Keithley's new reed relay matrix card combines ultra-high density with configuration flexibility
May 15, 2010
Posted by John McHaleCLEVELAND, Ohio, 15 May 2010 Keithley Instruments, Inc. (NYSE:KEI) introduced the Model 3732 quad 4 by 28 ultra-high density reed relay matrix card. The card, which offers 448 single-pole matrix crosspoints, is for test and measurement applications.The new device was designed for automated switch and measure applications that require multiple instrument connections as well as high crosspoint density and high speed. It has use in a range of high pin count research and development and production tests applications, such as low-level contact resistance testing of high-speed memory interface boards or next generation integrated cicruit (IC) sockets, Keithley officials say. Matrix switching configurations enable connection of multiple inputs to multiple outputs and have matrices that are useful for applications where the system must make connections between several instruments and a multipin device. The Model 3732 has four banks of high-speed reed relays; each bank has four rows and 28 columns, providing a total of 448 single-pole crosspoints. These relays can be configured in a number of different ways, enabling the matrix size to be easily adapted to existing or future applications, Keithley officials say. For example, bank-configuration relays included on the card enable the matrix banks to configure automatically as a single 4 by 112 matrix or as two isolated 4 by 56 matrices, with no need for external wiring. The card also has analog backplane relays that allow expanding columns across cards automatically -- with as many as 4 rows by 672 columns in a single mainframe using six Model 3732 matrix cards. The Model 3732 also supports two-pole switching by automatically pairing relays to create either a dual 4 by 28 or a single 4 by 56 configuration. The card uses dry reed relays that offer both low contact potential and low current offset to minimize the switching errors that often accompany this relay technology, company officials say. Additionally, these relays will switch up to 200 volts at carry currents up to 1.2A, specifications not available in other high-density, card-based matrix solutions. The fast-switching, long-life reed relays have a switching speed of 0.6 milliseconds and are rated for more than 109 no-load operations, both necessary specifications for switching systems used in automated testing applications.The Model 3732 uses two 78-pin male D-sub connectors for signal and configuration connections. Accessories available include matching D-sub cables and screw terminal blocks. Three- and five-year extended warranties are also available.For more information on the Model 3732, visit http://www.keithley.com/products/switch/dmmswitch/?mn=3732.
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