NI SCXI-1193

NI SCXI-1193

Product Overview
The NI SCXI-1193 is a high-density RF multiplexer switch module designed for automated test systems that require high-frequency signal routing. It provides up to 32 channels of RF switching and can be configured as multiple independent multiplexers, terminated multiplexers, or sparse matrix arrangements. The module supports signals from DC to at least 500 MHz and uses electromechanical latching relays to maintain signal paths without continuous power. It connects to NI SCXI chassis and works with NI-DAQmx or other NI software for programmable signal routing.

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Description

NI SCXI-1193

Technical Specifications

  • Brand: National Instruments
  • Model: SCXI-1193
  • Product type: RF multiplexer switch module
  • Channel capacity: Up to 32 channels
  • Configurations: Four 8×1 multiplexers, dual 16×1 multiplexers, single 32×1 multiplexer, four 4×1 terminated multiplexers, dual 8×1 terminated multiplexers, single 16×1 terminated multiplexer, and independent mode
  • Frequency range: DC to 500 MHz and above in standard specifications
  • Relay type: Electromechanical latching relays
  • Relay contact material: Silver palladium and gold
  • DC path resistance: Low during normal life; increases toward end of relay life
  • RF carrier power: Up to 10 W per channel to 500 MHz
  • Total RF power limit: 7 W across the module within the full operating temperature range
  • Scan rate: Up to 100 channels per second
  • Mechanical relay life: 50 million cycles
  • Electrical relay life: 300,000 cycles at 30 V, 0.3 A DC resistive load
  • Trigger sources: SCXI trigger lines 0 to 7, front panel, rear connector
  • Minimum trigger pulse width: 150 ns
  • Trigger output pulse width: Programmable from 1 µs to 62 µs
  • I/O connectors: 36 MCX jacks
  • Trigger connectors: 2 SMB jacks
  • Power requirements: +5 V DC at 50 mA; +18.5 V to +25 V DC at 170 mA; −18.5 V to −25 V DC at 170 mA
  • Dimensions: 3.0 × 17.3 × 19.8 cm
  • Weight: 960 g
  • Operating temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C
  • Storage temperature: −20 °C to 70 °C
  • Humidity: 5% to 85% RH, non-condensing
  • Safety standards: EN 61010-1, IEC 61010-1, UL 61010-1, CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1
  • EMC standard: EN 61326-1 / IEC 61326-1

Functional Features

  • Provides programmable RF signal routing for automated test systems.
  • Supports multiple multiplexer topologies in a single module.
  • Maintains relay state without continuous power due to latching design.
  • Supports hardware triggering through SCXI trigger lines.
  • Offers front-panel MCX connectors for compact RF cabling.
  • Supports terminated and unterminated multiplexer configurations.
  • Enables high channel density for complex test matrices.
  • Integrates with NI-DAQmx and LabVIEW environments.

Application Scenarios

  • RF component testing and validation.
  • Antenna array characterization.
  • Wireless communication device testing.
  • Radar and microwave subsystem evaluation.
  • Automated production test systems.
  • Laboratory signal routing applications.
  • Multi-channel RF switching for instrumentation.
  • Integration with PXI or SCXI-based test platforms.

Performance Parameters

  • Up to 32-channel RF multiplexing.
  • DC to 500 MHz+ frequency capability.
  • 10 W per channel RF carrier power rating.
  • 7 W total module RF power limit.
  • 100 channels per second scanning capability.
  • 50 million mechanical relay cycles.
  • 300,000 electrical relay cycles under rated DC load.
  • Programmable trigger output pulse width.
  • Exact insertion loss, VSWR, crosstalk, isolation, switching time and impedance matching data should be confirmed from the official NI SCXI-1193 specifications manual.

Material Composition

  • Electromechanical latching relays with silver palladium and gold contacts.
  • RF transmission paths and controlled-impedance circuitry.
  • MCX and SMB coaxial connectors.
  • SCXI backplane interface.
  • Metal shielding and structural housing.
  • Printed circuit board with RF-grade layout.
  • Internal power regulation and trigger logic circuits.

Structural Features

  • Single-slot SCXI module form factor.
  • 36 MCX jacks for RF signal connections.
  • 2 SMB jacks for trigger input and output.
  • Front-panel coaxial connector layout.
  • Compact module housing for SCXI chassis installation.
  • Latching relay architecture for low steady-state power consumption.
  • Clear channel and connector identification.

Working Principle
The SCXI-1193 routes RF signals through electromechanical latching relays. When a channel is selected by software or trigger command, the corresponding relay closes and connects the selected input to the output path. The latching design keeps the relay in its last state without continuous coil power. The module supports multiple multiplexer configurations, allowing one module to serve several independent signal paths. Trigger inputs allow synchronized switching, while trigger outputs can inform downstream instruments of channel changes.

Installation Requirements

  • Install the module into a compatible NI SCXI chassis.
  • Power down the chassis before inserting or removing the module.
  • Use MCX coaxial cables rated for the required frequency range.
  • Maintain 50 Ω impedance matching where required by the application.
  • Avoid bending MCX connectors beyond their mechanical limits.
  • Keep RF cables short and well-shielded to reduce loss and interference.
  • Configure channel routing through NI-DAQmx or compatible software.
  • Verify trigger wiring when hardware-triggered switching is used.

Precautions for Use

  • Do not exceed the rated RF power per channel or total module power limit.
  • Avoid switching signals while relay contacts are transitioning.
  • Do not use the module beyond its specified frequency range without verification.
  • Protect MCX connectors from contamination and mechanical stress.
  • Monitor relay life when performing high-cycle switching.
  • Use proper termination when configured for terminated multiplexer operation.
  • Follow electrostatic discharge precautions during handling.
  • Refer to the official NI SCXI-1193 manual for detailed configuration, wiring and maintenance procedures.

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