The NI PXI-5600 is a 2.7 GHz RF downconverter module for PXI systems that translates high-frequency RF signals down to intermediate frequencies suitable for digitization and analysis. It delivers 20 MHz real-time bandwidth with a 15 MHz IF center frequency, enabling spectrum analysis, signal monitoring, and communication system testing across the 9 kHz to 2.7 GHz range.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Coverage: 9 kHz to 2.7 GHz with 20 MHz real-time bandwidth and a 5 to 25 MHz IF band centered at 15 MHz.
Input Dynamics: Full-scale range of +30 dBm (RF attenuation enabled) or +20 dBm (attenuation disabled). Selectable input attenuation spans 50 dB in 10 dB steps. Average noise density ranges from <-140 dBm/Hz (20 MHz to 1 GHz) through <-135 dBm/Hz (2 GHz to 2.5 GHz).
Signal Fidelity: Spurious-free dynamic range and intermodulation SFDR both exceed 80 dB. Phase noise measures -90 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset. Measurement repeatability stays under 0.2 dB for -30 dBm input at 1 MHz bandwidth. Amplitude error remains under 0.2 dB across 20 °C temperature variations with software compensation.
Timebase: High-stability OCXO at 10 MHz with ±20 ppb frequency stability and ±50 ppb accuracy.
– Key Features
• 3U PXI form factor (8.5 × 2.4 × 5.1 inches, 1,165 g)
• Programmable RF input attenuation in 10 dB steps
• External frequency reference input and 10 MHz clock output
• PXI backplane 10 MHz I/O and trigger connectivity (PXI Trigger Bus, Star Trigger Line)
• Front panel trigger import/export capability
• 20-minute warm-up time recommended
– Typical Applications
Spectrum analysis, wideband RF signal monitoring, communication system characterization, and receiver testing requiring calibrated downconversion to intermediate frequency ranges.
– Compatibility & Integration
Driven by NI-TUNER software with measurement support via NI-RFSA. Compatible with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and C/C++ development. Requires Spectral Measurements Toolkit; Modulation Toolkit optional. Synchronizes with other PXI modules via backplane without external cabling.
