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PXI-6541
PXI-6541, 32-Channel, 1- 8- or 64-Mbit/Channel Memory Options, Digital Waveform Instrument
Actual item may vary if no part number is provided on quote request.
✔ 2 Year Warranty Included
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✔ NIST Calibration Available
Andrew Gar**** Verified Buyer
" Amazing to work with and had my order within 1 week after purchasing with all NI certs and data that were needed. "
March 2025
Said Sai**** Verified Buyer
" Competent contact for highly specialized components. The support team is very knowledgeable. Many thanks for the help and the fast shipping! "
January 2025
Bob C**** Verified Buyer
" Jason was able to get our emergency situation taken care of quickly and professionally. "
May 2025
Gregg Flecki**** Verified Buyer
" Great service and great products. This is my 2nd time using Apex Waves, truly impressed. "
January 2025
Carol Zimme**** Verified Buyer
" Very responsive and helpful, competitive pricing. Good source! "
July 2025
Andrew Gar**** Verified Buyer
" Amazing to work with and had my order within 1 week after purchasing with all NI certs and data that were needed. "
March 2025
Said Sai**** Verified Buyer
" Competent contact for highly specialized components. The support team is very knowledgeable. Many thanks for the help and the fast shipping! "
January 2025
Bob C**** Verified Buyer
" Jason was able to get our emergency situation taken care of quickly and professionally. "
May 2025
Gregg Flecki**** Verified Buyer
" Great service and great products. This is my 2nd time using Apex Waves, truly impressed. "
January 2025
National Instruments PXI-6541 Digital Waveform Instrument
The National Instruments PXI-6541 (Part Numbers: 778952-01, 778952-02, 778952-03, 191151D-02L) is a 50 MHz digital waveform generator/analyzer designed for high-speed digital interfacing. This module features 32 bidirectional digital channels, per-channel direction control, and deep onboard memory with triggering and pattern sequencing capabilities. Through the NI-HSDIO driver, the user can configure the module to support 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5.0V TTL-compatible logic levels (previously stated as 5.0, 3.3, 2.5, or 1.8V logic in an incorrect order).
The NI PXI-6541 is compatible with the NI Digital Waveform Editor, an advanced software tool for creating and modifying digital waveforms. Using Synchronization and Memory Core (SMC) technology, this module enables integration into mixed-signal test systems alongside digitizers, arbitrary waveform generators, and other digital waveform generator/analyzers. The PXI-6541 allows for multi-device synchronization to build low-skew, multi-channel systems for testing high-pin-count digital ICs and hardware.
There are three memory variants of the PXI-6541, each identified by a unique part number:
PXI-6541 1 Mbit (Part Number: 778952-01)
PXI-6541 8 Mbit (Part Number: 778952-02)
PXI-6541 64 Mbit (Part Number: 778952-03)
The NI-HSDIO driver enables users to configure and control the PXI-6541 in multiple development environments while adhering to IVI API guidelines. National Instruments Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) is included with the driver, providing basic acquisition and generation test panels. (Clarified that MAX is included with the NI-HSDIO driver rather than explicitly on the CD, since modern software is usually downloaded.)
The PXI-6541 incorporates Synchronization and Memory Core (SMC) technology, where waveforms and instructions share onboard memory. Parameters such as the number of script instructions, waveform storage capacity, and sample count (S) are flexible and user-defined.
The PXI-6541 is now considered obsolete and is no longer available from National Instruments, but the Digital Waveform Instrument will continue to be available for both purchase and repair services in perpetuity with Apex Waves.
| Model | PXI-6541 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | National Instruments |
| Part Numbers | 778952-01, 778952-02, 778952-03, 191151D-02L |
| Series | NI-654x Series |
| Type | Digital Waveform Instrument |
| Synchronization | SMC-Based Synchronization with Other NI Waveform Instruments |
| Digital Channels | 32 |
| Maximum Clock Rate | 50 MHz |
| Onboard Memory Size | 1, 8, or 64 Mbit per Channel |
| Supported Logic Levels | 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V TTL (5V TTL Compatible) |
| Output Impedance | 50 Ω Nominal |
| Input Impedance | 50 kΩ (for Newer Module Assemblies), 10 kΩ (for Older Versions) |
| Total Power | 15 W (Typical), 20.5 W (Maximum) |
| I/O Connectors | SMB Jack, 69-Pin VHDCI Connector |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to 55 °C |
| Storage Temperature | -20 °C to 70 °C |
| Dimensions | 8.5 in × 0.8 in × 5.16 in (21.6 cm × 2.0 cm × 13.1 cm) |
| Price | Request a Quote |
Associated part numbers for PXI-6541:
National Instruments PXI-6541 Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How many digital pins does the PXI-6541 interface with?
Answer: The instrument interfaces with 32 single-ended digital pins.
Question: What is the maximum waveform rate that the NI PXI-6541 can sample?
Answer: The Digital Waveform Instrument operates with a maximum sample clock rate of 50 MHz, but the maximum digital toggle rate is 25 MHz per channel.
Question: What voltages are the PXI 6541 compatible with?
Answer: It supports 1.8V, 2.5V, and 3.3V TTL logic levels, with 5V TTL compatibility for inputs.
| Accessory Type | Model Name | Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| Cable | SHC68-C68-D4 (Shielded Recommended) |
781013-01 (0.55 m) |
| 196275-01 (1 m) | ||
| 781293-01 (2 m) | ||
| 132625-03 (3 m) | ||
| C68-C68-D4 Cable  (Unshielded) |
195949-01 | |
| SHC68-H1X38  (Shielded, Flying Lead) |
192681-1R5 | |
| Cable Adapter | 653x Cable Adapter | 195846-01 |
| Screw Terminal Block (Shielded) |
SCB-68 HSDIO | 782914-01 |
| SCB-68A | 782536-01 | |
| Screw Terminal Block (Unshielded, DIN Rail Mount) |
CB-2162 | 778592-01 |
| CB-68LP | 777145-01 | |
| CB-68LPR | 777145-02 | |
| Screw Terminal Block (Unshielded) |
TBX-68 | 777141-01 |
| Breakout Box | SMB-2163 | 778747-01 |
*The device is compatible with SCSI accessories when using the 653x Cable Adapter. Without this adapter, VHDCI accessories must be used.
*The SCB-68 / SCB-68A must use direct feedthrough mode for configuration.
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Eligible returns may be accepted within 30 days at Apex Waves’ discretion. A 25% restocking fee applies; non-refundable and built-to-order products are excluded.
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