The PXIe-5111 is a two-channel PXI Express oscilloscope designed for automated waveform acquisition, electronic validation and production testing. It combines up to 350 MHz analog bandwidth, a maximum sampling rate of 3 GS/s and 8-bit vertical resolution.
The PXIe-5111 provides programmable input impedance, coupling, voltage range, vertical offset, filtering and advanced triggering. It is available with 64 MB or 512 MB of onboard memory, while selected versions include CableSense technology for detecting faults and changes in connected cables and test fixtures.
Key Features of the PXIe-5111
- Two simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- 350 MHz typical analog bandwidth
- Up to 3 GS/s sampling in single-channel time-interleaved mode
- Up to 1.5 GS/s real-time sampling with both channels enabled
- 8-bit vertical resolution
- Selectable 50 Ω and 1 MΩ input impedance
- Full-scale input ranges from 40 mVpp to 40 Vpp
- AC and DC input coupling
- Programmable 20 MHz noise filter
- 64 MB or 512 MB onboard memory options
- Up to 100,000 records with the 512 MB version
- Edge, glitch, hysteresis, runt, width and window triggering
- Four bidirectional front-panel PFI connections
- Optional CableSense signal-path diagnostics
- NI-TClk multi-instrument synchronization
- Compatible with NI-SCOPE and InstrumentStudio
PXIe-5111 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXIe-5111 |
|---|---|
| Product Type | PXI Express Oscilloscope |
| Number of Channels | 2 simultaneously sampled channels |
| Maximum Analog Bandwidth | 350 MHz typical; 325 MHz warranted on the applicable 50 Ω path |
| Two-Channel Sample Rate | Up to 1.5 GS/s per channel |
| Single-Channel Sample Rate | Up to 3 GS/s in time-interleaved sampling mode |
| Vertical Resolution | 8 bits |
| Input Configuration | Referenced single-ended |
| Input Impedance | 50 Ω or 1 MΩ |
| Input Coupling | AC or DC |
| Full-Scale Input Ranges | 0.04, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 1, 2, 4, 10, 20 and 40 Vpp |
| Bandwidth-Limiting Filter | 20 MHz noise filter |
| Onboard Memory | 64 MB or 512 MB shared among enabled channels |
| Maximum Records | Up to 100,000 with the 512 MB configuration |
| Timebase Frequency | 1.5 GHz |
| Timebase Accuracy | ±50 ppm |
| Sample Clock Jitter | 1.1 ps RMS |
| Analog Input Connectors | 2 × BNC |
| PFI Connectors | 4 × HD-BNC |
| Bus Interface | PXI Express, Gen 1 ×4 |
| Slot Compatibility | PXI Express or hybrid peripheral slot |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C |
PXIe-5111 Part Numbers and Options
| Part Number | Onboard Memory | CableSense |
|---|---|---|
| 785769-01 | 64 MB | No |
| 785769-11 | 64 MB | Yes |
| 785770-01 | 512 MB | No |
| 785770-11 | 512 MB | Yes |
Select the part number according to the required onboard memory and whether CableSense diagnostics are needed. The 512 MB versions are recommended for long records, multi-record acquisitions and applications that generate large waveform datasets.
350 MHz Waveform Acquisition
The PXIe-5111 provides up to 350 MHz typical analog bandwidth, making it suitable for measuring fast analog signals, digital edges, pulses and communication interfaces. The 50 Ω input path provides 325 MHz warranted bandwidth under the specified operating conditions.
The module’s combination of bandwidth and sampling speed supports automated measurements of waveform amplitude, frequency, rise time, pulse width, overshoot, timing and transient behavior.
3 GS/s Time-Interleaved Sampling
The PXIe-5111 supports real-time sample rates from approximately 22.89 kS/s to 1.5 GS/s. When both channels are enabled, they can be sampled simultaneously at rates up to 1.5 GS/s per channel.
When only one input channel is enabled, time-interleaved sampling mode provides a maximum rate of 3 GS/s. This configuration delivers higher time resolution for single-channel measurements but is not available when acquiring both analog channels simultaneously.
Flexible Voltage Measurement Ranges
The PXIe-5111 provides full-scale input ranges from 40 mVpp to 40 Vpp. Small ranges improve sensitivity for low-amplitude signals, while larger ranges accommodate higher-voltage waveforms.
The 50 Ω input path supports ranges up to 10 Vpp. The 1 MΩ path extends the available full-scale range to 40 Vpp and supports larger programmable vertical offsets.
The maximum permitted input voltage depends on impedance and signal frequency. Appropriate probes and attenuation should be used whenever the signal may exceed the module’s measurement range or overload limits.
Selectable 50 Ω and 1 MΩ Inputs
Each analog input channel can be configured for 50 Ω or 1 MΩ impedance:
- 50 Ω input is suitable for impedance-matched signal generators, communication circuits and high-frequency coaxial connections.
- 1 MΩ input reduces loading on general electronic circuits and supports compatible passive oscilloscope probes.
Correct impedance selection is important for maintaining signal amplitude and reducing reflections. A signal source calibrated for a 50 Ω load can display an unexpected voltage when connected to a 1 MΩ input.
AC/DC Coupling and Noise Filtering
DC coupling preserves both the AC and DC components of the measured waveform. AC coupling removes the DC component and allows smaller alternating signal components to be viewed around zero volts.
A programmable 20 MHz noise filter can reduce unwanted high-frequency content when the signal of interest does not require the full 350 MHz bandwidth. Selecting an appropriate filter can improve waveform stability and signal-to-noise performance.
Advanced Triggering Options
The PXIe-5111 supports multiple trigger types for capturing specific waveform events:
- Edge triggering
- Glitch triggering
- Hysteresis triggering
- Runt triggering
- Pulse-width triggering
- Window triggering
- Digital triggering
- Immediate triggering
- Software triggering
Available trigger sources include CH 0, CH 1, four front-panel PFI connections and PXI backplane trigger lines. Reference, arm, start and advance triggers support complex automated test sequences and synchronized measurement systems.
Deep Memory and Multi-Record Acquisition
The PXIe-5111 is available with 64 MB or 512 MB of onboard waveform memory. Memory is shared among enabled channels, so the record length available to each channel depends on the active-channel configuration.
The 512 MB version supports up to 100,000 records in onboard memory, depending on the record length and number of enabled channels. Multi-record acquisition efficiently captures repeated events while reducing software and communication overhead.
CableSense Signal-Path Diagnostics
Part numbers ending in -11 include CableSense technology. CableSense can detect changes, faults and discontinuities in cables, connectors and test fixtures by comparing the signal path with a known configuration.
This feature can help identify damaged cables, loose connections and unexpected fixture changes before they cause inaccurate results or production downtime. It is particularly useful in automated test equipment that depends on stable, repeatable signal connections.
The CableSense function generates a nominal 0.4 V diagnostic pulse with a typical rise time of 1.6 ns. A compatible NI-SCOPE version is required to access the feature.
PXI Timing and NI-TClk Synchronization
The PXIe-5111 uses PXI Express backplane clocks and trigger lines to synchronize with other modular instruments. NI-TClk can align supported oscilloscopes, waveform generators and additional PXI modules without requiring separate external timing cables between modules in the same chassis.
Channel-to-channel skew is less than 60 ps under the specified conditions. Multiple identical PXIe-5111 modules can be synchronized for expanded channel-count systems and coordinated waveform acquisition.
Typical PXIe-5111 Applications
- Automated electronic device validation
- Production-line functional testing
- High-speed analog waveform acquisition
- Digital signal and timing analysis
- Pulse and transient characterization
- Communication interface testing
- Semiconductor component testing
- Power electronics measurements
- Cable and test-fixture condition monitoring
- Synchronized multi-instrument PXI systems
NI-SCOPE and InstrumentStudio Support
The PXIe-5111 is controlled through the NI-SCOPE instrument driver. NI-SCOPE provides functions for channel configuration, triggering, waveform acquisition, data transfer, measurements and calibration.
Supported development environments include LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, C/C++ and .NET languages such as C# and VB.NET, subject to driver-version and operating-system compatibility.
InstrumentStudio provides an interactive interface for configuring channels, triggers and acquisitions. NI Measurement & Automation Explorer can be used to identify the module, perform self-tests and access device configuration tools.
PXI Express Chassis Integration
The PXIe-5111 is a one-slot, 3U PXI Express module. It can be installed in a compatible PXI Express or hybrid peripheral slot and requires either an embedded PXI controller or an externally connected computer.
Verify chassis cooling, controller bandwidth and slot compatibility before installation. Allow at least 15 minutes of warm-up time and complete self-calibration after power cycling or restarting the controller to maintain specified measurement performance.
PXIe-5111 Troubleshooting
Why is the PXIe-5111 not detected?
Confirm that the module is installed in a compatible PXI Express or hybrid slot. Install a supported NI-SCOPE driver, restart the system and check the module in NI Measurement & Automation Explorer.
Why is the maximum sampling rate limited to 1.5 GS/s?
The 3 GS/s rate requires single-channel time-interleaved sampling mode. When both analog channels are enabled, the maximum sampling rate is 1.5 GS/s per channel.
Why does the waveform appear clipped?
Select a larger voltage range, adjust the vertical offset or use an appropriate attenuating probe. Confirm that the signal remains within the selected measurement range and input protection limits.
Why is the measured amplitude incorrect?
Check the selected input impedance and probe attenuation. A source designed for a 50 Ω load may produce an unexpected measured amplitude when the oscilloscope is configured for 1 MΩ.
How can waveform noise be reduced?
Enable the 20 MHz noise filter when full bandwidth is unnecessary. Proper grounding, shielded cables, suitable termination, shorter connections and waveform averaging can also improve signal quality.
Why is CableSense unavailable?
Confirm that the installed part number ends in -11 and that a compatible NI-SCOPE version is installed. Standard -01 configurations do not include CableSense.
Why is the available record length lower than expected?
Onboard memory is shared among enabled channels. Disabling an unused channel or reducing the number of records can increase the available record length.
PXIe-5111 Comparison with Similar PXI Oscilloscopes
| Model | Channels | Bandwidth | Maximum Sample Rate | Resolution | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PXIe-5111 | 2 | 350 MHz | 3 GS/s | 8-bit | General high-speed automated testing |
| PXIe-5110 | 2 | 100 MHz | 1 GS/s | 8-bit | Lower-bandwidth cost-sensitive applications |
| PXIe-5113 | 2 | 500 MHz | 3 GS/s | 8-bit | Higher-bandwidth waveform acquisition |
| PXIe-5114 | 2 | 125 MHz | 250 MS/s | 8-bit | Cost-effective general waveform capture |
| PXIe-5163 | 2 | 200 MHz | 1 GS/s | 14-bit | High-resolution waveform measurement |
Recommended Related Products
- PXIe-5110 – Recommended when 100 MHz bandwidth and 1 GS/s sampling are sufficient.
- PXIe-5113 – Suitable for applications requiring 500 MHz bandwidth with sampling up to 3 GS/s.
- PXIe-5114 – A cost-effective alternative for measurements requiring up to 125 MHz bandwidth.
- PXIe-5163 – A 14-bit option for applications that prioritize vertical resolution and measurement detail.
How to Select the Right PXIe-5111 Configuration
Choose a 64 MB version for standard automated measurements and shorter waveform records. Select a 512 MB version when the application requires long acquisitions, extensive multi-record capture or larger waveform datasets.
Choose a CableSense-enabled -11 part number when automatic cable and fixture diagnostics are required. Standard -01 versions provide the primary oscilloscope measurement functions without CableSense.
Why Choose the PXIe-5111?
- Combines 350 MHz bandwidth with sampling up to 3 GS/s
- Provides flexible 50 Ω and 1 MΩ input configurations
- Supports wide voltage ranges and programmable vertical offset
- Offers 64 MB and 512 MB memory capacities
- Provides advanced waveform trigger modes
- Offers optional CableSense signal-path diagnostics
- Integrates with PXI timing and NI-TClk synchronization
- Supports both interactive and automated measurement workflows
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXIe-5111?
The PXIe-5111 is a two-channel, 8-bit PXI Express oscilloscope with up to 350 MHz analog bandwidth and a maximum sampling rate of 3 GS/s.
What part numbers are available?
The available part numbers are 785769-01, 785769-11, 785770-01 and 785770-11.
How much memory does the PXIe-5111 provide?
Depending on the selected part number, the module provides 64 MB or 512 MB of memory shared among enabled channels.
Can both channels sample at 3 GS/s simultaneously?
No. The 3 GS/s rate is available in single-channel time-interleaved sampling mode. With both channels enabled, the maximum rate is 1.5 GS/s per channel.
Which versions include CableSense?
Part numbers 785769-11 and 785770-11 include CableSense. Part numbers ending in -01 do not include the feature.
What input impedance options are supported?
Each analog channel supports programmable 50 Ω and 1 MΩ input impedance.
What is the maximum full-scale input range?
The maximum full-scale range is 40 Vpp on the supported 1 MΩ path. The 50 Ω path supports full-scale ranges up to 10 Vpp.
Does the PXIe-5111 include a user-programmable FPGA?
No. The PXIe-5111 is a conventional PXI oscilloscope and does not provide a user-programmable FPGA.
Which software driver is required?
The PXIe-5111 uses the NI-SCOPE instrument driver. CableSense requires a compatible NI-SCOPE version.
Can the PXIe-5111 operate independently?
No. It must be installed in a compatible PXI Express chassis and used with an embedded controller or externally connected computer.
Is the PXIe-5111 suitable for automated testing?
Yes. Its high sampling rate, advanced triggering, deep memory, CableSense options and NI-SCOPE APIs make it suitable for automated validation and production testing.
Request a Quote for the PXIe-5111
Contact us for current availability, lead time and project pricing for the PXIe-5111 PXI Express Oscilloscope. Please provide the required memory capacity and indicate whether CableSense is needed. We can also help verify compatible PXI chassis, controllers, probes, cables and synchronized instrumentation.
