NI PXI-2529 128-Crosspoint Matrix Switch

The NI PXI-2529 is a high-density 128-crosspoint matrix switch module for PXI and PXIe platforms, configured via terminal block accessories into 4×32 or 8×16 topologies. Built around latching electromechanical relays, it switches signals up to 150 V channel-to-channel and 150 V channel-to-ground (CAT I), with maximum switching power of 30 W and per-channel carry current to 2 A. The module delivers <9 µV thermal offset voltage—essential for precision low-voltage measurements—and features onboard relay counting with hardware trigger support for deterministic operation and enhanced test throughput.

– Technical Specifications

Switching Performance
• Maximum Switching Voltage: 150 V (channel-to-channel), 150 V (channel-to-ground, CAT I)
• Impulse Voltage Withstand: 800 V
• Maximum Switching Power: 30 W / 37.5 VA
• Maximum Switching Current: 1 A
• Maximum Carry Current per Channel: 2 A
• Overall Maximum Current: Up to 8 A
• Thermal Offset Voltage: <9 µV
• Release Time: 4 ms maximum at 20 °C
• Trigger Pulse Recognition: <150 ns (with digital filtering disabled)

Relay Characteristics
• Type: Latching electromechanical
• Mechanical Life: 5 × 10⁷ cycles
• Electrical Life: 5 × 10⁵ cycles at 30 V, 100 mA; 1 × 10⁵ cycles at 30 V, 1 A
• Onboard Relay Counting: Yes

Power Consumption
• PXI Chassis: 65 W @ 5 V, 2.5 W @ 3.3 V
• PXIe Chassis: 7.5 W @ 12 V, 2.5 W @ 3.3 V

Physical & Environmental
• Form Factor: 3U single-slot module
• Dimensions: 21.6 × 2.0 × 13.0 cm
• Weight: ~410 g
• Front Panel: 100-pin HDI connector
• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C
• Storage Temperature: -20 °C to 70 °C
• Humidity: 5% to 85% noncondensing
• Maximum Altitude: 2,000 m
• Operational Shock: 30 g peak, half-sine, 11 ms
• Random Vibration: 5 to 500 Hz

– Key Features

• Configurable matrix topologies via terminal block accessories
• Low thermal offset for accurate low-voltage signal switching
• Hardware trigger integration for improved test throughput
• Deterministic relay operation monitoring and counting
• Support for both DC and AC measurement inputs

– Typical Applications

Precision signal routing in automated test systems, high-power switching applications, and low-voltage measurement instrumentation requiring minimal thermal artifacts.

– Compatibility & Integration

Native PXI and PXIe platform integration. 3U form factor occupies single chassis slot.