Pickering Interfaces Introduces Expanded Portfolio of High-Density PXI Digital I/O Modules with Enhanced Voltage and Current Capability

Pickering Interfaces is adding to their extensive range of PXI digital I/O modules with the introduction of four new families. These new modules offer increased density and greater voltage and current capacity, enhancing their capabilities in the PXI/PXIe market.

Pickering Interfaces, a top supplier of modular signal switching and simulation products for electronic testing and verification, has introduced four new families of industrial digital input/output modules for PXI- and LXI-based systems. These new families offer increased density, wider voltage and current ranges, and customizable logic levels in both PXI and PXIe formats. This expansion makes Pickering the provider with the most extensive selection of PXI and PXIe digital I/O modules in the industry.

In automated test systems, digital input and output modules are commonly used to control external devices or connect with external logic. Digital inputs determine if a signal voltage is higher or lower than a set threshold, while digital outputs can provide a source of current, sink current, or a combination of both. Industrial digital I/O modules are designed for tasks such as collecting signals from digital sensors, communicating with industrial devices like PLCs, and operating relays, solenoids, and lights.

Pickering Interfaces is dedicated to offering a wide range of industrial digital I/O products, as mentioned by their Technical Engineering Manager, Paul Bovingdon. The introduction of these new modules demonstrates their dedication to adapting to the changing requirements of their customers.

The High-Density Digital Output Modules (model 40/42-412A) are modules that increase the number of output channels in the 40-412 PXI series of digital input/output modules. They also include a PXIe option (model 42-412A). These modules can provide up to 64 output channels, with options for 16, 32, 48, or 64 channels. They have a maximum output voltage range of 50V and can drive up to 0.5A on the low-side or high-side.

The High-Density Digital Input Module with Dual Programmable Thresholds, known as models 40-414 (PXI) and 42-414 (PXIe), is a new family of digital input modules designed for high channel count and high input voltage capability. These modules feature dual programmable threshold settings per bank, allowing for the detection of multiple voltage levels across the module. With independent banks of eight channels, users can easily determine the status of digital signals by comparing each input voltage to two programmable threshold levels. This eliminates the need for a DMM in functional test applications. The modules come in variants with 32, 64, 96, or 128 input channels, with maximum threshold voltages of 50V, 100V, 200V, or 300V. This module is ideal for industrial digital signals in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and rail, offering a simple solution that reduces the need for external signal conditioning circuits and streamlines test system complexity.

The Semi-Dynamic Digital I/O Module, known as model 40/42-419, is part of a new family of digital I/O modules. These modules, available in PXI (model 40-419) and PXIe (model 42-419), offer 16 to 64 I/O channels with a voltage range of up to 60V. They can be powered externally or through four built-in voltage rail options (+3.3V, +5V, +12V, or +24V) and have a current output capability of up to 300mA. Users can select the I/O direction for each port or channel, with each port of 8 channels able to be configured collectively as inputs or outputs. Additionally, individual channels within a port can be set as input or output independently. The module also features semi-dynamic 8-bit pattern acquisition and generation using its on-board memory.

The Relay Driver Module, also known as model 40/42-411A, is an updated version of the previous model 40-411 that now includes PXIe options. It comes in four different variations with different amounts of channels, ranging from 16 to 64 low-side outputs. This module has the capability to drive external relays with a voltage of up to 60V and 1A. It also offers three options for the on-board relay voltage supply, as well as a mixed voltage option for low-power applications. The models 40-411A (PXI) and 42-411A (PXIe) are designed for use in PXI or PXIe systems, as well as Pickering Interfaces' LXI modular chassis, making them ideal for controlling external relays.

The models 40/42-411A, 412A, and 419 come with safety features such as over-current detection, over-voltage clamp, and thermal overload protection. This allows the modules to power relay coils without needing flyback diodes, and also prevents current from flowing back into the chassis backplane through an isolation barrier. These modules offer flexibility by allowing for external or internal power supply, as well as high-side or low-side driving options to meet varying load capacity needs.

The front panel of the modules is equipped with a 78-pin D-type connector for models 40/42-411A and 412A, or a 160-pin DIN 41612 for models 40/42-414 and 419. These connectors are compatible with various connector accessories that provide full support.

Every regular product made by Pickering Interfaces comes with a three-year warranty and ongoing product support. To find out about pricing, availability, and how to get in touch, please go to: www.pickeringtest.com.

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