National Instruments PXIe-5698 PXI RF Preamplifier Module

The PXIe-5698 (Part Number: 784096-01) is a single-slot RF Preamplifier Module from National Instruments. The module is designed to work with the NI-5668R Vector Signal Analyzer. It helps boost low-level signals to the receiver. The PXIe-5698 also functions as a stand-alone Preamplifier. The frequency range of the NI PXIe-5698 is 10 MHz to 26 GHz, while the noise figure value ranges between ≤ 3.1 ~ ≤17.7. This module uses 2.92 mm female connectors. The maximum input voltage on the connectors is ±10 V DC. The maximum voltage on the source connectors is +28V DC.

The National Instruments PXIe-5698 RF Preamplifier Module has three modes of Operation: the preamplifier mode, the preamplifier bypass mode, and the enable calibration tone mode. By default, the preamplifier mode of the PXIe-5698 module is disabled. It can be enabled in the NI-RFSA driver. The preamplifier mode can further be classified into the high band or low band modes. A specified mode of operation (high band or low band) is selected by NI-RFSA. This can be accomplished by using a specified center frequency. The default setting of the center frequency is 1 GHz.

The NI PXIe-5698 is equipped with a mechanical relay, which provides an additional RF signal bypass path. Thus, the Preamplifier can be removed without reconnecting the system. The enabled calibration tone mode is basically a power check. It ensures the system is cabled properly. The calibration tone frequency is fixed at 3.6 GHz. The PXIe-5698 RF Preamplifier Module is also equipped with a noise source, which can be enabled or disabled for noise figure measurement. By default, it is disabled.