Model Definition

• PXIe: PXI Express high‑speed modular bus

• 58: NI second‑generation VST series

• 20: Baseband‑optimized model with 500 MHz frequency range and 1 GHz I/Q bandwidth

• VST: Vector Signal Transceiver (integrated generator + analyzer + FPGA)

• Key variant: Baseband I/Q, differential signaling, 2‑slot PXIe module

Key Specifications

• Generator (TX)

  • Frequency range: 0 MHz to 500 MHz

  • Instantaneous I/Q bandwidth: 1 GHz (complex)

  • Sample rate: 1.25 GS/s (per I/Q channel)

  • Tuning time: 0.38 ms (typical)

  • Output level: Programmable, differential

• Analyzer (RX)

  • Frequency range: 0 Hz to 500 MHz

  • Instantaneous I/Q bandwidth: 1 GHz (complex)

  • Sample rate: 1.25 GS/s (per I/Q channel)

  • Input coupling: DC

  • Input type: Single‑ended / differential (software‑selectable)

• FPGA & Memory

  • FPGA: High‑performance user‑programmable

  • Onboard DRAM: 2 × 2 GB banks, 12 GB/s per bank

  • Onboard SRAM: 2 MB

• General

  • Module size: 2‑slot, 3U PXIe

  • Operating temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C

  • Calibration interval: 2 years

  • Power consumption: ~60 W

Interface & Communication Configuration

• Host bus: PXI Express Gen 2, compatible with PXIe chassis

• I/Q Output (TX): 2 × SMA differential (I+, I−, Q+, Q−), 50 Ω

• I/Q Input (RX): 2 × SMA differential (I+, I−, Q+, Q−), 50 Ω

• Reference clock: 10 MHz REF IN/OUT (SMA)

• Trigger: PXI trigger bus, external TRIG IN/OUT (SMA)

• Control software: NI‑RFSG, NI‑RFSA, LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, C#, Python

• Synchronization: NI‑TClk, PXI star trigger, multi‑module phase alignment

Core Functions

• Integrated baseband I/Q generation & analysis: Combines wideband AWG and digitizer for closed‑loop baseband testing without external instruments.

• 1 GHz ultra‑wideband I/Q capability: Supports high‑data‑rate wireless standards and broadband transceiver characterization.

• User‑programmable FPGA: Enables real‑time signal processing (filtering, FFT, modulation/demodulation, triggering) for custom test sequences.

• Differential/single‑ended I/O flexibility: Adapts to various DUT interfaces (baseband chipsets, amplifiers, transceivers).

• Envelope tracking & digital predistortion (DPD): Optimizes power amplifier efficiency and linearity for 5G and LTE applications.

• High‑speed data streaming: Large onboard memory supports long‑duration waveform capture and generation.

Applications

• Wireless chipset test: Baseband I/Q validation for 5G NR, LTE‑A Pro, Wi‑Fi 6/7, and IoT transceivers.

• Power amplifier (PA) test: Envelope tracking, DPD, and linearity characterization for RF PAs.

• Baseband & IF signal testing: High‑speed digital communications, radar, and software‑defined radio (SDR) systems.

• Semiconductor test: RFIC, transceiver, and SoC validation with differential baseband interfaces.

• Aerospace & defense: Wideband signal generation/analysis for radar and electronic warfare (EW) systems.

Usage & Maintenance

• Installation: Insert into 2 consecutive slots of a 3U PXIe chassis; connect differential I/Q cables to DUT, 10 MHz reference, and triggers.

• Warm‑up: 30 minutes at ambient temperature before high‑accuracy measurements.

• Operation: Configure sample rate, bandwidth, and I/O mode (differential/single‑ended) via software; avoid ESD and input overvoltage.

• Cable care: Maintain equal electrical length for I and Q cables to preserve phase balance.

• Maintenance: Keep SMA connectors clean and dry; inspect cables periodically; ensure adequate chassis cooling.

• Calibration: Perform self‑calibration monthly; factory calibrate every 2 years to maintain amplitude/phase accuracy.