EPX Microwave has introduced a line of customized electromechanical switch matrix systems for applications from DC to 18 GHz. The switch matrices can be configured with as many as 2 inputs and as many as 18 outputs. They can be outfit with RS-232, RS-485, or GPIB control interfaces and feature a liquid-crystal-display (LCD) front-panel display for status and control information. The compact switch matrices are housed in low-profile 19-in. rack-mount chassis that are 20 in. deep.
The switch matrices are powered by mains voltages from 85 to 264 VAC (at 47 to 63 Hz) and maximum power of 350 W depending on the configuration. The RF performance in the maximum 2 x 18 configuration is VSWR of 1.80:1 through 18 GHz and maximum insertion loss of 3 dB through 18 GHz. The switch matrices are designed for operating temperatures from 0 to +60 degrees C and operating life of one million switching cycles in a cold switching application.