XY relay switching matrix provides complete random access and random release of 400 points. A mercury-wetted bistable relay with independent set and reset coils is the unique feature associated with each point

Carter, J. A.

Evans, F. E.

English

NASA Technical Reports Server

August 1968
	 Brief 68-10301 
NASA TECH BRIEF 
NASA Tech Briefs are issued to summarize specific innovations derived from the U.S. space program, 
to encourage their commercial application. Copies are available to the public at 15 cents each 
from the Clearinghouse for Federal Scientific and Technical Information, Springfield, Virginia 22151. 
Random Access—Random Release Relay Switching Matrix 
An XY relay switching matrix has been designed to 
provide complete random access and random release 
of 400 points, It combines the best features of con-
ventional switching matrices. The most outstanding 
features of the new system are its versatility and 
unique control circuitry. 
Associated with each point of the 400 point XY 
relay switching matrix is a mercury-wetted bistable 
relay with independent set and reset coils. A relay is 
opened or closed by momentarily energizing its set 
or reset coil. The relays, commercially available com-
ponents, are mounted in units of four on a printed 
circuit board. One hundred board assemblies, housed 
in a drawer, provide the 400 switching points. These 
points are opened or closed in any desired sequence 
without affecting othei points. Operation of the 
matrix is performed by means of a desk keyboard. 
The matrix incorporates a memory feature which, 
when used with various display/readout techniques,
would permit additional switching capabilities, for 
example, presetting and programming. It is adaptable 
for remote programming of electronic and electro-
mechanical switching and control systems. 
Note: 
Complete details may be obtained from: 
Technology Utilization Officer 
Marshall Space Flight Center 
Huntsville, Alabama 35812 
Reference: B68-10301 
Patent status: 
No patent action is contemplated by NASA. 
Source: J. A. Carter and F. E. Evans 
of North American Rockwell Corporation 
under contract to 
Marshall Space Flight Center 
(M FS- 12590) 
Category 01 
This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration. Neither the United States 
Government nor any person acting on behalf of the United States
Government assumes any liability resulting from the use of the 
information contained in this document, or warrants that such use 
will be free from privately owned rights.
https://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19680000301 2020-03-12T06:14:44+00:00Z


Random access-random release relay switching matrix

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