National Instruments 785353-01 Vector Signal Transceiver

The National Instruments 785353-01 Vector Signal Transceiver (PXIe-5840) is a high performance second generation vector signal transceiver designed for advanced wireless communication testing. This device integrates a vector signal generator, vector signal analyzer, and a high speed serial interface, all within a compact 2U PXI Express form factor. With an impressive instantaneous bandwidth of up to 1 GHz, it is ideal for testing a broad range of wireless and cellular standards including IEEE 802.11ax.

The 785353-01 operates across a frequency range from 9 kHz to 6 GHz and offers precise tuning resolution down to 888 nHz and programmable LO step sizes in fractional and integer modes. It features a robust RF input section capable of handling signals from the noise floor up to + 30 dBm along with a comprehensive RF analog gain range and fast amplitude settling times. The device’s RF input also includes advanced spurious response handling and third order intercept points that ensure high signal fidelity. On the RF output side, this VST delivers a wide power range, from the noise floor up to + 20 dBm that depends on the frequency. This versatility is essential for generating clean, accurate signals in various test scenarios. The output section is further enhanced by fine amplitude resolution and quick amplitude settling times which are crucial for maintaining consistent signal quality during rapid test sequences. The output also features low noise density and superior intermodulation distortion performance.The NI 785353-01 is powered by a Xilinx Virtex-7 FPGA that offers extensive on board signal processing capabilities with up to 866,400 flip-flops and 52.9 Mbits of embedded block RAM. This FPGA enables real time signal processing that facilitates complex test setups and reduces latency.

The device also supports high speed data transfer through multiple DMA channels that allow for efficient handling of large data streams. The vector signal transceiver weighs 794 g (28.0 oz) and has physical dimensions of 4.1 cm × 12.9 cm × 21.1 cm (1.6 in. × 5.6 in. × 8.3 in.). This module is designed to withstand rigorous operating conditions with an ambient temperature range from 0 °C to 45 °C and a shock resistance of 30 g peak. It operates reliably up to 2,000 meters altitude.