Using the interactive online tool, engineers can specify and configure a combination of high-performance LXI microwave relays, with bandwidths up to 110 GHz, impedances of 50 Ω or 75 Ω, and a range of connector types, including the location of individual microwave switching elements and associated labeling requirements. Their LXI microwave switching platform design can generate a complete system offer and a unique component number that can be ordered directly from Pickering Interfaces, where it will be built and delivered as a custom system.
Engineers can choose from SPDT, SP4T, SP6T, SP8T, SP10T, and SP12T transfer relays, in terminated and non-terminated versions, with an industry-standard LXI Ethernet control interface, in compact 1U to 4U form factors, providing space-saving microwave switching solutions. Flexible front-panel relay placement helps minimize external interconnect cable lengths. The systems feature excellent RF characteristics and repeatability, with high-performance relays offering low VSWR, very high isolation, low losses, and high power handling, making them ideal for switching coaxial systems that require high performance from the HF band to microwave frequencies.
Simon Aylott, Director of the Microwave Division at Pickering Interfaces, states: “This powerful new online tool will allow customers to easily configure custom microwave and RF switching and relay systems with just a few clicks. Engineers can use the tool to design custom front panel graphics and labels to support their application. The initial version will support and facilitate the customer experience when configuring flexible LXI microwave switching products, but future versions will also support PXI modules.”
For over 30 years, test engineers have relied on Pickering Interfaces to help accelerate their project development cycle and streamline production readiness when building high-performance, reasonably priced modular microwave switching systems, providing the foundation for highly reconfigurable signal routing solutions. The new microwave design tool simplifies and accelerates this process. All systems are covered by Pickering's standard three-year warranty.
