PXI-2520
May 27, 2026

PXI-2520

I. Product Introduction The PXI-2520 is a 3U PXI hybrid bus high-density general-purpose electromechanical relay module launched by National Instruments (NI). It focuses on high channel count and medium power signal switching. It integrates 80 independent SPST (normally open) armature relays, supports 150 VDC, 2 A/channel, with a bandwidth of 35 MHz, and features low on-resistance and low thermal offset. It is suitable for scenarios such as automated test (ATE), signal routing, power / load control, etc.

Description

II. Model Interpretation

PXI: PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation, compatible with PXI/PXIe hybrid slots.

2520: 2500 series (general-purpose relay switch), 20 represents 80 channels, 150V/2A, electromechanical SPST type.

Part Number: 778572-20NI.

Status: In stock (NI mainstream high-density general-purpose switch module).

III. Technical Parameters

Channel Configuration

Relay Type: 80 independent SPST (Form A, normally open) non-retentive armature relay.

Topology: 80 independent channels, no matrix / multiplexing structure.

Electrical Characteristics

Maximum switching voltage: 150 VDC.

Maximum switching current: 2 A (per channel).

On-state resistance: <0.5 Ω (typical).

Thermal offset: Low (suitable for precise measurement).

Relay Life: 10^7 times (resistive load, typical).

Dynamic Performance

Bandwidth: 35 MHz.

Switching Time: <5 ms (typical).

Scan Rate: 145 cycles/second.

Physical and Environmental

Size: 3U PXI (100 mm × 160 mm).

Weight: Approximately 0.35 kg.

Operating Temperature: 0–55 °C; Storage: −40–70 °C.

Humidity: 10%–90% RH (no condensation).

IV. Interface and Communication Configuration

Host Interface: PXI hybrid bus (compatible with PXIe/PXI), supports hot plugging and plug-and-play.

Signal Interface: 160-pin DIN connector (front panel), divided into 8 groups × 10 channels, facilitating grouped wiring and maintenance.

Trigger and Synchronization: PXI trigger line (70 ns resolution), supports multi-module synchronous scanning and timing control.

Driver Software: Compatible with NI-SWITCH, LabVIEW, TestStand, C/C++/Python API, supports IVI standard driver.

V. Core Functions

High-density Independent Channels: 80 fully independent SPST, no need to share the bus, suitable for independent on-off control of multiple nodes' signals.

Medium-power Switching Capacity: 150 V/2 A, covers low-voltage power supply, sensors, actuators (heaters, fans, solenoid valves) control requirements.

Low-resistance Low-noise Precise Switching: <0.5 Ω on-state resistance + low thermal offset, suitable for precise voltage/current signal routing and measurement.

Built-in Relay Counting: Built-in relay operation count, facilitating predictive maintenance and early replacement of aging relays.

Software Programmable and Scanning: Supports immediate control and list scanning, suitable for automated test sequences and real-time control scenarios.

VI. Application Scenarios

Automation Testing (ATE): Power / signal routing for circuit boards, modules, systems, functional testing and aging testing.

Power and Load Control: Low-voltage power distribution, relay/contactor drive, heater/fan/电磁阀 control.

Signal Conditioning and Routing: Sensor signals, analog/digital signals switching and distribution, suitable for multi-channel testing systems.

Industrial Control and Monitoring: Equipment status monitoring, alarm circuit control, small actuator drive.

Automotive Electronic Testing: Onboard ECU, sensors, actuators' power and I/O interface testing.

VII. Installation and Maintenance Instructions

Installation and Wiring

Module: Power off and plug out, insert into PXI/PXIe hybrid slot, tighten the fixing screws.

Wiring: Connect the load / tested equipment according to the channel definition of the 160-pin DIN connector, strictly prohibit exceeding 150 V, 2 A. Grounding: The chassis is reliably connected to the system ground to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Software configuration

Install the NI-SWITCH driver and the NI-MAX identification module, and configure the channel topology.

Programming: Call the switch VI in LabVIEW, or configure the test sequence in TestStand to achieve channel control and scanning.

Daily maintenance

Cleaning: After power off, wipe the panel with a soft cloth to avoid liquid entering the DIN interface.

Environment: Working temperature: 0–55 °C. Avoid dust, moisture, and strong electromagnetic interference.

Protection mechanism: Avoid overvoltage (>150 V), overcurrent (>2 A), inductive loads (without surge suppression), to extend the relay lifespan.

Static protection: When plugging or unplugging the module, wear an anti-static wristband to ensure good grounding of the chassis.


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