The Astronics/EADS/Racal 1256 Switching System Mainframe is a modular, high-density switching and control platform engineered for automated test equipment (ATE) applications. Available in 8-slot (1256) and 12-slot (1256L) configurations, this 2U rack-mountable mainframe accepts interchangeable Adapt-a-Switch™ plug-in modules to build custom switching matrices, multiplexers, digital I/O banks, and RF switching networks. The system delivers scanning speeds exceeding 100 channels per second, with the ability to open or close over 200 channels in less than 0.1 second (1256). It supports switching applications from DC through 18 GHz, handles voltages to 1 kV, and accommodates currents up to 13 A.
## Technical Specifications
• **Chassis:** 2U rack-mountable; 8-slot (1256) or 12-slot (1256L) configurations
• **Plug-in Module Capacity:** Up to 8 modules (1256) or 12 modules (1256L)
• **Maximum Switching Configurations:**
– Matrix up to 4×432 (1256L); 1152-point matrix (1256)
– Multiplexer/scanner up to 768 channels (1256L); 512 channels (1256)
– Up to 960 SPST channels (1256L); 640 SPST switches (1256)
– Up to 120 1×4 RF multiplexers (1256L)
– 768 channels of TTL/CMOS/open-collector digital I/O (1256)
• **Voltage Switching:** Up to 1 kV
• **Current Switching:** Up to 13 A
• **RF/Microwave Switching:** Up to 18 GHz
• **Digital I/O:** 96 channels per plug-in module
• **Channel Switching Speed:** Over 100 channels scanned per second; 200+ channels open/closed in <0.1 second (1256)
• **Memory:** Non-volatile storage for up to 100 complete switch states plus one automatic power-up state; stores user preferences (USB/GPIB address, module names, path names)
## Key Features
• LXI Core 2011 compliant (1256L) with Ethernet 10/100 interface
• SCPI and IEEE 488.2 command sets
• GPIB, RS-232, and USB 2.0 front-panel interfaces
• Path Level Switching, Include/Exclude Lists, and Scan List definition
• Advanced triggering with trigger in/out synchronization
• Automatic settling time selection
• IVI-C, IVI-Com, and ActivATE™ drivers; LabVIEW™ and LabWindows™/CVI compatible
## Typical Applications
Automated production test, high-volume component characterization, RF/microwave device validation, and multi-channel signal routing in benchtop and system-level test configurations.
## Compatibility & Integration
LXI interface with web-based control (1256L); full SCPI command support; legacy GPIB and RS-232 control paths; supports external memory via USB.
