National Instruments PXI-1450B Local Oscillator (LO) Module

The PXI-1450B from National Instruments is a Local Oscillator Module with 2 slots that is designed for frequency down conversion applications. This VCO-based synthesizer utilizes QuickSyn® technology, which enables a fast settling time (typically 300 μs) while allowing for a tuning resolution that is less than 1 Hz. The PXI-1450B LO Module is an excellent choice for applications that require signal intelligence, synthetic instrumentation, or microwave receivers. In addition, this module is ideal for any situation where a microwave signal needs to be down converted into a baseband frequency. The RF Output connector type is a female SMA connector, while the input/output reference connectors are female SMB connector types.

The PXI-1450B is equipped with the specific circuitry that is required to lock the synthesizer to an external master reference oscillator alongside an ovenized crystal oscillator. This capability allows the device to distribute it’s internal high-stability reference to other modules within the PXI mainframe chassis. This LO Module is also an integral part of the National Instruments PXI-1470 PXI Vector Signal Analyzer- which is made up of five different modules.

This module features a single LO Output, which has a frequency output range from 3 - 9 GHz. The output step size is 0.1 Hz, while the switching speed of the frequency is 500 μs (typically 300 μs). In terms of spectral purity, the PXI-1450B has harmonics measuring -12 dBc. The DC power dissipation of the device is 0.5 A for +3.3 V and +5 V, 0.75 A for +12 V, and 0.1 A for - 12 V. The maximum power dissipation is 16 W.

Physically, the device is designed with an operating temperature range of 0˚ to 55˚ C. When not being operated, the module has an expansive storage temperature range of -40˚ to 70˚ C. The PXI-1450B takes a maximum of 15 minutes to warm up before use, and it weighs in at 2 lbs (0.91 kg).