PXI-2536: Product OverviewThe National Instruments PXI-2536 is a high-density 4-wire matrix switch module designed for PXI-based automated test and measurement systems requiring precision signal routing capabilities. This module provides a 64×32 cross-point matrix configuration with 4-wire (Kelvin) switching capability, making it suitable for applications where measurement accuracy is critical. The architecture supports complex routing scenarios in automated test equipment (ATE) systems where multiple precision instruments need to be shared across numerous test points while maintaining signal integrity.Installed in a PXI chassis, the module operates using electromechanical relays arranged in a matrix configuration. Each cross-point provides four-wire connectivity, enabling true Kelvin connections that eliminate lead resistance errors in precision measurements. The module is designed for systems requiring high-accuracy resistance measurements, low-level signal routing, and other applications where contact resistance could compromise measurement accuracy. The 4-wire configuration provides separate force and sense lines, ensuring that voltage measurements are taken directly at the device under test rather than through the switch path.
• Kelvin Connection: Independent force and sense lines
• Control Interface: PXI trigger lines
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Power Consumption: 6W typical
NI PXI-2536
Core Features & Customer ValueThe primary value of the PXI-2536 is its combination of high channel density and precision 4-wire switching capability. The 64×32 matrix configuration with 4-wire switching provides 512 complete Kelvin paths in a single PXI slot, enabling precision measurements across a large number of test points without the errors introduced by switch and cable resistance. This is particularly valuable in production test environments where measurement accuracy and throughput are critical requirements.The 4-wire Kelvin switching architecture eliminates errors caused by lead resistance and contact resistance in the switching matrix itself. This ensures that precision measurements, particularly low-resistance measurements and sensitive voltage measurements, are not compromised by the signal path. The separate force and sense lines allow the measurement instrument to compensate for voltage drops in the switching network, providing accurate readings directly at the device under test.The electromechanical relay technology provides stable contact resistance characteristics over time, which is essential for maintaining measurement accuracy in precision applications. While slower than solid-state alternatives, these relays offer superior DC characteristics and higher power handling capability. The module’s software-programmable architecture enables complex routing patterns to be configured and executed automatically, supporting sophisticated test sequences that would be impractical to implement manually.Typical ApplicationsIn semiconductor test systems, the module enables precision resistance measurements of device features and interconnects by providing true Kelvin connections to each measurement point, eliminating errors from probe and contact resistance.In automotive electronics testing, the matrix facilitates accurate measurement of sensor resistances and component values by ensuring that measurement errors from wiring resistance are eliminated through 4-wire sensing techniques.For materials testing applications, the module provides precise resistance measurements of samples and test structures where accurate characterization of low resistance values is required for quality control and research purposes.
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