PXI-5122 14-Bit 100 MHz 100 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope
The NI PXI-5122 is a two-channel high-resolution PXI oscilloscope and waveform digitizer designed for time-domain and frequency-domain measurements. It combines 14-bit vertical resolution, 100 MS/s real-time sampling and up to 100 MHz analog bandwidth for automated electronic testing, communications measurements, scientific research and component characterization.
The PXI-5122 provides simultaneously sampled inputs, selectable 50 Ω or 1 MΩ impedance, input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp, advanced triggering and up to 512 MB of onboard memory per channel. Its high dynamic range and low-noise signal path make it particularly suitable for measurements requiring more amplitude resolution than a conventional 8-bit oscilloscope.
Key Features of the PXI-5122
- Two simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- 14-bit vertical resolution
- 100 MS/s real-time sampling rate per channel
- Up to 2 GS/s random-interleaved sampling for repetitive signals
- Up to 100 MHz analog bandwidth
- Greater than 75 dBc typical spurious-free dynamic range
- Approximately 62 dB signal-to-noise and distortion performance
- Input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp
- 50 Ω or 1 MΩ selectable input impedance
- AC, DC and ground coupling
- Programmable vertical offset
- Selectable antialias and noise filters
- 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB memory per channel
- Pretrigger and post-trigger acquisition
- Multiple-record waveform capture
- Edge, window, hysteresis, video and digital triggering
- External sample-clock and reference-clock support
- NI-TClk synchronization
- Built-in self-calibration
- NI-SCOPE software support
PXI-5122 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXI-5122 |
|---|---|
| Product Type | High-resolution PXI oscilloscope and digitizer |
| Analog Input Channels | 2, simultaneously sampled |
| Vertical Resolution | 14 bits |
| Maximum Real-Time Sample Rate | 100 MS/s per channel |
| Maximum Random-Interleaved Sample Rate | 2 GS/s for repetitive signals |
| Maximum Analog Bandwidth | 100 MHz |
| Calculated Rise Time | Approximately 3.5 ns |
| Input Type | Referenced single-ended |
| Input Impedance | 50 Ω or 1 MΩ |
| 1 MΩ Input Capacitance | Approximately 29 pF |
| Input Voltage Ranges | 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp |
| Maximum Analog Input Range | ±10 V full-scale input range |
| Input Coupling | AC, DC or ground, depending on impedance selection |
| Filtering | Full-bandwidth, noise-filter and antialias-filter configurations |
| Typical SFDR | Greater than 75 dBc under specified conditions |
| Typical SINAD | Approximately 62 dB under specified conditions |
| Onboard Memory Options | 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB per channel |
| Trigger Types | Edge, window, hysteresis, video, digital and software |
| Trigger Sources | Analog channels, front-panel external trigger, PXI trigger lines and software |
| Waveform Acquisition | Single-record and multiple-record acquisition |
| Clocking | Internal, external sample clock or phase-locked reference clock |
| Internal Timebase | 100 MHz voltage-controlled crystal oscillator |
| Reference Clock Sources | PXI 10 MHz backplane reference or supported external reference |
| Front-Panel Analog Connectors | 2 × BNC |
| External Trigger Connector | BNC |
| Clock Connectors | SMB clock input and output |
| Auxiliary I/O Connector | 9-pin mini-circular DIN |
| Self-Calibration | Gain, offset, timing and signal-path calibration |
| External Calibration Interval | 2 years |
| Software Driver | NI-SCOPE |
| Bus Interface | PXI; compatible with supported PXI Express hybrid slots |
| Module Format | 3U, one-slot PXI module |
| Typical Power Consumption | Approximately 16.7 W |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C under specified chassis conditions |
| Storage Temperature | −40°C to 71°C |
PXI-5122 Part Numbers and Memory Options
| Product Configuration | Part Number | Onboard Memory |
|---|---|---|
| PXI-5122 Standard Memory | 778756-01 | 8 MB per channel |
| PXI-5122 Extended Memory | 778756-02 | 32 MB per channel |
| PXI-5122 Deep Memory | 778756-03 | 256 MB per channel |
| PXI-5122 Maximum Memory | 778756-04 | 512 MB per channel |
| 50 Ω BNC Cable | Configuration dependent | Coaxial cable for terminated high-frequency measurements |
| Passive Oscilloscope Probe | Configuration dependent | High-impedance probe for general-purpose waveform measurements |
| SMB Clock Cable | Configuration dependent | Cable for external sample-clock or reference-clock connections |
The four PXI-5122 ordering configurations provide the same principal resolution, channel count, sampling rate and bandwidth. The primary difference is the amount of onboard acquisition memory available to each channel.
Two Simultaneously Sampled Channels
The PXI-5122 uses two independent analog-to-digital conversion paths. Both channels acquire data simultaneously, preserving the phase and timing relationship between the measured signals.
This architecture is useful for comparing a device’s input and output, measuring differential timing, calculating transfer functions and analyzing two related signals during the same event.
14-Bit Vertical Resolution
The 14-bit ADC provides 16,384 theoretical quantization levels across the selected input range. This is 64 times the number of amplitude levels provided by an 8-bit oscilloscope.
Higher vertical resolution helps reveal low-level waveform details, small distortion components and amplitude changes that may be hidden by the coarser quantization of a general-purpose oscilloscope.
High Dynamic Range
The low-noise signal path provides greater than 75 dBc typical spurious-free dynamic range under specified conditions. This allows the PXI-5122 to distinguish low-amplitude spectral components from a larger fundamental signal.
Dynamic performance depends on input frequency, amplitude, impedance, range, filtering and clock quality. Use the 50 Ω path and a suitable range for demanding frequency-domain measurements.
100 MS/s Real-Time Sampling
Each channel can acquire at up to 100 MS/s in real time, corresponding to a 10 ns sample interval. Real-time sampling captures a complete waveform from one event without requiring the signal to repeat.
This is appropriate for transient events, modulated signals, pulses, startup sequences and irregular waveforms that cannot be reconstructed reliably from several acquisitions.
2 GS/s Random-Interleaved Sampling
For repetitive signals, random-interleaved sampling can provide an effective sampling rate of up to 2 GS/s. The instrument combines samples from multiple repetitions to create a waveform with finer time spacing.
RIS should be used only with stable repetitive signals. Real-time sampling is required for single-shot or changing events.
100 MHz Analog Bandwidth
The PXI-5122 provides analog input bandwidth up to 100 MHz, supporting electronic signals, baseband communications, intermediate-frequency waveforms and pulse measurements.
The approximate 3.5 ns calculated rise time indicates the fastest edge that can be reproduced without substantial bandwidth limitation. Probes, cables and fixtures must also provide suitable bandwidth.
Input Ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp
The module provides multiple input ranges covering 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp. Each channel can be configured independently according to the amplitude of its signal.
Selecting a smaller range improves amplitude sensitivity but increases the risk of clipping. Include DC offset, overshoot and transient peaks when choosing the full-scale range.
50 Ω Input Impedance
The 50 Ω path is optimized for impedance-matched coaxial systems and demanding frequency-domain measurements. It reduces reflections and normally provides the best distortion and dynamic-range performance.
Confirm that the source voltage and power remain within the 50 Ω input limits. Signals that are safe for a high-impedance oscilloscope input can damage an internally terminated input.
1 MΩ Input Impedance
The 1 MΩ input path minimizes loading on high-impedance circuits and supports conventional passive oscilloscope probes. It has approximately 29 pF of input capacitance.
At higher frequencies, source impedance and input capacitance create an additional low-pass response. Use compensated probes and short connections when waveform fidelity is important.
AC, DC and Ground Coupling
DC coupling preserves both the waveform and its DC level. AC coupling removes the DC component, allowing ripple, noise and small time-varying signals to be measured on a larger DC voltage.
Ground coupling disconnects the external signal from the internal measurement path and connects the channel internally to ground, providing a reference for baseline and offset evaluation.
Programmable Vertical Offset
Vertical offset allows a selected input range to be positioned around a nonzero DC voltage. Engineers can examine a small AC component or transient riding on a larger DC level without selecting an unnecessarily large range.
The combined signal and offset must remain inside the supported operating and maximum input limits.
Noise and Antialias Filters
The PXI-5122 includes selectable filtering for reducing broadband noise or limiting frequency content that could alias into the measured spectrum. Filtering can improve time-domain and frequency-domain measurement quality when full bandwidth is unnecessary.
Select the filter according to the signal frequencies that must be preserved. An excessively low bandwidth can attenuate valid harmonics or slow measured pulse edges.
Deep Per-Channel Memory
The PXI-5122 is available with 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB of onboard memory per channel. Larger memory allows longer acquisitions at high sample rates and more records in multiple-record mode.
The 8 MB version stores approximately four million 14-bit samples per channel, while the 512 MB version stores approximately 256 million samples per channel before applicable record-allocation overhead.
Multiple-Record Acquisition
Multiple-record mode captures many short waveform segments around individual trigger events. The module does not need to store the inactive time between events, making efficient use of acquisition memory.
This is useful for pulse trains, switching events, communications bursts, radar signals and other applications where meaningful activity occurs intermittently.
Pretrigger and Post-Trigger Acquisition
Pretrigger samples show signal behavior before the trigger condition, while post-trigger samples record what happens afterward. The trigger position can be adjusted within the acquired record.
This capability helps engineers diagnose fault events and determine the sequence of conditions that led to an abnormal waveform.
Advanced Triggering
The PXI-5122 supports edge, window, hysteresis, video, digital and software triggering. Each mode can isolate different waveform conditions or coordinate the acquisition with the device under test.
Window triggering detects when a signal enters or exits a voltage band. Hysteresis reduces false triggers from noise near the selected threshold.
External Clocking
The internal timing architecture uses a low-jitter 100 MHz voltage-controlled crystal oscillator. Supported external sample-clock and reference-clock sources allow acquisition timing to follow a device or system reference.
The front-panel clock output can export a reference or sampling clock for use by another compatible instrument.
PXI and NI-TClk Synchronization
The PXI-5122 can phase lock to the PXI 10 MHz backplane reference and use PXI trigger lines for coordinated acquisition. NI-TClk aligns triggers and sample clocks across compatible modular instruments.
Multiple PXI-5122 modules can be combined for expanded phase-coherent channel counts. The instrument can also synchronize with signal generators and digital waveform modules in mixed-signal test systems.
Built-In Self-Calibration
Software-controlled self-calibration corrects signal-path gain, offset and timing characteristics according to the module’s current operating temperature.
Self-calibration helps maintain measurement performance between external calibration services. NI specifies a two-year external calibration interval for maintaining traceable specifications.
Time-Domain Measurements
The PXI-5122 can calculate waveform parameters such as amplitude, frequency, period, rise time, fall time, pulse width, duty cycle and overshoot. Its 14-bit ADC provides improved amplitude detail compared with lower-resolution oscilloscopes.
Time-domain analysis is useful for power supplies, control circuits, sensors, filters, amplifiers and electronic devices under transient operating conditions.
Frequency-Domain Measurements
The high dynamic range makes the PXI-5122 suitable for spectral measurements where low-level harmonics or spurious components must be detected beside a larger signal.
Waveforms can be processed with FFT analysis to evaluate frequency response, distortion, noise, spectral purity and intermediate-frequency signal content.
Communications Testing
The 50 Ω input path, 100 MHz bandwidth and high-resolution ADC support baseband and intermediate-frequency communications testing. Applications include modulation analysis, spectral measurement and signal-quality evaluation.
External clocking and PXI synchronization can coordinate acquisition with compatible RF, digital and waveform-generation instruments.
Audio and High-Fidelity Electronic Testing
The PXI-5122 can analyze amplifiers, converters, filters and other high-fidelity electronic devices. Its dynamic range helps measure harmonic distortion, noise and low-level spectral components.
For measurements requiring integrated IEPE excitation or specialized acoustic conditioning, consider a dedicated dynamic signal acquisition module instead.
Scientific and Research Applications
Researchers can use the module to acquire detector outputs, optical signals, ultrasonic waveforms and other time-dependent experimental data. Deep memory supports extended acquisitions at high sampling rates.
Raw waveform access through NI-SCOPE allows custom filtering, spectral analysis, pulse detection and mathematical processing.
Automated Production Testing
The PXI-5122 integrates into production systems that require repeatable waveform and frequency-domain measurements. Hardware triggering, multiple-record capture and built-in analysis help improve test throughput.
The module can operate alongside PXI signal generators, switches, power supplies and digital instruments in a coordinated test sequence.
NI-SCOPE Software Support
The PXI-5122 is controlled through the IVI-compliant NI-SCOPE instrument driver. NI-SCOPE provides functions for configuring channels, clocks, triggers, filters, memory and waveform acquisitions.
The driver supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio and compatible C, C++ and .NET development environments. A soft front panel is available for interactive measurements and troubleshooting.
Typical PXI-5122 Applications
- High-resolution waveform acquisition
- Time-domain signal analysis
- Frequency-domain and FFT analysis
- Harmonic and distortion measurements
- Communications signal testing
- Intermediate-frequency measurements
- Amplifier and filter characterization
- Automated production testing
- Power-supply noise and ripple analysis
- Scientific research
- Ultrasonic measurements
- Consumer electronics validation
- Aerospace and defense testing
- Multiple-record pulse acquisition
- Phase-coherent multimodule systems
PXI-5122 Troubleshooting
The PXI-5122 is not detected in NI MAX
Confirm that the module is fully installed in a compatible PXI or PXI Express hybrid peripheral slot. Check chassis power, controller communication and NI-SCOPE installation, then restart NI Measurement & Automation Explorer.
The input waveform is clipped
Select a larger input range or adjust the vertical offset. Confirm that the signal, DC component, overshoot and noise remain inside the selected range and maximum input limits.
The measured amplitude is incorrect
Verify the input impedance and source termination. A signal generator calibrated for a 50 Ω load can produce twice its indicated open-circuit voltage when connected to a 1 MΩ input.
The waveform contains ringing or reflections
Use 50 Ω coaxial cable and matching termination for high-frequency sources. Eliminate unterminated branches, long adapter chains and impedance discontinuities in the fixture.
Small spectral components are hidden by noise
Select the smallest suitable input range, use the 50 Ω path and enable an appropriate noise or antialias filter. Verify source quality, clock stability, grounding and shielding.
Random-interleaved sampling produces inconsistent results
RIS requires a stable repetitive waveform. Use 100 MS/s real-time sampling for single-shot, modulated, intermittent or changing signals.
The trigger is unstable
Check the trigger source, level, slope, coupling and hysteresis. Confirm that the trigger signal crosses the threshold consistently and remains within the trigger-input limits.
The record length is shorter than expected
Record headers and memory-allocation requirements consume part of the available memory. Reduce the number of records or select a PXI-5122 with greater memory per channel.
Two modules are not synchronized
Confirm that both modules use the same reference clock and trigger source. Configure the NI-TClk group correctly and verify clock and trigger routing through the PXI backplane.
PXI-5122 Comparison with Similar PXI Oscilloscopes
| Model | Primary Configuration | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| PXI-5105 | 8 channels, 12-bit, 60 MS/s, 60 MHz | High-channel-count simultaneous acquisition |
| PXI-5114 | 2 channels, 8-bit, 250 MS/s, 125 MHz | Faster real-time sampling and transient capture |
| PXI-5122 | 2 channels, 14-bit, 100 MS/s, 100 MHz | High-resolution, low-noise time- and frequency-domain measurements |
| PXI-5124 | 2 channels, 12-bit, 200 MS/s, 150 MHz | Balanced resolution, sampling speed and bandwidth |
| PXI-5142 | 2 channels, 14-bit, 100 MS/s with onboard signal processing | High-resolution measurements with digital downconversion |
| PXIe-5122 | 2 channels, 14-bit, 100 MS/s, 100 MHz, PXI Express | Modern PXI Express high-resolution measurement systems |
PXI-5122 vs PXI-5114
The PXI-5122 provides 14-bit resolution, 100 MS/s sampling and 100 MHz bandwidth. The PXI-5114 provides a faster 250 MS/s sample rate and 125 MHz bandwidth but uses an 8-bit ADC.
Choose the PXI-5122 for improved amplitude resolution, dynamic range and frequency-domain performance. Select the PXI-5114 when faster real-time capture is more important.
PXI-5122 vs PXI-5124
The PXI-5122 provides higher 14-bit resolution with 100 MS/s sampling and 100 MHz bandwidth. The PXI-5124 provides 12-bit resolution but increases the sample rate to 200 MS/s and bandwidth to approximately 150 MHz.
Select the PXI-5122 for high-resolution and low-noise measurements. Choose the PXI-5124 for faster signals requiring greater bandwidth.
PXI-5122 vs PXI-5105
The PXI-5122 has two 14-bit channels optimized for measurement fidelity and dynamic range. The PXI-5105 provides eight 12-bit channels with a lower 60 MS/s sample rate and 60 MHz bandwidth.
Choose the PXI-5122 when resolution and frequency-domain performance are the priorities. Select the PXI-5105 when more simultaneous channels are required.
PXI-5122 vs PXIe-5122
The PXI-5122 and PXIe-5122 share the same fundamental two-channel, 14-bit, 100 MS/s and 100 MHz measurement architecture. Their principal difference is the bus interface and associated streaming capability.
Select the PXI-5122 for existing PXI systems or compatible PXI Express hybrid slots. Choose the PXIe-5122 for a native PXI Express system requiring higher backplane data throughput.
Recommended Related Products
- PXI-5105 8-Channel 60 MHz Oscilloscope
- PXI-5114 250 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope
- PXI-5124 12-Bit 200 MS/s Digitizer
- PXI-5142 14-Bit Digitizer with Onboard Signal Processing
- PXIe-5122 14-Bit PXI Express Oscilloscope
- PXIe-5160 2.5 GS/s PXI Express Oscilloscope
- PXIe-1078 9-Slot PXI Express Chassis
- View More NI PXI Oscilloscopes and Digitizers
Selecting the Right PXI Oscilloscope
Choose the PXI-5122 when the application requires high vertical resolution, low noise, wide dynamic range and up to 100 MHz bandwidth. It is particularly useful for spectral analysis, distortion measurement and signals containing both large and small amplitude components.
Select the PXI-5114 or PXI-5124 when a higher real-time sample rate is more important. Choose the PXI-5105 when the test requires more than two simultaneous input channels.
For short waveform records, the 8 MB or 32 MB versions may be sufficient. Select the 256 MB or 512 MB version for long transient captures, continuous data transfers or large multiple-record acquisitions.
Why Choose the PXI-5122?
- Provides two simultaneously sampled 14-bit channels
- Offers 100 MS/s real-time acquisition
- Provides up to 100 MHz analog bandwidth
- Supports 2 GS/s RIS for repetitive signals
- Delivers high SFDR and low-noise performance
- Supports 50 Ω and 1 MΩ signal sources
- Provides up to 512 MB memory per channel
- Includes flexible triggering and filtering
- Supports multimodule NI-TClk synchronization
- Integrates with NI-SCOPE and LabVIEW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXI-5122?
The PXI-5122 is a two-channel, 14-bit PXI oscilloscope with 100 MHz analog bandwidth, 100 MS/s real-time sampling and up to 512 MB of memory per channel.
What is the maximum real-time sampling rate?
The maximum real-time sample rate is 100 MS/s on each input channel.
Does the PXI-5122 support equivalent-time sampling?
Yes. It supports random-interleaved sampling at effective rates up to 2 GS/s for stable repetitive signals.
What is the vertical resolution?
The PXI-5122 provides 14-bit vertical resolution, equivalent to 16,384 theoretical amplitude levels across the selected range.
What input impedances are supported?
Each channel can be configured for either 50 Ω or 1 MΩ input impedance.
What input ranges are available?
The module provides selectable full-scale input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp.
Which part number has 8 MB per channel?
Part number 778756-01 provides 8 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 32 MB per channel?
Part number 778756-02 provides 32 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 256 MB per channel?
Part number 778756-03 provides 256 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 512 MB per channel?
Part number 778756-04 provides 512 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Can multiple PXI-5122 modules be synchronized?
Yes. Multiple compatible modules can share PXI reference clocks and trigger resources through NI-TClk synchronization.
Which driver controls the PXI-5122?
The PXI-5122 is controlled through the NI-SCOPE instrument driver.
Can the PXI-5122 operate in a PXI Express chassis?
Yes. It can operate in a compatible PXI Express hybrid peripheral slot. It cannot operate in a PXI Express-only slot without the appropriate hybrid connector.
Request a Quote for the PXI-5122
Contact us for current availability, memory configuration, product condition, calibration status, lead time and project pricing for the PXI-5122 14-Bit 100 MHz 100 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope. We can also help identify compatible probes, BNC cables, PXI chassis, controllers and related high-resolution digitizers.
