NI PXI-2597

Technical Specifications: Frequency Range: DC to 26.5 GHz Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω Maximum Carry Power: 150 W Maximum AC Carry Current per Channel: 1.73 Arms Maximum Switching Voltage: 90 Vrms cold-switching Insertion Loss: 0.7 dB maximum Open Channel Isolation: High isolation across full frequency band Relay Mechanical Life: 2 × 10^6 cycles Scan Rate: 5 cycles/s Termination Power: 1 W per termination, total 3 W

Function Features: SP6T relay topology, one input path switched to six independent output channels. Built-in signal termination. Supports NI-SWITCH driver programming, synchronized via PXI trigger bus with other PXI measurement modules. Each relay can be controlled individually or configured as multiplexer topology.

Application Scenarios: RF component test, microwave signal routing, antenna measurement, wireless transceiver validation, automated semiconductor RF test, radar subsystem verification.

Material Composition: Front panel: Aluminum alloy with surface anodization. Relay core: high-frequency gold-plated contact electromechanical relay. PCB substrate: high-frequency low-loss microwave laminate. Connector: SMA female RF connector.

Structural Features: 3U PXI single-slot form factor, front panel SMA connectors, fully enclosed electromagnetic shielding housing. PXI hybrid bus interface, fits standard PXI chassis slots.

Working Principle: Electromechanical relays switch the RF signal path by mechanical contact closure and disconnection. The input signal is directed to selected output channel under software relay control, while unused channels are terminated to reduce signal reflection.

Installation Requirements: Install into standard 3U PXI chassis slot. Ensure chassis provides proper cooling airflow. Torque SMA connectors to specified value to avoid contact loss. Use 50 Ω matched coaxial cables for signal wiring.

Usage Notes: Do not exceed rated carry power and switching voltage. Avoid hot switching beyond specification limits. Relay life degrades under high power continuous switching. Keep mating SMA interfaces clean to prevent insertion loss increase. Operate within chassis specified temperature range.