Pickering Interfaces Inc.announced that Hill Air Force Base recently awarded them a contract for a large quantity of their Model 45-542 6U High-Density Matrix modules for the PXI switching requirement that is part of the PATS-70 (Portable Automated Test Station) program for the life extension program of the A-10 aircraft. As part of the life extension program, the PATS-70 will provide ground-based diagnostics for the A-10 avionics systems.

The contract award calls for Pickering Interfaces to provide the 45-542 PXI switching module for up to eighty PATS-70 systems. This is one of the largest military contracts ever awarded to Pickering Interfaces.

Hill AFB was originally looking for a high-density switching module capable of handling 0.5Amp and 120VAC/95VDC in a 6U PXI module. Pickering’s engineers designed, built and tested a new module to meet Hill’s specification. During the design process it was determined that a 1,056 crosspoint matrix size (132x8), could be achieved in a single width, 6U PXI module. After extensive testing by Hill, it was determined that the new switch was capable of handling the capacitive load seen on the A-10 and the module performed as required. Quantity deliveries have started and the modules are being implemented in PATS-70 systems.

The 45-542 PXI switching module is a COTS (Commercial-Off-The-Shelf) product and is available worldwide. For specifications and pricing please visit the Pickering web site at pickeringtest.com.