Keithley's reed relay matrix card combines ultra-high density and superior configuration flexibility

CLEVELAND, USA: Keithley Instruments Inc. has introduced the model 3732 Quad 4x28 Ultra-High Density Reed Relay Matrix Card.

The card, which offers 448 single-pole matrix crosspoints, was designed for automated switch and measure applications that require multiple instrument connections as well as high crosspoint density and high speed.

It is an ideal solution for use in a wide 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 IC sockets.

Flexible, highly configurable matrix
Matrix switching configurations offer system designers wide testing flexibility by allowing them to connect multiple inputs to multiple outputs; matrices are particularly useful for applications in which 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 (4x28), 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.

For example, bank-configuration relays included on the card allow configuring the matrix banks automatically as a single 4x112 matrix or as two isolated 4x56 matrices, with no need for external wiring. The card also has analog backplane relays that allow expanding columns across cards automatically, up to a maximum of 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 4x28 or a single 4x56 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. Additionally, these relays will switch up to 200V 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.

The model 3732 Quad 4x28 Ultra-High Density Reed Relay Matrix Card, which is priced at $5,395, will be available two to four weeks after receipt of order.