The Keithley S46 RF Microwave Switching System is a configurable platform for automated signal routing and relay control in high-frequency test applications. It supports up to 32 switching channels across multiple relay topologies—SPDT, SP3T, SP4T, SP5T, and SP6T—with frequency coverage from DC to 40 GHz depending on configuration. The system maintains signal integrity through unterminated or terminated relay options (S46T) and integrates into automated test equipment via GPIB (IEEE 488.2) and SCPI control. Its 2U rack-mount enclosure houses independent relay control lines with open-collector drivers rated at 300 mA sink current maximum and supports user-definable configurations stored in non-volatile memory across 32 locations of up to 68 bytes each.
Technical Specifications
Switching Architecture
• Total relay control lines: 32, each with 300 mA maximum sink current (open-collector driver)
• Configurable channels: Up to 32 switching points
• Relay topologies: SPDT, SP3T, SP4T, SP5T, SP6T, and DPDT (S46T only)
• Standard maximum: Eight SPDT or four multi-pole unterminated relays
• Terminated maximum (S46T): Eight SPDT or four multi-pole relays, plus four transfer switches
Contact Performance
• SPDT contact life: Minimum 10 million cycles
• Multi-pole contact life: Minimum 2 million cycles
• SPDT actuation time: 10 ms to 20 ms maximum
• Multi-pole actuation time: 15 ms maximum
• Contact closure counters: One per channel, up to 10 million counts (non-volatile memory)
RF Performance
• Frequency options: DC–18 GHz, DC–26.5 GHz, DC–40 GHz
• Connectors: SMA-2.9 Female (DC–40 GHz), SMA Female (DC–18 GHz, DC–26.5 GHz)
Physical & Power
• Enclosure: 2U (3.5 inch), 19-inch rack-mount
• Power input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• Power consumption: 120 VA maximum
• Operating temperature: 0° to 40°C
• Operating humidity: Up to 80% RH at 35°C or below
• Storage temperature: –25° to 65°C
Control & Status
• Interface: GPIB (IEEE 488.2), SCPI compliant
• Non-volatile storage: 32 locations × 68 bytes user-definable parameters
• Front panel indicators: Power, relay position status, error LEDs
– Key Features
• Flexible relay configurations support mixed-topology systems within single chassis
• Terminated relay option (S46T) eliminates external load network requirements
• Non-volatile contact closure counters enable cycle-life tracking per channel
• Open-collector drivers interface directly with external relay coil drivers
• Wide frequency coverage from DC to 40 GHz with appropriate relay selection
– Typical Applications
• Automated RF and microwave component testing
• Multi-channel signal routing in production ATE environments
• High-cycle switching applications requiring cycle-life monitoring
• DC to millimeter-wave measurement system integration
– Compatibility & Integration
GPIB (IEEE 488.2) and SCPI command set enable integration into existing ATE frameworks. Compact 2U form factor fits standard 19-inch test racks. Compliance with EU Directive 89/336/EEC (EMC) and 73/23/EEC (Safety), plus UL/CSA 61010-1 certification.
