# Switching Platform

URL: https://irs.systems/en/docs/switching-platform

The IRS Switching Platform is a standardized solution for signal and load switching. IRS Switching Platform closes standardization gap in automated test environments.

## A standardized solution for signal and load switching

| Automated test system | DUT Supply | Control & Measure | Load Simulation |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Typical solution | remote controlled Power Supplies | remote controlled devices or PXI, VXI, .. | specific built hardware, switched via dig. I/O |
| Standardization | HIGH | HIGH | LOW -> HIGH with IRS Switching Platform |

![Automated test system: tasks, typical solutions and degree of standardization; IRS Switching Platform closes the standardization gap for load simulation](/docs/assets/switching-platform/images/sp-standardization-gap.png)

## A modular standard solution for switching in test systems

The Switching Platform consists of three standardized parts:

| Topology | Features |
| --- | --- |
| Mainframe | TCP/IP communication; 4 or 12 slot Backplane; 4x2 ch. Sense Bus |
| Modules | Load Channels (2.. 70A); Matrix 2A (16x4 or 32x6); Custom Card Design |
| Cabling | Standardized Pin Layout; Optimized cable lengths; Modular Fixture Interface |

![Switching Platform topology: mainframe, modules and cabling with their features](/docs/assets/switching-platform/images/sp-platform-overview.png)

Advantage for test system design:

- effective system planning and ordering process through known components
- easy wiring planning and documentation -> early start of ITA production
- space for load placement available on most SP-Modules, saving 19‘‘-cabinet space for load racks
- future-proof due to modular components -> easy changes, upgrades and extensions