National Instruments PXI-5402 PXI Waveform Generator

The National Instruments PXI-5402 (Part Numbers: 779655-01, 192887E-01L) is a high-performance 20 MHz function generator designed for precise waveform generation in automated test and measurement applications. Equipped with a 14-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and direct digital synthesis (DDS) technology, it delivers accurate and customizable waveforms with minimal distortion.

The PXI-5402 can generate a range of standard functions, such as sine, square, triangle, and ramp waves, in addition to DC signals and pseudorandom noise, with a maximum output voltage of ±5 V (ACpk + DC). With a 50 Ω load, its output amplitude ranges from 5.64 mVpk-pk to 10 Vpk-pk, and with a high-impedance load, it ranges from 11.28 mVpk-pk to 20 Vpk-pk. It provides versatility for a range of testing applications with software-selectable output impedance (50 Ω or 75 Ω) and adjustable phase (-180° to +180°). In order to generate complicated signals, additional PXI-5402 units can be coupled together as the device also supports waveform summation.

The PXI-5402 provides maximum frequencies of 20 MHz for typical functions and a frequency resolution of 0.355 μHz for accurate frequency management. For sine, square, and user-defined waveforms, it offers a maximum sample rate of 400 MS/s; for ramp, triangle, and noise signals, it offers a maximum sample rate of 100 MS/s.

The PXI-5402 has the ability to generate waveforms and also has synchronization functionality via its SYNC OUT/PFI 0 and PFI 1 ports. It supports single, continuous, stepped, and burst trigger modes and may function as both a trigger source and receiver. With minimum pulse widths of 25 ns, the device enables precise timing and low jitter (<2 MHz: 0.01% of period + 500 ps, average; ≥2 MHz: 0.1% of period + 70 ps).

Input and output connectors for synchronization and reference are included with the PXI-5402 to guarantee compatibility with external systems and devices. With a maximum input overload protection of ±10 V (ACpk + DC), it enables input voltages ranging from 0.2 Vpk-pk to 2.8 Vpk-pk for square waveforms and 0.63 Vpk-pk to 2.8 Vpk-pk for sine waves.