Pickering LXI 65-231-9 Series User manual

PRELIMINARYPRELIMINARY
pickeringtest.com
Issue D August 2023
65-231-9xx User Manual
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer

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LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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Page (II) REED RELAY MODULE 40-110/115/120/125
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© COPYRIGHT (2023) 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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LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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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]

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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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Copyright Statement .............................................................ii
Technical Support and Warranty.........................................iii
Contents (this page)..............................................................v
Warnings & Cautions ..........................................................vii
Section 1
Technical Specication......................................................1.1
Section 2
Technical Desctiption.........................................................2.1
Functional Description ............................................2.1
Hardware Interlock...................................................2.6
Section 3
Installation...........................................................................3.1
Installing the Unit.....................................................3.1
Section 4
Programming Guide...........................................................4.1
Programming Options for LXI Units.......................4.1
Programming the 65-231 .........................................4.2
Command Line Control ...........................................4.6
Using The Soft Front Panel.....................................4.6
Section 5
Connections........................................................................5.1
Front Panel Connections ........................................5.1
Section 6
Sequence Service & Triggering.........................................6.1
Section 7
Troubleshooting .................................................................7.1
Section 8
Maintenance Information...................................................8.1
Relay Look-up Tables ..............................................8.2
PCB Layout Diagram ...............................................8.4
Appendix A
Interlock Connector Wiring ..................................................A.1
CONTENTS

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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK

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Page vii
LXI HIGH VOLTAGE 2-POLE MATRIX 60-310
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WARNINGS & 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 unit may contain hazardous voltages. Before removing the unit from the rack remove all supplies
and disconnect user I/O signals.
If the unit has removable modules, unused slots in the chassis must be populated with blanking
panels to prevent access to user I/O signals that may be present. Blanking panels are available to
order from Pickering. 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 unit must not be used for the switching of Mains Circuits. For the switching of voltages up to the
unit’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 chassis must be correctly installed and be connected to mains or factory safety ground,
please refer to the installation section of this 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.
Switching
Function
Device
Under Test
Power
Supply
Power
Supply
LXI Unit’s Chassis
Secondary Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains
Circuit
Mains/Factory
Safety Ground

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Page viii
LXI HIGH VOLTAGE 2-POLE MATRIX 60-310
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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.
WARNING - RACK MOUNTING
If it is required to t this unit into a 19 inch rack, its weight must be
supported by side brackets, runners or a suitable equipment shelf.
The xing holes in the front panel anges are designed only for
securing the device in the rack and must NOT be used to support
the weight of the whole device.
Please refer to Appendix A for the procedure for tting the
supplied anges to either side of the front panel.
!
HIGH VOLTAGE SAFETY WARNING
THIS UNIT IS CAPABLE OF SWITCHING VOLTAGES AND CURRENTS THAT CAN
CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES. IN APPLICATIONS INVOLVING HIGH VOLTAGES IT
IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT UNUSED CONNECTORS ARE CAPPED
TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL CONTACT WHILE IN USE. SYSTEM INTEGRATORS
AND USERS SHOULD CONNECT TO THE FRONT PANEL CONNECTORS WITH
CONNECTORS OR CABLE ASSEMBLIES THAT ENSURE OPERATORS WILL NOT
INADVERTENTLY COME IN CONTACT WITH HIGH VOLTAGES.
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LXI HIGH VOLTAGE 2-POLE MATRIX 60-310
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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.
WARNING - RACK MOUNTING
If it is required to t this unit into a 19 inch rack, its weight must be
supported by side brackets, runners or a suitable equipment shelf.
The xing holes in the front panel anges are designed only for
securing the device in the rack and must NOT be used to support
the weight of the whole device.
Please refer to Appendix A for the procedure for tting the
supplied anges to either side of the front panel.
!
HIGH VOLTAGE SAFETY WARNING
THIS UNIT IS CAPABLE OF SWITCHING VOLTAGES AND CURRENTS THAT CAN
CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES. IN APPLICATIONS INVOLVING HIGH VOLTAGES IT
IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT UNUSED CONNECTORS ARE CAPPED
TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL CONTACT WHILE IN USE. SYSTEM INTEGRATORS
AND USERS SHOULD CONNECT TO THE FRONT PANEL CONNECTORS WITH
CONNECTORS OR CABLE ASSEMBLIES THAT ENSURE OPERATORS WILL NOT
INADVERTENTLY COME IN CONTACT WITH HIGH VOLTAGES.

SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Page 1.1
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
yModular Multiplexer Design
yCold Switch up to 9 kVDC/9 kVAC Peak
yHot Switch up to 7.5 kVDC /7.5 kVAC Peak
y0.25 A Hot Switch Current
yMaximum Power 50 W
yDry Reed Switch Contacts With
RFI Suppression for Long Life
yHardware Interlock Provided
yScalable Using Multiple Common
Connections
yBuilt-In Scan List Sequence Stores
With Triggering Capability
yFully Compliant to 1.5 LXI Standard
y3 Year Warranty
48:1 High Voltage Multiplxer Plugin Module
(Part No. 65-231-900-HI)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
Common 1
Common 2
11
12
23
24
35
36
47
48
The 65-231 is a modular multiplexer platform that provides a
high voltage switching solution with capability up to 9 kV.
Multiplexers are created by populating a 65-200 chassis
with multiplexer plug-in modules that provide access to
the Channel and Common signals on 51-pin front panel
connectors. Users can specify as many or as few plug-in
modules as they require and can field upgrade the chassis
to extend the multiplexer. Larger multiplexers are formed by
utilising the plug-in module’s second common connection.
This allows the multiplexer’s common to be connected
between plug-ins expanding the overall multiplexer size.
A hardware interlock connector is provided on the front
panel that prevents relay operation if a suitably wired mating
connector is not fitted. This can, for example, be used to
disable relay operation if the test system cabinet door is
open.
The chassis supports up to 6 plug-in modules which are
loaded into the chassis via the front panel, greatly improving
flexibility and ease of maintenance.
Cooling for the 65-200 chassis is provided by rear fans and
front air intakes ensuring no wasted space when the chassis
is rack mounted. The cooling system is adaptive, ensuring
the acoustic noise is minimised when used in quiet laboratory
environments and low load conditions.
Switch Path Manager (SPM) Signal Routing Software
The 65-231 comprises multiple separate smaller elements that
can be combined to form the multiplexer. To aid with the user
experience the Pickering Switch Path Manager application
can be used. This simplifies signal routing through switching
systems and speeds up the development of switching system
software. See page 8 of this datasheet for more information.
pickeringtest.com
65-231-9xx
LXI Modular 1-Pole High Voltage Multiplexer
PRELIMINARY DATA
Issue F August 2023

Page 1.2
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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Configuring the Multiplexer
To select the parts that needed to create a multiplexer simply:
• Specify a 65-200-002 Modular Switching Chassis.
• Add 65-231-9xx-HI High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Modules as required.
RFI Suppression
The 65-231 includes RFI suppression that extends relay contact life in hot switching applications and controls surges caused
by high voltage transients in cold switching applications. The suppressors also ensure safe operation when connected to a high
voltage source via cable assemblies that might otherwise generate additional transients or RFI problems.
The suppression components result in reduced bandwidth and slightly higher path resistance compared to standard designs
(please refer to the switching specification table).
Please note, it is good practice to keep high voltage switching modules away from more sensitive units to minimize crosstalk.
Hardware Interlock
The 65-231 plug-in modules are fitted with a
hardware interlock. The interlock, when activated,
will return all relays to their default unpowered
state (assuming the switches are fully functional)
and also provide error notification via the
software interface. The interlock feature can
be daisy-chained between additional hardware
interlock enabled modules for example to allow
one signal to disable multiple cards. For further
details please refer to the Hardware Interlock
section within the user manual.
100 Ω
+3.3 V
GND
External
Wire Link
Front Panel
Connector
Interlock
Daisy-chain
Interlock
Detection
Circiuitry
Processor Relay Driver(s)
SPI Serial
Comms
Output Enable
SPI Serial
Comms
Output Enable
Drive
Outputs
To
Relays
Interlock Signal Routing Diagram for 65-231
Example of a High Voltage Switching Plugin Module
With and Without Protective Cover
Interlock Connector
65-231-9xx
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PRELIMINARY DATA
LXI Modular 1-Pole High Voltage Multiplexer

SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Page 1.3
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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65-231 Configured as a 288:1
high voltage multiplexer using:
• 65-200-002 2U Modular
Switching Chassis
• 6 off 65-231-900-HI 48:1
Multiplexer Plug-in Modules
Note: External cabling Required
Com
3
1
2
47
48
51
49
50
95
96
99
97
98
143
144
147
145
146
191
192
195
193
194
239
240
243
241
242
287
288
65-200-002
2U Modular
Switching
Chassis
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #1
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #2
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #3
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #4
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #5
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Common 1
65-231-900-HI
48:1 High Voltage
Multiplexer Plug-in
Module #6
3
1
2
48:1 MUX
47
48
Common 2
Example Configuration
65-231-9xx
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LXI Modular 1-Pole High Voltage Multiplexer

Page 1.4
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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The Sequencing service provides the user with the ability
to set a series of pre-determined sequences on an LXI
instrument. These sequences can be triggered by software
or one of the sixteen software configurable open collector
triggers.
As the operations are grouped together, it will minimize
the number of control transactions required to achieve a
composite change of target switch state, condensing multiple
operations in a single sub unit into a single operation, thus
reducing the overall system switch settling time.
For example, if a user wants to operate X1-Y1, X4-Y1, X2-Y2,
in the first sequence, only one operation, and so delay, will be
used.
Additionally, as the switch state sequences are stored within
the LXI controller itself, the burden on the Host CPU and
Ethernet traffic is greatly reduced, and so the overall system
latency is also reduced.
This unit features a software reset line which provides the
ability for a user supplied reset to be applied to the unit,
triggering a software reset of the relays, returning all relays
Speed of Operation Diagram For The 65-231
Note: These are estimated figures, PC processing and Ethernet transmission times
may vary depending upon the overall system setup and load.
in the unit to their default state. There is also a software
fault line available that will be triggered if there is any error
detected within the unit. Please note that while these reset
and fault lines use dedicated physical connections to the unit,
they are software control lines and as such should not be
used for safety interlocks etc.
Speed of Operation
Speed of Operation can be important when defining systems
for test applications, therefore it can be beneficial to
understand all the necessary overhead delays associated with
a switch operation.
If we consider a single relay / block relay operation, it can be
considered to be a combination of five discrete operations: PC
Processing, Ethernet Latency, LXI Processing / Virtualisation,
Serial Loop Transmission and Relay Settling.
A representation of these processes can be seen in the
diagram below.
For more information on the Pickering Sequence Manager
please refer to our website.
01000 µs 2000 µs
PC Processing Time ~50 µs
Ethernet Transmission ~250 µs
Serial Loop ~400 µs
Relay Settling
Time ~250 µs
Message Processing and
Virtulization ~1000 µs
Total Operate Time ~1950 µs
Sequencing Service and Triggering
65-231-9xx
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LXI Modular 1-Pole High Voltage Multiplexer

SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Page 1.5
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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Mechanical Specification
Chassis Dimensions: 2U rack mountable full width,
depth 500mm
Number of Plug-ins
Supported: 6 (in 65-200-002 chassis)
Plug-in Connectors: Redel S series (51-pin) high
voltage connector
Interlock Connector: 4-pin female 00 series connector
(mating half supplied with
module, to be wired by end user).
Trigger Connector: 25-pin male micro D-type
Chassis Cooling: Front air intakes through plug-in
module holes, temperature
controlled speed adjustable fans
Safety & CE Compliance
All products 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.
Power Source
Universal AC mains supply, 90-120/200-240 V 50-60 Hz.
Power Inlet:
Power Rating:
Fuse Rating:
Male IEC connector
100 VA maximum
(F) 5 A 250 V
LAN Interface
1000Base-T Ethernet Interface with a standard RJ-45
connector mounted on the rear panel. Compliant to LXI
Standard 1.5
Triggering
16x Software Configurable Bidirectional Open Collector
Triggers
1x Dedicated Software Reset Line
1x Dedicated Software Fault Line
Scan List Sequencing
Capable of storing 5000 predefined test sequences,
loaded from the host Controller to the LXI unit at process
initialization, with the ability to be triggered through
software or from any of the sixteen software configurable
triggers.
For more information on the Pickering Sequence Manager
please refer to our website.
High Voltage Switching Specification
Switch Type: Tungsten Reed
Max Hot Switch Voltage:
Max Cold Switch Voltage:
7.5 kVDC/7.5 kVAC peak*
9 kVDC/9 kVAC peak*
Max Power:
Max Hot Switch Current:
Max Cold Switch Current:
50 W
0.25 A
0.25 A
Initial On Path Resistance:
Off Path Resistance:
TBD
>1x1012 Ω
Operate Time: 3 ms typical
Expected Life: >1x107 operations
* For full voltage rating, signal sources to be switched must
be fully isolated from mains supply and safety earth.
Relay Type
The 65-231 is fitted with high quality tungsten reed relays
specifically designed for very high voltage switching and are
manufactured by our Relay Division: pickeringrelay.com
Operating/Storage Conditions
Operating Temperature:
Humidity:
Altitude:
0 °C to +55 °C
Up to 90 % non-condensing
5000 m
Storage Temperature:
Humidity:
Altitude:
-20 °C to +75 °C
Up to 90 % non-condensing
15000 m
RF Specification
Bandwidth (-3dB): TBD
Crosstalk (typical): 10 kHz:
100 kHz:
1 MHz:
10 MHz:
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Isolation (typical): 10 kHz:
100 kHz:
1 MHz:
10 MHz:
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
65-231-9xx
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PRELIMINARY DATA
Specifications

Page 1.6
SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
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Product Order Codes
Specify which modules are required to build the
multiplexer. Plug-in modules can be ordered for chassis
already supplied.
Chassis
2U Modular Switching Chassis, 6-Slot 65-200-002
48:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
1-bank, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector 65-231-900-HI
36:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
1-bank, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector 65-231-901-HI
24:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
1-bank, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector
2-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connectors
65-231-902-HI
65-231-903-HI
12:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
2-banks, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector
3-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connector
4-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connectors
65-231-904-HI
65-231-905-HI
65-231-906-HI
8:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
3-banks, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector
5-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connector
6-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connectors
65-231-907-HI
65-231-908-HI
65-231-909-HI
6:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
3-banks, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector
6-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connector
8-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connectors
65-231-910-HI
65-231-911-HI
65-231-912-HI
4:1 High Voltage Multiplexer Plug-in Module
4-banks, 1-pole, 1x 51-pin Redel Connector
8-banks, 1-pole, 2x 51-pin Redel Connector
65-231-913-HI
65-231-914-HI
Note: The above modules are available in multiple channel
selection mode by adding the “-M” suffix to the part number.
For example, the 48:1, 1-bank, 1-pole multiplexer with
multiple channel capability would be: 65-231-900-HI-M
The 65-231 user connections are via front panel
mounted high density 51-pin REDEL connectors. These
are specifically designed for high voltage working and
are tested to 12 kV.
Product Customization
Pickering products 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.
Connection Accessories
For a complete list of connection accessories and
documentation for the 65-231 range please refer to our 51-pin
Redel S series connectors datasheet (90-026HVD).
Accessories - Interlock Connectors
Plug-in modules are supplied with a mating connector
for the hardware interlock function, spare/replacement
connectors can be ordered as follows:
Connector with internal link 44-961-040
Connector only, no internal wiring
(replacing that supplied with the module) 44-960-040
65-231-9xx
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PRELIMINARY DATA
Ordering Information

SECTION 1 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Page 1.7
LXI Modular High Voltage Multiplexer 65-231-9xx
pickering
The 65-231 is part of a growing family of Scalable
Switching systems available from Pickering Interfaces.
Illustrated is the LXI 65-219 Modular 2 Amp Matrix,
available in sizes up to 60x40.
Available from Pickering are the 60-102C and 60-103B
LXI Modular Chassis. These are 7 and 18 slot chassis
capable of hosting any of our range of PXI switching and
programmable resistor modules under LXI contol via a
Gigabit Ethernet interface. Also available are the 60-104,
60-105 and 60-106. These are 2, 4 & 6 slot LXI/USB
Modular Chassis which allow control of our PXI modules
via Ethernet or USB.
“Hot” Switching
This is when the load is switched with the high voltage source applied. Hot switching may generate considerable RFI, both within
the switching module and on interconnecting wiring. Care must be taken to suppress or shield all cabling.
Note that any precaution which adds extra capacitance to a cable should be taken with great care, even a very small capacitance at
high voltages can cause very large inrush current through the module resulting in possible switch weld and excessive RFI.
The 65-231 plugins include extensive built-in RFI suppression circuits that minimize RFI and surge problems.
“Cold” Switching – The Preferred Option for Reliability & Long Life.
With cold switching, the relay is operated before the high voltage source is applied. In this case the maximum carry current is
much greater, also there will be much less stress on the reed relays, resulting in improved reliability and life.
Most high voltage sources include a soft start facility which reduces the likelihood of generating RFI or temporary over-voltage.
High voltage switching modules are often used for isolation testing applications (e.g. cable, transformer or semiconductor isolation
tests), in these cases, cold switching is nearly always the preferred option to reduce the risk of high voltage transients that may
cause premature breakdown.
Overview of “Hot” & “Cold” Switching Techniques
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Our signal routing software, Switch Path Manager (SPM), simplifies signal routing through switching systems and speeds up
the development of switching system software. Switch Path Manager supports our switching modules and the interconnection
between them. Once a switching system model has been created, signal routing can be performed by simply defining the
endpoints that are required to be connected together. The ability to automate signal routing results in simple and effective
switching system management, safe and fast. The short circuit detection feature avoids unwanted shorts between routes.
Switch Path Manager is available in a full version and a lower-cost lite version. For more informaion please visit our
Switch Path Manager web page.
SPM Features:
• Manages Complex Switching Systems
• Reduces Switching Software Development Effort
• Debug Monitor and Manual Control Capability
• Supports all Pickering PXI, LXI and PCI Switching
• APIs available for C, C++, .NET, LabWindows™/CVI and LabVIEW
• Windows 32-bit or 64-bit Compatible
• Free Evaluation License
• Provides Switching Safety Features, including Short Circuit Detection and Endpoint Protection - see below:
Switch Path Manager Signal Routing Example
Short Circuit Detection
- avoids shorting the blue path with the green path when trying to apply the red path via the 2-pole relay.
Endpoint Protection - prevents accidental connection of critical nodes such as Power or Ground (Y1, X2, X3) and (X5, X6, X7) are
attributed to different Protection Groups in SPM. The software will not allow pins in different groups to be connected together.
SPST
SWITCHES
MATRIX 1 MATRIX 2
X1 X2 X3
X4TPx
TPy
Route A
Route B
Route C
Switch Path Manager Signal Routing Software
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Supporting Products & Software
Connectors
& Backshells
Multi-way
Cable Assemblies
RF Cable
Assemblies
Breakouts
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. These accessories are detailed in Connector Accessories data sheets, where a
complete list and documentation can be found for each accessory.
Connector
Blocks
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.
• Fully supported on modern browsers and tablet operating systems.
• Built-in tutorials and videos allow you to get quickly up to speed.
• Store cable assemblies in the Cloud and develop over time.
• Each cable design has a downloadable PDF documentation file
detailing all specifications
Start designing your custom cabling, go to pickeringtest.com/cdt
Mass Interconnect
We recommend the use of a mass interconnect solution when an Interchangeable Test Adapter (ITA) is required for PXI/LXI
based test systems. Our modules are fully supported by 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 go to pickeringrelay.com

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Supporting Products & Software
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 more information go to pickeringtest.com/os
The VISA driver support is provided for LabVIEW Real Time Operating Systems (Pharlap and Linux-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++)
• Programming Languages C, C++, C#, Python
• Keysight VEE and OpenTAP
• Mathworks MATLAB, Simulink
• 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 go to pickeringtest.com/software
DMM+ R3a
S+ R3b
DMM- R3c
S- R3d
DMM
S+ S-
DMM+ DMM-
aX1 aX3
aX4
aX7 aX9 aX11 aX13 aX15 aX17 aX19 aX21 aX23 aX25 aX27 aX31
aY1
aY2
aY3
aY4
Switch 1
bY1
bY2
bY3
bY4
bY5
bY6
bY7
bY8
bX1 bX5 bX7 bX9 bX11 bX13 bX15 bX17 bX19 bX21 bX23
R3a R3b
R3c R3d
Switch 2 Device Under Test
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 go to pickeringtest.com/spm

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Supporting Products & Software
© Copyright (2023) 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.
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 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
three years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser. Extended warranty and service agreements are available with
various levels for 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 go to pickeringtest.com/support
Available Product Resources
We have a library of resources including success stories, product and support videos, articles and white papers as well as
application-specific brochures to assist you. We have also published reference books on switching technology and the PXI and
LXI standards.
To view, download or request any of our product resources go to pickeringtest.com/resources
B
B
IRST
IRST
e
e

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