The Astronics/EADS/Racal 1261B is a 13-slot C-Size VXI mainframe engineered for high-performance test and measurement systems. Fully compliant with VXIbus Specification 1.4 and VXIplug&play compatible, it delivers 1756 W of available power with 1000 W of total usable power at 55°C. The mainframe accommodates demanding module configurations through a fault-tolerant cooling architecture featuring three rear pluggable fans, pressurized plenum distribution, and molded card guides that maintain high cooling levels even during single-fan failure. A variable-speed cooling system adjusts fan operation based on worst-slot temperature rise, with selectable Hi/Lo modes to balance acoustic performance and thermal margin. Available in both 7U benchtop and 9U rack-mount configurations, the 1261B integrates comprehensive system monitoring via an independently powered Enhanced Monitoring System that tracks seven VXI voltages, seven VXI currents, three fan speeds, and per-slot temperature sensors. Full power protection guards all voltage rails against over/under-voltage, over/under-current, over-temperature, and short-circuit conditions. Status annunciation uses bi-color front-panel LEDs, with readout accessible via front panel display, VXI message-based interface, or RS-232 connectivity.
Technical Specifications
• 13-slot C-Size VXI mainframe
• Available in 7U (benchtop) and 9U (rack-mount) configurations
• VXIbus Specification 1.4 compliant
• VXIplug&play compatible
• CP290 Power Supply included (CP290-01 may be required for some configurations)
• Advanced power supply with minimum ripple and noise
• 1756 W available power; 1000 W total usable power at 55°C
• Fault-tolerant cooling with three rear pluggable fans
• Variable-speed fan control with system monitor integration
• Pressurized plenum airflow distribution system
• Molded card guides for directed module airflow
• Snap-on slot covers for unused positions
• System temperature monitoring with user-selectable over-temperature threshold (default 55°C slot or 10°C rise)
• Full overvoltage, overcurrent, and over-temperature protection on all rails
– Key Features
• Fault-tolerant cooling maintains performance during fan failure
• Hi/Lo noise-optimization switch for development or production modes
• Enhanced Monitoring System independently powered; does not consume VXI slots
• Seven VXI voltage rails and seven current rails continuously monitored
• Three fan speed sensors and ambient/per-slot temperature sensors
• Quick-check diagnostic connector for power and signal verification
• 9U rack versions draw side air, exhaust rearward; 7U benchtop versions draw rear air, exhaust upward
– Compatibility & Integration
Fully compatible with standard VXI modules meeting VXIbus Specification 1.4. System status readable via front panel display, VXI message-based interface, or RS-232 serial connection.
