PCI-5922 Flexible-Resolution Oscilloscope Device
The PCI-5922 is a two-channel, flexible-resolution PCI oscilloscope and digitizer designed for precise time-domain and frequency-domain measurements. It provides resolution up to 24 bits at lower sampling rates and maximum real-time sampling up to 15 MS/s.
The device uses noise-shaping and digital filtering to trade measurement bandwidth for resolution. It delivers 24-bit acquisition at rates up to 500 kS/s, 22-bit operation at 1 MS/s and 16-bit resolution at the maximum 15 MS/s rate.
With 6 MHz maximum bandwidth, flexible input impedance, AC/DC coupling, deep onboard memory and advanced triggering, the PCI-5922 is particularly suitable for audio testing, spectral analysis, precision waveform measurement and low-noise research applications.
Key Features of the PCI-5922
- Two simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- Flexible measurement resolution up to 24 bits
- 15 MS/s maximum real-time sample rate
- 6 MHz maximum analog bandwidth
- 32 MB onboard acquisition memory
- ±1 V and ±5 V full-scale input ranges
- Software-selectable 50 Ω or 1 MΩ input impedance
- AC, DC and ground input coupling
- Single-ended, unbalanced differential or differential operation
- Flexible FIR antialias filters
- Analog and digital triggering
- Software-commanded self-calibration
- BNC analog input connectors
- NI-SCOPE and InstrumentStudio support
PCI-5922 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-5922 |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 779659-01, 779659-02 and 779659-03 |
| Product Type | Flexible-resolution oscilloscope device |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Analog Input Channels | 2 simultaneously sampled channels |
| Maximum Resolution | 24 bits |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 15 MS/s |
| Maximum Bandwidth | 6 MHz |
| Onboard Memory | 32 MB |
| Full-Scale Input Ranges | ±1 V and ±5 V |
| Input Impedance | 50 Ω or 1 MΩ |
| Input Coupling | AC, DC or GND |
| Analog Connectors | BNC |
| AC Coupling Cutoff | 90 Hz |
| Channel-to-Channel Skew | 500 ps or less under specified conditions |
| Warm-Up Time | 15 minutes |
| External Calibration Interval | 2 years |
| Software Driver | NI-SCOPE |
Resolution by Sample Rate
| Sample Rate | Measurement Resolution |
|---|---|
| 50 kS/s | 24 bits |
| 500 kS/s | 24 bits |
| 1 MS/s | 22 bits |
| 5 MS/s | 20 bits |
| 10 MS/s | 18 bits |
| 15 MS/s | 16 bits |
PCI-5922 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-5922 | 779659-01 | Flexible-resolution PCI oscilloscope configuration |
| PCI-5922 | 779659-02 | PCI-5922 ordering configuration with model-dependent memory options |
| PCI-5922 | 779659-03 | PCI-5922 ordering configuration with model-dependent memory options |
| 50 Ω BNC Cable | Length dependent | Connects signal sources to the analog input channels |
| Passive Probe | Bandwidth dependent | Provides convenient probing of high-impedance circuits |
| 9-Pin Auxiliary I/O Cable | Configuration dependent | Provides access to PFI trigger and timing signals |
PCI-5922 catalog variants may differ in onboard-memory configuration or supplied package. Verify the complete part number rather than ordering by model name alone.
Flexible-Resolution Architecture
The PCI-5922 automatically provides different effective measurement resolutions depending on the selected sampling rate. Lower sampling rates allow the digital filter to reduce broadband noise and increase measurement resolution.
This architecture makes the device suitable for both slower precision measurements and faster waveform acquisition without requiring separate high-resolution and high-speed digitizers.
Two Simultaneously Sampled Channels
Both input channels are acquired simultaneously, preserving their time and phase relationship. They can operate as two single-ended or unbalanced differential inputs, or be combined for one differential measurement channel.
Software-Selectable Input Impedance
The 1 MΩ setting minimizes loading when measuring high-impedance circuits or using compatible oscilloscope probes. The 50 Ω setting terminates RF and signal-generator outputs designed for a controlled-impedance environment.
Before selecting 50 Ω, verify the signal-source power because termination changes both the measured amplitude and current drawn from the source.
Flexible Antialias Filtering
Digital antialias filters attenuate signal energy above the usable measurement band. The PCI-5922 provides an alias-free bandwidth of approximately 0.4 times the configured sample rate.
Different FIR filter types allow developers to balance settling time, time-domain response and frequency-domain performance.
Advanced Triggering
The device supports analog edge, window and hysteresis triggering from either analog channel or the external trigger connector. Digital PFI trigger inputs are available through the auxiliary connector.
Self-Calibration
Software-commanded self-calibration corrects gain, offset, input bias current and ADC nonlinearities. For best performance, allow the device to warm up and perform self-calibration near the expected operating temperature.
PCI-5922 Applications
- High-resolution audio testing
- Spectrum and harmonic analysis
- Low-noise waveform measurement
- Precision sensor-signal acquisition
- Power-electronics waveform analysis
- Acoustic research
- Electronic component characterization
- Transient and pulse acquisition
- Automated production testing
- Scientific and metrology research
Audio and Acoustic Testing
At lower sample rates, the PCI-5922 provides high measurement resolution and strong dynamic performance for audio-frequency signals. It can be used to measure distortion, noise, frequency response and spectral components.
Precision Spectrum Analysis
The high resolution and digital antialias filtering help identify small spectral components near larger signals. Proper source impedance, shielding and grounding remain important for achieving a low measurement noise floor.
PCI-5922 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Confirm Computer Compatibility
Verify that the host has a compatible PCI slot, sufficient card clearance and forced-air cooling.
Step 2: Install NI-SCOPE
Install a supported NI-SCOPE version and InstrumentStudio when interactive control is required.
Step 3: Install the PCI-5922
Power down the computer and secure the full-length card without obstructing airflow.
Step 4: Warm Up and Self-Calibrate
Allow at least 15 minutes of warm-up and perform self-calibration near the operating temperature.
Step 5: Configure the Input
Select channel mode, voltage range, impedance, coupling, sample rate, record length and trigger.
Step 6: Verify with a Known Signal
Apply a traceable low-distortion signal and confirm amplitude, frequency and spectral performance.
PCI-5922 Troubleshooting
The waveform amplitude is approximately half the expected value
Check whether the source amplitude is specified for a high-impedance or 50 Ω load and verify the selected input impedance.
The input clips unexpectedly
Select the larger ±5 V range, reduce the source level or use a suitable attenuator.
The measured resolution is lower at 15 MS/s
This is expected. Maximum resolution depends on sample rate; the device operates at 16-bit resolution at 15 MS/s.
Low-frequency signals disappear with AC coupling
Select DC coupling. AC coupling has a nominal -3 dB cutoff near 90 Hz.
The noise floor is higher than expected
Reduce the sample rate, use the appropriate filter, select the smallest suitable range and improve shielding and grounding.
The device is not detected
Check PCI seating, NI-SCOPE installation, computer cooling and compatibility with the long PCI card.
PCI-5922 Comparison
| Model | Maximum Resolution | Maximum Sample Rate | Primary Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-5922 | 24 bits | 15 MS/s | Flexible-resolution measurements |
| PXI-5922 | 24 bits | 15 MS/s | PXI modular integration |
| PXI-5122 | 14 bits | 100 MS/s | Higher-speed waveform acquisition |
| PXI-5124 | 12 bits | 200 MS/s | Faster transient capture |
Choose the PCI-5922 when measurement resolution, dynamic range and spectral accuracy are more important than very high bandwidth. Choose a faster digitizer when the signal contains frequency content above 6 MHz.
PCI-5922 Frequently Asked Questions
Does the PCI-5922 always operate at 24-bit resolution?
No. It provides 24-bit resolution at rates up to 500 kS/s and progressively lower resolution as the sampling rate increases.
What is the maximum sample rate?
The maximum real-time sample rate is 15 MS/s.
What is the maximum bandwidth?
The maximum analog bandwidth is 6 MHz.
Can it use 50 Ω and 1 MΩ inputs?
Yes. Input impedance is software selectable between 50 Ω and 1 MΩ.
Which driver controls the PCI-5922?
The device uses NI-SCOPE and can be operated interactively through InstrumentStudio.
How much onboard memory does it have?
NI lists configurations with up to 32 MB of onboard acquisition memory.
Recommended Related Products
- PXI-5922 Flexible-Resolution Digitizer
- PXI-5122 High-Speed Digitizer
- PXI-5124 Oscilloscope Device
- PXI-4461 Dynamic Signal Acquisition Module
Request a Quote for the PCI-5922
Contact us for availability, memory configuration, calibration options and project pricing for the PCI-5922 flexible-resolution digitizer. Please provide the complete part number when replacing an existing device.
