To maintain signal integrity in an automatic test system requires:
There are many different aspects to understanding these things, but in this post we will concentrate on the advantages and disadvantages of the types of relays used in the switching system. There are four main types used in ATE switching systems:
Dry reed relays have contacts made from ferromagnetic material (reeds) that are encapsulated in glass. The energizing coil is wrapped around the glass, and when a current passes through the coil, a magnetic field generated that causes the reeds to come together.
Main advantages
Main disadvantages
Mercury-wetted reed relays are similar in construction and operation to dry reed relays, but a small amount of mercury is added to the glass tube to provide more consistent contact resistance.
Main advantages
Main disadvantages
A solid-state relay typically consists of an opto-isolator that controls a FET, SCR, or triac to switch the load.
Main advantages
Main disadvantages
An electromechanical rely consists of an electromagnet that operates an armature to bring two contacts, such as gold over silver, together. This method provides consistent contact resistances. There are many different types of armature-controlled, electromechanical relays, including bifurcated contacts for general-purpose switching, coaxial switches for RF and microwave applications, and contactors for high-power switching.
Main advantages
Main disadvantages
For more information on the types of relays used in VTI Instruments' switch cards, or on automatic test switching systems in general, contact one of our sales representative by visiting powerandtest.com/sales. You can also email us at sales.ppd@ametek.com or call 800-733-5427 or 858-450-0085.