single slot 3U PXI/CompactPCI switching card combining different types of relays. The card
contains high-power switching relays and two groups of 16x2 switch matrix for small signal switching. The high-
power switching relays consist of 5 high current Form A SPST relays, 4 Form A SPST relays and 4 Form C relays.
The Switch Matrix has a basic configuration of two groups of 2x16 and can be programmatically configured as one
group of 2x32 or configured through jumpers as 4x16.
Side view of the GX6377
Figure 2-1: GX6377 Multifunction Switching Card

Overview 5
Architecture
The GX6377 contains high-power switching relays and two groups of 16x2 switch matrix for small signal switching.
The high-power switching relays consist of 5 high current Form A SPST relays, 4 Form A SPST relays and 4 Form C
relays. The Switch Matrix has a basic configuration of two groups of 2x16 and can be programmatically configured
as one group of 2x32 or configured through jumpers as 4x16. The GX6377 architecture is shown in Figure 2-2:
Logic
Control
5High Current
Relays
Form A Relays
4
5
4
Connector
J6
Form C Relays
44
Switch Matrix
2x16 16
Switch Matrix
2x16
PXI
Interface
16
Figure 2-2: GX6377 Architecture
High Current Form A SPST Relays
Figure 2-3: GX6377 High Current (SPST) Relay
When the relay is activated, the Change Over (CO) terminal is connected to the Normally Open (NO) terminal.
When the relay is deactivated, the CO terminal is disconnected. After the board is reset, all relays are deactivated.
Form A SPST Relays
Figure 2-4: GX6377 Form A (SPST) Relay
When the relay is activated, the Change Over (CO) terminal is connected to the Normally Open (NO) terminal.
When the relay is deactivated, the CO terminal is disconnected. After the board is reset, all relays are deactivated.

6GX6377 User’s Guide
Form C SPDT Relays
The GX6377 has 4 Form C Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) relays (see Figure 2-5).
CO
NC
NO
Figure 2-5: GX6377 Form C (SPDT) Relay
When the relay is activated, the Change Over (CO) terminal is connected to the Normally Open (NO) terminal.
When the relay is deactivated, the CO terminal is connected to the Normally Closed (NC) terminal. After the board
is reset, all relays are deactivated.
These relays have a self-cleaning property when enough current flows between contacts. To ensure this occurs, the
relays must be used for power switching. Without the minimum current, the action will not occur and the contact
resistance will not meet the specifications.
Switch Matrix Groups
The GX6377 has 2 switching groups A and B. There are two rows per group and 16 relays per row for a total of 32
per group and total of 64 relays per board.
The Switch Matrix can be configured as follows:
Basic (default) configuration of two groups of 2x16:
15
Columns 0 through 15
Row 0
Row 1
14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Figure 2-6: GX6377 Typical Switching Group

Overview 7
Configuration programmed to one group of 2x32:
The Switch Matrix configuration can be programmed to change the configuration to one group of 2x32.
31 Columns 0 through 31
Row A0
Row A1
30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Figure 2-7: GX6377 Typical Switching Group
Configuration via jumpers to a 4x16 switch matrix
All the columns in Groups A and B can be connected via jumpers creating a 4x16 switch matrix. There is a jumper
header block of 16 jumpers used for connecting the 16 columns to their adjacent group. Figure 2-8 shows jumper
headers for groups A to B with JP1.
15
Columns 0 through 15
Row A0
Row A1
14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Row B0
Row B1
Figure 2-8:GX6377 A and B Groups Jumpers

8GX6377 User’s Guide
Ground and Guard
All the shielding on the GX6377 board is connected to a chassis signal. JP1 can be installed to connect the chassis
and Ground.
Specifications
The following table outlines the specifications of the GX6377:
High Current Relays
Relay Format
5 SPST (1 Form A)
Channel Resistance
Maximum: 0.3 
Typical: 0.2
Contact Life Rating
Mech. 10 Million
Elect. 100,000 At 10 270VAC Res.
Switching Voltage
240 VAC 30 VDC
Maximum
Switching Current
10A AC, 7.0 A DC
Maximum (when both pins of same
signal are used)
Contact Carry Current
10 A AC, 10A DC
Maximum (when both pins of same
signal are used)
Operate Time
10mS @ nominal voltage
Excluding bounce
Release Time
10mS @ nominal voltage
Excluding bounce
Minimum Load
5V. 0.1A
Form A & Form C Relays
Relay Format
4 SPST (1 Form A), 4 SPDT (1 Form C)
Channel Resistance
Maximum: 0.5 
Typical: 0.2
Relay Contact Resistance
Maximum: 0.2 
Initial: 0.05
Contact Life Rating
At 2A 30VDC
5x105Typical
Rated Load
Switching Voltage
220 VDC 250VAC
Maximum
Switching Current
2 A AC, DC
Maximum
Contact Carry Current
3 A AC, DC
Maximum
Operate Time
3 mSec
Excluding bounce
Release Time
3 mSec
Excluding bounce

Overview 9
Switch Matrix Relays
Contact Specifications
Relay Contact Resistance
0.2Maximum
Contact Life Rating
At 5 VDC @ 10mA
1 x109
Switch able Voltage
200 VDC Maximum
Switch able Current
0.5 Max
Contact Carry Current
1 Maximum
Operate Time
500 S including bounce
Release Time
100 S
Environmental
Environmental
Temperature:
0 to +40 C Operating
-10 to +70 C Storage
Vibration
5g at 500Hz
Shock
5g for 6mS ½ Sine
Physical
Size
3U PXI
Weight
10.6 oz.
Power Requirements
3.3V Power
160mA Max
5V Power
2A Max, 0.5A Typical
Vibration
5g at 500Hz
Shock
5g for 6mS ½ Sine

10 GX6377 User’s Guide
Virtual Panel Description
The GX6377 includes a virtual panel program, which enables full utilization of the various configurations and
controlling modes. To fully understand the front panel operation, it is best to become familiar with the functionality
of the board.
To open the virtual panel application, select GX6377 Panel from the Marvin Test Solutions, GXSW menu under
the Start menu. The GX6377 virtual panel opens as shown here:
Figure 2-9: GX6377 Virtual Panel
The following controls are shown:
Initialize Opens the Initialize Dialog (see Initialize Dialog paragraph) in order to initialize the board driver. The
current settings of the selected counter will not change after calling initialize. The panel will reflect the current
settings of the counter after the Initialize dialog closes.
Reset: Resets all relays to an open state and sets panel parameters to the default state.
Close: Closes (exits) the GX6377 panel.
Help: Opens the GX6377 on-line help window.

Overview 11
Virtual Panel Initialize Dialog
The Initialize dialog initializes the driver for the selected counter board. The counter settings will not change after
initialize is called. Once initialize, the panel will reflect the current settings of the counter.
The Initialize dialog supports two different device drivers that can be used to access and control the board:
1. Use Marvin Test Solutions’ HW –this is the device driver installed by the setup program and is the default
driver. When selected, the Slot Number list displays the available counter boards installed in the system and
their slots. The chassis, slots, devices and their resources are also displayed by the HW resource manager,
PXI/PCI Explorer applet that can be opened from the Windows Control Panel. The PXI/PCI Explorer can be
used to configure the system chassis, controllers, slots and devices. The configuration is saved to PXISYS.INI
and PXIeSYS.INI located in the Windows folder. These configuration files are also used by VISA. The
following figure shows the slot number 0x10C (chassis 1 Slot 12). This is the slot number argument (nSlot)
passed by the panel when calling the driver Gx6377Initialize function used to initialize driver with the specified
board.
2. Use VISA –this is a third-party device driver usually provided by National Instrument (NI-VISA). When
selected, the Resource list displays the available boards installed in the system and their VISA resource address.
The chassis, slots, devices and their resources are also displayed by the VISA resource manager, Measurement
& Automation (NI-MAX) and in Marvin Test Solutions PXI/PCI Explorer. The following figure shows
PXI10::11::INSTR as the VISA resource (PCI bus 10 and Device 11). This is VISA resource string argument
(szVisaResource) passed by the panel when calling the driver Gx6377InitializeVisa function to initialize the
driver with the specified board.
Figure 2-11: Initialize Dialog Box using VISA resources
Figure 2-10: Initialize Dialog Box using Marvin Test Solutions’ HW driver

12 GX6377 User’s Guide
Virtual Panel Setup Page
After the board is initialized the panel is enabled and will display the current setting of the board. The following
picture shows the Group page settings:
Figure 2-12: GX6377 Virtual Panel Initialized (the Switch Matrix
configured as Two Groups 2x16)
The following controls are shown:
High Current Relays Display Area (Relays K1 –K5): Displays the High Current Relay setting (closed or open).
When a box is checked, the relay is closed. Similarly, unchecked boxes mean relays are open.
Form A Relays Display Area (Relays K1 –K4): Displays the Form A Relay setting (closed or open). When a box
is checked, the relay is closed. Similarly, unchecked boxes mean relays are open.
Form C Relays Display Area (Relays K1 –K4): Displays the Form C Relay setting (closed or open). When a box
is checked, the relay is closed. Similarly, unchecked boxes mean relays are open.
Matrix Configuration (radio button): Set/Displays the current Matrix relays configuration. Configuration options
are:
Two Groups 2x16-Two Individual Switch Matrix Groups A and B of 2x16 each (see Figure 2-12).
Single Group 2x32-Single Switch Matrix Groups A of 2x32 (see Figure 2-13).
Matrix Group A and B Display Area: Displays the current relay setting (closed or open). When a box in the matrix
is checked, the relay in that row/column is closed. Similarly, unchecked boxes mean relays are open.