Pickering Interfaces added two 5 Amp power relay module families in PXI & PXIe formats. The 40/42-153 and 40/42-158 power relay modules are used for switching heavy AC or DC loads or for controlling large external relays, contactors, and solenoids. Available in multiple configurations up to 50 single pole single throw relays (-153) or 32 single pole doublethrow relays (-158). Presented as the highest density modules of their type available, the PXI/PXIe power relay module families offer 18, 25, 36 or 50 off SPST relay loadings, whereas the 40/42-158 provides 8, 16, 24 or 32 off SPDT versions.
Devices can hot-switch inductive/capacitive loads up to 5 A at 250 VAC to a maximum power of 150W/1250VA (-153) or 175W/1250VA (-158); cold-switching performance is up to 400VDC/250VAC peak. Features include a low path resistance of less than 35mΩ, with a thermal offset of just 3µV (typical) plus typical bandwidths of 65MHz (-153) and 100MHz (-158) at the -3dB point. An optional hardware interlock returns all fully functional relays to the default unpowered (open) state, and is also monitored by the control software to notify the user when the interlock is activated, especially useful where operation is to be prevented until specific conditions occur.
“The new 40/42-153 & 40/42-158 PXI/PXIe power relay module families have been designed to maximize switch payload while minimizing the physical footprint and maintaining performance,” comments Steve Edwards, Pickering’s Switching Product Manager. “The single-slot footprint, available with a PXI or PXIe control interface, provides flexibility in chassis selection and minimizes PXI, PXIe, or LXI chassis slot count. These products will have many applications in automotive, aerospace and defense ATE systems as well as general-purpose switching applications where customers construct their own systems based on uncommitted relays.”
Partially populated options are offered that duplicate the front panel connector interface and pin-out of existing Pickering 5 A products, for an easy transition to a PXIe control interface. VISA, IVI & Kernel drivers are supplied for Windows operation. A spare relay on each module enables quick on-site repair to experienced users.