Pickering 4-781A Series User manual

pickeringtest.com Issue 3.0, September 2023
PXI/PXIe Terminated SPDT Microwave Relays
4x-781A User Manual

Page (ii)
© 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.
FM38792

Page (iii)
Worldwide Technical Support and Product Information
Pickering Interfaces Headquarters
Stephenson Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 4NL United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
USA
Tel: (West) [phone]
Tel: (East) [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]
France
Tel [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
Germany
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
Sweden
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
Czech Republic
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
China
Tel: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
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 fulfil 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.

Page (iv)
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
The following safety symbols may be used on the product and throughout the product documentation.
Product Safety

Page (v)
Contents
Copyright Statement........................................................................................................................................................(ii)
Technical Support and Warranty...................................................................................................................................(iii)
Product Safety...................................................................................................................................................................(iv)
Contents (this page).........................................................................................................................................................(v)
Warnings and Cautions...................................................................................................................................................(vi)
Section 1
Technical Specification....................................................................................................................................................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
Testing Operation........................................................................................................................................................3.3
Section 4
Programming Guide.........................................................................................................................................................4.1
Programming Options for Pickering PXI/PXIe Modules......................................................................................4.1
Module Architecture...................................................................................................................................................4.2
Programming the Module.........................................................................................................................................4.4
Using Pickering Drivers in LabVIEW.......................................................................................................................4.6
Section 5
Connector Information .....................................................................................................................................................5.1
Section 6
Trouble Shooting..............................................................................................................................................................6.1
Section 7
Maintenance Information................................................................................................................................................7.1
Appendix A
Part Number List......................................................................................................................................... A.1

Page (vi)
WARNING - Hazardous Environments Symbol
This product is not specifically 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:
• 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.
• 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.
• Outer clothing worn must be unable to generate static charges.
• Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) fitted with these devices must be stored and transported in anti-static bags.
Warnings & Cautions
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 PXI/PXIe/LXI 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.
CAUTION - Product Documentation Symbol
Suitably qualified & 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 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
The 40-781A (PXI) and 42-781A (PXIe) modules consist of one,
or two microwave changeover switches capable of switching
up to 50 GHz in 50 Ω. They are available with either internal
or external terminations and connections are via front panel
mounted high quality SMA, SMA 2.9 or SMA 2.4 connectors.
Externally terminated versions have the advantage that the
terminations can be removed and replaced with higher power
RF loads. This also allows alternative configurations such as
terminated 4-port bypass (1 termination removed) and 5-port
DP3T (both terminations removed). See overleaf for diagrams
of these configurations.
yAvailable as PXI or PXIe Modules
y1 or 2 Changeover Relays Per Module
yRemote Mounted Version Available
yInternal or External Termination
y50 Ω Characteristic Impedance
y18 GHz, 26.5 GHz, 40 GHz & 50 GHz Bandwidths
yFailsafe & Latching Relay Options
yRelay Cycle Counting Included
yLED Indication (Failsafe Versions Only)
yDrivers Supplied for Windows & Linux,
Plus Support for Real-time Systems
yPXI Version Supported by PXI or LXI Chassis
y3 Year Warranty
Microwave Switch (Part No. 4x-781A-xx1)
in Single SPDT Format
PXI Dual SPDT Microwave
Switch with Internal
Termination
The 4x-781A gives you the highest RF switching performance
available within a Pickering switching system. Although
designed for microwave applications, they have many uses
in the RF spectrum where extremely low insertion loss and
ultra high isolation are critical. They may also be used at
lower frequencies where power handling to 240 W (without
termination) is required.
Remote Versions
The remote versions, as well as occupying less panel space
in the case of the dual options, allow the microwave relays
to be placed closer to the UUT and RF test equipment.
This can shorten the length of cables and improve system
performance. Remote switches are supplied with a 1.5 m
interface cable.
NC
Com
NO
SPDT Switch
NC
Com
NO
SPDT Switch
Internally Terminated Externally Terminated
Remote version controls
1 or 2 remotely mounted
SPDT microwave relays via
interface cables
pickeringtest.com
4x-781A
PXI/PXIe Terminated SPDT Microwave Relays
Issue 4.0 September 2023

Page 1.2 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Product Compatibility
The 4x-781A range has been introduced as an update to the
existing 40-781 family. These remain orderable but the new
4x-781A is recommended as it provides additional options such
as the PXIe control interface. The RF performance of the 4x-781A
is identical to the 40-781.
Relay Type
To provide maximum flexibility this range is available with either
failsafe or latching relays. For definition, the contacts of failsafe
relays return to the default state when the system power is
removed whereas latching relay contacts retain their last set
state when the power is removed.
Relay Cycle Counting
To aid with module “health” monitoring all versions are
provided with a relay cycle counting cycle feature. The number
of operations per contact are stored on the module and can be
used to determine if a relay is approaching EOL. This information
could allow system connections to be revised so that signals
applied to heavily used contacts are swapped with lightly used
contacts to prolong the working life of the relay(s).
NC
Com
NO
NC
Com
NO
SPDT Switch 1
SPDT Switch 2
NC
Com
NO
NC
Com
NO
SPDT Switch 1
SPDT Switch 2
Microwave Switch (Part No. 4x-781A-xx2)
in Dual SPDT Format
Internally Terminated Externally Terminated
2 3 4 5
State 1 (Default)
2 3 4 5
State 2
1
1
1 2 3 4
State 1 (Default)
1 2 3 4
State 2
Configured as a Terminated
4-Port Bypass Switch
(With One External
Termination Removed)
Configured as a
5-Port DP3T Switch
(With Both External
Terminations Removed)
Alternative Configurations for Externally
Terminated Versions
pickering
BANK 1
Remotely Mounted Microwave
SPDT Terminated Relays
2 off Interface
Cables 1.5m Length
40/42-781A
Remote
Version
BANK 2
Remotely Mounted Microwave Relay Versions
Interconnection Between 4x-781A
Remote Version and Remotely
Mounted Microwave Relays
Microwave SPDT
Terminated Relay &
Cable for Remote
Mounting
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 2
PXI/PXIe Terminated SPDT Microwave Relays

Page 1.3 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Specifications - 18GHz Versions
Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω
Connector Type: SMA
Insertion Loss: <0.2 dB to 3 GHz
<0.3 dB to 8 GHz
<0.4 dB to 12.4 GHz
<0.5 dB to 18 GHz
Isolation: >80 dB to 3 GHz
>70 dB to 8 GHz
>60 dB to 18 GHz
VSWR: <1.2:1 0 to 3 GHz
<1.3:1 to 8 GHz
<1.4:1 to 12.4 GHz
<1.5:1 to 18 GHz
Power Handling - Externally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
Note: External terminations can be removed and replaced
with higher power loads.
Power Handling - Internally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
RF Average Carry Power
at 25 °C: 240 W to 3 GHz
150 W to 8 GHz
120 W to 12.4 GHz
100 W to 18 GHz
Operate Time: 10 ms
Expected Life
40/42-781A-1xx:
40/42-781A-0xx:
>10 million operations
>2 million operations
Typical Isolation - 18 GHz Versions
Typical Insertion Loss - 18 GHz Versions
Typical VSWR - 18 GHz Versions
4x-781A
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Specifications

Page 1.4 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Specifications - 26.5GHz Versions
Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω
Connector Type: SMA
Insertion Loss: <0.2 dB to 3 GHz
<0.3 dB to 8 GHz
<0.4 dB to 12.4 GHz
<0.5 dB to 18 GHz
<0.7 dB to 26.5 GHz
Isolation: >80 dB to 3 GHz
>70 dB to 8 GHz
>60 dB to 12.4 GHz
>60 dB to 18 GHz
>55 dB to 26.5 GHz
VSWR: <1.2:1 0 to 3 GHz
<1.3:1 to 8 GHz
<1.4:1 to 12.4 GHz
<1.5:1 to 18 GHz
<1.7:1 to 26.5 GHz
Power Handling - Externally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
Note: External terminations can be removed and replaced
with higher power loads.
Power Handling - Internally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
RF Average Carry Power
at 25 °C: 240 W to 3 GHz
150 W to 8 GHz
120 W to 12.4 GHz
100 W to 18 GHz
40 W to 26.5 GHz
Operate Time: 10 ms
Expected Life
40/42-781A-3xx:
40/42-781A-2xx:
>10 million operations
>2 million operations
Typical Isolation - 26.5 GHz Versions
Typical Insertion Loss - 26.5 GHz Versions
Typical VSWR - 26.5 GHz Versions
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 4
Specifications

Page 1.5 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Specifications - 40GHz Versions
Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω
Connector Type: SMA 2.9
Insertion Loss: <0.3 dB to 6 GHz
<0.4 dB to 12.4 GHz
<0.5 dB to 18 GHz
<0.7 dB to 26.5 GHz
<0.8 dB to 40 GHz
Isolation: >70 dB to 6 GHz
>60 dB to 12.4 GHz
>60 dB to 18 GHz
>55 dB to 26.5 GHz
>50 dB to 40 GHz
VSWR: <1.3:1 to 6 GHz
<1.4:1 to 12.4 GHz
<1.5:1 to 18 GHz
<1.7:1 to 26.5 GHz
<1.9:1 to 40 GHz
Power Handling - Externally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
Note: External terminations can be removed and replaced
with higher power loads.
Power Handling - Internally
Terminated Versions:
1 W limited by terminations.
RF Average Carry Power
at 25 °C: 80 W to 6 GHz
60 W to 12.4 GHz
50 W to 18 GHz
20 W to 26.5 GHz
10 W to 40 GHz
Operate Time: 10 ms
Expected Life
40/42-781A-5xx:
40/42-781A-4xx:
>10 million operations
>2 million operations
Typical Insertion Loss - 40 GHz Externally Terminated Versions
Typical VSWR - 40 GHz Externally Terminated Versions
Typical Insertion Loss - 40 GHz Internally Terminated Versions
Typical VSWR - 40 GHz Internally Terminated Versions
4x-781A
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Specifications

Page 1.6 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Specifications - 50GHz Versions
Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω
Connector Type: SMA 2.4
Insertion Loss: <0.3 dB to 6 GHz
<0.4 dB to 12.4 GHz
<0.5 dB to 18 GHz
<0.7 dB to 26.5 GHz
<0.8 dB to 40 GHz
<1.1 dB to 50 GHz
Isolation: >70 dB to 6 GHz
>60 dB to 12.4 GHz
>60 dB to 18 GHz
>55 dB to 26.5 GHz
>50 dB to 40 GHz
>50 dB to 50 GHz
VSWR: <1.3:1 to 6 GHz
<1.4:1 to 12.4 GHz
<1.5:1 to 18 GHz
<1.7:1 to 26.5 GHz
<1.9:1 to 40 GHz
<1.9:1 to 50 GHz
Power Handling - External
Terminations:
0.5 W limited by
terminations.
Note: External terminations can be removed and replaced
with higher power loads.
RF Average Carry Power
at 25 °C: 80 W to 6 GHz
60 W to 12.4 GHz
50 W to 18 GHz
20 W to 26.5 GHz
10 W to 40 GHz
5 W to 50 GHz
Operate Time: 10 ms
Expected Life >2 million operations
Typical Insertion Loss - 50 GHz Versions
Typical Switch VSWR - 50 GHz Versions
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 6
Specifications

Page 1.7 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
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
Mechanical Characteristics
Front Panel Mounted Switches
• 40-781A single SPDT
- Single slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)
• 40-781A dual SPDT
- Double slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)
• 42-781A single SPDT
- Single slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot
• 42-781A dual SPDT
- Double slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot
Remote mounted switches:
• 42-781A single & dual remote mount versions
- Single slot 3U PXIe, compatible with PXIe hybrid slot
• 40-781A single, & dual remote mount versions
- Single slot 3U PXI (CompactPCI card)
Remote mounted switch versions are supplied with a 1.5 m
interface cable for each of the supplied microwave relays.
3D models for all versions in a variety of popular file formats
are available on request.
Connectors
40-781A - PXI bus via 32-bit P1/J1 backplane connector.
42-781A - PXIe bus via XJ3 and XJ4 backplane connectors.
Signals via front panel mounted coaxial connectors:
• 18 GHz versions - 50 Ω SMA connectors
• 26.5 GHz versions - 50 Ω SMA connectors
• 40 GHz versions - 50 Ω SMA 2.9 connectors
• 50 GHz versions - 50 Ω SMA 2.4 connectors
Power Requirements - 40-781A Failsafe Versions
+3.3 V +5 V +12 V -12 V
0.13 A 0.01 A 1.0 A 0
Power Requirements - 42-781A Failsafe Versions
+3.3 V +12 V
0.36 A 1.0 A
Power Requirements - 40-781A Latching Versions
+3.3 V +5 V +12 V -12 V
TBD TBD TBD 0
Power Requirements - 42-781A Latching Versions
+3.3 V +12 V
TBD TBD
General Specification
Configuration: SPDT Microwave Switch with
automatic termination on the NO
and NC paths, 1 or 2 independent
banks mounted on the module’s
front panel or remotely mounted
and controlled via interface cables.
LED Indicators: Blue LEDs to indicate activated
relays (failsafe versions only).
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 7
Specifications

Page 1.8 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
Connection Accessories
For a complete list of connection accessories and
documentation for the 4x-781A module please refer to our
RF connectors datasheet (90-011D).
Warranty
This module carries a 3 year warranty. The warranty
specifically applies to only the cold switching operations of
the relay within the stated lifetime.
Product Order Codes
4[A]-781A-[B]2[C][D][E]
Interface
0 = PXI
2 = PXIe
Actuator Type
[Blank] = Failsafe
-LA = Latching
Type/Frequency
0 = SPDT Internal Termination 18 GHz (SMA)
1 = SPDT External Termination 18 GHz (SMA)
2 = SPDT Internal Termination 26.5 GHz (SMA)
3 = SPDT External Termination 26.5 GHz (SMA)
4 = SPDT Internal Termination 40 GHz (SMA 2.9)
5 = SPDT External Termination 40 GHz (SMA 2.9)
7 = SPDT External Termination 50 GHz (SMA 2.4)
Options
[Blank] = Panel Mount
-E = Remote Mount
Quantity
1 = Single
2 = Dual
Example part numbers:
A PXI single failsafe SPDT 18 GHz microwave switch with internal termination and a front panel mounted relay would require
part number 40-781A-021
A PXIe dual latching SPDT 26.5 GHz microwave switch with external termination and remotely mounted relays would require
part number 42-781A-322-E-LA
Please refer to the user manual for all individually defined valid part numbers.
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 8
Ordering Information

Page 1.9 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
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. Customization can include:
• Alternative relay types
• Mixture of 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.
Side View of the PXI Dual Externally Terminated Microwave Switch
PXI & CompactPCI Compliance - 40-781A
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.
PXIe Compliance - 42-781A
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.
42-781A-022 PXIe Dual
SPDT Microwave Switch
with Internal Termination
42-781A-121 PXIe Single
SPDT Microwave Switch
with External Termination
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 9
PXI/PXIe Terminated SPDT Microwave Relays

Page 1.10 pickeringtest.com
Section 1 - Technical Specification
The 4x-781A is part of a range of switching modules suitable for RF and microwave applications.
Pickering’s Range of PXI & PXIe Microwave Switching Modules
Switch Type Banks Frequency Range Model No.
SPDT
Unterminated
1, 2, 3 or 4 Panel Mount,
1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount
2.5 GHz (75 Ω) or
12.4 - 67 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-780B
SPDT
Terminated
1 or 2 Panel Mount,
1 or 2 Remote Mount 18 - 50 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-781A
Transfer Switch 1 or 2 Panel Mount,
1 or 2 Remote Mount 18 - 50 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-782B
SP4T or SP6T
Unterminated
1, 2 or 3 Panel Mount,
1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount 6 - 40 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-784B
SP4T or SP6T
Terminated or
Unterminated
1 or 2 Panel Mount,
1, 2 or 3 Remote Mount
2.5 GHz (75 Ω) or
3 - 67 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-785C
SP8T, SP10T
or SP12T
Terminated or
Unterminated
1 or 2 Panel Mount,
1 or 2 Remote Mount 8 - 26.5 GHz (50 Ω) 4x-788
4x-782B 4x-784B4x-780B 4x-781A 4x-785C 4x-788
4x-781A
pickeringtest.com Page 10
PXI/PXIe Terminated SPDT Microwave Relays

Page 2.1 pickeringtest.com
Section 2 - Technical Description
Functional Description
A functional block diagram is provided in Figure 2.1. The module is powered by +5V (PXI), +3.3V and +12V supplies via PCI
Bus connectors mounted on the mother board. The interface to the user test equipment is via the front panel mounted SMA,
SMA-2.9 or SMA-2.4 connectors. The module comprises a PCB populated with control logic and front panel mounted failsafe
or latching changeover microwave relays with either internal or external terminations (the remote -E option controls 1 or 2
relays via 1.5m screened interface cables). The relays and front panel LED indicators (failsafe versions only) are energised
via control signals from the relay driver device. The relay driver is addressed by PCI bridge U1, to output the required
signal. Module configuration and setup information for the PCI bridge is stored in Serial EPROM devices.
Figure 2.1 - PXI Terminated Microwave Relay Module 40-781A: Functional Block Diagram
PCI Bridge
Configuration
U9-10
Level
Translators
U2-3
PCI Bridge U1
GND
Module
Configuration
U7-8
Compact PCI Bus Connector J1 (40-781A)
PXI/PXIe Microwave Terminated Relay Module 4x-781A
+5V
+3.3V
GND
PXIe Connectors XJ3 & XJ4 (42-781A)
+12V
+3.3V
+12V
Relay
Drivers
Front Panel
Coaxial Connectors
Failsafe
Versions Only
Indicators
LED
1 or 2 Microwave Relays With Internal
or External Termination - Panel Mounted
or Remote Mounted via Interface Cables
Front Panel
Coaxial Connectors

Page 3.1 pickeringtest.com
Section 3 - Installation
kg
Pre-operation 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 flat and solid construction to withstand
and support the combined weight of the module(s) and chassis.
!
Refer to the Warnings and Cautions at the front of this manual
Modular products require installation in a suitable PXI/PXIe/LXI chassis. The module is designed for indoor use only.
Figure 3.1 - Installing the Module into a PXI/PXIe/cPCI/LXI Chassis
PXI/PXIe/LXI Chassis
PXI/PXIe Module
Injector/Ejector Handle
Injector/Ejector Rail

Page 3.2 pickeringtest.com
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
file), 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 file containing additional installation information. A single installation covers all Pickering
switching and simulation PCI, PXI and PXIe products.
When installation completes, the installed drivers’ ReadMe file 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)
The chassis must be electrically installed in accordance with local regional electrical codes by a qualified engineer.
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 vi.
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 firmly seats into the backplane. The front panel of the module should be flush 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
finally 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 pickeringtest.com
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/PXIe 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