The Keithley 7116-MWS is a 16-channel RF/microwave switch system integrated with the Model 7001 Switch Mainframe, delivering automated signal routing for production and laboratory testing of high-frequency devices. Built around electromechanical coaxial relays with break-before-make contacts, the system spans DC to 18 GHz and achieves low insertion loss and high isolation to minimize crosstalk. Equal-length signal paths maintain consistent transmission line characteristics across all channels. The multiplexer configures as a single 1×16 unit or five independent 1×4 channels using SP4T switches, with 50 Ω impedance throughout. RF interconnects use RG-402 semi-rigid cable terminated in male SMA connectors.
## Technical Specifications
• **Bandwidth:** DC to 18 GHz
• **Switch Configuration:** 16-input coaxial multiplexer; configurable as 1×16 or five 1×4 units
• **Switch Type:** SP4T electromechanical coaxial relays
• **RF Contacts:** Break-before-make, normally open
• **Operating Life (Cold Switching):** 1,000,000 operations
• **Actuation Time:** 15 ms
• **Actuating Current:** 140 mA per switch contact
• **Characteristic Impedance:** 50 Ω
• **RF Connectors:** SMA (male) on RG-402 semi-rigid cable
• **Power Supply:** 29 V DC, 1.6 A switching; accepts 90–260 V AC, 47–63 Hz input (80 VA max)
• **Enclosure:** 5.25 in (3U) full system rack kit, 133 mm H × 482 mm W × 457 mm D
• **Weight:** 8.1 kg (18 lbs)
## Key Features
• IEEE-488 compatible Model 7001 mainframe controller
• Vacuum fluorescent display for real-time switch status
• Manual front panel operation with dedicated controls
• Non-volatile memory: stores up to 100 switch patterns
• Spare card slot supports expansion to 40+ additional channels
• Pre-programmed in 1×16 multiplexer configuration
## Typical Applications
• Cellular, cordless, and specialized mobile radios
• Base station testing
• Antenna systems and RF component characterization
• RFICs and wireless peripherals (Bluetooth, etc.)
• Broadband wireless transceivers
• High-speed digital communications (SONET at 3 Gbps and 10 Gbps)
## Compatibility & Integration
The system interfaces via IEEE-488 protocol. Over 30 optional switch cards enable scaling for low-frequency, general-purpose, optical, or additional RF switching channels.
