User`s manual

www.vtiinstruments.com
EX7000 Series Introduction 11
INTERACTIVE CONTROL
As LXI-compliant devices, EX7000s have an embedded web server running which provides a Java
applet for interactively configuring the box for its specific configuration as well as allowing for
the direct control of components.
A functional list of the actual components within the enclosure is stored on-board in non-volatile
memory. Opening of the Soft Front Panel (SFP) results in a graphical depiction of the various
switching components along with an indication of the current state of their contacts. Simple mouse
clicks on the web browser can easily and quickly open and close any contact.
The DCF can be edited using a simple software tool called the EX7000 System Configurator. This
is especially convenient when additional microwave switches are added in the field. Use of the
System Configurator is detailed in Appendix A.
F
IGURE 1-3: JAVA-BASED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
RELAY DRIVE CONTROL
The EX7000 contains a proprietary circuit board set consisting of a Relay Driver Board (RDB)
and a Digital Controller Board (DCB), which is known as the EX7000 when supplied as a set
without an enclosure. They have been designed to provide maximum flexibility for controlling
virtually any type of RF/microwave relay or component. Each RDB provides 72 high-current
drivers, which are divided into twelve sections of six lines. Each section consists of:
• six high-current drive lines
• six indicator/status bits
• one reset line
• four relay ID bits
• one relay power input
• one 5 V input
• one ground