NI PXIe Vector Signal Transceivers

NI PXIe Vector Signal Transceivers combine RF signal generation, signal analysis, and FPGA-based processing in a modular PXI Express instrument. Instead of relying on separate instruments for stimulus and measurement, engineers can use a VST to transmit test waveforms and evaluate a device's response within one platform. These instruments support automated wireless testing, RF component characterization, research, and aerospace and defense applications. Typical tasks include transmitter quality measurements, receiver testing, power amplifier evaluation, and repeatable production screening. Combining these capabilities in a chassis also allows RF measurements to be coordinated with other modular instruments in a single automated test sequence.

Representative models span the PXIe-564xR and PXIe-584x families. The PXIe-5644R and PXIe-5645R provide 80 MHz of instantaneous bandwidth across a 65 MHz to 6 GHz RF range. The PXIe-5645R additionally provides baseband I/Q connections for testing signals before or after RF conversion. The PXIe-5646R increases instantaneous bandwidth to 200 MHz. Legacy ordering examples include 784757-01 for the PXIe-5644R and 784759-01 for the PXIe-5646R.

The second-generation PXIe-5840 supports RF operation up to 6 GHz with 1 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth. The PXIe-5841 also covers frequencies up to 6 GHz and offers configurations with up to 1 GHz bandwidth. Part number 786982-01 identifies a PXIe-5841 configuration with both generation and analysis. An optional high-performance local oscillator configuration improves phase noise and supports demanding modulation measurements.

For higher-frequency applications, the PXIe-5842 family includes configurations reaching 26.5 GHz, with bandwidth options extending to 4 GHz. For example, part number 789600-26211 provides 26.5 GHz coverage and 2 GHz bandwidth with both analysis and generation. Specifications depend on the ordered configuration; a model name alone does not establish bandwidth, frequency coverage, included oscillator hardware, or whether both signal directions are enabled.

Frequency range and instantaneous bandwidth describe different capabilities. Frequency range determines where an instrument can tune, while instantaneous bandwidth determines the signal span it can generate or analyze at one time. Selecting suitable bandwidth is especially important for wideband modulation, carrier aggregation, and measurements that include adjacent-channel emissions. Output power, noise performance, and error vector magnitude also affect instrument suitability.

Software support includes NI-RFSA for acquisition, NI-RFSG for generation, and compatible RFmx measurement applications. Standard instrument operation does not require developing a custom FPGA design. Supported FPGA development tools enable specialized processing and control when an application requires additional customization. Always verify the selected hardware against driver, operating system, and development environment compatibility requirements.

System planning should account for PXI Express slot compatibility, occupied chassis space, cooling capacity, reference clocks, and RF cabling. Synchronizing multiple compatible VSTs supports multichannel and MIMO testing. For an existing station, match the complete ordering number and configuration rather than assuming that a newer model is a direct replacement. Contact Apex Waves to discuss hardware availability, replacement requirements, and calibration documentation.