National Instruments 779657-01 PXI Waveform Generator

The National Instruments 779657-01, often referred to as the PXI‑5406, is a high-performance 40 MHz function generator designed for precise waveform generation in various applications. This single-channel, 16-bit PXI waveform generator is capable of producing standard functions such as sine, square, triangle, and ramp waveforms, as well as more complex signals like pseudorandom noise and DC signals. It operates within a voltage range of -5 V to +5 V and utilizes direct digital synthesis (DDS) technology, ensuring accurate and stable waveform generation.

This multipurpose function generator has a BN connector and can handle up to ±5 V of voltage (AC peak plus DC). It is firmly built to withstand overload circumstances. The CH 0 output terminal can be shorted to ground permanently and yet remain undamaged, even when attached to a 50 Ω, ±12 V source. The 779657-01 provides phase adjustment capabilities from -180° to +180° and waveform summation by linking the outputs of multiple units together for advanced signal production needs.

Its ability to generate waveforms is improved by the 779657-01's adjustable Finite Impulse Response (FIR) digital interpolation filter, which has two or four interpolation factors available. It also has a 7-pole elliptical analog filter that may be selected to further enhance signal quality. This waveform generator's incredibly accurate frequency resolution of 0.355 μHz makes it suitable for applications that need precise frequency modifications.

Across its operational bandwidth, the 779657-01 ensures high signal fidelity and low distortion by maintaining a spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of 70 dB for frequencies below 20 MHz and 60 dB for frequencies between 20 MHz and 40 MHz.

NI-FGEN, an IVI-compliant driver software, is included in the 779657-01 to help with waveform generator configuration, control, and calibration. LabVIEW, LabWindowsTM/CVITM, Measurement Studio, Microsoft Visual C++.NET, Microsoft Visual C/C++, and Microsoft Visual Basic are just a few of the application development environments that NI-FGEN supports. Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) provides configuration and testing tools for the device, and the FGEN Soft Front Panel that comes with the NI-FGEN driver media enables interactive control.