The NI PXIe-5650 is a 1.3 GHz RF analog signal generator module for automated test systems requiring high-performance signal generation with precise frequency control and stability. Operating across 800 MHz to 1.3 GHz, it delivers output power from -120 dBm to +10 dBm with 1 Hz frequency resolution and frequency accuracy better than 0.1 ppm after calibration. Built on the PXI Express platform, it synchronizes with other modules via onboard clock and PXI trigger lines, enabling integrated RF test environments with fast data transfer and coordinated measurements.
Technical Specifications
RF Generation
• Frequency Range: 800 MHz to 1.3 GHz
• Output Power: -120 dBm to +10 dBm
• Output Impedance: 50 Ohms
• Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz
• Frequency Accuracy: < 0.1 ppm (post-calibration)
• Frequency Stability: < 0.05 ppm over 1 hour
• Phase Noise: -95 dBc/Hz @ 1 kHz offset; -105 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz offset; -125 dBc/Hz @ 100 kHz offset (at 1 GHz carrier)
• Harmonic Distortion: <-35 dBc at 0 dBm output
• Spurious Signals: <-60 dBc (non-harmonic)
• Modulation: AM, FM with digital parameter control
• Sweep: Frequency (linear, logarithmic) and power sweep
Timing & Synchronization
• PXI Trigger Support: Star trigger, PXI_Trig0-7
• Onboard clock synchronization with PXI Express modules
• User-configurable sample clock (PXI or external reference)
Electrical & Physical
• Power Consumption: 30 W max
• RF Output: 50 Ohm BNC
• Reference Clock Input: 10 MHz, 50 Ohm BNC
• Trigger I/O: 50 Ohm BNC
• Form Factor: PXIe hybrid slot module, 1 slot width
– Key Features
• Phase noise performance from -95 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset supports demanding RF simulations
• Frequency accuracy < 0.1 ppm enables precision testing of frequency-sensitive devices
• Native PXI Express integration with trigger and clock synchronization for multi-module test sequencing
• Dual modulation capability (AM/FM) with programmable parameters
• Linear and logarithmic frequency sweep for component characterization
– Typical Applications
• RF component and subsystem testing
• Wireless device validation
• Radar system simulation
• Satellite communication testing
• General RF signal generation and verification
– Compatibility & Integration
Programmable via LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and C/C++ using NI-RFSG drivers on 64-bit Windows 7/8/10. Operates within PXIe chassis with backplane power.
