National Instruments PXIe-3621 Vector Signal Up/Down Converter

The National Instruments PXIe-3621 (part number: 145871C-11L) is a Vector Signal Up/Down Converter designed specifically for use with the PXIe-5830 PXI Vector Signal Transceiver. Designed with channel-to-channel capabilities, this isolated frequency input module boasts a frequency range of 5 GHz to 12 GHz. When used within the PXIe-5830, the PXI-3621 functions as a convenient up and down converter between the baseband I/Q and IF signals. Equipped with broad instantaneous bandwidth, the PXIe-3621 utilizes differential I and Q ports in order to upconvert or downconvert the signals that come from the baseband transceiver of the PXIe-5820. 

Designed with both IF0 and IF1 ports, the PXIe-3621 is a full-duplex transceiver. To enable the testing of Devices Under Test (DUTs) that have two bidirectional ports, the signal direction on the IF0 and IF1 ports may be switched around. The PXIe-3621 also features 2 internal synthesizers, labeled as LO2 0 and LO2 1. These synthesizers can be individually tuned by the user, enabling both transmission and reception at various tune frequencies.

Built for effortless connectivity, the front panel of the PXIe-3621 features 2 I/Q connectors (I/Q IN and I/Q OUT), and 4 general connectors (LO2, IF IN/OUT, REF, and RESERVED). Each of these connectors uses a female MMPX connector type, except for the IF IN/OUT connector which utilizes a 27 GHz SMA female connector type. 

The front panel of the PXIe-3621 Up/Down Converter also features 2 LED indicators which provide insight to the status of the device at just a glance. The ACCESS LED indicates the hardware status of the device, displaying an amber color when it is being accessed and a green color when it is ready to be programmed by software. The ACTIVE LED of the PXIe-3621 displays a red color when an error has been detected.