National Instruments PXIe-6674 Timing and Multichassis Synchronization Module

The PXIe-6674 (Part Numbers: 781037-01, 781371-01) Timing and Multichassis Synchronization Module designed by National Instruments is a high-performance component designed for PXI Express systems, offering advanced timing and synchronization capabilities. It facilitates the generation and routing of clocks and triggers among devices within a PXI Express chassis, as well as across multiple PXI and PXI Express chassis and third-party instrumentation.

The PXIe-6674's customizable clock signals up to 1 GHz and its extremely steady 10 MHz are among its key characteristics. The 10 MHz clock provides better accuracy (50 ppb) and stability than typical chassis clocks, improving measurement precision and lowering phase noise. It is based on an onboard precision OCXO reference On the other hand, the onboard direct digital synthesis (DDS) clock provides microhertz precision throughout a frequency range of 0.3 Hz to 1 GHz, along with great programmability.

Low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) trigger buses are supported by the module, allowing for precision timing with delays as short as 10 ns and skew as little as less than 500 ps. On the front panel, it has programmable function interface (PFI) connectors that may be configured to allow for either differential or single-ended connections as desired.

The PXIe-6674 has DC output coupling and a nominal output impedance of 50 Ω. It can produce voltages between 0 and 1.63 volts into a 50 Ω load and between 0 and 3.22 volts into an open load. Typically, the output rising/falling edge into a 50 Ω load happens between 450 ps and 500 ps (20% to 80%). The module can operate above this frequency, but it is not guaranteed. The maximum output frequency ranges from DC to 150 MHz.

The module needs a minimum differential input voltage of 100 mVpp and a maximum of 1 V for input characteristics. In order to accommodate different input voltage swings and common-mode voltages, the maximum input voltage range is 0 V to 4 V. It accepts input frequencies up to 200 MHz and has a differential input resistance of 100 Ω, ±10%.

The PXIe-6674 uses the Ni-Sync driver for software control and is compatible with Windows and real-time operating systems. Measurement Studio Visual C++ Support, LabVIEW, LabVIEW Real-Time Module, and LabWindows/CVI all support it.