NI PXIe Power Supplies

NI PXIe power supplies provide programmable DC power for automated test systems, combining controlled voltage and current outputs with the modular PXI Express platform. They power devices under test during design verification, component characterization, and production testing. Applications include aerospace and defense electronics, automotive assemblies, and industrial control hardware. These instrument modules power external circuits; they are not replacement power supplies for the PXIe chassis itself.

The PXIe-411x family includes the NI PXIe-4112 and PXIe-4113. Both provide two isolated output channels, with 60 W available per channel and 120 W total output power. The PXIe-4112 delivers up to 60 V and 1 A per channel, making it useful when voltage requirements exceed standard logic supply levels. The PXIe-4113 provides up to 10 V and 6 A per channel for lower-voltage circuits with higher current demands.

Ordering details matter. PXIe-4112 part number 782857-01 includes the auxiliary power source, while 782956-01 excludes it. For the PXIe-4113, 782857-02 includes the auxiliary source and 782957-01 excludes it. Both models require external auxiliary power for their outputs, so a module purchased without that accessory still needs a compatible source.

Remote sensing compensates for voltage drops in cables, connectors, and switching paths, helping maintain the intended voltage at the load. Output disconnect functionality isolates the device under test when the supply is not being used. Channel isolation supports flexible test configurations, but wiring must remain within the specified isolation and terminal ratings.

NI-DCPower provides software control for these supplies and supports automated operation through compatible programming environments, including LabVIEW. Programmable setpoints, voltage and current measurements, and hardware triggering help coordinate power delivery with other instruments. Before deployment, verify the driver version against the controller operating system and development environment.

Installation requires a compatible PXI Express slot or hybrid peripheral slot, suitable cooling, and the correct output connectors. The PXIe-4112 and PXIe-4113 specifications recommend a two-year calibration interval and require a 30-minute warm-up for specified performance.

Selection should also consider measurement accuracy, output noise, load transients, and cable resistance rather than maximum wattage alone. Confirm that the chosen supply meets the complete electrical requirements of the intended application.

For bipolar sourcing, active current sinking, or more demanding electrical characterization, consider a separate source measure unit family. Models such as the PXIe-4139 and four-channel PXIe-4145 offer four-quadrant operation; these capabilities should not be assumed for the single-quadrant PXIe-411x supplies.

Apex Waves helps customers source NI PXIe hardware for established test platforms. When requesting a replacement or spare, provide the model, ordering part number, required accessories, and calibration needs to help identify the appropriate configuration.