PXI Matrix Switch Modules
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What is a matrix?
The PXI matrix is one of the most flexible switching configurations. Unlike a multiplexer, a matrix can connect multiple inputs to multiple outputs organized as columns and rows. You can connect any column to any number of rows and any row to any number of columns. At each intersection of a row and column, there is a switch. When the switch is closed, the row is connected to the column.
Matrix size is often described as M rows by N columns (M x N). The figure below depicts a 1-wire, 2 x 4 matrix.
Two common matrix configurations are shown in the two figures below:
Putting instruments on the rows and the Units under test (UUTs) on the columns allows for easy UUT expansion. In this example to example we could add more UUTs with another module and would need to connect just the four rows. If we needed to add more rows for the instruments we would need to connect all of the columns.
Putting both the instruments and the UUTs on the columns of a matrix allows for further expansion of both by adding only one more module and connecting the rows. It is limited in that expansion occurs only by adding columns.
NI’s PXI Matrix Switch Offering
National Instruments offers a broad range of matrix modules ranging from 24 crosspoints to 512 crosspoints in a singleslot. To get a complete listing of NI multiplexer products refer to the NI Matrix Switches link or the Switch Product Selection Guide.
For more information on NI’s switch product line visit the Switches Main Page.
Related Links
NI General Purpose Switch Modules
What Are Switching Configurations?
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