Pickering 40-561A User manual

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Issue 6.6 November 2021
40-561A User Manual
PXI BRIC™ Multi-Slot Matrix Module

Page (II) BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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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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BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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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
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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]

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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.

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BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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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
Mechanical Description ........................................................2.1
Functional Description .........................................................2.3
Section 3
Installation....................................................................................3.1
Pre Operation Checks...........................................................3.1
Hardware Installation ............................................................3.2
Software Installation .............................................................3.2
Testing Operation ..................................................................3.3
Section 4
Programming Guide....................................................................4.1
Programming Options for PXI Modules ..............................4.1
Module Architecture..............................................................4.2
Programming The Module ....................................................4.2
Section 5
Connector Information................................................................5.1
Section 6
Trouble Shooting.........................................................................6.1
Section 7
Maintenance Information............................................................7.1
Switching System Test Tools ...............................................7.1
Fuse Replacement................................................................. 7.1
Relay Look-Up Tables ...........................................................7.2
PCB Layout Diagrams...........................................................7.27
Daughter Board Removal/Replacement..............................7.29
CONTENTS

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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

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BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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Page (VII)
2 AMP 1-POLE UHD MATRIX MODULES 40-575 / 576 / 577 / 578 / 579
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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.
!
WARNING - DANGER OF ELECTRIC SHOCK SYMBOL
This module may contain hazardous voltages. Before removing the module from the rack remove all
supplies and disconnect user I/O signals.
Unused slots in the host chassis are populated with blanking plates to prevent access to user I/O
signals that may be present. Blanking panels are available to order from Pickering in a variety of
slot widths. 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 module must not be used for the switching of Mains Circuits. For the switching of voltages up
to the module’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.
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.
PXI Switching
Module
Device
Under Test
Power
Supply
Power
Supply
Host Chassis
Secondary Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains/Factory
Safety Ground

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Page (VIII) 2 AMP 1-POLE UHD MATRIX MODULES 40-575 / 576 / 577 / 578 / 579
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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
BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
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PXI BRIC™ Multi-Slot Matrix 40-561A
ISSUE 5.2 NOV 2021
yIntegrated PXI Matrix Module With Built In
High Performance Screened Analog Bus
yAvailable as 2, 4 and 8 Slot 3U PXI Modules
y1 Pole or 2 Pole Switching
ySwitch up to 85 V, 0.5 A, 10 W
yAutomatic Isolation Relay Switches Maximizes
Bandwidth and Matrix Reliability
ySimplified Maintenance Through The Use of
Leaded Reed Relays
ySupport in Any PXI Compliant Chassis or
Control Through Ethernet in Our LXI Modular
Chassis
yVISA, IVI & Kernel Drivers Supplied for
Windows
yBuilt-In Diagnostics -
BIRST ™
ySupported by
eBIRST ™
y3 Year Warranty
BRIC ™ PXI Reed Relay Matrices
The 40-561A PXI BRIC is an ultra high density matrix
module. It is is available in 2, 4 or 8-slot sizes to suit high
performance PXI matrix requirements and is constructed
using instrumentation quality reed relays.
With its high level of switching density, the 40-561A matrix
allows a complete functional ATE system to be housed in a
single 3U PXI chassis, BRIC Modules allow the use of much
lower cost 8 or 14 slot PXI chassis.
• BRIC2 is a 2-slot PXI Module, this can hold up to 3
matrix daughtercards, 720 crosspoints.
• BRIC4 is a 4-slot PXI Module, this can hold up to 6
matrix daughtercards, 1440 crosspoints.
• BRIC8 is an 8-slot PXI Module, which can hold up to 12
matrix daughtercards, 2880 crosspoints.
High Reliability and Easy of Use
All models are constructed using the world’s smallest and
highest reliability Ruthenium Reed Relays, offering >109
operations to give maximum switching confidence with
long life and very stable contact resistance.
Built-In Relay Self-Test -
BIRST
The BIRST facility provides a quick and simple way of
finding relay failures. No test equipment is required, simply
disconnect the UUT from the BRIC’s connectors, launch
the BIRST application and the tool will run a diagnostic test
that will find all relays with faulty contacts.
For more information go to: pickeringtest.com/birst
Supported by
eBIRST
These modules are also supported by eBIRST. These test
tools simplify switching fault-finding by quickly testing the
system and graphically identifying the faulty relay.
For more information go to: pickeringtest.com/ebirst
The 40-561A PXI BRICs are designed to minimize the cost
and complexity of cable assemblies to the device under
test and instrumentation. Analog busing is housed within
the module using a high performance screened analog
bus backplane. Pickering can construct custom cable
assemblies for all of our PXI modules, please contact sales
office for further assistance.

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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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Overview
A BRIC Matrix allows the use of the much lower cost
8-slot 19 Inch PXI chassis, such as the Pickering 40-908
shown (leaving 5 PXI Instrument slots)
• Only uses the highest quality instrument grade reed
relays – be wary of inferior copies.
• Simplified cabling and interconnection for large matrix
solutions.
• Extensive accessory support.
• Built in self-test to find defective and degrading relays
with full path resistance characterisation.
• Simplified operation through automated isolation relay
operation and single matrix presentation.
• Highest density reed relay solution in PXI.
• Simple relay replacement and ease of field service.
• Extensive range of configurations and solutions.
• Fast operation through VISA driver with multiple relay
operation in one command or have the convenience and
simplicity of IVI drivers.
Pickering Reed Relay BRIC Advantages
Reed relay switching solutions can only be as good as the
relays used, and Pickering uses only the highest quality
instrumentation grade reed relays manufactured by our
Relay Division.
These are the reed relays of choice for ATE manufacturers,
providing the most reliable and consistent switching
available in the industry.
Pickering has over 50 years of experience designing
relays to the highest quality levels demanded by the ATE
industry. We know what makes a good relay and how to
construct a reliable relay.
All our reed relays use SoftCenter construction that
allows for the constant expansion and contraction of the
reed relay coils and
glass body without
fear of damage
to wires or glass
seals. The high
performance of reed
relays is due to their
hermetic structure,
and only SoftCenter
provides the means
to reliably avoid
damage, ensuring
long contact life.
So choose the right
matrix solution, and use the best quality reed relays by
choosing Pickering Interfaces’ reed relay BRICs.
Pickering SoftCenter ™
Instrumentation Grade Reed Relays
Pickering's Range of High Density BRIC Matrix Modules
40-560A - 1-Pole Matrix - 1 A Reed Relay
BRIC2 Up to 276x4, 138x8, 69x16
BRIC4 Up to 552x4, 276x8, 138x16
BRIC8 Up to 1104x4, 552x8, 276x16
40-561A - 1-Pole or 2-Pole Matrix - 0.5 A Reed Relay
BRIC2 Up to 90x8 or 45x16
BRIC4 Up to 180x8 or 90x16
BRIC8 Up to 360x8 or 180x16
40-562A - 1-Pole or 2-Pole Matrix - 1 A Reed Relay
BRIC2 Up to 132x4, 66x8, 33x16 or 15x32
BRIC4 Up to 264x4, 132x8, 66x16 or 30x32
BRIC8 Up to 528x4, 264x8, 132x16 or 60x32
40-563A - 1-Pole Matrix - 0.25 A Solid State
BRIC2 Up to 96x8
BRIC4 Up to 192x8
BRIC8 Up to 384x8
40-559 - 1-Pole Matrix - 1 A Reed Relay
BRIC2 256x4, 168x6, 128x8, 84x12 or 64x16
BRIC4 Up to 512x4, 336x6, 256x8, 168x12 or 128x16
BRIC8 Up to 1024x4, 672x6, 512x8, 336x12 or 256x16
2 Amp BRIC Matrix Modules From Pickering
40-565B - 2-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 29x8 to 232x8
40-566A - 2-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 55x4 to 385x4
40-568 - 1-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 75x4 to 600x4
40-596 - 1-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 58x6 to 464x6
40-567 - 1-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 44x8 to 352x8
40-597 - 1-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 32x12 to 256x12
40-598 - 1-Pole Matrix - Electro-mechanical Relay
From 24x16 to 192x16

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BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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Overview
How to use the BRIC matrix to connect instrumentation to the UUT
Instrument 1 Instrument 2 Instrument 3
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Instrument 4 Instrument 5
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
Device Under Test No. 1
33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45
Device Under Test No. 2
46 47 48 49 50 189 190 191 192
DUT No. 3
Single or Double Pole Matrices
Single or double pole 40-561A matrices extend from 30x16 configurations to 360x8 configurations.
X1
Y1
Y8
X30
X360
Y16
X1
Y1

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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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Specifications
Power Requirements
+3.3 V +5 V +12 V -12 V
0 4 A (typical 1 A) 0 0
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
PXI & CompactPCI Compliance
The module is compliant with the PXI Specification
2.2. Local Bus, Trigger Bus and Star Trigger are not
implemented.
Uses a 33 MHz 32-bit backplane interface.
Safety & CE Compliance
All modules 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.
Width and Dimensions
Two, four or eight slot 3 U PXI module (CompactPCI).
3D models for these modules in a variety of popular file
formats are available on request.
General Switching Specification
Switch Type: Ruthenium Reed
Max Switch Voltage: 85 VDC/100 VAC*
Max Power:
Max Switch Current:
Max Carry Current:
10 W
0.5 A
0.5 A
Relay Resistance:
Path Resistance X to X - on:
Path Resistance - off:
100 mΩ typical
1 Ω typical (within same
daughter card)
2 Ω typical (across different
daughter cards)
>1x109 Ω
Typical Operate Time: 1 ms (0.5 ms -R version)
Expected Life (Operations)
Low Power Load:
Full Power Load
>1x109
>1x106
* For full voltage rating, signal sources to be switched
must be fully isolated from mains supply and safety earth.
Relay Type
The 40-561A BRIC modules are fitted with ruthenium
sputtered reed relays, these offer very long life with good
low level switching performance and excellent contact
resistance stability. Spare reed relays are built onto the
circuit board to allow easy maintenance with minimum
downtime.
All reed relays are manufactured by our Relay Division, for
more information please visit: pickeringrelay.com
Maximum Crosspoint Count
The 40-561A has a suggested maximum number of
simultaneously operated crosspoints of 50 per BRIC2, 50
per BRIC4 or 100 per BRIC8 (please contact factory for
applications requiring higher closure counts).
Comparison Between 40-560A, 40-561A & 40-562A BRICs
40-560A: Offers the highest density solution for single
pole applications only. It offers a wide bandwidth since all
versions are fitted with isolation relays as standard that
automatically disconnect unused daughter cards from the
backplane (matrices can be supplied as -R versions with
the isolation relays removed).
40-561A: Offers a similar electrical specification as the
40-560A but with lower density and more options. It
can be supplied with 2-pole switching, providing a very
dense solution for 2-pole matrices. Isolation switches are
provided on 8-wire Y configurations, but not on 16-wire
configurations.
40-562A: For applications requiring a higher electrical
rating at the expense of density then choose the 40-562A.
The 40-562A is available in 1-pole and 2-pole versions.
Connectors
PXI bus via 32-bit P1/J1 backplane connector.
Signals via front panel connectors, for pin outs please
refer to the operating manual:
• x8 configurations: 96-pin male micro-D connector (first
daughter card on left), other daughter cards use 68-pin
male micro-D connectors
• x16 configurations: 68-pin male micro-D connectors
Module Weight
Empty BRIC Fully Loaded BRIC
BRIC2 0.6 Kg 1.2 Kg
BRIC4 0.9 Kg 2.1 Kg
BRIC8 1.6 Kg 4.0 Kg
BRIC daughter card 0.2 Kg

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BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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Ordering Information
Support Products
eBIRST Switching System Test Tool
This product is supported by the eBIRST test tools which
simplify the identification of failed relays, the required
eBIRST tools are listed below. This product requires
master slave testing and two sets of tools are required
together with the master slave cable:
93-970-301. For more information go to:
pickeringtest.com/ebirst
Product Test Tool Adaptor Termination
93-002-001
93-006-001
93-006-001
93-002-226
93-006-222
93-006-222
93-016-103
93-015-103
93-015-103
Spare Relay Kits
Kits of replacement relays are available for the majority
of our PXI switching products, simplifying servicing and
reducing down-time.
Product
1-Pole Versions
2-Pole Versions
Relay Kit
91-100-010
91-100-022
For further assistance, please contact the Pickering sales
office.
40-561A BRIC Matrix Product Order Codes
BRIC2 - 2-Slot
Ultra High Density 1-Pole Matrix
Ultra High Density 2-Pole Matrix
40-561A-221-(config)
40-561A-222-(config)
BRIC4 - 4-Slot
Ultra High Density 1-Pole Matrix
Ultra High Density 2-Pole Matrix
40-561A-021-(config)
40-561A-022-(config)
BRIC8 - 8-Slot
Ultra High Density 1-Pole Matrix
Ultra High Density 2-Pole Matrix
40-561A-121-(config)
40-561A-122-(config)
When ordering 40-561A modules the matrix configuration
must be specified, this includes the prefix code together with
the configuration code, see the tables for specific details.
For the expansion of an existing BRIC matrix or
replacement of faulty BRIC daughter cards please contact
your local sales office.
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 reed relay types
• Mixture of reed relay types
• Alternative number of relays
• 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.
x8 Configuration Options
BRIC2
40-561A-
221/222
BRIC4
40-561A-
021/022
BRIC8
40-561A-
121/122
60x8 Matrix -60x8 -60x8 -60x8
90x8 Matrix -90x8 -90x8 -90x8
120x8 Matrix -120x8 -120x8
150x8 Matrix -150x8 -150x8
180x8 Matrix -180x8 -180x8
210x8 Matrix -210x8
240x8 Matrix -240x8
270x8 Matrix -270x8
300x8 Matrix -300x8
330x8 Matrix -330x8
360x8 Matrix -360x8
Further Options - Isolation Relays Removed
This will improve path resistance by 150 mΩ
but will degrade isolation and bandwith.
-R
x8 (one of each tool)
x16 (two tools)
Mating Connectors & Cabling
For connection accessories for the 40-561A series BRIC
modules please refer to the 90-015D 68-pin micro-D or
90-016D 96-pin micro-D Connector Accessories data
sheets where a complete list and documentation can be
found for accessories, or refer to the Connection Solutions
catalog.
x16 Configuration Options
BRIC2
40-561A-
221/222
BRIC4
40-561A-
021/022
BRIC8
40-561A-
121/122
30x16 Matrix -30x16 -30x16 -30x16
45x16 Matrix -45x16 -45x16 -45x16
60x16 Matrix -60x16 -60x16
75x16 Matrix -75x16 -75x16
90x16 Matrix -90x16 -90x16
105x16 Matrix -105x16
120x16 Matrix -120x16
135x16 Matrix -135x16
150x16 Matrix -150x16
165x16 Matrix -165x16
180x16 Matrix -180x16

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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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
Chassis Compatibility
This PXI module must be used in a suitable chassis. It is compatible with the following chassis types:
• All chassis conforming to the 3U PXI and 3U Compact PCI (cPCI) specification
• Legacy and Hybrid Peripheral slots in a 3U PXI Express (PXIe) chassis
• Pickering Interfaces LXI or LXI/USB Modular Chassis
Chassis Selection Guide
Standard PXI or hybrid PXIe Chassis from any Vendor:
• Mix our 1000+ PXI switching & simulation modules with
any vendor’s PXI instrumentation
• Embedded or remote Windows PC control
• Real-time Operating System Support
• High data bandwidths, especially with PXI Express
• Integrated module timing and synchronization
Pickering LXI or LXI/USB Modular Chassis—only accept
our 1000+ PXI Switching & Simulation Modules:
• Ethernet or USB control enables remote operation
• Low-cost control from practically any controller
• LXI provides manual control via Web browsers
• Driverless software support
• Power sequencing immunity
• Ethernet provides chassis/controller voltage isolation
• Independence from Windows operating system
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

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BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
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BRIC Multi-Slot Matrix, 40-561A
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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.
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
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 1.8 BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
pickering
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

Page 2.1
BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
pickering SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
MECHANICAL DESCRIPTION
The BRIC Module comprises an alloy chassis, 2 slot (3 Daughter Cards), 4 slot (6 Daughter Cards) or 8 slot (12
Daughter Cards) width, with an integral backplane and a number of Ultra High Density Matrix Daughter Cards. The
chassis is provided with cooling slots, top and bottom. The backplane provides mounting for the 50-pin connectors
(into which the Matrix Daughter Cards plug) and Control logic.
CONTROL LOGIC
50-WAY
CONNECTORS
BACKPLANE
Figure 2.1 - The BRIC Chassis
BACKPLANE
50-PIN
CONNECTORS
CONTROL LOGIC
Each Matrix Daughter PCB provides mounting for a Ruthenium Reed relay matrix, Ruthenium Reed isolation relays
and relay drivers. The matrix daughter PCBs are tted to two types of front panel:
•Double width - two Matrix Daughter PCBs are attached using two M2.5 x 6mm pan-head posi-drive screws for
each. This front panel also provides mounting for a CPCI Ejector Handle and two male micro D-type connectors,
either 96-pin or 68-pin, as shown in Figures 2.2 and 2.3.
•Single width - one Matrix Daughter PCB is attached using two M2.5 x 6mm pan-head posi-drive screws. This
front panel also provides mounting for a male micro D-type connector, either 96-pin or 68-pin, as shown in Figures
2.2 and 2.3.

Page 2.2 BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
pickering
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
Figure 2.2 - 96/68-pin Micro-D Connectors used on the 30x8 Daughterboard
Figure 2.3 - 68-pin Micro-D Connectors used on the 15x16 Daughterboard

Page 2.3
BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
pickering SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.5. The BRIC Module is powered by a +5V and +3.3V input via
Compact PCI connector J1 mounted on the Backplane. The interface to the user test equipment is via the front panel
mounted micro-D connectors, mounted on the Matrix Daughter cards.
Each Matrix Daughter Card comprises a PCB populated with Relay Drivers and single pole relays congured as
(X)x8, or (X)x16 matrices. The matrix daughter cards are connected to each other via connectors mounted on the
backplane. Connectors J2 to J7 are connected to an Analog Bus, which comprises control lines, Y Bus and power.
The Matrix Daughter Cards are programmed as a whole matrix. The overall size of the matrix may be increased
or decreased by adding or removing daughter cards. Isolation relays tted to each matrix daughter card (with the
exception of 40-561/562 (x16) daughtercard variants), ensure that the operating bandwidth of the module is not
reduced by isolating unused switch paths from the selected path.
A BRIC Module is always tted with a two slot Matrix Daughter Card in slots 1 and 2. The Matrix Daughter card in
slot 1 is congured so that the Y bus is connected to the front panel connector (see Figure 2.4).
The matrix relays are energised via control signals from the relay drivers, which are addressed by the PCI bridge
U1 and control logic mounted on the Backplane, to output the required signal. The PCI Bridge U1 is congured by
EEPROM U2.
X1
X2
X3
X23
X1
X2
X3
X23
Y1
Y2
X1
X2
X3
X23
X1
X2
X3
X23
Y3
Y4
X1
X2
X3
X23
X1
X2
X3
X23
Y15
Y16
ISOLATION
RELAYS
50-PIN CONNECTOR TO BACKPLANE
SLOT 1 MATRIX DAUGHTER CARD
X24
X25
X26
X46
X24
X25
X26
X46
X24
X25
X26
X46
X24
X25
X26
X46
X24
X25
X26
X46
X24
X25
X26
X46
ISOLATION
RELAYS
50-PIN CONNECTOR TO BACKPLANE
SLOTS 2 TO 8 MATRIX DAUGHTER CARD
68-PIN
FRONT PANEL
MICRO-D
CONNECTOR
68-PIN
FRONT PANEL
MICRO-D
CONNECTOR
Figure 2.4 - Matrix Daughter Cards: Relay Schematic

Page 2.4 BRIC INTEGRATED PXI MATRIX SYSTEM WITH BIRST™ (40-561A)
pickering
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
Figure 2.5 - BRIC Module: Functional Block Diagram
PCI
BRIDGE
U1
PCI BRIDGE
CONFIGURATION
U2
TERMINATING
RESISTORS
R12 TO R23
COMPACT PCI BUS CONNECTOR J1
CONTROL
LOGIC
U3 TO U9
+3.3V
0V
4-SLOT BACKPLANE
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
2 SLOT FRONT PANEL
ANALOG BUS
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
MICRO-D CONNECTOR
MATRIX DAUGHTERBOARD
EEPROM
U1
RELAY
DRIVERS
U2 TO U25
J1
Y BUS
X BUS
LOGIC
CONTROL
RELAY
COILS MATRIX
Y ISOLATION
RELAYS
J7
J6
J5
J4
J3
J2
CONTROL BUS
+5V
The 8-Slot Backplane is fitted with 12 connectors J2 to J13,
the 2-Slot Backplane is fitted with 3 connectors J2 to J4.
12 Matrix Daughter cards are fitted to the
8-Slot Backplane, 3 Matrix Daughter cards
are fitted to the 2-Slot Backplane.