Pickering 50-297 User manual

pickeringtest.com
Issue 6.4 May 2021
50-297 User Manual
PCI High Density Precision Resistor Card

Page (II) HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Page (II) REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
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© COPYRIGHT (2021) PICKERING INTERFACES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, translated or stored in any form, or by
any means without the written permission of Pickering Interfaces.
Technical details contained within this publication are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001
Reg No. FM38792

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HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Page (III)
REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
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TECHNICAL SUPPORT
For Technical Support please contact Pickering Interfaces either by phone, the website or via e-mail.
WARRANTY
All products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces are warranted against defective materials and workmanship for a period of
three years, excluding programmable power supplies, from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. Any product found to be
defective within this period will, at the discretion of Pickering Interfaces be repaired or replaced.
Products serviced and repaired outside of the warranty period are warranted for ninety days.
Extended warranty and service are available. Please contact Pickering Interfaces by phone, the website or via e-mail.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Pickering Interfaces operates under an environmental management system similar to ISO 14001.
Pickering Interfaces strives to full all relevant environmental laws and regulations and reduce wastes and releases to the
environment. Pickering Interfaces aims to design and operate products in a way that protects the environment and the health and
safety of its employees, customers and the public. Pickering Interfaces endeavours to develop and manufacture products that can
be produced, distributed, used and recycled, or disposed of, in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
Worldwide Technical Support and Product Information
pickeringtest.com
Germany
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Sweden
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
USA
Tel: (West) [phone]
Tel: (East) [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Czech Republic
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
France
Tel [phone]
E-mail [email protected]
Pickering Interfaces Headquarters
Stephenson Road Clacton-on-Sea CO15 4NL United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]
China
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]

Page (IV) HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Page (IV) REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
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MEANING / DESCRIPTION SYMBOL
PROTECTIVE EARTH (GROUND)
To identify any terminal which is intended for connection to an external conductor for
protection against electric shock in case of a fault, or the terminal of a protective earth
(ground) electrode.
DANGEROUS VOLTAGE
To indicate hazards arising from dangerous voltages.
WARNING / CAUTION
An appropriate safety instruction should be followed or caution to a potential hazard
exists.
Refer to the relevant instructions detailed within the product manual.
HEAVY
If this product is heavy reference should be made to the safety instructions for
provisions of lifting and moving.
STATIC SENSITIVE
To indicate that static sensitive devices are present and handling precautions should
be followed.
!
kg
SAFETY SYMBOLS
PRODUCT SAFETY
The following safety symbols may be used on the product and throughout the product documentation.

Page (V)
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Copyright Statement ...................................................................II
Technical Support and Warranty................................................III
Product Safety .............................................................................IV
Contents (this page)....................................................................V
Warnings and Cautions ..............................................................VII
Section 1
Technical Specication...............................................................1.1
Section 2
Technical Description .................................................................2.1
Functional Description..........................................................2.1
Guidance on Using the Card ................................................2.2
Section 3
Installation....................................................................................3.1
Pre Operation Checks...........................................................3.1
Hardware Installation ............................................................3.2
Software Installation .............................................................3.2
Soft Front Panel Installation.................................................3.3
Section 4
Programming Guide....................................................................4.1
Programming Options For Pickering PCI Cards ................4.1
Card Architecture ..................................................................4.2
Programming The Card.........................................................4.2
Using The Soft Front Panel ..................................................4.4
Section 5
Connector Information................................................................5.1
Section 6
Trouble Shooting.........................................................................6.1
Section 7
Maintenance Information............................................................7.1
Verication & Adjustment Procedure ..................................7.2
Verication Test Results .......................................................7.9
CONTENTS

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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

Page (VII)
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Page (VII)
PCI REED RELAY CARD 50-110 / 115 / 120 / 125
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WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
WARNING - HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENTS SYMBOL
This product is not specically designed for use in hazardous environments, for example in explosive
atmospheres. If the product is to be used in hazardous environments we recommend that the user
ensures suitable protective measures are taken.
!
CAUTION - HANDLING OF ELECTROSTATIC-SENSITIVE DEVICES SYMBOL
Certain semiconductor devices used in this equipment are liable to damage due to static voltage.
Observe the following precautions when handling these devices in their unterminated state, or
sub-assemblies containing these devices:
1. Persons removing sub-assemblies from equipment using these devices must be earthed by a
wrist strap and a resistor at the point provided on the equipment.
2. Soldering irons used during the repair operations must be low voltage types with earthed tips and
isolated from the mains voltage by a double insulated transformer.
3. Outer clothing worn must be unable to generate static charges.
4. Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) tted with these devices must be stored and transported in
anti-static bags.
WARNING - DANGER OF ELECTRIC SHOCK SYMBOL
This card may contain hazardous voltages. Before removing the card from the chassis remove all
supplies and disconnect user I/O signals.
Unused slots in the PC chassis are populated with blanking plates to prevent access to user I/O
signals that may be present. . If the product is not used in this manner for example by using an
extender card then additional care must be taken to avoid contact with exposed signals.
Not to be used in safety critical circuits, refer to the Pickering Interfaces’ terms & conditions of sale.
This card must not be used for the switching of Mains Circuits. For the switching of voltages up to
the card’s full specication, Secondary Circuit power supplies and the Device Under Test must be
fully isolated from the Mains Circuit and the safety earth.
The host chassis must be correctly installed and be connected to mains or factory safety ground,
please refer to your chassis installation manual.
Diagram Showing Separation Between The Mains Circuit and Secondary Circuit / DUT
For the purposes of this document, a Mains Circuit is an installation classied as Overvoltage
Category II up to 300V. Separation between the Secondary Circuit and Mains Circuit is achieved
by a transformer in which the primary windings are separated from the secondary windings by
reinforced insulation, double insulation, or a screen connected to the protective conductor terminal.
PCI Switching
Card
Device
Under Test
Power
Supply
Power
Supply
Host Chassis
Secondary Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains/Factory
Safety Ground

Page (VIII) HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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Page (VIII) PCI REED RELAY CARD 50-110 / 115 / 120 / 125
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CAUTION - PRODUCT DOCUMENTATION SYMBOL
Suitably qualied & trained users should ensure that the accompanying documentation is fully read
and understood before attempting to install or operate the product.
!
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
All cleaning and servicing requires the equipment to be isolated and disconnected from the power source and user I/O
signals (refer to the Maintenance Section).
• Appropriate manual handling procedures should be followed as dictated by the weight of the individual module or
the combined weight of the modules & chassis.
• Should a fault occur with the module or chassis, immediately isolate and disconnect the incoming power to the
chassis and the user I/O signals.
• Ensure the equipment is installed, operated and maintained by trained and authorised personnel.
• For suitably equipped products in the event of an emergency press the red “emergency stop” button situated on
the front of the unit.

Page 1.1
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
pickeringtest.com
PCI High Density Precision Resistor Card 50-297
ISSUE 6.0 JAN 2019
yHigh Density Resistor Simulation
yUp To 18 Channels in a One Slot Card
yResistance Resolution to 0.125Ω
yValues From 1 Ω to 22 MΩ
yAccuracy of ±0.2 % ± Resolution
yShort and Open Simulation
ySimple Software Control Through Resistance
Calls
yVISA & Kernel Drivers Supplied for Windows
y3 Year Warranty
Up to 18
Up to 18
37-pin
D-type
Plug
Resistor
Channel
Switched
Resistor
Functional Diagram for the 50-297 High Density
Precision Resistor Card
The 50-297 provides a simple solution for applications
requiring accurate simulation of resistive sensors.
It is available in a variety of resistance ranges and
resolutions to meet the needs of most functional test
systems. It is particularly suited to engine controller
test applications where resistive sensors provide
information such as temperature.
The channels of the 50-297 are able to simulate the
common short circuit and open circuit conditions that
can be experienced in a system due faults in wiring or
sensors.
Software control of the 50-297 is simplified by the use
of resistor value calls. The card works out the channel
setting closest to what has been requested and sets
that value. The user can interrogate the card to find the
actual resistance setting used.
A calibration cable assembly can be attached to the
card to enable an external DMM to be connected to
each channel in turn for verification purposes. This
considerably simplifies the effort required to check the
card’s calibration. Verification is performed with the
UUT disconnected from the card.
The 50-297 is available in 50 standard builds that suit the
most common configurations required:
• A narrow resistance range version, available in 9 or 18
channel variants.
• A medium resistance range version, available in 4 or 9
channel variants.
• A wide resistance range version, available in 3 or 6
channel variants.
Pickering’s Range of PCI Resistor Cards
Model Description Chan. Range Resolution Accuracy
50-262 RTD Simulator 6
350 Ω, 1 kΩ,
1.5 kΩ, 2 kΩ
or 3 kΩ
<8 mΩ
or <90 mΩ 0.1 %
50-265 Strain Gauge
Simulator 6
350 Ω, 1 kΩ,
1.5 kΩ, 2 kΩ
or 3 kΩ
<2 mΩ, <10 mΩ,
<12.5 mΩ,
<20 mΩ
or <25 mΩ
0.03 % or
0.06 %
50-293 Programmable
Resistor + SPDT 2 or 4 Up to
131 kΩ
0.25 Ω, 0.5 Ω,
1 Ω or 2 Ω
1 %
±Resolution
50-294 Programmable
Resistor + SPST 2 or 4
50-295A Programmable
Resistor
3, 6, 5, 10
or 18 Up to
16 MΩ
8, 12, 16 or
24-Bit
±0.5 %
(1% >1 MΩ)
50-296A Programmable
Potentiometer
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
or 9
50-297
High Density
Precision
Resistor
3, 4, 6, 9
or 18
Up to
22.3 MΩ
0.125 Ω,
0.25 Ω, 0.5 Ω,
1 Ω or 2 Ω
0.2 %
50-298
High Density
Precision
Resistor
3, 4, 6, 9
or 18
Up to
22.3 MΩ
0.125 Ω,
0.25 Ω, 0.5 Ω,
1 Ω or 2 Ω
0.2 %
Custom Resistor Cards
If our range of Resistor Cards does not meet your specific requirements,
please contact you local sales office to discuss your application.
Customizations include: different start and stop values, current, power,
voltage, precision, accuracy, number of channels, connector etc.

Page 1.2 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
High Density Resistor Card, 50-297
pickeringtest.com
Overview
Legacy Support
Due to the new expanded range of builds available
within the 50-297 family, the part numbering has
been revised. Users are encouraged to order under
the new part numbering system where possible.
However, to support our existing users the following
legacy part numbers are still available:
Resistor Card
Description
Legacy Part
Number
New Part
Number
9 Channel
Precision Resistor,
1Ω Resolution
50-297-101 50-297-113
18 Channel
Precision Resistor,
1Ω Resolution
50-297-001 50-297-013
4 Channel
Precision Resistor,
0.25Ω Resolution
50-297-102 50-297-131
9 Channel
Precision Resistor,
0.25Ω Resolution
50-297-002 50-297-031
3 Channel
Precision Resistor,
0.125Ω Resolution
50-297-103 50-297-150
6 Channel
Precision Resistor,
0.125Ω Resolution
50-297-003 50-297-050
Graphical Representation of the 50-297 Precision Resistor Card Range
Soft Front Panel for the 50-297 Precision Resistor Card
PCI Part Number
(Number of Channels)
Resistance Range
Resolution
1Ω 10 Ω 100 Ω 1 kΩ 10 kΩ 100 kΩ 1 MΩ 10 MΩ 100 MΩ
50-297-010 (18) 50-297-110 (9) 0.125 Ω
50-297-011 (18) 50-297-111 (9) 0.25 Ω
50-297-012 (18) 50-297-112 (9) 0.5 Ω
50-297-013 (18) 50-297-113 (9) 1 Ω
50-297-014 (18) 50-297-114 (9) 2 Ω
50-297-020 (9) 50-297-120 (4) 0.125 Ω
50-297-021 (9) 50-297-121 (4) 0.25 Ω
50-297-022 (9) 50-297-122 (4) 0.5 Ω
50-297-023 (9) 50-297-123 (4) 1 Ω
50-297-024 (9) 50-297-124 (4) 2 Ω
50-297-030 (9) 50-297-130 (4) 0.125 Ω
50-297-031 (9) 50-297-131 (4) 0.25 Ω
50-297-032 (9) 50-297-132 (4) 0.5 Ω
50-297-033 (9) 50-297-133 (4) 1 Ω
50-297-034 (9) 50-297-134 (4) 2 Ω
50-297-040 (6) 50-297-140 (3) 0.125 Ω
50-297-041 (6) 50-297-141 (3) 0.25 Ω
50-297-042 (6) 50-297-142 (3) 0.5 Ω
50-297-043 (6) 50-297-143 (3) 1 Ω
50-297-044 (6) 50-297-144 (3) 2 Ω
50-297-050 (6) 50-297-150 (3) 0.125 Ω
50-297-051 (6) 50-297-151 (3) 0.25 Ω
50-297-052 (6) 50-297-152 (3) 0.5 Ω
50-297-053 (6) 50-297-153 (3) 1 Ω
50-297-054 (6) 50-297-154 (3) 2 Ω
50-297-001 (18) 50-297-101 (9) 1 Ω
50-297-002 (9) 50-297-102 (4) 0.25 Ω
50-297-003 (6) 50-297-103 (3) 0.125 Ω

Page 1.3
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
High Density Resistor Card, 50-297
pickeringtest.com
Specifications
PCI Compliance
The 50-297 complies with the PCI Specification 2.0 (issued
Feb 2004).
Signalling Environment: 33 MHz, 32-bit Universal
(+3.3 V & +5 V).
For advance information about a PCI Express version of
this card please contact your local Pickering sales office
Supplied soft front panels and driver software are fully
compatible with Windows operating systems.
Safety & CE Compliance
All cards are fully CE compliant and meet applicable
EU directives: Low-voltage safety EN61010-1:2010,
EMC Immunity EN61326-1:2013,
Emissions EN55011:2009+A1:2010.
Mechanical Characteristics
Single slot short PCI format.
3D models for all versions in a variety of popular file
formats are available on request.
Connectors
Resistor connections via a 37-pin male D-Type connector.
For pin outs please refer to the operating manual.
Power Requirements
+3.3 V +5 V +12 V -12 V
200 mA 4.3 A max 0 0
Relay Type
The 50-297 is fitted with electro-mechanical relays.
Operating/Storage Conditions
Operating Conditions
Operating Temperature:
Humidity:
Altitude:
0 °C to +55 °C
Up to 90 % non-condensing
5000 m
Storage and Transport Conditions
Storage Temperature:
Humidity:
Altitude:
-20 °C to +75 °C
Up to 90 % non-condensing
15000 m
Specification
Accuracy: ±0.2 % ±Resolution @ ±10 °C
from calibration temperature
(factory calibration @ 21 °C)
Fault Simulation: Open and short circuit
(typically <0.3 Ω)
Power: 0.5 W maximum
Number of Operations: 100 million (10 mA)
Maximum Voltage: 100 V* or as limited by power
Settling time: <3 ms
Software Control: By resistance calls to card for
selected channel.
Calibration: 4-wire resistance measurement
of selected channel for
verification purposes with UUT
removed and a special cable
assembly attached. Factory
calibration data is stored on the
card.
* For full voltage rating, signal sources must be fully
isolated from mains supply and safety earth.

Page 1.4 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
High Density Resistor Card, 50-297
pickeringtest.com
Ordering Information
Mating Connectors & Cabling
For connection accessories for the 50-297 please refer to
the 90-007D 37-pin D-Type Connector Accessories data
sheet where a complete list and documentation can be
found for accessories, or refer to the Connection Solutions
catalog.
Other Resistor Modules
Pickering Interfaces manufacture a range of variable
resistor modules in the PXI and PCI formats. If you have a
requirement for a variable resistor module please contact
your local sales office with the information below and we
will advise you on the best solution for your application.
Lowest Resistance †
Highest Resistance
Resistance Resolution
Overall Accuracy
Maximum Power/Current
Number of Channels (variable resistors)
† Resistance is as measured across the user connector
terminals, minimum resistance must have a non-zero
value.
Product Customization
Pickering PXI modules are designed and manufactured
on our own flexible manufacturing lines, giving complete
product control and enabling simple customization to meet
very specific requirements.
Customization can include:
• Alternative resistance range
• Alternative resolution
• Different number of channels
• Different performance specifications
All customized products are given a unique part number,
fully documented and may be ordered at any time in the
future. Please contact your local sales office to discuss.
Accessories:
Calibration lead for 4-wire resistance measurement
using DMM - 37-pin D-type socket to shrouded 4mm
bayonet plugs,
1 m length: 40-975-037-1m
Product Order Codes
0.125 Ω Resolution
Range No. of
Channels Order Code No. of Channels Order Code
1 Ω to 31.5 Ω 9 50-297-110 18 50-297-010
1.5 Ω to 472 Ω 4 50-297-120 950-297-020
2 Ω to 6.97 kΩ 4 50-297-130 950-297-030
2.5 Ω to 102 kΩ 3 50-297-140 650-297-040
3 Ω to 1.51 MΩ 3 50-297-150 650-297-050
0.25 Ω Resolution
Range No. of
Channels Order Code No. of Channels Order Code
1 Ω to 62.1 Ω 9 50-297-111 18 50-297-011
1.5 Ω to 925 Ω 4 50-297-121 950-297-021
2 Ω to 13.6 kΩ 4 50-297-131 950-297-031
2.5 Ω to 201 kΩ 3 50-297-141 650-297-041
3 Ω to 2.97 MΩ 3 50-297-151 650-297-051
0.5 Ω Resolution
Range No. of
Channels Order Code No. of Channels Order Code
1 Ω to 122 Ω 9 50-297-112 18 50-297-012
1.5 Ω to 1.81 kΩ 4 50-297-122 950-297-022
2 Ω to 26.7 kΩ 4 50-297-132 950-297-032
2.5 Ω to 395 kΩ 3 50-297-142 650-297-042
3 Ω to 5.82 MΩ 3 50-297-152 650-297-052
1 Ω Resolution
Range No. of
Channels Order Code No. of Channels Order Code
1 Ω to 239 Ω 9 50-297-113 18 50-297-013
1.5 Ω to 3.55 kΩ 4 50-297-123 950-297-023
2 Ω to 52.4 kΩ 4 50-297-133 950-297-033
2.5 Ω to 773 kΩ 3 50-297-143 650-297-043
3 Ω to 11.4 MΩ 3 50-297-153 650-297-053
2 Ω Resolution
Range No. of
Channels Order Code No. of Channels Order Code
1 Ω to 470 Ω 9 50-297-114 18 50-297-014
1.5 Ω to 6.97 kΩ 4 50-297-124 950-297-024
2 Ω to 102 kΩ 4 50-297-134 950-297-034
2.5 Ω to 1.51 MΩ 3 50-297-144 650-297-044
3 Ω to 22.3 MΩ 3 50-297-154 650-297-054

Page 1.5
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
High Density Resistor Card, 50-297
pickeringtest.com
Supporting Products & Software
We also offer customized cabling and have a free online Cable Design Tool
that can be used to create custom cable solutions for many applications.
Visit: pickeringtest.com/cdt to start your design.
Mass Interconnect
We recommend the use of a mass interconnect solution when an
Interchangeable Test Adapter (ITA) is required for a PXI or LXI based
test system. Our modules are fully supported by both Virginia Panel and
MacPanel.
Pickering Reed Relays
We are the only switch provider with in-house reed relay manufacturing
capability via our Relay Division. These instrument grade reed relays feature
SoftCenter™ technology, ensuring long service life and repeatable contact
performance. To learn more, please go to: pickeringrelay.com
Connectivity Solutions
We provide a full range of supporting cable and connector solutions for all our switching products—20 connector families
with 1200+ products. We offer everything from simple mating connectors to complex cables assemblies and terminal blocks.
All assemblies are manufactured by Pickering and are guaranteed to mechanically and electrically mate to our modules.
Connectors & Backshells Multiway Cable Assemblies RF Cable Assemblies Connector Blocks
Programming
Pickering provide kernel, IVI and VISA (NI & Keysight) drivers which are compatible with all Microsoft supported versions of
Windows and popular older versions. For a list of all supporting operating systems, please see: pickeringtest.com/os
The VISA driver is also compatible with Real-Time Operating Systems such as LabVIEW RT. For other RTOS support contact
Pickering. These drivers may be used with a variety of programming environments and applications including:
• Pickering Interfaces Switch Path Manager
• National Instruments products (LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Switch Executive, MAX, TestStand, VeriStand, etc.)
• Microsoft Visual Studio products (Visual Basic, Visual C+)
• Keysight VEE and OpenTAP
• Mathworks Matlab
• Marvin ATEasy
• MTQ Testsolutions Tecap Test & Measurement Suite
Drivers for popular Linux distributions are available, other environments are also supported, please contact Pickering
with specific enquiries. We provide Soft Front Panels (SFPs) for our products for familiarity and manual control, as well as
comprehensive documentation and example programs to help you develop test routines with ease.
To learn more about software drivers and development environments, please go to: pickeringtest.com/software

Page 1.6 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
High Density Resistor Card, 50-298
pickeringtest.com
Supporting Products & Software
© Copyright (2021) Pickering Interfaces. All Rights Reserved Pickering Interfaces maintains a commitment to continuous product development, consequently we reserve the right to vary from the description given in this data sheet.
Signal Routing Software
Our signal routing software, Switch Path Manager, automatically selects and energizes
switch paths through Pickering switching systems. Signal routing is performed by simply
defining test system endpoints to be connected together, greatly accelerating Test System
software development. To learn more, please go to: pickeringtest.com/spm
Diagnostic Relay Test Tools
eBIRST Switching System Test Tools are designed specifically for our PXI,
PCI or LXI products, these tools simplify switching system fault-finding by
quickly testing the system and graphically identifying the faulty relay.
To learn more, please go to: pickeringtest.com/ebirst
Three Year Warranty & Guaranteed Long-Term Support
All standard products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces are warranted against defective materials and workmanship
for a period of three years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. Extended warranty and service agreements
are available for all our modules and systems with various levels to suit your requirements. Although we offer a 3-year
warranty as standard, we also include guaranteed long-term support—with a history of supporting our products for typically
15-20 years. To learn more, please go to: pickeringtest.com/support
Available Product Resources
We have a large library of product resources including success stories, product and support videos, articles and white
papers as well as application specific product brochures to assist when looking for the switching, simulation and
connection solutions you need. We have also published handy reference books on Switching Technology and for the PXI
and LXI standards.
To view, download or request any of our product resources, please visit: pickeringtest.com/resources

Page 2.1
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.1. The Precision Programmable Resistor Card is powered by +5V
inputs via the PCI edge connector. The interface to the user test equipment is via the front panel mounted 37-pin
D-type connector, J2. The module comprises two PCBs populated with resistor chains which are switched via dual
pole relays. The two PCBs are connected via a plug and socket connector arrangement. The relays are energised
via control signals from relay drivers which are addressed by PCI bridge U1, via the control logic. to output the
required signal. Module conguration is determined by data stored in EEPROM U9 PCI Bridge U1 is congured by
EEPROM U2.
Each resistor chain includes an offset resistor that can be used to set the minimum resistance value as well as relay
contacts to hold the channel open circuit or short circuit.
Figure 2.1 - Precision Programmable Resistor Card 50-297: Functional Block Diagram
37-PIN
D TYPE
CONNECTOR
J2
MODULE
CONFIGURATION
U9
PCI
BRIDGE
U1
PCI BRIDGE
CONFIGURATION
U2
PCI BUS
EDGE
CONNECTOR
+3.3V
0V
RELAY
COILS
RELAY
CONTACTS
CONTROL
LOGIC
U2 TO U8
RELAY
COILS
RELAY
CONTACTS
MOTHERBOARD
DAUGHTERBOARD
RELAY
DRIVERS
U17 TO
U22
RELAY
DRIVERS
U23 TO
U28
RESISTOR
CHAINS
RESISTOR
CHAINS
+5V

Page 2.2 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
GUIDANCE ON USING THE CARD
The 50-297 behaves as a precise but adjustable in value resistor. The circuit elements in the design use switch
resistors with electro-mechanical relays. It can be used to simulate the type of variable resistor found in many control
systems that indicate the value of a parameter, such as temperature, strain or pressure.
The 50-297 responds directly to a request for a particular value of resistance and is therefore very easy to use in
a system. Applications programs are easily generated to convert, for example, temperature requests to resistance
values for different types of RTD that are to be emulated.
Each resistor channel has an “input” connection and an “output” connection. There is no signicance in the label
“input” and “output” other than to identify them. The resistor channel schematic is shown in Figure 2.2.
The module uses xed resistor values switched by relays. There are no user adjustable parts
A table containing calibration data is used to convert requests for specic resistance values to a setting which most
closely corresponds to the value requested. The module contains two versions of the calibration table, one created
by Pickering Interfaces at the point of manufacture and an alternate table which can be created by the user. The
Pickering Interfaces table cannot be overwritten by the user. The user can select which table is being is used, in
the majority of applications we recommend the Pickering Interfaces table is used, creation of a user table requires
accurate measurements of many points within the module and requires a program to create with condence. A
program is available for this purpose from Pickering Interfaces but requires the use of a specic DMM range.
For applications requiring the greatest accuracy Pickering Interfaces does offer a range of other resistor modules
with better accuracy.
Potentiometer Operation
The 50-297 can be used to simulate a potentiometer by using the two channels connected in series. The user
should decide on the value of the potentiometer to be simulated and program two channels so that the sum of their
resistances is always the same. For example, if a 5kΩ potentiometer is needed with a wiper position at 1kΩ, set one
channel to 1kΩ and the other to 4kΩ.
Figure 2.2 - Resistor Channels for 50-297 18-Channel Precision Programmable Resistor
CHANNEL 1
RESISTOR CHANNEL CONNECTOR
IN OUT
CHANNEL 2
IN OUT
CHANNEL 18
IN OUT

Page 3.1
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Page 3.1
PCI REED RELAY CARD 50-110 / 115 / 120 / 125
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Figure 3.1 - Inserting a PCI Card into a PC Chassis
kg
PREOPERATION CHECKS (UNPACKING)
1. Check the card for transport damage and report any damage immediately to Pickering Interfaces.
Do not attempt to install the product if any damage is evident.
2. Position the PC chassis relative to any other equipment the card(s) will connect with. Ensure the chassis is
not connected to the electrical supply.
3. Ensure that the designated area for the chassis containing the card(s) is of at and solid construction to
withstand and support the total weight of the PC Chassis and cards.
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
!
Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
Modular products require installation in a suitable chassis. The card is designed for indoor use only.

Page 3.2 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Page 3.2 PCI REED RELAY CARD 50-110 / 115 / 120 / 125
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
First install the appropriate Pickering PCI switch card drivers by running the installer program Setup.exe (provided
in a compressed zip le), either from the CD-ROM supplied, or by downloading the latest version from our website
pickeringtest.com - the recommended method. Setup is accompanied by a ReadMe le containing
additional installation information. A single installation covers all cards in the System 40, System 45 and System
50 ranges.
When installation completes, the installed drivers’ ReadMe le is offered for display. It can also be displayed
later using a shortcut on the Programs>>Pickering menu.
If you are not a LabVIEW user you should choose the “full” version, and once that has been installed run
the LabVIEW Runtime Engine installer via the shortcut on the Programs>>Pickering menu. In the absence of
LabVIEW the Runtime Engine is required to support the Pickering Test Panels application.
!
HARDWARE INSTALLATION
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION (PC CHASSIS)
1. The PCI card must be electrically installed in accordance with local regional electrical codes by a qualied
engineer.
2. The PC chassis must be grounded.
Electrostatic discharge can damage the components on the card and in the chassis. To avoid such damage
when handling the products refer to page VII.
Ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
The card should be installed in accordance with the following procedure:
1. Ensure that the system is turned OFF but still connected to mains so that it remains grounded.
2. Choose an appropriate free PCI slot in the host system.
3. Remove the blanking plate for the chosen slot and retain the xing screw.
4. Carefully remove the card from its anti-static bag and insert the card’s edge connector into the free slot in
the host system (refer to Figure 3.1).
5. Ensure the card is fully inserted into the edge connector and the front panel is fully in contact with the back
of card aperture in the host chassis.
6. Use the xing screw to secure the front panel of the card to the host chassis’ mounting rail.
7. Replace the chassis cover(s).
8. Power-up the host system.

Page 3.3
HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Page 3.3
REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Figure 3.3 - General Soft Front Panel Selector
TESTING OPERATION
After installation of the hardware and Pickering PXI Driver software package start the General Soft Front
Panel (GSFP) using the desktop icon or via the Start menu (Start Menu-> Pickering Interfaces Ltd ->
General Soft Front Panel).
A selector panel will appear, listing all installed Pickering PCI, PXI or LXI switch cards and resistor cards. Click
on the card you wish to control, and a graphical control panel is presented allowing operation of the card.
Panels can be opened simultaneously for all the installed cards.
More details how to use the GSFP can be found in the manual, via menu Help\Manual
Figure 3.2 - General Soft Front Panel Icon

Page 3.4 HIGH DENSITY PRECISION RESISTOR CARD 50-297
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
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