The basic core can be configured for many different applications and changed or upgraded as required.
FLEXIBILITY
Using a modular structure makes it easy to upgrade the system and adapt it to new applications. There are numerous plug-in modules for almost any desired functionality. An LXI-compliant multifunction switch/measure unit with a compact form factor and transaction speed compares favorably to other switch systems and is less than VXI and PXI systems. Its architecture eliminates external signal conditioning and allows the use of robust, reliable cabling.
EASY DEBUGGING
Front-panel access to all module functions makes maintenance and debugging easier, because operators don’t have to interact with the PC to verify functionality. When the test system is connected to a LAN, the integrator can use the LXI device’s built-in Web server for remote operation and maintenance. The Web server functionality makes it possible to control and supervise switch status using a GUI. The only required software on the system controller is a Web browser. The graphical representation of the switches helps operators visualize the state of individual relays and outputs connected to terminal blocks and routed to the internal DMM.
ADDITIONAL MODULES TO THE CORE SYSTEM OTP
Switching module:
- Dual 16 x 4 armature matrix, 300 V/1 A, 30 MHz. The first 16 channels of the first matrix are instrumentation channels; the others are DUT channels.
- 28-channel Form C (1 A) and 4-channel Form A (5 A) switch module, 300 V. The Form C and Form A channels switch PLC loads and provide switching resources for auxiliary hardware residing in the test fixture.
Stimulus:
- 64-bit digital I/O, programmable thresholds with programmable polarity and pattern memory enable the stimulus of the PLC’s digital inputs and provide programming control over the digital outputs.
- 4-channel isolated digital-to-analog converter ±16 V/±20 mA, 16-bit resolution, 200-kHz update rate, 500-kpoint waveform memory that stimulates the DUT’s analog inputs with static voltages, as well as with defined signal slopes stored in the waveform memory.
Modules:
The mainframe provides 100-W power-supply modules with four independent and fully programmable voltages and currents.
Specifications:
- Compact form factor (1U) with effective airflow design for cooling.
- Ethernet/LAN (LXI-C), USB, and GPIB interfaces standard.
- High data throughput on all interfaces and less than 1-ms command processing time over all interfaces.
In the micro PLC system, the power supply provides the following voltage sources:
- DUT supply power.
- Reference voltage for open collector digital outputs.
- Adapter auxiliary supply for sensors and USB camera.
Power supply:
Power supplies (750- and 1500-W versions) with models ranging from 6 to 600 V, providing maximum current at the voltage level needed.
Specifications:
- Compact form factor with effective airflow design for cooling
- Low cost
- Ethernet/LAN (LXI-C), USB and GPIB interfaces standard
In a micro-PLC application, the power supply is used to test the PLC’s switch outputs under high load current.
Other instruments:
The OTP architecture and software support other instruments. For example, a function/arbitrary waveform generator, a universal counter, or a mixed signal oscilloscope can be used, which means the core of this system can be used in applications over and above the micro PLC application.
OTP PROGRAMMING INTERFACE STANDARDS
Ethernet/LAN is inexpensive and easy to implement, provides fast throughput, and allows remote access to the system. LXI Class B and Class A add trigger and synchronization functionality to the LAN standard, making it even more suited for instrument control. The OTP architecture uses LXI-based instrumentation wherever possible so that all core instruments are controlled through Ethernet/LAN. Additional instruments may be programmed using LAN, GPIB, USB, or RS-232 interfaces.
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