Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 Switching System Mainframe
Astronics / EADS / Racal Test Automation Systems.
- Model
- Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $2,200
- RFQ ref
- 1256
This unit
The Astronics/EADS/Racal 1256 Switching System Mainframe is a modular, high-density switching and control platform engineered for automated test equipment (ATE) applications. Available in 8-slot (1256) and 12-slot (1256L) configurations, this 2U rack-mountable mainframe accepts interchangeable Adapt-a-Switch™ plug-in modules to build custom switching matrices, multiplexers, digital I/O banks, and RF switching networks. The system delivers scanning speeds exceeding 100 channels per second, with the ability to open or close over 200 channels in less than 0.1 second (1256). It supports switching applications from DC through 18 GHz, handles voltages to 1 kV, and accommodates currents up to 13 A.
Technical Specifications
Chassis: 2U rack-mountable; 8-slot (1256) or 12-slot (1256L) configurations
Plug-in Module Capacity: Up to 8 modules (1256) or 12 modules (1256L)
Maximum Switching Configurations:
Matrix up to 4×432 (1256L); 1152-point matrix (1256)
Multiplexer/scanner up to 768 channels (1256L); 512 channels (1256)
Up to 960 SPST channels (1256L); 640 SPST switches (1256)
Up to 120 1×4 RF multiplexers (1256L) - 768 channels of TTL/CMOS/open-collector digital I/O (1256)
Voltage Switching: Up to 1 kV
Current Switching: Up to 13 A
RF/Microwave Switching: Up to 18 GHz
Digital I/O: 96 channels per plug-in module
Channel Switching Speed: Over 100 channels scanned per second; 200+ channels open/closed in <0.1 second (1256)
Memory: Non-volatile storage for up to 100 complete switch states plus one automatic power-up state; stores user preferences (USB/GPIB address, module names, path names)
Key Features
LXI Core 2011 compliant (1256L) with Ethernet 10/100 interface
SCPI and IEEE 488.2 command sets
GPIB, RS-232, and USB 2.0 front-panel interfaces
Path Level Switching, Include/Exclude Lists, and Scan List definition
Advanced triggering with trigger in/out synchronization
Automatic settling time selection
IVI-C, IVI-Com, and ActivATE™ drivers; LabVIEW™ and LabWindows™/CVI compatible
Typical Applications Automated production test, high-volume component characterization, RF/microwave device validation, and multi-channel signal routing in benchtop and system-level test configurations.
Compatibility & Integration LXI interface with web-based control (1256L); full SCPI command support; legacy GPIB and RS-232 control paths; supports external memory via USB.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | DC to 18 GHz | Voltage / Current Range: Up to 1 kV, Up to 13 A |
Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256. All calibrations are performed to NIST-traceable standards and ship with a certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.
Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 price
This Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 is listed at $2,200. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the Astronics / EADS / Racal 1256 is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →
