The Keithley S46T-18 is a modular RF and microwave switch mainframe for automated signal routing in telecommunications and component testing. This 2U, full-rack enclosure controls up to 32 relay contacts across multiple configurations—multiplexers, matrices, or independent relay arrays. The system accommodates eight SPDT relays, four multi-pole relays, or four transfer switches with flexible reconfiguration as test requirements evolve.
## Technical Specifications
**System Architecture**
• 2U high, full-rack enclosure
• 32 relay control lines
• Modular relay slots supporting SPDT, SP4T, SP6T, and DPDT topologies
**SPDT Relays (SMA Female)**
• Contact life: 10 million cycles minimum
• Actuation time: 10 ms maximum
• Insertion loss: 0.2 dB (DC–3 GHz, DC–6 GHz); 0.3–0.4 dB (3–12 GHz)
• Isolation: 60–80 dB across DC–12 GHz
• VSWR: 1.20–1.40 maximum across DC–12 GHz
**SP4T Relays (SMA/SMA-2.9 Female)**
• Contact life: 2 million cycles minimum
• Actuation time: 15 ms maximum
• Insertion loss: 0.2–0.5 dB across DC–18 GHz
• Isolation: 60–70 dB across DC–18 GHz
• VSWR: 1.30–1.50 maximum across DC–18 GHz
**SP6T Relays (SMA/SMA-2.9 Female)**
• Contact life: 2 million cycles minimum
• Actuation time: 15 ms maximum
## Key Features
• Front-panel LED status indication for all relay contacts
• Contact closure counter for predictive maintenance tracking
• Non-volatile memory for S-parameter and calibration data storage
• GPIB (IEEE-488.2) control with minimal SCPI command set
• Operating frequency range up to 26.5 GHz
• Terminated and unterminated coaxial relay options
## Typical Applications
• Telecommunications product validation
• Component and device characterization
• Multi-path signal routing matrices
• Automated test systems requiring flexible RF switching
## Compatibility & Integration
GPIB interface enables integration into automated test environments. Quick command execution and onboard memory reduce configuration overhead for repetitive measurement sequences.
