The NI PXIe-5841: A Vital VST for Emerson’s Growing Portfolio

In the world of test and measurement, radio frequency (RF) testing is evolving. RF setups have historically been complex, specialized, and costly, but today’s engineers are leaning toward standardized and scalable platforms instead. This is made possible in part by PXI Vector Signal Transceivers (VSTs), which combine RF and baseband vector signal analyzers and generators with an onboard FPGA for real-time signal processing and control. Let’s take a closer look at why the PXIe-5841 from NI is regarded as a core VST for Emerson’s portfolio.

Offering a Solution for Modern RF Testing Demands

The NI PXIe-5841 is one of the core VST instruments that were recently highlighted by Emerson at the IEEE International MTT Symposia in Boston, MA. Its user-friendly modular framework supports calibrated and synchronized RF measurements, fast performance, and optimized automation. While obtaining and operating high-performance RF test equipment has long been difficult for cost-sensitive applications, this improved VST makes it possible for engineering teams to implement advanced measurement techniques earlier in development and then scale them through production with consistency and efficiency at a more affordable price point. This is especially beneficial for RF research applications such as medical device development, academic research, and entry-level electronic validation.

Why is the PXIe-5841 a ‘Core’ VST?

The PXIe-5841 is specifically tailored to optimize speed, simplicity, and versatility for lab-grade measurements. The device offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing users to tailor the hardware to meet their unique testing needs. Because not every application will need full transceiver capabilities, the device is available in multiple variations to meet the unique needs of a wide range of testing scenarios. These include transmit-only (Vector Signal Generator), receive-only (Vector Signal Analyzer), and full transceiver (Vector Signal Transceiver) capabilities.

Each of the variations of the PXIe-5841 have an identifying part number (also known as a catalog number– read our post here about how to identify the different part numbers on your NI hardware!). Part numbers 786982-01, 788842-01, and 788843-01 are all standalone versions of the device, but 788842-01 and 788843-01 are generator-only (transmit) and analyzer-only (receive) respectively, operating mainly as a Vector Signal Generator (VSG) and a Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA). 

Part numbers 788844-01 and 788845-01 are also transmit-only and receive-only, respectively, but these both include an enhanced LO synthesizer. Part number 789185-01 is the 200 MHz version of the PXIe-5841 without FPGA access or custom extensions, while part number 785832-01 is the variation of the device that is paired with the PXIe-5655.

The adaptability of the PXIe-5841 is also evident in its environmental specifications. The full operating temperature of the device ranges from 0°C to 55°C when used with chassis that have a slot cooling capacity that is greater than or equal to 58 W. However, the VST can also be used in smaller chassis configurations at a reduced temperature range of 0°C to 40°C (with the chassis fan set to high), which can help reduce costs for users.  

Some real-world applications for the device include low-frequency and ISM-band testing, entry-level RF testing (such as validating healthcare devices and producing small-form-factor electronic devices), and automated production testing. 

FACILITATING FUTURE-READY WORKFLOWS

The scalability of the PXIe-5841 allows it to easily integrate with existing NI software suites, including LabVIEW, RFmx, and InstrumentStudio. Over time, engineering teams can easily transition from their inexpensive setup to a more automated and data-driven workflow. Looking toward the future, the flexible nature of these setups will more easily adapt to emerging AI capabilities. 

SCALING YOUR RF TESTING SYSTEM WITH APEX WAVES

NI Vector Signal Transceivers, including the PXIe-5841, will remain available in perpetuity with Apex Waves! We offer discounts as low as 50% off MSRP, as well as International and Expedited shipping options. When you need specific NI parts quickly, you can rely on our fully tested inventory of over 10,000 models. Choose Apex Waves to help you accelerate your testing system setup. Request a quote today!