PXI-2597

The PXI-2597 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, 6×1 terminated PXI RF multiplexer switch module, the NI PXI-2597 allows users to route RF signals between one common port and six selectable RF channels while maintaining controlled impedance and termination. NI lists the PXI-2597 with part number 778572-97.

The NI PXI-2597 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-2597 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-2597 RF Multiplexer Switch Module is its terminated 6×1 multiplexer topology. The internal termination helps prevent high-power reflections that can occur when channels are left open, which is especially important in RF and microwave systems where reflected power can affect measurement accuracy or damage signal sources. NI describes the PXI-2597 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-2597 supports 50 Ω RF signal routing up to 26.5 GHz, making it suitable for high-frequency RF and microwave applications. Compared with lower-frequency RF switch modules such as the PXI-2594, the PXI-2597 is better suited for test systems that require wider bandwidth and microwave signal routing. Its 6×1 terminated topology is useful for receiver testing, RF downconverter input routing, harmonic testing, and automated signal path selection.

The PXI-2597 is designed for RF and microwave systems that require reliable electromechanical switching and controlled termination. Engineers can use it to select between multiple RF sources, switch high-frequency signals into one measurement path, route signals to downconverter modules, or automate microwave test paths in a PXI system. Its terminated architecture helps maintain cleaner RF behavior when unused channels are not selected.

Another useful feature of the NI PXI-2597 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-2597 PXI RF Multiplexer Switch Module installs into a compatible PXI or PXI hybrid chassis and can be used with RF signal generators, spectrum analyzers, vector signal transceivers, RF upconverters, RF downconverters, digitizers, source measure units, and other PXI instruments. This allows engineers to build compact automated RF and microwave test systems with software-controlled signal routing.

The PXI-2597 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 6×1 terminated architecture is especially useful when multiple high-frequency RF paths need to be switched to one common measurement or stimulus channel.

Overall, the NI PXI-2597 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, 6×1 terminated multiplexer topology, relay count tracking, and software-controlled switching capability, the PXI-2597 is well suited for RF signal routing, microwave validation, production testing, and modular PXI test applications.