PXI-2596

The PXI-2596 is a PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Module from National Instruments, designed for high-frequency RF signal routing, automated RF testing, microwave signal path control, wireless validation, and modular PXI test systems. As a 26.5 GHz, 50 Ω, dual 6×1 PXI RF multiplexer switch module, the NI PXI-2596 provides two independent 6×1 multiplexer banks in one PXI module. NI lists the PXI-2596 with part number 778572-96.

The NI PXI-2596 is useful for engineers who need to automate RF and microwave signal path selection in test systems. It can be used to route signals between RF signal generators, spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, RF upconverters, RF downconverters, filters, amplifiers, receivers, antennas, and devices under test. Compared with manual RF switching, the PXI-2596 allows RF paths to be controlled through software, making it suitable for repeatable test sequences, laboratory automation, and production RF testing.

One of the main advantages of the PXI-2596 RF Multiplexer Switch Module is its dual 6×1 multiplexer topology. This configuration gives users two separate RF switching banks in a single PXI module, which is useful for systems that require parallel RF path control or multiple source and measurement routing paths. NI describes the PXI-2596 as suitable for passing high-order harmonics from PXI RF signal upconverter modules or routing multiple sources to PXI RF signal downconverter modules.

The National Instruments PXI-2596 supports 50 Ω RF signal routing up to 26.5 GHz, making it suitable for higher-frequency RF and microwave applications than lower-frequency PXI switch modules such as the PXI-2594. Its specifications list insertion loss below 0.6 dB up to 26.5 GHz, VSWR below 1.6 up to 26.5 GHz, and open-channel isolation above 55 dB up to 26.5 GHz, helping reduce signal degradation during high-frequency switching.

The PXI-2596 is designed for RF and microwave systems that require reliable electromechanical switching. NI specifications list a maximum voltage of 90 Vrms, maximum carry current of 1.73 Arms per channel, and maximum RF carry power of 150 W at lower frequencies, with RF carry power decreasing to 25 W at 26.5 GHz. These ratings help engineers evaluate whether the module is suitable for specific RF power levels and signal routing requirements.

Another useful feature of the NI PXI-2596 is onboard relay count tracking. This feature helps users monitor relay usage and estimate relay lifetime, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime in automated test systems. Relay count tracking is especially valuable in production environments where RF switch modules may operate repeatedly over long periods.

In system integration, the PXI-2596 PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Module installs into a compatible PXI or PXI hybrid chassis and uses 14 SMA jacks for RF connections. It can be used with RF signal generators, spectrum analyzers, vector signal transceivers, digitizers, RF upconverters, RF downconverters, and other PXI instruments to build compact automated RF and microwave test systems.

The PXI-2596 is suitable for applications such as RF signal routing, microwave signal switching, wireless device testing, RF source selection, harmonic routing, receiver testing, RF downconverter input routing, production RF test, and automated measurement systems. Its dual 6×1 architecture is especially useful when multiple high-frequency RF paths need to be switched in one PXI module.

Overall, the NI PXI-2596 PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Module is a high-frequency RF switching solution for PXI-based automated test systems. With its 26.5 GHz bandwidth, 50 Ω impedance, dual 6×1 multiplexer topology, relay count tracking, SMA connectivity, and software-controlled switching capability, the PXI-2596 is well suited for RF signal routing, microwave validation, production testing, and modular PXI test applications.