Product Introduction
The NI RMX-4101 is a compact, single-channel programmable DC power supply designed for automated test, design validation, manufacturing test, ECU testing, electronic device development, and general laboratory applications.
The RMX-4101 family is available in four output configurations covering voltage ranges up to 100 VDC, current capability up to 10 A, and total output power up to 216 W. This range of configurations allows engineers to select the appropriate voltage and current combination for different devices under test.
The RMX-4101 uses a compact 2U, 1/6 rack-width form factor and provides front-panel controls for interactive operation as well as USB, LAN, RS232, and analog control for remote and automated test applications.
Product Overview
The National Instruments RMX-4101 is a rack-mount programmable DC power supply designed to provide controlled DC power to electronic devices and test systems.
Unlike PXI power supply modules that install directly into a PXI chassis, the RMX-4101 is a standalone rack-mount instrument. It can operate alongside PXI, PXIe, CompactRIO, CompactDAQ, or other automated test equipment.
A typical automated test architecture is:
Test Software → LAN / USB / RS232 → RMX-4101 → Device Under Test
Typical applications include:
- Automated test equipment
- Electronic design validation
- Manufacturing test
- ECU testing
- Automotive electronics testing
- Component characterization
- DUT power supply
- Research and development
- Laboratory power applications
RMX-4101 Available Configurations
The RMX-4101 family is available in four voltage and current configurations. The exact output capability depends on the selected NI part number.
| NI Part Number | Voltage Range | Maximum Current | Total Output Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| 786006-01 | 0 V to 20 V | 10 A | 200 W |
| 786007-01 | 0 V to 36 V | 6 A | 216 W |
| 786008-01 | 0 V to 60 V | 3.5 A | 210 W |
| 786009-01 | 0 V to 100 V | 2 A | 200 W |
Because the RMX-4101 is available in multiple configurations, buyers should verify the exact NI part number rather than selecting the instrument based only on the RMX-4101 model name.
Key Features
Up to 216 W Output Power
The RMX-4101 family provides output power between approximately 200 W and 216 W, depending on the selected configuration.
The highest-power configuration is the 36 V / 6 A version, which provides up to 216 W.
This power range makes the RMX-4101 suitable for powering:
- Electronic control units
- Embedded systems
- Industrial electronics
- Communication devices
- Electronic assemblies
- Automotive electronics
- Development prototypes
20 V, 10 A Configuration
NI part number 786006-01 provides an output range of 0 V to 20 V with maximum current up to 10 A and maximum output power of 200 W.
This version is particularly suitable for lower-voltage applications requiring relatively high current.
Typical applications can include:
- 12 V automotive electronics
- Embedded controllers
- Low-voltage power electronics
- Electronic assemblies
- High-current DUT testing
36 V, 6 A Configuration
NI part number 786007-01 provides an output range of 0 V to 36 V, maximum current of 6 A, and maximum output power of 216 W.
This configuration provides the highest total output power within the RMX-4101 family.
60 V, 3.5 A Configuration
NI part number 786008-01 provides an output range of 0 V to 60 V, maximum current of 3.5 A, and maximum output power of 210 W.
The higher voltage range makes this version useful for applications requiring more than the 20 V or 36 V capability of the lower-voltage configurations.
100 V, 2 A Configuration
NI part number 786009-01 provides an output range of 0 V to 100 V, maximum current of 2 A, and maximum output power of 200 W.
This configuration provides the highest output voltage within the RMX-4101 family.
Single-Channel Programmable Output
The RMX-4101 provides one programmable DC output channel.
The single-channel architecture is appropriate for DUTs requiring a dedicated programmable DC power rail.
For systems requiring multiple independent supply rails, multiple RMX-4101 devices can be integrated into the same automated test rack.
Programmable Voltage Output
The RMX-4101 allows the output voltage to be controlled programmatically.
Automated test software can therefore change DUT supply conditions during a test sequence.
For example:
10 V → 12 V → 14 V → 16 V
This capability is useful for validating DUT operation under nominal, minimum, maximum, and abnormal supply conditions.
Programmable Current Control
The RMX-4101 provides programmable current control and current limiting for controlled DUT power delivery.
Current limits can help protect the DUT during development and automated testing.
Typical applications include:
- Overcurrent protection
- Current consumption testing
- Power-up validation
- Fault testing
- Manufacturing pass/fail testing
Front-Panel Controls
The RMX-4101 provides front-panel buttons and adjustment controls for interactive operation.
Engineers can use the instrument manually during:
- Prototype development
- Debugging
- Bench testing
- System troubleshooting
- Laboratory measurements
The same instrument can later be controlled remotely when integrated into an automated test system.
LAN Remote Control
The RMX-4101 provides LAN connectivity for network-based remote control.
LAN control is particularly useful for rack-mounted automated test systems because instruments can be controlled over standard Ethernet infrastructure.
USB Connectivity
The RMX-4101 supports USB connectivity for direct communication with a computer or automated test controller.
USB provides a convenient interface for laboratory and development systems where the power supply is located close to the host computer.
RS232 Connectivity
The RMX-4101 also provides RS232 serial communication.
RS232 can be useful for integration with existing industrial or legacy automated test systems.
Analog Control
In addition to digital communication interfaces, the RMX-4101 supports analog control.
This provides additional flexibility for systems requiring external analog programming or control of the power supply.
SCPI-Compatible Control
The RMX programmable power supply family supports SCPI-based instrument control.
SCPI commands allow the RMX-4101 to be integrated into automated applications using NI-VISA and compatible text-based programming environments.
Compact 2U Rack-Mount Design
The RMX-4101 uses a compact 2U, 1/6 rack-width mechanical design.
The narrow width allows multiple power supplies to be installed within a rack system while preserving space for other test instruments.
This is particularly useful when an automated test system requires several independent programmable power rails.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Programmable DC Power Supply |
| Model | NI RMX-4101 |
| Number of Output Channels | 1 |
| Maximum Family Output Voltage | 100 VDC |
| Maximum Family Output Current | 10 A |
| Maximum Family Output Power | 216 W |
| 20 V Version | 20 V / 10 A / 200 W |
| 36 V Version | 36 V / 6 A / 216 W |
| 60 V Version | 60 V / 3.5 A / 210 W |
| 100 V Version | 100 V / 2 A / 200 W |
| Rack Height | 2U |
| Rack Width | 1/6 Rack Width |
| LAN | Supported |
| USB | Supported |
| RS232 | Supported |
| Analog Control | Supported |
| SCPI Control | Supported |
| Manual Front-Panel Operation | Supported |
| Remote Automated Operation | Supported |
| Primary Applications | Automated Test, Design Validation, Manufacturing Test and DUT Power |
RMX-4101 Part Numbers
| Part Number | Configuration | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| 786006-01 | 20 V / 10 A / 200 W | Low-Voltage, Higher-Current Applications |
| 786007-01 | 36 V / 6 A / 216 W | General Medium-Voltage Applications |
| 786008-01 | 60 V / 3.5 A / 210 W | Higher-Voltage Electronic Test |
| 786009-01 | 100 V / 2 A / 200 W | Highest-Voltage RMX-4101 Applications |
How Does the RMX-4101 Work?
The RMX-4101 converts AC input power into a controlled programmable DC output for powering a device under test.
A typical automated configuration is:
AC Power → RMX-4101 → Programmable DC Output → DUT
The test controller communicates with the RMX-4101 through LAN, USB, RS232, or other supported control methods.
This allows voltage and current settings to be changed automatically as part of a complete test sequence.
Automated DUT Power Control
The RMX-4101 is designed for integration into automated test environments.
A typical test sequence can include:
- Configure the required output voltage.
- Configure the current limit.
- Enable the power supply output.
- Power the DUT.
- Perform functional measurements.
- Change the supply voltage if required.
- Evaluate DUT behavior.
- Disable the output after testing.
- Record the final test result.
Voltage Margin Testing
Electronic products should often be tested at more than one supply voltage.
For example, a nominal 12 V automotive electronic device may be evaluated at:
- Minimum operating voltage
- Nominal operating voltage
- Maximum operating voltage
- Startup voltage
- Abnormal supply conditions
The programmable output of the RMX-4101 allows these voltage conditions to be generated automatically during test execution.
Automotive ECU Testing
The RMX-4101 is particularly suitable for automotive ECU and electronic control system testing.
NI includes RMX-4101 power supply options in its ECU Test System architecture.
Typical automotive applications can include:
- ECU functional testing
- 12 V electronics testing
- 24 V electronics testing
- Power variation testing
- Manufacturing end-of-line test
- Electronic control module validation
RMX-4101 for 12 V Automotive Electronics
The 20 V / 10 A / 200 W RMX-4101 configuration is particularly useful for many 12 V automotive electronic systems.
Its 20 V range provides sufficient headroom for testing DUT behavior above nominal 12 V operation, while the 10 A current capability supports devices with relatively high current consumption.
The exact voltage profile used for automotive validation should be determined by the applicable DUT and test standard.
Manufacturing Test
The RMX-4101 can provide programmable DUT power in automated manufacturing and end-of-line test systems.
A production test station may combine:
- RMX-4101 programmable power supply
- PXI measurement instruments
- Digital multimeters
- Oscilloscopes
- Data acquisition hardware
- Switching systems
- Test fixtures
The complete system can automatically power the DUT, perform measurements, evaluate results, and record pass/fail data.
Design Validation
During product development, the RMX-4101 can be used to evaluate DUT behavior across different DC supply conditions.
Typical validation tests can include:
- Minimum operating voltage
- Maximum operating voltage
- Nominal voltage operation
- Power-up testing
- Power-down testing
- Current-limit testing
- Functional testing under voltage variation
Multiple Power Rails
Complex DUTs may require several independent DC power rails.
Because the RMX-4101 uses a compact 1/6 rack-width design, multiple units can be integrated into the same rack system.
For example:
RMX-4101 #1 → Power Rail A
RMX-4101 #2 → Power Rail B
RMX-4101 #3 → Power Rail C
Each supply can be programmed independently according to the requirements of the DUT.
RMX-4101 vs RMX-4102
The RMX-4101 and RMX-4102 belong to the same family of compact rack-mount programmable power supplies but provide different power and current capabilities.
| Feature | RMX-4101 | RMX-4102 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Family Power | 216 W | 432 W |
| Maximum Voltage Option | 100 V | 100 V |
| Maximum Current Option | 10 A | 20 A |
| Rack Height | 2U | 2U |
| Rack Width | 1/6 | 1/6 |
| Primary Advantage | Lower-Power Compact DC Supply | Approximately Double the Output Power |
The RMX-4102 is more appropriate when the DUT requires greater power or current, while the RMX-4101 provides sufficient capability for applications requiring approximately 200 W.
RMX-4101 vs RMX-4104
| Feature | RMX-4101 | RMX-4104 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Family Power | 216 W | 864 W |
| Maximum Voltage Option | 100 V | 100 V |
| Maximum Current Option | 10 A | 40 A |
| Rack Height | 2U | 2U |
| Rack Width | 1/6 | 1/6 |
| Best Application | Lower-Power DUT Testing | Higher-Power DUT Testing |
RMX-4101 vs PXI Programmable Power Supply
The RMX-4101 differs from a PXI power supply module primarily in mechanical architecture and system integration.
| Feature | RMX-4101 | PXI Power Supply Module |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standalone Rack Mount | PXI / PXIe Module |
| PXI Chassis Required | No | Yes |
| Front-Panel Controls | Yes | Typically Software Controlled |
| LAN Control | Yes | Through PXI System |
| USB Control | Yes | Through PXI System |
| Automated Test Integration | Yes | Yes |
RMX-4101 in a PXI Automated Test System
Although the RMX-4101 does not install directly into a PXI chassis, it can operate alongside a complete PXI system.
A typical test system may include:
- PXI Chassis
- PXI Controller
- RMX-4101 Programmable Power Supply
- PXI Modules
- PXI oscilloscopes
- PXI digital multimeters
- PXI switching modules
- PXI data acquisition modules
The PXI controller or external test computer can coordinate the RMX-4101 with other instruments to create a complete automated test sequence.
Software and Remote Control
The RMX-4101 is designed for both interactive and automated operation.
Remote control options include:
- LAN
- USB
- RS232
- Analog control
- SCPI commands
SCPI-compatible operation allows the instrument to be integrated with NI-VISA and compatible programming environments.
LabVIEW Integration
The RMX-4101 can be integrated into LabVIEW-based automated test applications.
A LabVIEW application can coordinate the programmable power supply with other measurement instruments to automate DUT power and test sequences.
Typical software operations can include:
- Configure output voltage
- Configure current limits
- Enable or disable output
- Control multiple power supplies
- Coordinate power with other instruments
- Record test results
How to Choose the Correct RMX-4101
The most important selection factor is the required combination of voltage and current.
| Application Requirement | Recommended RMX-4101 Configuration |
|---|---|
| Highest Current | 20 V / 10 A / 200 W |
| Highest Total Power | 36 V / 6 A / 216 W |
| Medium-High Voltage | 60 V / 3.5 A / 210 W |
| Highest Voltage | 100 V / 2 A / 200 W |
The maximum family specifications should not be combined into one operating point. For example, the RMX-4101 cannot provide 100 V and 10 A simultaneously. The 100 V model is rated for up to 2 A, while the 10 A model is rated for up to 20 V.
Selection Considerations
Before purchasing an RMX-4101, verify:
- Required maximum voltage
- Required maximum current
- Required output power
- Exact NI part number
- Required communication interface
- Rack installation requirements
- AC input requirements
- DUT power profile
- Software integration requirements
- Required power cord
Industries
- Automotive Electronics
- Automated Test Equipment
- Electronic Manufacturing
- Aerospace and Defense
- Industrial Electronics
- Communication Equipment
- Research and Development
- Laboratory Testing
Applications
Automotive ECU Test
The RMX-4101 can provide programmable DC power for ECU functional testing, voltage variation testing, manufacturing test, and automotive electronics validation.
Automated Test Equipment
LAN, USB, RS232, and SCPI-compatible control allow the RMX-4101 to be integrated into automated test stations.
Manufacturing Test
The RMX-4101 can provide controlled DUT power during automated production and end-of-line testing.
Design Validation
Programmable voltage and current settings allow engineers to evaluate DUT behavior under different power conditions.
DUT Power Supply
The RMX-4101 provides up to approximately 200 W to 216 W of programmable DC power, depending on the selected model.
Multiple Power Rail Systems
The compact 1/6 rack-width design allows multiple RMX-4101 units to be installed in automated test systems requiring several independent power rails.
Recommended Related Products
| NI RMX-4101 | Compact 2U programmable DC power supply with 20 V, 36 V, 60 V, and 100 V configurations and up to 216 W output power. |
| NI RMX-4102 | Higher-power programmable DC supply offering up to 432 W and current configurations up to 20 A. |
| NI RMX-4104 | Higher-power member of the RMX-410x family with configurations providing up to 864 W and up to 40 A. |
| NI RMX-4125 | 1,500 W rack-mount programmable DC power supply for substantially higher-power DUT applications. |
| NI PXI Modules | Modular instruments for automated measurement, signal generation, switching, data acquisition, and electronic validation. |
Why Choose NI RMX-4101?
- Single-channel programmable DC power supply
- Four voltage and current configurations
- Up to 100 VDC output
- Up to 10 A output current
- Up to 216 W output power
- Compact 2U form factor
- Only 1/6 rack width
- Front-panel manual controls
- LAN remote control
- USB connectivity
- RS232 communication
- Analog control capability
- SCPI-compatible automation
- Suitable for automotive ECU testing
- Suitable for design validation
- Suitable for manufacturing test
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NI RMX-4101?
The NI RMX-4101 is a single-channel, 2U, 1/6 rack-width programmable DC power supply designed for automated test and laboratory applications. It is available in four different voltage and current configurations.
What is the maximum voltage of the RMX-4101?
The highest-voltage RMX-4101 configuration provides up to 100 VDC at up to 2 A.
What is the maximum current of the RMX-4101?
The highest-current configuration provides up to 10 A at up to 20 V.
What is the maximum power of the RMX-4101?
The RMX-4101 family provides up to 216 W. This maximum power applies to the 36 V / 6 A configuration.
Can the RMX-4101 provide 100 V at 10 A?
No. The RMX-4101 family maximum voltage and maximum current come from different configurations. The 100 V version provides up to 2 A, while the 10 A version provides up to 20 V.
How many RMX-4101 versions are available?
There are four main configurations: 20 V / 10 A / 200 W, 36 V / 6 A / 216 W, 60 V / 3.5 A / 210 W, and 100 V / 2 A / 200 W.
What is part number 786006-01?
NI part number 786006-01 is the RMX-4101 configuration rated for up to 20 V, 10 A, and 200 W.
What is part number 786007-01?
NI part number 786007-01 is the RMX-4101 configuration rated for up to 36 V, 6 A, and 216 W.
What is part number 786008-01?
NI part number 786008-01 is the RMX-4101 configuration rated for up to 60 V, 3.5 A, and 210 W.
What is part number 786009-01?
NI part number 786009-01 is the RMX-4101 configuration rated for up to 100 V, 2 A, and 200 W.
Does the RMX-4101 support LAN control?
Yes. The RMX-4101 supports LAN connectivity for remote and automated instrument control.
Does the RMX-4101 support USB?
Yes. USB connectivity is available for communication with a host computer or automated test controller.
Does the RMX-4101 support RS232?
Yes. The RMX-4101 supports RS232 communication for integration with compatible test systems.
Can the RMX-4101 be controlled with SCPI commands?
Yes. The RMX programmable power supply family supports SCPI-compatible control and can be integrated using NI-VISA and compatible programming environments.
Can the RMX-4101 be used with LabVIEW?
Yes. The RMX-4101 can be integrated into LabVIEW-based automated test applications for programmable DUT power control.
Is the RMX-4101 a PXI module?
No. The RMX-4101 is a standalone rack-mount programmable DC power supply. It does not install inside a PXI chassis, but it can be integrated with PXI-based automated test systems.
Can the RMX-4101 be used for ECU testing?
Yes. The RMX-4101 is suitable for ECU and automotive electronics testing, and NI includes RMX-4101 configurations as power supply options in its ECU Test System architecture.
What should I check before buying an RMX-4101?
Verify the required voltage, current, total power, exact NI part number, communication interfaces, rack installation requirements, AC input requirements, software compatibility, and required power cord before ordering.
Conclusion
The NI RMX-4101 Programmable DC Power Supply provides a compact and flexible power solution for automated electronic test systems. Four configurations are available: 20 V / 10 A / 200 W, 36 V / 6 A / 216 W, 60 V / 3.5 A / 210 W, and 100 V / 2 A / 200 W. With its compact 2U, 1/6 rack-width design, front-panel controls, and USB, LAN, RS232, and analog remote-control capabilities, the RMX-4101 is well suited for automotive ECU testing, manufacturing test, design validation, DUT power control, and general automated test applications.
