When architecting an automated test system that includes RF and Microwave instrumentation, it is often advantageous to incorporate a signal routing or switching system

Among the many benefits realized by including a signal switching system as part of an automated test strategy, one of the most universal is the ability to optimize test system assets, reducing overall system cost and footprint, by sharing instrumentation inputs and outputs across multiple test points. Additionally, a switching system enables the automation of the test process which will minimize operator intervention and opportunity for error leading to an increase in overall throughput.

Adding a switching system to any test system though, will inherently degrade the performance of the system to some degree as the added contact points increase path resistance and signal loss. The challenge becomes how to optimally design the switch while minimizing the impact on signal integrity all without busting the project budget. There are several elements that should be considered when architecting a switching system, and the weight of importance placed on each factor will vary depending on the objectives of the project and ultimately determine what sort of tradeoffs need to be made (if any).

Take a look at our video that explains the benefits of adding switching subsystems to your test strategy.

White paper - Making the right choices when specifying an RF switching system

View the White paper on RF Switching

This white paper: Making the right choices when specifying an RF switching system,  explains proper switching system design is essential to virtually any functional test system. It is important to make the right choices if you want your automated test system to be successful.

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Pickering RF & Microwave Switching with bandwidths from 100MHz to 67GHz

Bandwidths from 100MHz to 67GHz

We offer over 400 RF/Microwave products covering the frequency spectrum including, SPDT, Transfer, MUX and Matrix switches available on PXI, LXI & USB platforms. These switching systems are used for design validation, reliability and production test including 5G, SD radios, S parameter testing for RF cables, antennas, radar and semiconductor verification.

RF & Microwave Switching Reference Map - Pickering

RF & Microwave Switching Reference Map

This is  a single sheet reference to our over 400 modules available including 8GHz solid state, matrices, MUX, SPDT switchings, attenuators, as well as cable assemblies.

These modules are usable in PXI and our LXI/USB chassis and many modules have LED indicators 

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