Clacton-on- Sea, UK. Pickering Interfaces announced that the U.S. Air Force, Ogden Air Logistics Complex at Hill AFB, Utah, recently awarded the company a contract for a large quantity of 6U High-Density Matrix modules (Model 45-542) for the PXI switching requirement that is part of the PATS-70A (Portable Automated Test Set) for the O-Level and I-Level maintenance of A-10C aircraft.
The contract award calls for Pickering Interfaces to provide 45-542 PXI switching matrix modules for over one hundred PATS-70A systems. This is Pickering’s second large order for matrix modules, as the company worked with Hill AFB when on deployment of the PATS-70 test set in 2014. The PATS-70A program will enhance the capabilities of the PATS-70 test set to support additional armament and weapon systems in addition to supporting the existing avionics test functionality.
“We were elated to have been selected to supply these modules for the U.S. Air Force’s mission critical support program,” said Keith Moore, CEO of Pickering Interfaces. “This is one of the largest military contracts ever awarded to Pickering Interfaces, and we are confident it will deliver the signal switching they need.”
The 45-542 is a 6U PXI high-density matrix module with a total of 1,056 crosspoints (132 x 8) and is capable of handling 1A and 170 VDC or 120 VAC. Pickering’s engineers designed, built, and tested this module to meet Hill’s specification. After extensive testing by Hill, it was determined that the matrix is capable of handling the capacitive load seen on the A-10C, and the module performed as required.
The 45-542 PXI switching matrix module is a COTS product and is available worldwide. Pickering Interfaces stands behind all of its manufactured products with a standard 3-year warranty and guaranteed long-term product support.