Pickering Interfaces, a leader in modular signal switching and simulation solutions for electronic test and verification, has announced a significant addition to its PXI fault insertion unit (FIU) switch module range. The new models, 40-205 (PXI) and 42-205 (PXIe), are compact single-slot units that form part of the company’s two-wire serial interface fault insertion switching family. These modules, based on micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) switches, are designed to simulate faults in high-speed communication protocols, aligning with evolving MultiGBASE-T1 testing requirements.
Steven Edwards, head of product management at Pickering, states, “Our state-of-the-art MEMS-based modules offer multiple advantages that—combined—are simply not available with other switching technologies.” Edwards further explains that traditional reed relays or electromechanical relays (EMRs) cannot support the high-speed bandwidth demands of the latest MultiGBASE-T1 protocols, necessitating the use of advanced MEMS switches. These modules deliver a speed of operation of 50 µs, significantly enhancing test system throughput, and boast an operational life exceeding 3 billion operations, minimising system downtime.
Primarily intended for automotive hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation applications, these modules are crucial for design verification of high-bandwidth MultiGBASE-T1 Ethernet networking components, such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) controllers. With data speeds reaching up to 10 Gbps, the FIUs ensure safe and consistent operation of controllers amidst various connectivity faults. Single pair Ethernet, preferred for its ease of implementation, lower cost, and reduced weight, is increasingly used in aerospace and industrial sectors.
The models feature four or eight channels of impedance-matched two-wire signal paths, supporting communication protocols from legacy 10BASE-T1 to the latest 10GBASE-T1 automotive Ethernet standard, allowing users to future-proof their systems. The default setting allows signals to pass through without significant loss, while offering configurations for open-circuit or short-circuit conditions. Fault connections can be made to four external signals via two fault buses with EMR changeover connectivity.
Utilising MEMS technology from Menlo Micro, the modules maintain low insertion loss and VSWR, with consistent RF characteristics beyond 6 GHz. Each channel supports up to 0.5 A and is rated to 100 V between wire pairs. Fault buses can carry 1.6 A, with EMR changeover relays for selecting alternative external fault conditions.
To accommodate various MultiGBASE-T1 connector families, the module includes a high-speed connector interface that routes to a breakout accessory, converting connections to Rosenberger H-MTD series connectors, and a 9-way D connector for fault bus connections. Breakout modules are available for cabinet shelves or 1U standard 19” rack mount panels.
For monitoring, the modules include a relay cycle counting feature, enabling users to identify high-usage paths and extend relay life by redistributing signal load. Despite this, the three billion operation specification ensures significant usage before operational life is reached.
Pickering Interfaces supports its products with a standard three-year warranty and long-term product support, offering users reliability and assurance. For further details on pricing and availability, visit their website at www.pickeringtest.com.
