Pickering 43-182B User manual

pickeringtest.com
41/43-182B User Manual
PXI/PXIe 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator Modules
Issue 1.1 October 2022

Page (II) PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
Page (II) REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering
© COPYRIGHT (2022) 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

Page (III)
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
Page (III)
REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering
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) PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
Page (IV) REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering
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)
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
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
Section 3
Installation....................................................................................3.1
Pre Operation Checks...........................................................3.1
Hardware Installation ............................................................3.2
Software Installation .............................................................3.2
Section 4
Programming Guide....................................................................4.1
Programming Options For Pickering PXI/PXIe Modules ...4.1
Module Architecture..............................................................4.2
Programming The Module ....................................................4.3
Using Pickering Drivers in LabVIEW ...................................4.5
Programmable Attenuator Soft Front Panel .......................4.6
Section 5
Connector Information................................................................5.1
Section 6
Trouble Shooting .........................................................................6.1
Section 7
Maintenance Information............................................................7.1
CONTENTS

Page (VI) PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

Page (VII)
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
Page (VII)
2 AMP 1-POLE UHD MATRIX MODULES 40-575 / 576 / 577 / 578 / 579
pickering
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

Page (VIII) PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
Page (VIII) 2 AMP 1-POLE UHD MATRIX MODULES 40-575 / 576 / 577 / 578 / 579
pickering
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
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
pickeringtest.com
PXI/PXIe 6 GHz Solid State Attenuators 41/43-182B
ISSUE 1.1 OCT 2022
yAvailable as PXI or PXIe Modules
y10 MHz To 6 GHz Programmable Attenuator
y0 to 31.75 dB in 0.25 dB Steps For Fine
Level Control
yThree or Six Channels Per Module
ySolid State Switching For Long Service Life
yRobust SMA Connectors
yVISA, IVI & Kernel Drivers Supplied for
Windows
yPXI Versions Supported in PXI or
LXI Chassis
y3 Year Warranty
A
1dB 2dB 4dB 8dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
B
ATTENUATOR 1
A
1dB 2dB 4dB 8dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
B
ATTENUATOR 2
A
1dB 2dB 4dB 8dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
B
ATTENUATOR 3
41/43-182B Triple 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator Functional Diagram
(Default Condition Shown - All Channels Set To 0 dB Attenuation)
The 41-182B (PXI) and 43-182B (PXIe) are programmable
RF attenuator modules with 3 (in one slot) or 6 (in two
slots) channels each capable of inserting a signal loss of
0 to 31.75 dB in 0.25 dB steps. The attenuator uses solid
state switches for a long service life and fast operation
with minimum settling time and no bounce. DC blocking
reduces the risk of damage by the accidental application of
DC sources from amplifiers or other bias devices.
The 41/43-182B is ideal for conditioning signal levels in
RF test systems to ensure equipment is used in its optimal
range. Fast operating speed ensures minimal delays in
setting up the required attenuation. Long service life
independent of the number of operations allows RF test
sequences to be arranged to optimize the life of other
switching components in the system.
The attenuator channels can be connected in series to
increase the attenuation range available and high isolation
minimizes signal leakage.
The attenuator can be used for back to back testing,
providing the ability to condition the signal level between
devices. It is also ideal for the conditioning of special to
type signal sources which lack fine level control.
SMA connectors ensure that the attenuators can be used
with standard cabling and the input and output ports are
fully interchangeable.

Page 1.2 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
6 GHz Solid State Attenuator, 41/43-182B
pickeringtest.com
Specifications
Insertion loss for every discrete attenuator setting
for all channels of 41/43-182B-003 (normalized to 0 dB)
Insertion loss for 41/43-182B-003 with
each attenuator channel set to 0 dB
VSWR for 41/43-182B-003
with all attenuator channels set to 0 dB
Attenuation values for 41/43-182B-003
with three attenuator channels in series
(set to major step values)

Page 1.3
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
6 GHz Solid State Attenuator, 41/43-182B
pickeringtest.com
Specifications
General Specification
Frequency range: 10 MHz to 6 GHz, usable to 7 GHz
Maximum Input Power
≥48 MHz:
10 MHz to <48 MHz:
+23 dBm CW
+28 dBm Pulsed
+19 dBm
Input Impedance: 50 Ω, AC coupled
VSWR at 0 dB: <1.4:1 to 4 GHz
<1.6:1 to 5 GHz
<1.7:1 to 6 GHz
RF Connectors: SMA
Number of Attenuation
Channels: 3 or 6
Switch Lifetime: Indefinite when used within
range
Operating Time: 50 µs
Attenuation Characteristics
Each attenuator is made from 0.25 dB, 0.5 dB, 1 dB, 2 dB,
4 dB, 8 dB and 16 dB pads controlled by solid state
switches to give an attenuation range of 0 to 31.75 dB
relative to the straight thru path.
Insertion Loss (0 dB set): <1.5 dB @ 10 MHz,
<2.5 dB @ 3 GHz,
<4.0 dB @ 6 GHz
Monotonicity: 0.25 dB monotonic to 4 GHz,
0.5 dB monotonic to 5 GHz,
1 dB monotonic to 6 GHz
Usable attenuation range
(3 in series): 84 dB to 6 GHz
Attenuator Change
Characteristics: Rise/fall time <10 µs, bounce
and positive transient free.
Linearity
Two Tone Intermodulation: +57 dBm @ 4 GHz
+56 dBm @ 6 GHz
(20 MHz tone separation,
third order intercept point).
1dB Compression: Typically +31dBm 48MHz to
6GHz
(pulsed operation type test,
not a usable user power).
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 - 41-182B
The module is compliant with the PXI Specification 2.2.
Local Bus, Trigger Bus & Star Trigger are not implemented.
Uses a 33 MHz 32-bit backplane interface.
PXIe Compliance - 43-182B
The module is compliant with the PXIe Specification 1.0.
Local Bus, Trigger Bus & Star Trigger are not implemented.
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.
Mechanical Characteristics
• 41-182B-003 - 1 slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)
• 41-182B-006 - 2 slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)
• 43-182B-003 - 1 slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe
hybrid slot
• 43-182B-006 - 2 slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe
hybrid slot
3D models for all versions in a variety of popular file
formats are available on request.
Connectors
41-182B - PXI bus via 32-bit P1/J1 backplane connector.
43-182B - PXIe bus via XJ3 and XJ4 backplane connectors.
Signals via front panel SMA connectors.
Power Requirements - 41-182B
+3.3 V +5 V +12 V -12 V
0.03 A 0.02 A 0 0
Power Requirements - 43-182B
+3.3 V +12 V
0.03 A 0.01 A

Page 1.4 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
6 GHz Solid State Attenuator, 41/43-182B
pickeringtest.com
Ordering Information
Mating Connectors & Cabling
For connection accessories for the 41/43-182A module
please refer to the 90-011D RF Cable Assemblies data
sheet where a complete list and documentation can be
found for accessories, or refer to the Connection Solutions
catalog.
Product Order Codes
PXI Triple 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator
PXI Hex 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator
41-182B-003
41-182B-006
PXIe Triple 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator
PXIe Hex 6 GHz Solid State Attenuator
43-182B-003
43-182B-006
Product Customization
Pickering modules are designed and manufactured on our
own flexible manufacturing lines, giving complete product
control and enabling simple customization to meet very
specific requirements.
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.
43-182B-003 PXIe Triple 6 GHz
Solid State Attenuator

Page 1.5
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
6 GHz Solid State Attenuator, 41/43-182B
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
The PXI versions of this module must be used in a suitable chassis. They are 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
The PXIe versions of this module are compatible with the following chassis types:
• All chassis conforming to the 3U PXIe specification
• PXIe and Hybrid Peripheral slots in a 3U PXI Express (PXIe) 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

Page 1.6 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
6 GHz Solid State Attenuator, 41/43-182B
pickeringtest.com
Supporting Products & Software
© Copyright (2022) 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 2.1
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
SMA Connectors
Relay
Drivers
Daughter Board Memory
U9-10
Level
Shifters
U2-3
PCI Bridge U1
Mother Board
+3.3V (PXIe)
GND
Configuration
Memories
U7-8
Compact PCI Bus Connector or PXIe Connectors
PXI/PXIe RF Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
+5V (PXI)
+12V
PCB Interconnection
SMA Connectors
Relay
Drivers
Daughter Board
RF Relays & Attenuator Pads
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
1dB0.5dB 16dB0.25dB
RF Relays & Attenuator Pads
Figure 2.1 - Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B: Functional Block Diagram
A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.1. The module is powered by +5V and +3.3V (PXI) or +3.3V
and +12V (PXIe) supplies via PCI Bus connectors mounted on the mother board. The interface to the user test
equipment is via the front panel mounted SMA connectors. The module comprises a mother board and daughter
boards populated with solid-state switches that are used to enable a chain of attenuator pads. The relays are
energised via control signals from a relay driver devices. The relay drivers receive control data from PCI bridge U1
mounted on the mother board via a PCB/PCB interconnection. Module conguration and setup information for the
PCI bridge is stored in Serial EPROM devices.

Page 2.2 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 2 - TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

Page 3.1
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Page 3.1
REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
kg
PREOPERATION CHECKS (UNPACKING)
1. Check the module 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 chassis relative to any other equipment the module(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 module is of at and solid construction to
withstand and support the combined weight of the module(s) and chassis.
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
!
Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
Modular products require installation in a suitable PXI/LXI chassis. The module is designed for indoor use only.
Figure 3.1 - Installing the Module into a PXI/cPCI/LXI Chassis
PXI / LXI Chassis

Page 3.2 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Page 3.2 REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
First install the appropriate Pickering PXI 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 (CHASSIS)
1. The chassis must be electrically installed in accordance with local regional electrical codes by a qualied
engineer.
2. The chassis must be grounded.
Electrostatic discharge can damage the components on the module. To avoid such damage in handling the
board refer to page VII.
Ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
The module 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 slot in the rack.
3. Remove the blanking plate for the chosen slot.
4. Ensure that the injector/ejector handle is in its downward position. Align the module with the card guides on
the top and bottom of the slot.
Do not raise the injector/ejector handle whilst inserting the module as the module will not insert properly.
5. Hold the handle whilst slowly sliding the module into the card guides until the handle catches on the injector/
ejector rail (refer to Figure 3.1).
6. Raise the injector/ejector handle until the module rmly seats into the backplane. The front panel of the
module should be ush with the front panel of the chassis.
7. Secure the front panel of the module using both screws to the chassis front panel mounting rails.
8. In a system employing a remote control interface to connect an external controller to a PXI chassis or to link
multiple chassis, power-up the system as follows:
a. For a system comprising an external controller and one chassis, power up the chassis before powering up
the external controller.
b. For a system comprising more than one chassis, turn ON the last chassis in the system followed by the
penultimate, etc, and nally turn ON the external controller or chassis containing the system controller.
9. For Pickering Interfaces modular LXI installation there is no requirement to use any particular power up
sequence.

Page 3.3
PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
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 PXI/PXIe 6GHz Solid State Attenuator Module 41/43-182B
pickering
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK