PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A

The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A is designed for switching heavy AC or DC loads and can also be used for slave switching of large external relays, contactors, and solenoids. This module is the founding member and name source of the 40-150 series power relay family. It has a maximum single-channel switching current of 5A and can switch voltages of 250 VAC or 400 VDC (cold switching) and 125 VDC / 250 VAC (hot switching), with a maximum power of 175 W / 1250 VA.

The core value of the 40-150-002 series lies in its "high-density, high-current + double-pole single-throw (DPST) power switching": integrating eight 5A DPST power relays within a single 3U PXI slot, employing gold flash over silver alloy contacts, suitable for inductive/capacitive load scenarios requiring switching of mains voltage or DC current. The DPST configuration allows for simultaneous switching of signals with both poles, enabling bipolar on/off control of the mains circuit. The module also includes an onboard backup relay, enabling field maintenance with minimal downtime.

The 40-150 and 40-151 are both DPST configurations, and the 40-155 (8×SPDT), 40-156 (16×SPDT), and 40-157 (DPDT) in the same family are all 5A power relays. The differences lie mainly in the contact type and channel density:

Key differentiator: The 40-150-002's advantage lies in its DPST double-pole single-throw configuration and longer mechanical life (>5×10⁷ cycles). Compared to SPDT/DPDT models, the DPST configuration provides simultaneous double-pole switching capability, suitable for applications requiring simultaneous disconnection of two wires, such as bipolar on/off control of the main power circuit. Furthermore, the 40-150/151 (DPST) has a significantly longer mechanical life (>5×10⁷) than SPDT/DPDT models (>5×10⁶), resulting in higher reliability. The 40-150 is a compact and cost-effective entry-level choice for 8-channel DPSTs.

The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A family is divided into several models based on relay contact configuration, all of which have a 5A power switching capability:

The 40-150-002 model offers an 8-channel DPST configuration. The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A are power relay modules designed for switching heavy AC or DC loads, or for driven control of large external relays, contactors, and solenoids. They are suitable for applications requiring switching of mains voltage or DC current.

The Key Character of The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A

The 40-150 series high-power relay modules are suitable for the following typical applications:

• Mains Voltage Switching: Switching two-phase AC loads to different mains voltage levels in the test system.
• Inductive/Capacitive Load Switching: Switching inductive/capacitive loads such as motors, transformers, and capacitors.
• Bipolar On/Off Control: Utilizing the double-pole characteristic of DPST (Dynamic Power Switching System) for safe bipolar (two-wire) on/off control of the mains power circuit.
• Driven External Relay Switching: Acting as a pre-drive stage to control large external relays, contactors, and solenoids.
• DC Current Switching: Switching DC current in DC applications.
• General-Purpose High-Power Switching: Universal power switching for automotive electronics, industrial equipment, home appliances, power supply testing, and other fields.

The core positioning of the 40-150 series is a "high-density, double-pole single-throw, 5A-class high-power general-purpose switch" solution. Its value proposition focuses on three points:

• High Density Switching: Integrates 8 5A power relays within a single 3U PXI slot
• DPST Double Pole Single Throw Configuration: Each relay can switch two poles simultaneously, suitable for bipolar on/off control of the main power circuit, enhancing system safety
• Inductive/Capacitive Load Adaptability: Optimized for switching inductive and capacitive loads, capable of switching main power voltage or DC current.

This series of electromagnetic power relays uses gold flash over silver alloy contacts, balancing high current switching capability with contact reliability.

MXTD Supplier

Xi'an Mingxi Taida Information Technology Co., Ltd. (MXTD) is an industry-leading technology provider and critical asset vendor backed by a distinguished 12-year track record of industrial innovation. Our operations seamlessly unite progressive hardware R&D, cross-border industrial wholesale, and localized field-level integration into a unified, client-focused entity. Leveraging over a decade of deep-tier technical mastery in advanced manufacturing and high-reliability systems development, we serve heavy industries worldwide as a trusted partner for robust, high-performance technology portfolios purpose-built to solve intricate operational bottlenecks.

With a robust supply infrastructure spanning North America, South America, Europe, and Africa, MXTD coordinates a highly resilient international logistical footprint. Beyond our proprietary technical solutions, we operate as an authorized master distributor for premier multinational brands, establishing our enterprise as a comprehensive, single-source procurement hub for high-stakes industrial applications. Our fulfillment philosophy is anchored by exhaustive quality assurance matrices and precise diagnostic protocols, guaranteeing that every equipment deployment yields absolute operational reliability, unmatched continuity, and elite mission-critical efficiency.

Specifications of The Product 

The core function of the PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A is to provide a high-density double-pole single-throw (DPST) power switch array. Each relay within the module is an independent DPST power switch with two sets of terminals (pole 1 and pole 2), each set containing a common terminal and a normally open terminal (A). Upon power-up, both poles close simultaneously, connecting two signal circuits at the same time.

Switching behavior: In the default state (relay not energized), all signal paths are disconnected; after energization, both poles (A1-C1, A2-C2) of the corresponding relays conduct simultaneously, establishing two parallel signal paths. This DPST design enables the 40-150 to simultaneously switch the main power circuit on and off in both directions (two wires), achieving safer power isolation. It can also flexibly construct high-power switching networks such as channel switches and load distribution.

The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A adopts a single PCB through-hole relay design, achieving field maintainability:

• Gold Flash over Silver Alloy Contact Power Relay: The module uses an electromagnetic power relay with gold flash over silver alloy contact material.
• Spare Relay: A spare relay is pre-installed on the board, allowing for replacement within minimal downtime in case of failure, significantly reducing maintenance and downtime costs.
• Product Customization Support: Pickering can provide customized services for relay type, quantity, mixed configuration, and performance specifications through its own flexible production line.

Platform and Chassis Compatibility

• All chassis compliant with 3U PXI and 3U CompactPCI (cPCI) specifications
• Legacy and Hybrid peripheral slots in 3U PXI Express (PXIe) chassis
• Pickering Interfaces LXI or LXI/USB modular chassis

PXI Standard Compliance: Modules conform to PXI Specification 2.2 with a 33MHz 32-bit backplane interface; Local Bus, Trigger Bus, and Star Trigger are not implemented

Safety and CE Compliance

The PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A uses model number 40-150-002 and is configured with 8 DPST power relays. Pickering provides a unified support system of components and accessories for the entire 40-150 family. The ordering models for the 40-150 family are as follows:

Pickering offers complete cable and connector solutions for all switching products, including 20 connector families and over 1200 products, covering simple mating connectors, multi-channel cable assemblies, RF cable assemblies, connector modules, etc. All components are manufactured by Pickering, and their mechanical and electrical performance ensures perfect matching and support with the modules.

Note:

Leveraging Pickering's own flexible manufacturing lines, the 40-150 series (including 40-151/155/156/157) supports high customization and can include:

• Alternative relay types
• Mix of different relay types
• Number of alternative relays
• Different performance indicators

Switching Technical Indicators (DPST Version only)- PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A

The 40-150 series electromagnetic power relays utilize gold-plated silver alloy contacts, providing hot-switching capability for 125VDC/250VAC and cold-switching capability for 400VDC/250VAC, with a maximum power switching capacity of 175W/1250VA, while maintaining an initial on-resistance of <250mΩ and a bandwidth of >20MHz. Its typical operating time of 10ms and mechanical life of >5×10⁷ cycles (significantly higher than the 5×10⁶ of the SPDT/DPDT models) make it a highly reliable, bipolar on/off signal switching core for high-power test systems. This module can operate under both inductive and capacitive loads and is suitable for environments requiring switching of mains power voltage or DC current.

Software User Manual

The 40-150 series receives full software driver ecosystem support from Pickering, providing three types of drivers: Kernel, IVI, and VISA (NI and Keysight), as detailed below:

Demolishing the Constraints of Off-the-Shelf Hardware Architectures

In mission-critical industrial sectors, standard, mass-market hardware configurations regularly introduce severe functional restrictions and costly operational bottlenecks. MXTD bypasses these architectural integration barriers by deploying an agile, end-to-end OEM and ODM co-development framework engineered specifically to convert your highly specialized, theoretical conceptualizations into ruggedized, field-ready physical infrastructure.

Whether your deployment parameters necessitate tailored frequency spectrum calibration, the development of sophisticated multi-channel triggering matrices, or the fabrication of custom-dimensioned, high-durability physical enclosures, our engineering group serves as a seamless, high-utility extension of your proprietary R&D assets. Our collaborative engineering ethos breathes life into your specialized, application-specific systems—all while enforcing absolute compliance with our uncompromising, zero-defect quality architecture and rigorous validation testing regimes.

FAQs:

Q: What are the advantages of the DPST (Double Pole Single Throw) topology used in the 40-150 series in actual testing?

A:  

DPST switch means that a single software command can simultaneously control the synchronous opening and closing of two independent wires (double-pole). This is crucial for power supply testing and industrial automation, allowing users to simultaneously disconnect or connect the "positive and negative" or "live and neutral" terminals of the power supply, achieving complete physical isolation and preventing leakage or damage to the device under test (UUT) caused by a single wire being disconnected and the other wire having residual potential.

Q: Can it be used to reverse polarity (switch positive and negative)?

A: 

Single DPST cannot directly reverse polarity, but since the 40-150 has 8 independent DPST channels, by externally cross-wiring (cross-connecting the output of channel 1 to channel 2), and by using two DPST channels for logical combination, the polarity of the power supply can be reversed very safely.

Q: Does the module's nominal current of 5A mean that it can switch under any high voltage load at 5A?

A: 

Absolutely not. Users often overlook the difference between "Cold Switching" and "Hot Switching" during design:

• Cold Switching Capacity: Closes/opens when contacts are not energized, maximum withstands 400 VDC / 250 VAC.
• Hot Switching Capacity (Load Switching): Maximum limit is 125 VDC / 250 VAC, maximum switching power limited to 175 W / 1250 VA.

Note: DC current does not cross zero; high-voltage DC hot switching can cause continuous arcing, severely burning the contacts. If the voltage exceeds 30 VDC and the current is large, it is strongly recommended to use cold switching logic (close the relay first, then output current through the programmable power supply) to significantly extend the board's lifespan.

Q: How to protect the circuit board when dealing with inductive loads (such as solenoid valves, high-power relay coils, and motors)?

A: ​​​​​​​

This module uses gold-flash over silver alloy contacts, which provides some shock resistance. However, when an inductive load is disconnected, the load generates an extremely high back electromotive force (induced high voltage). This can cause air breakdown between the contacts, forming an electric arc and easily leading to contact adhesion.

Solution: Protective components must be connected in parallel on the external circuit. A freewheeling diode should be connected in reverse parallel in the DC circuit, and an RC snubber network or a varistor (MOV) should be connected in parallel in the AC circuit to absorb the surge electromotive force.

Q: How can software-driven (LabVIEW/Python) control its channels?

A: ​​​​​​​

The module is fully compatible with standard Windows and Linux operating systems and provides standard VISA and IVI drivers. In the software, specific channel numbers (such as channel 1 corresponding to the switch state in the driver) are invoked via the standard pipx40 driver API. A simple switch command can directly synchronize the two independent contacts (double-pole) within that channel.

Contact Us

Ready to integrate reliable 5A Power Module control into your system? Our team is here to help you select the right configuration and provide ongoing support.

Contact our technical specialists at manager03@mxtdinfo.com  / manager02@mxtdinfo.com for detailed specifications, pricing information, or to discuss your custom requirements. We're committed to delivering the perfect PIL 40-150 Series PXI Power 8 DPST Relay Module 5A solution for your application needs.