LitePoint Z8811 PXI RF Front End Module

The LitePoint z8811 (Part Number: 01122-01) from a flexible PXI RF Front End Module that amplifies, filters, and attenuates radio frequency signals within a wide range of test and measurement applications. Equipped with SMA connectors for versatile connectivity, the module has an RF1 frequency range spanning from 250 MHz to 6 GHz. The z8811 from LitePoint is designed with effective cooling capabilities that maximize performance- the typical power and cooling consumption is 16.7 W, while the maximum is 17.8 W. 

The PXI interface of the LitePoint z8811 allows the module to be compatible with both standard and hybrid PXI slots. In addition, the device is compatible with various PXI timing and triggering signals via an XJ4 Connector. These signals include PXI_CLK10 and PXI_STAR exclusively for input, and PXI_TRIG[0.7] for both input and output. The z8811 is equipped with two LED indicators that allow the user to asses the status of the module at a glance. These LEDs are RDY (Ready) and HST (Host).

The maximum power current of the front end module depends on the voltage rail that is used. For a voltage of +3.3 VDC, the z8811 draws in a maximum of 0.25 A. For +5 VDC. this maximum is greatly increased to draw in 3.33 A. A voltage of +12 VDC has a maximum of only .03 A, and no current is drawn for a voltage of -12 VDC.

Physically, the LitePoint z8811 is a single-wide PXI instrument that has dimensions of 8.25 in x 0.79 in x 5.25 in (20.96 cm x 2.01 cm x 13.34 cm) and weighs a total of 12.35 oz (350 g). The RF front end module should only be operated in environments where it’s ambient temperature ranges from 32° to 122° F (0° to 50° C). When not in use, the device can withstand an even wider range of temperatures- it can be safely stored at ambient temperatures ranging from -40° to 167° F (-40°C to +75° C). To protect from overheating, the LitePoint z8811 is designed with an automatic shutdown feature if it’s internal temperature exceeds 158° F (70° C).