The Astronics/EADS/Racal 1260-150 is a 500 MHz RF multiplexer plug-in module engineered for signal routing and distribution in RF test and communication systems. It selects one of multiple RF inputs and routes it to a single output, offering ten independent 1×4 switch trees with 50 Ω coaxial interfaces. This module delivers sub-10 millisecond switching performance and exceeds 100 million operations at 1 mW, making it suitable for high-reliability test automation and instrumentation platforms.
## Technical Specifications
• **Bandwidth:** 500 MHz (−3 dB)
• **Switching Architecture:** Ten 1×4 switch trees
• **Interfaces:** 50 Ω coaxial
• **Switching Time:** < 10 ms (including settling)
• **Maximum RF Power:** 2 W
• **Path Resistance:** < 1.0 Ω (initial)
• **Insulation Resistance:** 10⁹ Ω
• **Thermal EMF:** 100,000,000 at 1 mW
• **MTBF (MIL-HDBK-217E):** 559,408 hrs
• **MTTR:** < 5 min
• **Operating Temperature:** 0 °C to 55 °C
• **Humidity:** 85 % ±5 %, non-condensing at < 30 °C
• **Operating Altitude:** 10,000 ft
• **Shock Rating:** 30 g, 11 ms, ½ sine wave
• **Vibration:** 0.013 in double amplitude, 5 to 55 Hz
• **Bench Drop:** 4 inches at 45°
• **Dimensions:** 4.5" H × 0.75" W × 9.5" D
• **Weight:** 14 oz (0.45 kg)
## Key Features
• Switching voltage to 100 VDC or 100 VAC
• Switching current to 0.25 ADC or 0.25 AAC
• Compact plug-in form factor for carrier integration
• Coaxial connector housing supplied; pins purchased separately
• Optional coaxial cables tested to 1 GHz in 2, 6, and 12-foot lengths
## Typical Applications
• RF signal selection and routing in test equipment
• High-frequency pulse distribution systems
• Automated test platforms for communication devices
• Signal processing and instrumentation networks
## Compatibility & Integration
Plugs into Racal Instruments 1260-100 and 1260-101 Adapt-a-Switch carriers or Racal 1256 (GPIB/Ethernet) and 1256L (LXI Core 2011) mainframes. Controllable via Racal Option 01T interface supporting register-based and message-based operation. VXIplug&play drivers available for LabWindows/CVI and LabVIEW. Compatible with VXI, GPIB/RS-232, and LXI switching systems. Meets EN55011A emissions, IEC801-2/3/4 immunity, EN61010-1 safety, and carries CE marking.
