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High-Density Multiconfiguration Matrix Modules

Expansion with the SCXI-1129

Matrix modules can serve as building blocks for creating configurations well

beyond the size of a single module. Connecting the rows of two modules

doubles the column count. Likewise, connecting the columns of two modules

doubles the row count. For example, you can expand a 4x64 matrix, made up of

one SCXI-1129 module and one SCXI-1334 terminal block, to a 4x128, 4x192,

4x256, and so forth, by connecting the columns of multiple SCXI-1129 modules

via the terminal block. To expand the columns of the SCXI-1129, you can use

expansion cables. Expansion cables connect four differential signals. Hence,

you must use two matrix expansion cables for each expansion with the

SCXI-1335 because it has eight rows. You can expand the row count of the

SCXI-1129 with expansion plugs, which connect the columns of two adjacent

switch modules as shown in Figure 1. With the expansion plugs, you can

create the 128x16 matrix in less than five minutes. For further information

on matrix expansion, refer to the tutorial, Matrix Switch Expansion Guide,

SCXI Relay Control

Every SCXI switch system requires an external switch controller. The switch

controller uses the digital communications bus on the SCXI chassis to control

the switch circuitry. An NI 4021 switch controller, available for both PCI and

PXI, is the recommended SCXI switch controller.

SCXI Analog Routing

You can increase the flexibility of your switch system with the addition of the

high-voltage analog bus (HVAB). Using the HVAB, you can easily route high-

voltage or low-voltage analog signals between multiple switch modules or

instruments without the need for external wiring (assuming it is safe to do so).

For example, you can use the HVAB to effortlessly create a 4x256 matrix from

four SCXI-1129 modules in the 4x64 matrix configuration (SCXI-1334 terminal

block). Without the HVAB, the 4x256 matrix requires external wiring or cables.

The HVAB works with the SCXI-1127, SCXI-1128, and SCXI-1129 modules.

Signal Connections

You can choose from several solutions for your signal connections:

Terminal blocks provide screw terminals, solder cups, or headers

■

for easy connections

A shielded backshell features a 180-pin connector housing

■

to accommodate custom cables on the SCXI-1129

Mass interconnect solutions from industry leaders

■

Contact your local National Instruments sales representative for information

on these products.

Software

All National Instruments PXI and SCXI switch modules are shipped with

NI-SWITCH, an IVI-compliant driver that offers complete functionality for

all switch modules. For additional assistance in configuring, programming,

and managing higher-channel-count switching systems, NI Switch Executive

software provides an easy-to-use, intelligent switch management and visual

routing environment.

Terminal Block

Configuration (Row by Column)

Column Expansion Via Row Connection

Row Expansion Via Column Connection

NI SCXI-1129

SCXI-1333

Quad 4x16

External wires

With matrix expansion plug.

Examples: quad 8x16, quad 16x16

SCXI-1334

4x64

With HVAB or matrix expansion cable.

Examples: 4x128, 4x256

With matrix expansion plug.

Examples: 8x64,16x64, 32x64

SCXI-1335

8x32

With matrix expansion cable (2 cables required).

Examples: 8x64, 8x128

With matrix expansion plug.

Examples: 16x32, 32x32

SCXI-1336

16x16

External wires

With matrix expansion plug.

Examples: 32x16, 64x16

SCXI-1337

Dual 8x16

External wires

External wires

SCXI-1339

Dual 4x32

External wires

External wires

NI 2529

TB-2634

4x32

External wires

External wires

TB-2635

8x16

External wires

External wires

Table 1. NI 2529 and SCXI-1129 Configuration and Matrix Expansion