Smaller switches that can multiplex at larger numbers.
Faster switches that can test more devices in less time.
More reliable switches that don’t require frequent replacing.
High linearity, critical for testing devices with any RF requirements.
When it comes to RF signals, EM relays perform better than semiconductor switches. As a result, T&M machines are densely packed with EMRs.
While EMRs are great at RF signal management, they are large, slow, and only good for <10M actuations.
The downtime due to relay failure/repair and their slow speed have significant negative impacts on the total cost-of-test.