Product Introduction
The NI PXIe-2746 is a high-density PXI Express switch module designed for automated test systems, signal routing, electronic validation, and measurement applications. It provides flexible relay-based switching capability for connecting multiple devices under test with measurement instruments.
Featuring high-channel-count relay switching, multiplexer configurations, low-level signal routing, and NI-SWITCH software support, the PXIe-2746 enables engineers to build scalable and reliable automated switching systems.
Product Overview
The PXIe-2746 belongs to the NI PXI Express Switch Module family and is designed for applications requiring automated routing of electrical signals between test instruments and devices under test.
Unlike manual switching solutions, the PXIe-2746 provides computer-controlled relay switching that allows automated test systems to configure complex signal paths quickly and accurately.
With PXI Express integration, modular architecture, and NI-SWITCH driver support, the PXIe-2746 is suitable for semiconductor testing, production validation, electronic manufacturing, and research applications.
Key Features
High-Density Relay Switching
The PXIe-2746 provides high-channel-count switching capability for complex automated test environments.
- Multiple relay switching channels
- Automated signal routing
- Flexible test configuration
- Computer-controlled switching
- Scalable PXI test architecture
Advantage: Reduces manual wiring and improves efficiency in automated measurement systems.
64-Channel Multiplexer Configuration
The PXIe-2746 supports high-density multiplexer switching for measurement applications.
- Multi-point signal selection
- Automated channel scanning
- Sequential measurement support
- Device multiplexing
- Flexible routing architecture
Advantage: Enables testing of multiple signals or devices using fewer measurement instruments.
Low-Level Signal Switching
The PXIe-2746 is designed for reliable switching of low-level electrical signals.
- Precision signal routing
- Measurement system integration
- Low-noise switching
- Electronic test applications
- Signal path control
Advantage: Maintains measurement accuracy during automated signal switching.
PXI Express Modular Integration
The PXIe-2746 integrates directly into PXI Express automated test platforms.
- PXI Express chassis compatibility
- Multi-module synchronization
- High-speed system communication
- Expandable test architecture
- Centralized system control
Advantage: Allows engineers to create customized switching and measurement platforms.
NI-SWITCH Software Support
The PXIe-2746 works with NI software tools for switch configuration and automation.
- NI-SWITCH driver support
- LabVIEW integration
- TestStand compatibility
- Automated routing control
- Switch configuration management
Advantage: Simplifies development of automated switching applications.
Reliable Relay-Based Switching
The PXIe-2746 uses mechanical relay technology for dependable signal connection.
- High switching reliability
- Long operational life
- Stable electrical performance
- Repeatable measurements
- Industrial test suitability
Advantage: Provides dependable switching performance for production environments.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Type | PXI Express Relay Switch Module |
| Switch Function | Multiplexer / Signal Routing |
| Switch Type | Electromechanical Relay |
| Channels | High-Density Switching Channels |
| Interface | PXI Express |
| Driver | NI-SWITCH |
| Programming Support | LabVIEW, TestStand, C/C++, .NET |
Software Ecosystem
The PXIe-2746 integrates with NI software platforms for automated switching and test system development.
- NI-SWITCH: Provides switch configuration, relay control, and routing management.
- LabVIEW: Enables graphical development of automated measurement systems.
- TestStand: Supports production test sequence automation.
- NI MAX: Provides hardware configuration and diagnostics.
- C/C++ and .NET: Supports custom test software development.
Industries
- Semiconductor Manufacturing
- Electronics Testing
- Aerospace and Defense
- Automotive Electronics
- Industrial Automation
- Research Laboratories
- Manufacturing Test
- Automated Test Equipment
Applications
Automated Test Systems
The PXIe-2746 enables automated signal routing between instruments and devices under test.
- Production testing
- Functional verification
- Electronic validation
- ATE systems
Semiconductor Testing
The module supports high-density switching requirements in semiconductor test environments.
- Device testing
- Component characterization
- Multi-channel measurement
- Test fixture automation
Electronic Manufacturing Testing
The PXIe-2746 helps automate complex electronic measurement workflows.
- PCB testing
- Circuit verification
- Signal routing
- Manufacturing inspection
Research and Laboratory Systems
The module provides flexible switching capability for experimental measurement platforms.
- Multi-device testing
- Sensor measurement
- Custom experiments
- Research automation
Comparison with Similar Products
| Model | Main Difference | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| NI PXIe-2746 | PXI Express high-density relay multiplexer switch module. | Automated signal routing systems |
| NI PXI-2597 | PXI relay multiplexer module for automated switching. | General switching applications |
| NI PXI-2546 | PXI matrix switch module for flexible signal routing. | Complex switching systems |
| NI PXI-2569 | PXI relay switch module for general-purpose control. | Automated test switching |
Recommended Related Products
| NI PXIe-1095 | PXI Express chassis for large automated test systems. |
| NI PXIe-8880 | High-performance PXI Express controller. |
| NI PXI-2546 | Matrix switch module for advanced signal routing. |
| NI PXI-4070 | Precision digital multimeter for PXI measurement systems. |
Why Choose PXIe-2746?
- High-density relay switching capability
- 64-channel multiplexer architecture
- Reliable automated signal routing
- PXI Express modular integration
- NI-SWITCH software support
- Ideal for semiconductor and electronic testing
- Flexible automated test expansion
- Scalable switching solution
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PXIe-2746 used for?
The PXIe-2746 is used for automated signal routing, semiconductor testing, electronic validation, production testing, and PXI-based switching systems.
What software supports PXIe-2746?
The PXIe-2746 supports NI-SWITCH, LabVIEW, TestStand, NI MAX, and standard programming environments including C/C++ and .NET.
Why use a PXIe-2746 instead of manual switching?
The PXIe-2746 provides computer-controlled relay switching, improving test automation, repeatability, and measurement efficiency.
Conclusion
The NI PXIe-2746 PXI Express switch module provides a high-density solution for automated signal routing and measurement systems. With multiplexer switching capability, reliable relay performance, PXI Express integration, and NI-SWITCH software support, it is an ideal choice for semiconductor testing, electronic validation, manufacturing test, and advanced automated test applications.
