PXIe-2541

The PXIe-2541 is a PXI RF Matrix Switch Module from National Instruments, designed for RF signal routing, automated test systems, signal path selection, instrument sharing, and modular PXI Express measurement platforms. As a 300 MHz, 8×12, 50 Ω PXI RF matrix switch module, the NI PXIe-2541 allows users to route signals between multiple rows and columns within a flexible switching matrix. NI lists the PXIe-2541 with part number 780587-41.

The NI PXIe-2541 is useful for engineers who need to route multiple signals between instruments and devices under test in an automated PXI system. It can be used to connect digitizers, function generators, RF signal generators, RF analyzers, test fixtures, and other measurement devices. Compared with manual cable switching, the PXIe-2541 allows signal paths to be controlled through software, making it suitable for repeatable test sequences, laboratory automation, and production testing.

One of the main advantages of the PXIe-2541 RF Matrix Switch Module is its 8×12 non-blocking matrix topology. With a non-blocking design, users can simultaneously connect any row or column within the switching matrix, improving flexibility when building automated signal routing systems. This makes the PXIe-2541 suitable for applications that require multiple instruments to be connected to multiple test points or devices under test.

The National Instruments PXIe-2541 supports 50 Ω RF signal routing up to 300 MHz. This bandwidth is useful for routing signals between digitizers, function generators, RF generators, and RF analyzers. The module also uses isolation relays to disconnect unused parts of the matrix, helping maintain RF performance and high isolation during operation.

The PXIe-2541 is especially suitable for systems that require more routing capacity than the PXIe-2540. Compared with the PXIe-2540 8×9 matrix, the PXIe-2541 provides an 8×12 matrix, giving users more column paths for larger switching systems. For higher-channel-count applications, multiple PXIe-2541 modules can be connected together to create larger matrices such as 8×24, 8×36, or larger configurations.

Technical specifications list the PXI/PXIe-2541 as an 8×12 matrix with a maximum switching voltage of 60 VDC, maximum switching or carry current of 0.5 A per channel, and maximum switching or carry power of 10 W per channel. These specifications help engineers evaluate whether the module is suitable for their signal level, switching configuration, and test system requirements.

In system integration, the PXIe-2541 PXI RF Matrix Switch Module installs into a compatible PXI Express chassis and can be used with digitizers, function generators, RF signal generators, RF analyzers, source measure units, DAQ modules, and other PXI/PXIe instruments. This allows engineers to build compact, software-controlled switching systems for automated measurement and validation platforms.

The PXIe-2541 is suitable for applications such as RF signal routing, automated test signal switching, matrix signal routing, instrument sharing, device validation, functional testing, laboratory automation, and production test systems. Its 8×12 matrix architecture is especially useful when multiple signals need to be routed flexibly between several instruments and test points.

Overall, the NI PXIe-2541 PXI RF Matrix Switch Module is a flexible signal routing solution for PXI Express automated test systems. With its 300 MHz bandwidth, 50 Ω impedance, 8×12 non-blocking matrix topology, isolation relays, software-controlled switching, and expandable matrix capability, the PXIe-2541 is well suited for RF signal routing, automated validation, production testing, and modular PXI Express test applications.