Based on MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) switches, the modules are designed to simulate common faults in high-speed communication protocols and are compatible with the latest evolution of MultiGBASE-T1 test requirements.
The modules are designed for HIL (hardware-in-the-loop) simulation applications in the automotive industry for verifying the design of the latest high-bandwidth MultiGBASE-T1 Ethernet network components, such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) controllers, with network data rates reaching 10 Gbps. The FIU (Fixed-Pair Unit) is used to validate the safe and consistent operation of the controller in the presence of various connectivity faults. Single-pair Ethernet is also experiencing increased use in aerospace and industrial applications due to its ease of deployment, lower cost, and reduced weight compared to standard CAT 5/6 Ethernet cabling.
With four or eight impedance-matched, 2-wire signal path channels, communication protocols ranging from the legacy 10BASE-T1 to the latest 10GBASE-T1 automotive Ethernet standard are supported in a single product, enabling users to future-proof their systems as testing requirements evolve. In the default position, the 2-wire channels pass through the module without significant signal loss. Alternatively, any wire can be configured as an open circuit, or short circuits can be applied between wire pairs. Fault connections to one of the four external signals can also be made via two fault buses, each with EMR switching connectivity, simulating connections for supplying power/ground or resistive faults between channels.
Utilizing the latest MEMS switching technology from partner Menlo Micro, the signal channels feature low insertion loss and VSWR, as well as excellent and repeatable RF characteristics above 6 GHz, with each path having nominally equal insertion loss. The modules also minimize the introduction of noise and unwanted signals into the signal path through careful attention to mechanical and electrical design. Each channel can handle up to 0.5 A and is rated for 100 V between wire pairs. The pairs have a controlled transmission line impedance suitable for most single-twisted-pair signaling systems. Each fault bus is capable of carrying 1.6 A of current, allowing multiple channels to be connected to the same fault condition. Furthermore, each fault bus has an EMR switching relay, enabling the user to select alternative external fault conditions.
To accommodate multiple customer/application-specific MultiGBASE-T1 connector families, the module features a single high-speed connector interface that connects to a branch fitting, which then converts to multiple Rosenberger H-MTD series connectors for channel connections, along with a 9-way D-connector for fault bus connections. Additional automotive Ethernet connector interfaces are available upon request. The connection modules are available with options for cabinet shelf mounting or mounting to a standard 1U, 19-inch rack-mount panel.
To aid in monitoring the module's status, all versions include a relay cycle counting function, allowing users to identify the most frequently used paths. This information could enable a review of system connections, allowing signals applied to heavily used contacts to be swapped with those applied to infrequently used contacts, thus extending the relays' lifespan. However, the specification of 3 billion operations would represent a significant period of use before any signal path approaches its lifespan.
“Our next-generation MEMS-based modules offer multiple advantages that, combined, are simply not available with other switching technologies,” explains Steven Edwards, director of product management at Pickering. “Capacity limitations mean that the high-speed bandwidth requirements of the latest MultiGBASE-T1 protocols cannot be met by reed relays or EMR (electromechanical relays), which dictates the use of advanced MEMS switches to deliver our highest-bandwidth FIUs to date. The operating speed is 50 µs for the signal switches, significantly increasing the performance of the test system. Longevity is also greatly extended with a lifespan of over 3 billion operations, maximizing system life and minimizing downtime.”
Pickering Interfaces offers its manufactured products with a standard three-year warranty and guaranteed long-term technical support.
