The following picture shows the mechanical connections of a RF-Distribution and a RF-Switch modules:
For all switch matrices up to 32x32 the matrix consists of n x 1:n RF-Distribution Modules and n x n:1 Switch Modules for each type of matrix, which will be mechanical combined in the following way (see here at the example of a 8x8 matrix):
That implements that the following types of sub-modules are available: Distribution and Switch Boards:
Matrix systems which are bigger than 32x32 will be done by a combination of n x 32x32 complete matrices. The reason for the size limitation to a 32x32 matrix is the handling of the PCB board size. The dimensions of a board of 32x32 matrix is about 340mm, which is maximum of the open space size of a 19" rack.
A 64x64 matrix consists of four 32x32 Matrixes and a 128x128 Matrix consists of 16 times 32x32 matrices plus a set of 8 32:1 switch boards. Also unsymmetrical versions like 64x32, 128x32 or 128x64 can be easily realized by this scheme. The general building block in our foreseen design will always be a 32x32 matrix. The attached block diagram shows the arrangement of a 128x128 matrix. In order to not overload the block diagram we have drawn a simplified interconnection scheme which shows only the cable number 1 and 32 of each switch matrix box. In the lower center of the block diagram at the output ports of the switch matrix you find the 8 output switches which combine the signals to the 128 output ports. In case of a 64x64 switch matrix this additional output switches are not necessary as they are already integrated in each 32x32 switch matrix itself. The configuration of a 64x64 switch matrix is marked in the upper left corner of the same block diagram.
