#United States #Tewksbury #Pickering Interfaces #LXI Switching #High-Current Testing

Introduction to the 60-191 High-Current Switching Family

Pickering Interfaces, a prominent name in modular signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic testing, has recently introduced its 60-191 LXI high-current switching family. This innovative range is designed to handle signals of up to 80 A and 300 V, marking it as one of the most powerful offerings in the company's portfolio. Its introduction aims to streamline the distribution, sequencing, and management of multiple high-current power supplies within automated test systems, an essential aspect of contemporary electronic testing environments.

Key Features of the 60-191 Family

The 60-191 series stands out with its capability to integrate high-current power switching alongside low-current sense switching functionalities, all within a compact 4U form factor. It comes in four standard configurations, which include up to twenty 40 A and four 80 A hermetically sealed SPST-NO contactors, supplemented by several 1 A SPST relays designated for sense lines. Notably, users are provided with front-panel screw-terminal connections for both high-current and sense-line connectivity, and the option to request custom relay configurations and connectors is also available.

Applications and Benefits

These units are strategically installed between high-current power supply units (PSUs) and the devices under testing. Each unit enables meticulous control over the connections and disconnections of the PSUs' positive and negative outputs, along with managing their high- and low-sense lines. Engineers benefit from the ability to control each relay independently or manage multiple relays collectively with just one command. This efficiency streamlines the switching process for the common four connections utilized by a PSU.

Steven Edwards, the Head of Product Management at Pickering, elaborated on the significance of this launch, stating, "High-current switching in automated systems often requires custom setups using various contactors. The 60-191 family provides a fully tested, maintainable LXI option with the switching capacity needed for faster integration of high-current supplies."

In addition to these capabilities, every 60-191 unit features a sequencing service that can hold up to 5,000 predefined switching sequences. These sequences can be executed either through software commands or configurable hardware triggers, which significantly reduces host transactions and system latency. The front panel is equipped with LED indicators displaying switch statuses, simplifying both programming and troubleshooting processes. Furthermore, relay cycle counting functionality promotes preventive maintenance while ensuring balanced usage across numerous pathways.

Connectivity and Control

The units are operated via an LXI 1.5-compliant 1000Base-T Ethernet interface, with support for an API or a built-in soft front panel. Both IVI and direct I/O drivers are compatible with common operating systems like Windows and Linux, as well as popular development environments, including LabVIEW, Python, C/C++, C#, MATLAB, and Simulink.

Typical Applications

The 60-191 high-current switching family finds its utility across various fields. These include:

• - EV battery testing and high-drain automotive electronics evaluations.
• - Research initiatives in fuel cells and hydrogen electrolysis.
• - Performance testing for solar inverters and energy storage systems.
• - Development processes within the aerospace sector.
• - Functional and production testing of high-current power supplies.

Conclusion

Every configuration of the 60-191 series comes with a three-year warranty alongside Pickering’s commitment to long-term product support, guaranteeing reliability and confidence in the installation of these systems. For more information regarding product specifications and local sales support, visit Pickering’s website.

About Pickering Interfaces

Established as a leader in the realm of modular signal switching and simulation products, Pickering Interfaces specializes in solutions tailored for electronic testing and verification. Their numerous product lines, including PXI, LXI, and PCI systems, are integral components found within test environments across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, energy, medical, and semiconductor sectors.