Overview

Mostyn Enterprise offers automated matrix switch systems to protect power amplifiers and/or radios in the case of antenna failure, and reconfigure signal paths to ensure critical communication links are not compromised.

System modularity allows Mostyn Enterprises to deliver cost-effective Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) switching solutions, built to customer specification, whilst also increasing ease of service and repair. The flexibility of the unit allows for the following system topologies, or any combination thereof:

• Crossbar – One path exists between the input signal and the output path.

• Fan-Out – Divides the input signal so that it can be routed simultaneously to different output paths.

• Fan-In – Combines input signals and routes them simultaneously to the same output path.

The key differentiating feature of Mostyn Enterprises’ system is its ability to monitor key signal parameters, detect faults, and automatically and rapidly reconfigure the system to protect the transceivers and minimise communication downtime. Differing levels of automation can easily be implemented and set in software.

Switching

Mostyn Enterprises’ matrix switches use electromechanical RF switches for their superior electrical performance.

• High frequency capability - DC-26.5 GHz

• High power handling – Up to 1600 WCW @ 1 GHz

• Blocking switches – Increased system protection

• Latching switches – Reduce power consumption

• Lower insertion loss – Less than 0.2dB @ DC-2GHz

• Better isolation – Minimize crosstalk, Up to 90dB

• Lightning fast switching time – Starting at 20ms

Sensing

Bidirectional couplers are used alongside a sensing circuit to monitor:

• Frequency

• Forward Power

• Reverse Power

• VSWR

• Return Loss

Components have been carefully chosen to minimise mainline loss. A sensing unit typically has an insertion loss of less than 0.1dB.

Fault conditions are defined by the user by inputting the upper and lower limits to these parameters. High speed simultaneous measure analogue to digital converters with up to 128 kSPS data rates are used to minimise latency and ensure the user is immediately made aware of the fault via an alarm and GUI output in manual mode, and the system reconfigures itself quickly in automatic mode.

Processing

At the heart of Mostyn Enterprises matrix switch is an NXP (Freescale) quad core ARM Cortex-A9 processor, providing excellent connectivity, graphical performance and a robust programming platform – Linux. With 4GB of SDRAM and 16GB external storage memory, the processor has no problem interpreting and logging large amounts of time-stamped sensor data. A dedicated core awaits fault signals and reconfigures the system based upon a priority table, minimising the time between a fault condition and switch reconfiguration.

The matrix switch processor board can be updated with field upgradeable firmware via bootloader, reducing maintenance costs and increasing performance and reliability over time. It is also capable of reprogramming peripheral modules.

Connectivity & Interface

Remote, multi-user access to the system is possible via Ethernet, whilst local users can connect to the matrix switch via Ethernet, RS232/485 or USB. Remote alarms can be connected to the system for system module and sub-system failures.

Whilst a 10.1” high resolution touch screen display on the front panel allows for easy standalone setup and monitoring, HDMI output and keyboard/mouse inputs are present, should the user want to use an external monitor.

The graphical user interface provides a range of display options for showing the current system status, and a host of in built help files assist users in system configuration. The user friendly layout makes routine operations such as running of diagnostic routines, calibration and module BIT testing are easy to perform. Critical system parameters can be passcode locked to ensure they are not unintentionally modified.

Housing

The standard 4U, 19 inch casing is available in either desktop or rack mount configuration, and can hold up to 21 full sized switches. A larger 7U case is available for systems that require a greater number of switches. All housings are EMC shielded in accordance with MIL-STD-461 requirements and designed to meet MIL-STD-810 specifications for environmental stress. Shipborne and submarine systems are also available, whilst custom housings, such as those required for land vehicles or aerospace use can be developed on request.

The electronics are based on the proven 19” mechanics of the IEC 1101 family, and modules are brought together using the CompactPCI Serial architecture with its rugged, high density connectors, up to 12Gb/s transmission frequency, and hot swap capability of modules whilst the system is running. This enables the development of mission critical systems.