NI SCXI-1160 – 16‑Channel SPDT Relay Module for Flexible Signal Switching in SCXI Systems

The NI SCXI-1160 is a 16‑channel, SPDT (Form C) electromechanical relay module designed for routing and switching a mix of analog or digital signals in an SCXI chassis. From my experience, it’s a handy way to multiplex sensor lines, switch loads like small solenoids or indicator lamps, or isolate control circuits—without re-cabling your test rack. You might notice that the mechanical relays provide true galvanic isolation and very low leakage, which in many cases is exactly what you want when measuring low-level signals next to control lines.

Our Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week when in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
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Key Features

• 16 SPDT (Form C) mechanical relays – Flexible routing with NO/NC/Common on each channel; good for low-to‑medium power loads and mixed-signal switching.
• Channel-to-channel isolation – Mechanical contacts offer galvanic isolation and, typically, negligible off-state leakage.
• Backplane-controlled – Deterministic switching via the SCXI backplane from your DAQ or SCXI controller; no external power wiring to the module.
• Field-friendly wiring – Pairs with SCXI terminal blocks (e.g., SCXI‑1302) so you can land wires quickly and service them later without surprises.
• Scalable in chassis – Drop multiple modules into SCXI‑1000/1001/1000DC chassis to expand channel count as your functional test grows.
• Software integration – Works with supported NI software stacks (typically NI‑DAQmx in compatible systems), which makes scripting switch sequences straightforward.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI SCXI-1161 – 8‑channel SPDT power relay module; fewer channels but higher current rating, useful when you need more headroom per channel.
• NI SCXI-1169 – 100‑channel SPST reed relay module; high-density switching for low-level signals.
• NI SCXI-1162 / SCXI-1162HV – 32‑channel solid‑state output modules; faster switching and no mechanical wear, with HV variant for higher voltages.
• NI SCXI-1302 – General‑purpose screw‑terminal block; straightforward field wiring for relay contacts.
• NI SCXI-1000 / SCXI-1001 / SCXI-1000DC – SCXI chassis options; pick slot count and power style to match your rack.
• NI SCXI-1600, SCXI-1349/1346 – USB controller or cable interfaces to DAQ hardware for backplane control.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & ventilation – Mount the module in an SCXI chassis with adequate airflow. Keep ambient within the chassis spec; avoid hot spots near power supplies.
• Wiring practices – Use appropriately rated wire and ferrules on the terminal block. Separate inductive loads from sensitive measurement lines where possible.
• Inductive load protection – Add flyback diodes or RC snubbers on coils and contactors to reduce arcing and extend relay life.
• De‑energize before service – Power down the chassis and disconnect field wiring before removing the module or terminal block.
• Routine maintenance – Periodically exercise channels used infrequently, re‑torque screw terminals, and keep dust out of the chassis. Updating drivers/firmware on the host system typically improves stability.
• Practical note – A lab user told us they schedule contact checks after high-cycle test runs; catching a tired relay early saved them a day of troubleshooting later.

Quality & Certifications

• Manufacturer quality system: ISO 9001
• Compliance: CE marking; UL safety listings typically apply at the chassis level; RoHS status may vary by revision and region
• Warranty: 365 days (repair/replace policy)

One thing I appreciate is how the SCXI‑1160 balances channel count with the simplicity of Form C relays. It’s not the newest platform, but in many cases it still solves switching in a very predictable, serviceable way—especially when you already run an SCXI rack.