National Instruments PXIe-6556 Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer

The PXIe-6556 (Part Numbers: 781949-02 and 781949-01) Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer has 24 channels that are per pin parametric unit (PPMU) enabled, a 200 MHz maximum clock rate, and voltage levels from -2 V to 7 V or -1 V to 7V. The PPMU feature acts similarly to a force and measure unit, which can drive and measure currents and voltages. PPMU settings can be programmed separately for every channel. The difference between the two part numbers is that part number 781949-02 has 64 MB of memory for each channel, and part number 781949-01 has 8 MB of memory for each channel. The device (both part numbers) has a maximum data transfer rate of 200Mbit per second. All other specifications are the same. This model is well-suited for validation and production test. The NI PXIe-6556 can create or obtain digital information, as well as complete DC parametric measurements with ease.

Other beneficial features of the PXIe-6556 Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer include: real-time hardware compare, data delay, scripting, and an onboard high-resolution clock. There are also more advanced features available on the NI PXIe-6556, such as timing and synchronization capabilities and the capability to complete advanced linking, information streaming, and looping with the 64 Mbits (for each channel) and scripting feature. Additionally, the PXIe-6556 can be integrated with other devices, including: power supplies, digitizers, and switches for a versatile, high-performing mixed-signal test system. The device weighs 28 oz, and has dimensions of 21.6 x 2.0 x 13.0 cm. Also, the device has an input and output protection range of -3 V to 8.5 V.

The device supports a variety of I/O connector types-SMA Jack, Combicon, and the 68-pin VHDCI. Also, it supports multiple software depending on the specification (Driver software, Application software, Test panel). These software are the NI-HSDIO driver software (version 1.8 and above), National Instruments Measurement and Automation Explorer (MAX) tool which is used in configuring the software.

The accessories that NI suggests for use with the NI PXIe-6556 include a shielded single-ended 1 m SHC68-C68-D4 Cable and an unshielded single-ended CB-2162 Digital I/O Accessory. These accessories will work with both versions of the PXIe-6556.