Model Definition

• PXIe: PXI Express high-speed modular instrument bus

• 56: NI PXI RF/microwave test series

• 72: 2.7 GHz frequency coverage, 20 MHz instantaneous bandwidth vector signal generator

• No suffix: Standard performance version

• Part numbers:

  • 779900-01: 32 MB waveform memory

  • 779900-02: 256 MB waveform memory

  • 779900-03: 512 MB waveform memoryNI

Key Specifications

• Frequency range: 250 kHz to 2.7 GHzNI

• Instantaneous bandwidth: 20 MHz (3 dB)NI

• Amplitude range: -145 dBm to +10 dBmNI

• Noise density: -120 dBm/Hz (typical, 0 dBm output, 15–35 °C)NI

• Dynamic range: 132 dB (compression-to-noise)NI

• Phase noise: -108 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz offset (1 GHz carrier, typical)

• Frequency stability: ±20 ppb (OCXO timebase); ±50 ppb accuracyNI

• Waveform memory: 32 MB / 256 MB / 512 MB (optional)NI

• AWG resolution: 16-bit, 100 MS/s (400 MS/s interpolated)NI

• RF output interface: SMA, 50 Ω

• Max output power: +10 dBm

• Reference input/output: 10 MHz (external/internal)

• Triggering: PXI trigger bus, NI-TClk synchronization

• Operating temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C

• Calibration interval: 2 years

Interface & Communication Configuration

• Host bus: PXI Express (PXIe) Gen 1, compatible with PXI chassis

• RF output: SMA female, 50 Ω impedance

• Reference: 10 MHz BNC (external reference input, internal OCXO output)

• Trigger: PXI backplane trigger lines, PXI star trigger

• Synchronization: NI-TClk for multi-module phase-aligned operation

• Control software: NI-RFSG driver, compatible with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, C#, Python

• Module interconnections: Internal cabling between PXIe-5442 (IF) and PXI-5610 (RF)

Core Functions

• Vector signal generation: Creates standard and custom modulated signals including AM, FM, PM, ASK, FSK, MSK, GMSK, PSK, QPSK, PAM, and QAM.

• Quadrature DUC: Integrated digital upconverter reduces waveform download time and enables real-time signal generation.

• Broadband signal creation: 20 MHz instantaneous bandwidth supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, ZigBee, and other mid-band wireless standards.

• High-purity signal output: Low phase noise and high frequency stability ensure accurate RF device characterization.

• Software-defined operation: Switch between modulation types and customize waveforms via software; supports streaming mode for continuous waveform generation.

• Multi-module synchronization: NI-TClk enables phase-coherent multi-channel test systems.

Applications

• Wireless communication: R&D and production test of LTE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and IoT modules/terminals.

• RF components: Amplifiers, filters, mixers, and front-end module performance validation.

• Semiconductor: RF ICs, transceivers, and SoC testing.

• Aerospace & defense: Radar signal simulation, electronic warfare, and satellite communication test.

• General RF: RFID, software-defined radio (SDR), and wireless sensor network testing.

Usage & Maintenance

• Installation: Install both modules in adjacent 3U PXI/PXIe chassis slots; connect internal IF/RF cables; connect 10 MHz reference and trigger signalsNI.

• Warm-up: Allow 30 minutes warm-up at ambient temperature before high-accuracy measurements.

• Operation precautions: Avoid short-circuiting the RF output; maximum output power is +10 dBm to prevent front-end damage.

• Maintenance: Keep SMA connectors clean; inspect cables periodically; calibrate every 2 years.

• Safety: The module surface may become hot during operation; allow cooling before handling or removal。