PXIe-6545 32-Channel 200 MHz Digital Waveform Instrument
The NI PXIe-6545 is a high-speed PXI Express digital waveform generator and analyzer designed for digital interface testing, device validation, protocol development and automated production test. It provides 32 bidirectional single-ended digital channels, a maximum sample clock rate of 200 MHz and a maximum data rate of 200 Mbit/s per channel.
The PXIe-6545 supports common digital logic levels, advanced clock synchronization, waveform scripting and per-bank timing adjustment. These features make it suitable for testing FPGAs, embedded controllers, memory devices, digital sensors and custom electronic interfaces.
As part of the modular PXI Express platform, the PXIe-6545 can operate with digitizers, waveform generators, digital multimeters, power supplies and other PXI modules in synchronized automated test systems.
PXIe-6545 Product Overview
The PXIe-6545 combines digital waveform generation and acquisition in a single one-slot PXI Express module. Its 32 digital channels can output stimulus patterns to a device under test or acquire digital responses for software-based analysis.
Compared with conventional static digital I/O devices, the PXIe-6545 provides substantially faster sample rates, deeper onboard memory, programmable timing and hardware-controlled waveform sequencing. Engineers can generate repeatable digital transactions and capture DUT responses with deterministic timing.
The PXIe-6545 is available in two primary onboard memory configurations:
- 780993-02: 8 Mbit of onboard memory per channel
- 780993-03: 64 Mbit of onboard memory per channel
The appropriate version depends on the required waveform length, acquisition depth, number of stored pattern segments and complexity of the generation script.
Key Features of the PXIe-6545
32 Bidirectional Digital Channels
The PXIe-6545 provides 32 single-ended digital channels that can generate or acquire digital data. The channel count supports common 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit parallel interfaces while allowing individual lines to be assigned to data, address, clock, command or status functions.
200 MHz Maximum Sample Clock
The onboard sample clock can operate from 100 Hz to 200 MHz. This timing range supports low-speed functional testing as well as high-speed digital interface validation using the same instrument.
200 Mbit/s Per-Channel Data Rate
The PXIe-6545 supports a maximum SDR data rate of 200 Mbit/s per channel. With 32 channels operating in parallel, it can generate and acquire wide digital words at high speed for demanding interface and device tests.
Common Digital Logic Levels
The module supports commonly used 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V digital logic families. The selected logic family determines the generation voltage and acquisition thresholds used by the digital channels.
Unlike the PXIe-6547 and PXIe-6548, which provide more continuously programmable voltage settings, the PXIe-6545 is primarily intended for applications using standard selectable logic levels.
Per-Bank Digital Timing Adjustment
Digital channels are divided into timing banks that support data delay adjustment. Engineers can use this capability to compensate for cable propagation delay, fixture skew and DUT setup-and-hold requirements.
Flexible Clock Sources
Digital waveforms can use the onboard clock, an external clock connected through CLK IN or a source-synchronous STROBE for acquisition. Clock output resources allow timing signals to be shared with the DUT and other test equipment.
Waveform Scripting
Onboard scripting supports waveform sequencing, looping, branching and trigger-controlled execution. Reusable waveform segments help reduce memory usage while allowing complex digital transactions to be created.
Advanced PXI Synchronization
The PXIe-6545 can use PXI Express backplane reference clocks and trigger resources to synchronize with other modular instruments. This capability is useful for combined analog, digital, power and RF testing.
PXIe-6545 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | NI PXIe-6545 |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer |
| Bus and Form Factor | PXI Express, single-slot 3U module |
| Bidirectional Digital Channels | 32 |
| Signaling Type | Single-ended |
| Maximum Sample Clock Rate | 200 MHz |
| Maximum Data Rate | 200 Mbit/s per channel |
| Data Transfer Mode | Single data rate |
| Supported Logic Families | 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V |
| Input Impedance | 50 kΩ nominal |
| Input Protection | -1 V to 5 V |
| Onboard Clock Range | 100 Hz to 200 MHz |
| External CLK IN Range | 20 kHz to 200 MHz when used as a sample clock |
| STROBE Range | 100 Hz to 200 MHz |
| Programmable Function Interface | 4 PFI channels |
| Hardware Data Comparison | Not supported |
| Active Load | Not supported |
| Per-Pin PMU | Not supported |
| Onboard Memory Options | 8 Mbit/channel or 64 Mbit/channel |
| 8 Mbit/Channel Part Number | 780993-02 |
| 64 Mbit/Channel Part Number | 780993-03 |
| Clock Connections | SMA CLK IN and CLK OUT |
| Digital Interface | Digital Data and Control connector |
| Compatible Cable | SHC68-C68-D4 |
| Driver | NI-HSDIO |
| Module Width | 1 PXI Express slot |
How the PXIe-6545 Works
During waveform generation, digital pattern data is transferred from the PXI controller to the module’s onboard memory. The PXIe-6545 then outputs the stored patterns according to the selected logic family, sample clock, channel direction and timing configuration.
During acquisition, the module samples digital signals from the DUT and stores the captured data in onboard memory. The data is subsequently transferred to the controller for decoding, comparison, visualization or pass/fail analysis.
Because the PXIe-6545 does not provide hardware data comparison, expected and acquired patterns are normally compared in the test application. Applications requiring real-time hardware comparison should consider the PXIe-6547 or PXIe-6548.
Clocking and Timing Options
Onboard Sample Clock
The internal sample clock provides a programmable frequency range from 100 Hz to 200 MHz. It is suitable for internally timed generation and acquisition when the DUT does not provide a timing source.
External CLK IN
An external sample clock can be connected through the front-panel CLK IN connector. This allows the digital waveform instrument to operate synchronously with an external clock generator, another instrument or the DUT.
Source-Synchronous STROBE
The STROBE input can serve as the sample clock during acquisition. This function is useful when the DUT transmits data together with a clock or strobe signal.
Clock Export
The PXIe-6545 can export clock signals through the front-panel CLK OUT connector. A generation sample clock can also be routed through the digital interface connector to provide synchronized timing to the DUT.
Data Delay Adjustment
Per-bank timing adjustment allows groups of channels to be shifted relative to the sample clock. This can compensate for propagation differences and help position the data transition or sampling point within the DUT’s valid timing window.
Onboard Memory and Waveform Scripting
The PXIe-6545 uses NI Synchronization and Memory Core architecture. Waveform samples and script instructions share the available onboard memory, giving test developers flexibility in how memory is allocated.
Waveform scripting can be used to:
- Sequence multiple digital waveforms
- Repeat selected pattern segments
- Wait for software or hardware triggers
- Reuse common initialization commands
- Generate idle patterns between transactions
- Reduce duplicated waveform data
PXIe-6545 Memory Options
780993-02 with 8 Mbit per Channel
The 8 Mbit/channel version is suitable for short and medium-length digital patterns, repeated transactions and applications that make effective use of waveform loops and reusable segments.
780993-03 with 64 Mbit per Channel
The 64 Mbit/channel version provides greater capacity for long nonrepeating patterns, extended acquisitions and test programs containing multiple waveform sets.
Actual waveform depth depends on the configured channel width, number of stored waveforms, acquisition requirements and amount of memory used by script instructions.
Typical PXIe-6545 Applications
- High-speed digital interface testing
- Parallel bus generation and acquisition
- FPGA and ASIC interface validation
- Embedded controller testing
- Memory device functional testing
- Digital sensor simulation
- Register-level device communication
- Custom protocol testing
- Digital waveform characterization
- Hardware-in-the-loop testing
- Mixed-signal electronic validation
- Automated production testing
- Research and laboratory measurement
PXIe-6545 for Digital Protocol Testing
The PXIe-6545 is a waveform-based instrument rather than a fixed-protocol analyzer. Engineers can define digital data patterns, signal direction, sample timing and control sequences through software.
This flexibility supports proprietary and nonstandard interfaces within the module’s channel, speed and voltage limits. Protocol encoding and response interpretation can be handled by the host application while the instrument provides repeatable waveform generation and acquisition.
Mixed-Signal Test System Integration
Many electronic devices require digital control combined with analog stimulus and measurement. The PXIe-6545 can operate in the same PXI Express chassis as digitizers, waveform generators, digital multimeters, source measure units and RF instruments.
PXI backplane triggers and reference clocks help coordinate these modules. A complete system can generate digital commands, apply power and analog stimulus, and capture both analog and digital responses within an automated test sequence.
PXIe-6545 Software Support
The PXIe-6545 is controlled using the NI-HSDIO instrument driver. NI-HSDIO provides functions for digital generation, acquisition, waveform scripting, clock configuration, triggering and data transfer.
Supported development environments include:
- LabVIEW
- LabWindows/CVI
- Measurement Studio
- Microsoft Visual C/C++
- .NET languages, including C# and Visual Basic .NET
NI Measurement & Automation Explorer can be used to identify the module, verify driver installation, view device information and perform preliminary hardware checks.
PXIe-6545 System Requirements
A complete PXIe-6545 system normally requires:
- A compatible PXI Express chassis
- An embedded PXI controller or external computer interface
- NI-HSDIO driver software
- A compatible high-speed digital cable
- A terminal block, breakout accessory or custom DUT fixture
- Optional clock and trigger cables
- Application development software
Before purchasing, verify the PXI Express slot type, controller operating system, NI-HSDIO compatibility, memory requirement and cable configuration needed by the application.
Compatible Cables and Terminal Accessories
The PXIe-6545 uses a Digital Data and Control connection for its digital channels. Compatible accessories may include:
- SHC68-C68-D4 shielded high-speed digital cable
- SCB-68A shielded connector block
- TBX-68 connector block
- CB-68LP unshielded connector block
- Custom controlled-impedance interface fixtures
Select the cable and terminal accessory according to the required data rate, shielding, signal-integrity performance and DUT connector type.
Signal-Integrity Considerations
Reliable operation at 200 Mbit/s requires attention to cable length, impedance, grounding and fixture layout. Excessive cable length or poor signal routing can introduce ringing, reflections and timing skew.
Recommended practices include:
- Use a short, compatible high-speed digital cable
- Maintain controlled impedance through the test fixture
- Provide a low-inductance ground connection
- Avoid unnecessary adapters and unterminated stubs
- Select the correct DUT logic family
- Use timing-bank adjustments to compensate for known skew
- Inspect signal quality at the DUT connection point
PXIe-6545 vs PXIe-6544
| Specification | PXIe-6544 | PXIe-6545 |
|---|---|---|
| Bidirectional Channels | 32 | 32 |
| Maximum Sample Clock | 100 MHz | 200 MHz |
| Maximum Data Rate | 100 Mbit/s | 200 Mbit/s |
| Logic Families | Common selectable logic levels | Common selectable logic levels |
| Hardware Comparison | No | No |
| Primary Difference | Lower-speed digital waveform testing | Higher-speed digital waveform testing |
The PXIe-6544 is suitable when the application does not exceed 100 MHz or 100 Mbit/s. The PXIe-6545 doubles the maximum clock and per-channel data rate for higher-speed interfaces.
PXIe-6545 vs PXIe-6547
| Specification | PXIe-6545 | PXIe-6547 |
|---|---|---|
| Bidirectional Channels | 32 | 32 |
| Maximum Sample Clock | 200 MHz | 100 MHz |
| Maximum Data Rate | 200 Mbit/s SDR | 200 Mbit/s DDR |
| Voltage Configuration | Common selectable logic levels | Programmable from 1.2 V to 3.3 V |
| Hardware Comparison | No | Yes |
| Primary Advantage | Higher 200 MHz sample clock | Hardware comparison and flexible voltage settings |
The PXIe-6547 is preferable when hardware comparison or finer voltage programming is required. The PXIe-6545 is better suited to standard-logic interfaces requiring a 200 MHz sample clock.
Comparison with Similar PXI Digital Instruments
| Model | Channels | Maximum Clock | Maximum Data Rate | Hardware Compare | General Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PXIe-6544 | 32 | 100 MHz | 100 Mbit/s | No | Standard digital interface testing |
| PXIe-6545 | 32 | 200 MHz | 200 Mbit/s | No | Higher-speed standard-logic testing |
| PXIe-6547 | 32 | 100 MHz | 200 Mbit/s with DDR | Yes | Programmable-voltage waveform testing |
| PXIe-6548 | 32 | 200 MHz | Up to 400 Mbit/s with DDR | Yes | Higher-speed programmable-voltage testing |
| PXIe-6556 | 24 | 200 MHz | 200 Mbit/s | Yes | Digital waveform testing with parametric capability |
PXIe-6545 vs Digital Pattern Instruments
The PXIe-6545 is designed for digital waveform generation and acquisition. It does not provide hardware comparison, active loads or per-pin parametric measurement units.
A digital pattern instrument such as the PXIe-6571 is more appropriate for semiconductor characterization and production testing that requires per-pin resources, active loads, hardware comparison and DC parametric measurements.
Recommended Related Products
- PXIe-6544 – 32-channel, 100 MHz digital waveform instrument for lower-speed interfaces.
- PXIe-6547 – 32-channel digital waveform instrument with programmable voltage levels and hardware comparison.
- PXIe-6548 – 200 MHz instrument supporting hardware comparison and data rates up to 400 Mbit/s.
- PXIe-6556 – 24-channel digital waveform instrument with parametric measurement capability.
- PXIe-6571 – digital pattern instrument for semiconductor validation and production test.
- PXIe-1085 – high-bandwidth PXI Express chassis for synchronized automated test systems.
PXIe-6545 Selection Guidance
Before selecting the PXIe-6545, confirm that:
- The DUT uses single-ended digital signaling
- No more than 32 bidirectional channels are required
- The DUT uses one of the supported standard logic families
- The required sample clock does not exceed 200 MHz
- The required data rate does not exceed 200 Mbit/s
- Hardware data comparison is not required
- Active-load and per-pin PMU functions are not required
- The selected memory option provides sufficient waveform depth
- The chassis has a compatible PXI Express peripheral slot
Common Troubleshooting Checks
The PXIe-6545 Is Not Detected
Confirm that the module is fully seated in a compatible PXI Express slot and that a supported NI-HSDIO driver is installed. Use NI MAX to check whether the module appears and passes its self-test.
Acquired Data Contains Timing Errors
Verify the clock source, sampling edge, selected logic family and channel direction. Inspect the cable and fixture for signal-integrity problems, and use data-delay adjustment to improve the sampling position.
The DUT Does Not Recognize Generated Data
Confirm that the selected logic family matches the DUT voltage requirement. Check the pattern format, clock polarity, data direction and required setup-and-hold timing.
External Clocking Is Unstable
Verify that the external clock meets the required amplitude, frequency and duty-cycle specifications. Use a suitable coaxial cable and confirm that the configured clock input matches the external source.
Waveform Memory Is Insufficient
Reduce duplicated data by using scripts, loops and reusable waveform segments. Choose the 64 Mbit/channel version when the test requires long nonrepeating patterns or extended acquisitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXIe-6545 used for?
The PXIe-6545 generates and acquires high-speed digital waveforms for interface testing, protocol validation, FPGA testing and automated electronic test systems.
How many digital channels does the PXIe-6545 provide?
It provides 32 bidirectional single-ended digital channels.
What is the maximum sample clock rate?
The maximum sample clock rate is 200 MHz.
What is the maximum data rate?
The PXIe-6545 supports a maximum data rate of 200 Mbit/s per channel.
Which logic levels does the PXIe-6545 support?
It supports common 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V digital logic families.
Does the PXIe-6545 support DDR operation?
No. The PXIe-6545 provides up to 200 Mbit/s through single data rate operation.
Does the PXIe-6545 support hardware comparison?
No. Acquired and expected data must normally be compared in the host application. The PXIe-6547 and PXIe-6548 support hardware comparison.
Does the PXIe-6545 include a PMU?
No. The module does not include a per-pin parametric measurement unit or active-load circuitry.
What are the PXIe-6545 part numbers?
Part number 780993-02 provides 8 Mbit of memory per channel, while part number 780993-03 provides 64 Mbit per channel.
Which driver controls the PXIe-6545?
The module is controlled using the NI-HSDIO instrument driver.
Can the PXIe-6545 use an external sample clock?
Yes. An external clock can be supplied through CLK IN, while the STROBE input can serve as the sample clock for acquisition.
Can the PXIe-6545 operate independently?
No. It requires a compatible PXI Express chassis and an embedded controller or external computer interface.
Why Choose the PXIe-6545?
The PXIe-6545 is a strong choice for applications requiring 32 channels of high-speed digital generation and acquisition at standard logic levels. It combines a 200 MHz sample clock, 200 Mbit/s per-channel operation, flexible clocking and waveform scripting in a compact PXI Express module.
Its synchronization capabilities also make it suitable for mixed-signal test systems that combine digital communication with analog, power or RF measurements.
Request a Quote for the PXIe-6545
Contact us for current availability, lead time and project pricing for the NI PXIe-6545 Digital Waveform Instrument. Please specify whether you require part number 780993-02 with 8 Mbit/channel or part number 780993-03 with 64 Mbit/channel.
We can also help identify compatible PXI Express chassis, embedded controllers, high-speed digital cables, terminal accessories and related instruments for your test system.
