Racal Instruments 1260-54

The Racal Instruments 1260-54 is a VXI multiplexer module that routes RF signals across six independent banks of 1×4 channels in a tree configuration. It delivers 1.3 GHz bandwidth performance with minimal insertion loss and exceptional isolation, making it ideal for precision RF measurement systems. The module switches low-level signals with high fidelity and supports integration into automated test equipment and VHF/UHF matrix architectures.

– Technical Specifications

Architecture & Performance
• Module Type: VXI Multiplexer Module
• Channel Configuration: Six independent banks, each 1×4 (tree configuration)
• Bandwidth (-3dB): 1.3 GHz
• Path Resistance: 1.0 Ω
• Thermal EMF: 10⁻⁸ Ω

AC Performance (50 Ω load)
• Insertion Loss: <0.5 dB @ 100 MHz, <1.5 dB @ 500 MHz, <2.0 dB @ 1 GHz
• Crosstalk Across Groups: <-100 dB @ 100 MHz, <-80 dB @ 500 MHz, <-60 dB @ 1 GHz, <-50 dB @ 1.3 GHz
• Isolation Between Channels: <-80 dB @ 100 MHz, <-65 dB @ 500 MHz, <-55 dB @ 1 GHz, <-40 dB @ 1.3 GHz
• VSWR: 1.1:1 @ 100 MHz, 1.25:1 @ 500 MHz, 1.75:1 @ 1 GHz and 1.3 GHz

Electrical Switching Limits
• Maximum Voltage (Signal-Ground): 30 VDC or 100 VACrms
• Maximum Current (Per Channel): 1.5 ADC or ACrms
• Maximum Power (Per Channel): 60 W DC, 60 VA AC, 150 W @ 100 MHz, 70 W @ 500 MHz, 40 W @ 1 GHz

– Key Features

• Tree configuration minimizes unterminated stub effects
• Low noise switching for low-level RF signal applications
• VXIbus-compliant module interface
• Message-based control via Racal Instruments Option 01 Smart Card Module
• Relay coil current monitoring for operational confidence checking
• Airflow requirement: 1.0 liters/sec
• Weight: 2.59 lb (1.17 kg)

– Typical Applications

• RF signal routing to oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers
• Distortion analyzer signal switching
• VHF/UHF matrix system building blocks
• Automated test equipment signal management

– Compatibility & Integration

The module integrates into VXIbus systems and requires the Racal Instruments Option 01 Smart Card Module for system control. Programming uses message-based syntax (e.g., "CLOSE 3.02" for channel operations).