Pickering Interfaces, a leading provider of modular signal switching and simulation solutions, has unveiled its latest innovation, the Microwave Switch Design Tool. This free online tool aims to simplify the configuration process of LXI microwave switching systems, offering engineers a user-friendly platform to design custom RF and microwave switch solutions. The tool empowers customers in industries such as 5G, wireless and telecommunications, semiconductor, medical, and aerospace and defense to effortlessly create powerful and flexible microwave designs tailored to their specific signal routing applications.
By utilizing the interactive interface of the Microwave Switch Design Tool, engineers can easily specify and configure a wide range of high-performance microwave LXI relays. These relays support bandwidths of up to 110 GHz, with options for 50Ω or 75Ω impedance and various connector types. The tool enables users to determine the positioning of individual microwave switching elements and define labeling requirements. With these inputs, the LXI microwave switch platform design generates a comprehensive system quotation and a unique part number. Customers can then place an order directly with Pickering Interfaces, ensuring their custom system is built and delivered according to their specifications.
Engineers can select from an extensive lineup of relays, including transfer, SPDT, SP4T, SP6T, SP8T, SP10T, and SP12T, in both terminated and unterminated versions. These relays feature an industry-standard LXI Ethernet control interface and come in compact form factors ranging from 1U to 4U, offering space-saving solutions for microwave switching applications. The flexibility in front-panel relay positioning minimizes external interconnecting cable lengths, optimizing signal integrity. The microwave systems built with these components exhibit exceptional RF performance and repeatability, with high-performance relays offering low VSWR, high isolation, minimal loss, and excellent power handling capabilities. As a result, they are ideal for switching coaxial systems that require superior performance across a broad frequency range, from HF to microwave frequencies.
Simon Aylott, the Microwave Division Manager at Pickering Interfaces, expressed his enthusiasm for the Microwave Switch Design Tool, stating, “This powerful new online tool will enable customers to easily configure custom RF & microwave switching and relay systems with just a few clicks. Engineers can use the tool to design custom front panel graphics and labels to support their application.” While the initial release focuses on LXI microwave switch products, future versions of the tool will also include support for PXI modules, further expanding its versatility and functionality.
For over three decades, test engineers have relied on Pickering Interfaces to accelerate project development cycles and streamline production readiness when building cost-effective, high-performance modular microwave switching systems. With the introduction of the Microwave Design Tool, the configuration process becomes even more efficient and streamlined. Additionally, all systems from Pickering Interfaces are covered by a standard three-year warranty, ensuring customers have peace of mind regarding the reliability and durability of their custom-built solutions.
