The National Instruments PXI-2593 is a high-density RF multiplexer switch module built on 50 Ω impedance for automated test systems. It operates from DC to over 500 MHz with configurable topologies: unterminated multiplexer, externally terminated multiplexer, or sparse matrix architecture. The module fits both standard PXI and PXI Express hybrid slots in a single 3U slot.
Designed for integration with high-frequency instruments like the NI PXI-5404 frequency generator and NI PXI-5112 digitizer, the PXI-2593 delivers 10 W per-channel RF carry power up to 500 MHz and 40 dBm maximum power. Signal integrity is maintained through 80 dB isolation and 0.9 dB maximum insertion loss, with 1.40:1 VSWR.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: DC to over 500 MHz (500 MHz bandwidth)
• Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω
• RF Carry Power: 10 W per channel up to 500 MHz
• Maximum RF Power: 40 dBm
• Isolation: 80 dB
• Insertion Loss: 0.9 dB (maximum)
• VSWR: 1.40:1
• Switching Voltage (Maximum): 150 V CAT I (channel-to-channel, channel-to-ground)
• Switching Current (Maximum): 0.5 A
• Relay Type: Electromechanical
• Mechanical Relay Life: 5 × 10⁷ cycles
• Electrical Relay Life: 3 × 10⁵ cycles
• Relay Operate Time: 2.4 ms typical, 4.4 ms maximum
• Minimum Switch Load: 10 μA at 10 mV
– Key Features
• Eighteen MCX jack connectors for RF signal routing
• Two SMB jack connectors for trigger control
• Hybrid-slot design supports both PXI and PXI Express backplanes
• Programmable switching configurations without hardware changes
• 3U single-slot module form factor (21.6 × 2.0 × 13.0 cm)
– Electrical & Environmental
• PXI Power: 3.5 W @ 5 V, 1 W @ 3.3 V
• PXI Express Power: 4.5 W @ 12 V, 1 W @ 3.3 V
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 °C
• Storage Temperature: -20 to 70 °C
• Humidity: 5 to 85% noncondensing
– Compatibility & Integration
The module includes NI-SWITCH driver software (IVI-compliant) and supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio for Visual C++, NI Switch Executive, Visual Basic, and ANSI C/C++.
