SLSC Platform Overview
The SLSC platform was developed to complement PXI systems by externalizing and standardizing the signal conditioning layers that were traditionally built using custom wiring, relays, and interface boards. These layers were often fragile and bespoke, requiring HIL integrators to design them from scratch. This approach led to higher costs, greater variability, and increased maintenance complexity—challenges that SLSC was specifically designed to address.
SLSC offers a modular, rack-based platform purpose-built for:
- Fault insertion
- Signal routing and multiplexing
- Load and sensor emulation
- Voltage and current level adaptation
- Filtering and protection
Technical Overview of SLSC
The SLSC system consists of the following core components:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| SLSC Chassis | A 19” rackmount chassis that can hold multiple SLSC modules. It provides power distribution, communication backplane, and physical housing. Each chassis supports high-density, hot-swappable modules. |
| SLSC Modules | These are interchangeable signal conditioning boards that perform specific functions — from fault insertion to load emulation. Each module typically supports multiple channels and includes front-panel I/O connectors for standardized cable interfaces to PXI and the DUT. |
| SLSC Carrier and Cable Adapters | These allow PXI cards to connect through the SLSC layer before interfacing with the DUT, enabling clean signal routing and hardware abstraction. |
| System Communication via NI VeriStand | SLSC modules are managed and configured in software, most commonly through NI VeriStand, allowing fault conditions and switching states to be applied dynamically during test execution. |
Key Benefits of SLSC in HIL Applications
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Standardization of Interface Logic | SLSC replaces fragile, custom-built interface harnesses with a modular, maintainable, and scalable architecture. This leads to improved system reliability and maintainability. |
| High-Density and High-Channel Count | SLSC supports high channel counts and dense signal routing, reducing rack space and improving test coverage per footprint. |
| Fault Insertion Capabilities | With dedicated relay and switching modules, SLSC enables automated open/short circuit testing, supply line disconnection, and other fault scenarios — crucial for validating DUT robustness and compliance. |
| Electrical Load and Sensor Simulation | Many SLSC modules are designed to emulate real-world components such as resistive loads, thermistors, or analog sensors, allowing closed-loop operation with the DUT without requiring physical components. |
| Flexible Signal Conditioning | Filtering, isolation, voltage translation, and signal shaping can be implemented directly in SLSC, reducing the complexity required on the PXI side and enhancing measurement accuracy. |