PXI-2545
May 27, 2026

PXI-2545

I. Product Introduction The PXI-2545 is a 3U PXI single 4×1 (SP4T) RF multiplexer produced by National Instruments (NI). It features electromechanical relays, full-channel 50 Ω terminations, DC to 2.7 GHz, 50 Ω. It is in production (Active), with the part number 778572-45NI. It is specifically designed for mid-low frequency RF testing. All unused channels automatically connect to a 50 Ω load to prevent large power reflections from damaging the signal source. It is suitable for mass production RF testing, multi-channel signal switching, and instrument expansion by NI.

Description

II. Model Interpretation

PXI: PXI Hybrid Bus (compatible with PXIe Hybrid Slot) NI

2545: Serial Number, representing 2.7 GHz, single 4×1, with termination, electromechanical RF multiplexer

Alias: NI-2545, 4x1 Terminated Mux, SP4T RF Switch NI

Position: Single group 4-out-of-1 RF switch, electromechanical relay + full-channel termination, balancing cost and performance

III. Technical Specifications

Basic Specifications

Topology: Single 4×1 (SP4T), CH0~CH3 → COM NI

Relay Type: Electromechanical Relay (EMR) NI

Frequency Range: DC~2.7 GHz (‑3 dB) NI

Characteristic Impedance: 50 Ω NI

Termination: Built-in 50 Ω termination for all input channels (automatically connected when not selected) NI

RF Performance (Typical)

Insertion Loss:

1 GHz: <0.7 dB

2.7 GHz: <1.7 dB

Isolation:

1 GHz: >50 dB

2.7 GHz: >40 dB

VSWR: <1.3 (within 2.7 GHz)

Maximum Switching Power: +24 dBm (continuous)

Terminal Power: 1.5 W @25 °C (temperature rating reduced at high temperatures) NI

Electrical and Dynamic

Maximum Switching Voltage: 30 VAC / 42 VDC NI

Maximum Switching Current: 0.5 A

Switching Time: Typical 5 ms (electromechanical)

Relay Life: 1,000,000 times (typical), board-mounted counter tracking NI

Physical and Environment

Connector: 5×SMA Female (CH0~CH3, COM) NI

Size: 3U PXI Single Slot

Power Consumption: 12 V ≈ 0.35 W

Operating Temperature: 0~55 °C

Storage Temperature: -40~70 °C

IV. Interface and Communication Configuration

Front-end Interface

RF Interface: 5×SMA Female

CH0, CH1, CH2, CH3: 4 RF Input Channels

COM: Common Output NI

Trigger Interface: No independent trigger (software / backplane trigger control)

Bus and Control

Bus: PXI Hybrid Bus (compatible with PXIe Hybrid Slot) NI

Driver Software: NI-SWITCH, MAX, LabVIEW, TestStand, Switch Executive

Programming API: niSwitch Connect/Disconnect, IVI Driver NI

Configuration Method: Software to set channel mapping, scan sequence, relay counter reading NI

V. Core Functions

Single 4×1 RF Routing: 4-out-of-1 signal switching, simplifying multi-DUT test wiring NI.

Full-channel 50 Ω Termination: Unselected channels automatically connect to load to prevent signal source burnout and improve system stability NI.

2.7 GHz Broadband Coverage: Covers mainstream mid-low frequency radio frequency bands such as Bluetooth, WiFi, ISM, 2G/3G NI.

Electromechanical Relay Low Loss: Compared to solid-state, lower insertion loss and lower cost, suitable for scenarios sensitive to loss.

Relay Counting: Board-mounted counter, real-time statistics of switching times, predicting lifespan and reducing downtime NI.

PXI Standard Integration: Single-slot 3U size, seamlessly integrated with PXI chassis, compatible with automated test systems.

VI. Application Scenarios

Consumer Electronics RF Testing: Bluetooth, WiFi, 2G/3G, NFC module functions and mass production testing NI. Multi-channel RF signal switching: Expansion of signal source / spectrum analyzer / network analyzer channels, multi-DUT polling test.

Mass production ATE testing: Cost-sensitive, medium-low frequency, medium switching times mass production line NI.

Research and development laboratory: RF signal routing, instrument interconnection, solution verification, balancing performance and budget.

Semiconductor RF chip testing: Functional verification, parameter testing, aging screening of medium-low frequency RF ICs.

VII. Usage and Maintenance Instructions

Usage Points

Installation: Standard 3U PXI single slot, lock the panel, ensure good contact of the backplane; avoid strong vibration.

Connection: SMA should be inserted and removed gently, no violence is allowed; RF power ≤ +24 dBm, avoid over-power damage.

Power-on state: By default, all channels are disconnected from COM, unselected channels are automatically connected to 50 Ω terminals NI.

Software Control: Use NI-SWITCH or LabVIEW VI for Connect/Disconnect; read the relay count NI.

Environment: 0 - 55 °C, dust-proof and moisture-proof; away from strong electromagnetic interference, ensure good grounding.

Maintenance Instructions

Regular Inspection: Check SMA connectors for looseness and oxidation every quarter; clean the panel and ventilation ports.

Life Management: Electromechanical relays approximately 1 million times; regularly read the onboard count, plan for replacement in advance NI.

Troubleshooting: First check SMA connection and grounding for abnormal signals; use MAX to diagnose switch status; take precautions against static electricity.

Storage: Power off for long periods, cover SMA with a dust cap, store dry and dust-free, avoid high temperature and high humidity.

Calibration: Suggest calibrating once a year to ensure insertion loss, isolation, and VSWR meet specifications.


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