Pickering Interfaces named finalist in ACE awards 2007

Pickering Interfaces' model 40-581 Switch Matrix was selected as a Finalist due to its high density in terms of electrical crosspoints per module as well as the overall product strategy of providing cabling and verification tools, all of which make it easier for engineers to use Pickering Interfaces' products as part of a test strategy.

Keith Moore, Managing Director of Pickering Interfaces, explains: "We are very excited about this award. To me, it shows the imagination and forethought of our engineering and marketing staff. Our business model has always been that we need to be more that just a module provider. We need to provide comprehensive product ranges to directly address our customers' applications and also give them the tools needed to make their job easier."

The Model 40-581 is claimed to be the world's highest-density 1Amp two-pole matrix in a single-slot PXI module. The 40-581 can be used in any PXI chassis and is also fully supported by Pickering Interfaces' 60-100 LXI Modular Switching Chassis. Each switching module supports a matrix with up to 264 crosspoint switches organised as a 33x8 matrix and can switch signals up to 150V, 1A and 60W. The module is constructed using high-reliability electro-mechanical relays that are particularly suited to more robust loads.

Maintenance downtime is minimised through the use of leaded relays in preference to difficult-to-service surface-mount devices. Repairs can be easily carried out by any competent service engineer without risking damage to other relays or having to return the module back to the manufacturer's factory or service centre.

The Ultimate Products of the Year Award - awarded to the most significant product introduced in the last 12 months in seven categories - is determined by large-scale peer review. Finalists in each category are chosen by qualified readers of EE Times and eeProductCenter.com on a quarterly basis via electronic balloting from a list of nominees submitted to readers by expert editors with accompanying editorial reviews.

EE Times ACE Awards are presented in 18 categories and are judged by a panel of industry experts, comprised of the leading voices of academia, industry and Wall Street executives. The judges will choose winners in seven categories. Winners in the additional 11 categories are either peer-to-peer or editorially selected.

Brian Fuller, editor in chief, EE Times, says: "This year's ACE Awards finalists mark a shift in the industry, as the electronics industry becomes more focused on creating technologies attractive to consumers - from educational toys, to microphones, cell phones and light sensors. The 2007 finalists represent the execution of forward-thinking technologies and creativity that captures the imagination of consumers, illustrating the influence that electronics and embedded design professionals have on today's culture."

The EE Times Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards celebrate the creators of technology who demonstrate leadership and innovation in the global industry and shape the world we live in. These creators, and their innovations, will be recognised at the EE Times ACE Awards Gala on 3 April 2007, as part of CMP Technology's Embedded Systems Conference Silicon Valley, the largest electronic systems design event in North America. More information about the awards is available at www.eetimes.com/ace.