National Instruments PXIe-5646R Vector Signal Transceiver

The PXIe-5646R (Part Numbers: 782952-01, 784759-01) from National Instruments is a versatile PXI Vector Signal Transceiver that is designed to integrate the capabilities of both VSAs and VSGs into a single convenient device. The “R” listed in the model name of this transceiver indicates that it is a revised version of the PXIe-5646 VST. This device gives users access to software-designed instrument technology from NI, enabling sophisticated RF design and testing tasks including 5G testing and radar prototyping. The PXIe-5646R effortlessly combines RF instrument class performance with the adaptability of software defined radio architecture.

The difference between the two part numbers of the PXIe-5646R is that part number 782952-01 is the standard version of the VST, while part number 784759-01 represents the legacy version of the device. The PXIe-5646R is equipped with an instantaneous and scalable bandwidth that measures up to 200 MHz, and the device operates with a frequency range of 65 MHz to 6 GHz.

This Vector Signal Transceiver boasts plenty of memory space for applications of all sizes, offering two 512 MB banks of onboard DRAM in addition to 2 MB of onboard SRAM. Designed with an onboard Xilinx Virtex-6 LX240T FPGA, the PXIe-5646R offers powerful performance from a compact device. The front panel of the transceiver is equipped with SMA female connectors for a wide range of I/O functions; including RF (IN/OUT), CAL (IN/OUT), LO IN, REF (IN/OUT), and PFI 0. The digital I/O connections for the device are facilitated through a VHDCI connector on the front panel.

Designed specifically for indoor use, the PXIe-5646R can handle operating shock that peaks at 30 g and has a pulse of 11 ms. In terms of random vibration, the device can withstand a range from 5 Hz to 500 Hz at 0.3 grms when operational and at 2.4 grms when not in use.

For optimal performance, the PXIe-5646R should be operated within a temperature range of 0 °C to 55 °C. When not being used, the module can be kept in a wider temperature range spanning from -40 °C to 71 °C. The VST measures 6.1 cm × 12.9 cm × 21.1 cm (2.4 in. × 5.6 in. × 8.3 in.) in dimensions and weighs in at 1,360 g (48.0 oz).