PROGRAMMABLE RESISTOR MODULES: Modules provide resistance control
2 mins read
Programmable resistors are Test & Measurement modules that replicate the behaviour of resistance-based devices such as sensors, Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), thermistors, potentiometers and bridge elements such as strain gauges. The modules incorporate a chain of resistors which are individually switched in or out of circuit under program control to vary the resistance across each channel of an I/O connector. This function is well suited for simulating sensors for control and management systems under test, allowing the user to verify system response in design verification or manufacturing test applications. It is also ideal for simulating environmental conditions in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) real time system validation.
Pickering Interfaces offers a range of over 200 resistor modules in both PXI and PCI formats with differing channel counts and resistance ranges/accuracies/ resolutions, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications. The PXI modules may also be used in our Ethernet-controlled LXI Modular Chassis.
Pickering's standard programmable resistor modules are ideal for applications that require fine adjustment with resolutions up to 24-bit and resistance ranges to 16MO. Some modules can optionally be supplied with additional uncommitted relays which may be used for example to extend the resistor chains or add additional fault conditions. Also in the range are selectable resistor and potential divider modules consisting of fixed resistor values pre-defined by the user that can be switched in and out of circuit by reed relays.
The Company's precision resistor modules feature high setting resolution (as low as 2mOhms) with excellent stability and accuracy (to 0.03%) and low thermoelectric EMF through the use of innovative switching networks and software correction techniques. All resistance values can be set, with no missing values due to switch resistance or resistor tolerance. These modules are designed for sensor emulation applications that require extremely fine adjustment and the range includes modules specifically designed for RTD and strain gauge simulation. Up to 18 resistance channels are fitted in a single module without compromising performance.
Software control of resistor modules is simplified by the use of resistor value calls. The module works out the channel setting closest to the requested value and sets that value; the user can then interrogate the module to find the actual resistance setting used. In addition, a calibration cable assembly can be attached to most modules to enable an external DMM to be connected to each channel to simplify the process of verification.
Pickering can provide versions with other resistance values to meet the requirements for specific applications.
Company and product info
Pickering Interfaces designs and manufactures modular signal switching and instrumentation for use in electronic test and simulation. We offer the largest range of switching cards in the industry for PXI, LXI, PCI and GPIB applications as well as a full range of supporting cables and connectors. Our products have a history of longevity, typically 15–20 years, come with a standard 3-year warranty and include guaranteed long-term support. We operate globally with direct operations in the US, UK, Germany, Sweden, France and Czech Republic, engineering support in China and additional representation in countries throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia.
Product range
Due to our consistent significant investment in R&D, we now have a catalogue of well over 1000 PXI switch modules - more than all of our PXI market segment competitors combined. Our PXI modules range from the ground-breaking BRIC high density switching matrices, RF, microwave and optical switching products through to precision programmable resistor modules for accurate sensor emulation.
Standards and certifications
ISO 9001
Specialist sectors / industries served
Pickering serves many industries including automotive & transportation, aerospace & defence, communication, industrial, energy, medical and consumer electronics.
Pickering Interfaces Ltd
Stephenson Road
Clacton on Sea
Essex
CO15 4NL
01255 687900
Email (UK sales): sales@pickeringtest.com
Email (UK support): support@pickeringtest.com
