PXI-5124 12-Bit 150 MHz 200 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope
The NI PXI-5124 is a two-channel high-resolution PXI oscilloscope and waveform digitizer designed for automated electronic testing, communications measurements, scientific research and transient-signal analysis. It provides two simultaneously sampled input channels, 12-bit vertical resolution, 200 MS/s real-time sampling and analog bandwidth up to 150 MHz.
For repetitive signals, the PXI-5124 supports random-interleaved sampling at effective rates up to 4 GS/s. It also provides selectable 50 Ω or 1 MΩ input impedance, input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp, configurable filtering, advanced triggering and as much as 512 MB of acquisition memory per channel.
Key Features of the PXI-5124
- Two simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- 12-bit vertical resolution
- 200 MS/s real-time sampling rate per channel
- Up to 4 GS/s random-interleaved sampling for repetitive signals
- 150 MHz analog input bandwidth
- Input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp
- 50 Ω or 1 MΩ selectable input impedance
- AC, DC and ground coupling options
- Approximately 22 pF input capacitance in 1 MΩ mode
- Programmable vertical offset
- Selectable noise and antialias filters
- 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB memory per channel
- Single-record and multiple-record acquisition
- Pretrigger and post-trigger waveform capture
- Edge, window, hysteresis, video and digital triggering
- Hardware trigger rearming
- External sample-clock support
- PXI reference-clock and trigger synchronization
- NI-TClk multimodule synchronization
- Built-in self-calibration
- NI-SCOPE driver support
PXI-5124 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXI-5124 |
|---|---|
| Product Type | High-resolution PXI oscilloscope and digitizer |
| Analog Input Channels | 2, simultaneously sampled |
| Vertical Resolution | 12 bits |
| Maximum Real-Time Sample Rate | 200 MS/s per channel |
| Real-Time Sample-Rate Range | Approximately 3.052 kS/s to 200 MS/s |
| Maximum Random-Interleaved Sample Rate | 4 GS/s for repetitive signals |
| Maximum Analog Bandwidth | 150 MHz |
| Input Type | Referenced single-ended |
| Input Impedance | 50 Ω or 1 MΩ |
| 1 MΩ Input Capacitance | Approximately 22 pF |
| Input Voltage Ranges | 200 mVpp, 400 mVpp, 1 Vpp, 2 Vpp, 4 Vpp, 10 Vpp and 20 Vpp |
| Maximum Full-Scale Input Range | 20 Vpp on the supported high-impedance path |
| Input Coupling | AC, DC or ground, depending on impedance selection |
| AC-Coupling Cutoff | Approximately 12 Hz |
| Filtering | Full-bandwidth, noise-filter and antialias-filter configurations |
| Onboard Memory Options | 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB per channel |
| Trigger Types | Edge, window, hysteresis, video, digital, immediate and software |
| Trigger Sources | Analog channels, external trigger, PXI trigger lines and software |
| Internal Sample Clock | 200 MHz voltage-controlled crystal oscillator |
| Reference Clock | PXI 10 MHz reference or supported external reference |
| Front-Panel Analog Connectors | 2 × BNC |
| External Trigger Connector | BNC |
| Clock Connector | SMB |
| Data Transfer | PCI bus with scatter-gather direct memory access |
| Self-Calibration | Gain, offset, timing and signal-path calibration |
| External Calibration Interval | 2 years |
| Recommended Warm-Up Time | 15 minutes |
| Software Driver | NI-SCOPE |
| Bus Interface | PXI; compatible with supported PXI Express hybrid slots |
| Module Format | 3U, one-slot PXI module |
| Power Consumption | Approximately 17.6 W |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C under specified chassis conditions |
| Weight | Approximately 383 g |
PXI-5124 Part Numbers and Memory Options
| Product Configuration | Part Number | Onboard Memory |
|---|---|---|
| PXI-5124 Standard Memory | 778757-01 | 8 MB per channel |
| PXI-5124 Extended Memory | 778757-02 | 32 MB per channel |
| PXI-5124 Deep Memory | 778757-03 | 256 MB per channel |
| PXI-5124 Maximum Memory | 778757-04 | 512 MB per channel |
| 50 Ω BNC Cable | Configuration dependent | Coaxial cable for impedance-matched high-frequency signals |
| Passive Oscilloscope Probe | Configuration dependent | Probe for high-impedance general-purpose waveform measurements |
| SMB Clock Cable | Configuration dependent | Cable for external clock and synchronization connections |
The four PXI-5124 ordering configurations provide the same channel count, resolution, sampling rate and bandwidth. Their primary difference is the amount of waveform memory installed for each channel.
Two Simultaneously Sampled Channels
The PXI-5124 provides two independent analog input channels that sample at the same instant. Simultaneous sampling preserves phase and timing relationships between signals without the interchannel delay associated with multiplexed acquisition.
Engineers can compare device input and output waveforms, measure propagation delay or evaluate two related signals during the same transient event.
12-Bit Vertical Resolution
The 12-bit ADC provides 4,096 theoretical amplitude levels across the selected input range. This is 16 times the amplitude resolution of a conventional 8-bit oscilloscope.
The additional resolution helps reveal smaller waveform details while retaining the high sampling rate required for transient and communications measurements.
200 MS/s Real-Time Sampling
Each channel samples at up to 200 MS/s in real time, producing a sample interval of 5 ns. Real-time acquisition captures an entire waveform from one occurrence without assuming that the event will repeat.
This mode is suitable for startup behavior, pulse events, changing modulation, intermittent faults and other nonrepetitive signals.
4 GS/s Random-Interleaved Sampling
For stable repetitive signals, random-interleaved sampling provides an effective rate of up to 4 GS/s. Samples from repeated cycles are combined to create a waveform with finer time spacing.
RIS is not suitable for single-shot events or waveforms that change between acquisitions. Use 200 MS/s real-time mode for these measurements.
150 MHz Analog Bandwidth
The PXI-5124 provides up to 150 MHz analog input bandwidth. It can acquire high-speed digital signals, electronic pulses, communications waveforms and other signals that exceed the bandwidth of ordinary multifunction DAQ modules.
Probes, cables and fixtures should have sufficient bandwidth and controlled impedance. The effective system bandwidth is determined by the complete measurement path rather than the digitizer alone.
Flexible Sampling Rates
The module uses an internal 200 MHz sampling clock and programmable decimation to produce lower sample rates. Supported real-time rates follow a 200/n MS/s relationship within the available decimation range.
Decimation reduces stored data while maintaining a clock relationship suitable for synchronization. Choose the sample rate according to the signal bandwidth, record duration and data-processing requirements.
Input Ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp
Selectable ranges allow the PXI-5124 to acquire both low-amplitude and higher-voltage signals. Each channel can use a different input range during a synchronized acquisition.
Use the smallest range that safely contains the signal to improve amplitude sensitivity. Include DC offset, noise, ringing and overshoot when determining the required range.
50 Ω Input Impedance
The 50 Ω input path is designed for impedance-matched coaxial sources and high-frequency measurements. Proper termination reduces reflections and improves waveform fidelity.
Observe the voltage and power limits of the internal termination. Signals that are safe for a 1 MΩ input can overload or damage a 50 Ω input.
1 MΩ Input Impedance
The 1 MΩ path reduces loading on high-impedance circuits and supports standard passive oscilloscope probes. Its approximately 22 pF input capacitance should be considered when measuring high-frequency nodes.
Use a properly compensated probe and short ground connection to reduce ringing, loading and pickup.
AC, DC and Ground Coupling
DC coupling preserves the complete waveform, including its DC level. AC coupling blocks the DC component and has an approximate 12 Hz low-frequency cutoff.
Ground coupling disconnects the external signal from the measurement path and provides an internal ground reference for checking the baseline or programmed offset.
Programmable Vertical Offset
Vertical offset positions the selected input range around a nonzero voltage. This allows a small ripple or transient component riding on a larger DC level to use more of the ADC’s resolution.
The available offset depends on input range and impedance. The combined signal and offset must remain within the supported input limits.
Noise and Antialias Filtering
The PXI-5124 offers full-bandwidth operation, a noise-reduction filter and an antialias-filter configuration. Filtering helps improve measurement quality when the full 150 MHz bandwidth is unnecessary.
The noise filter reduces broadband noise, while the antialias filter limits frequency content that could fold into the measurement band at lower sample rates.
Deep Onboard Memory
The module is available with 8 MB, 32 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB of memory per channel. Deep memory supports longer time windows at high sampling rates and larger numbers of triggered waveform records.
Select the memory configuration by calculating the required sample rate, record duration, bytes per sample and number of stored records.
Multiple-Record Acquisition
Multiple-record mode captures many short waveform segments associated with separate trigger events. It avoids storing long intervals of inactive data between events.
This technique is useful for radar pulses, communications bursts, switching cycles, ultrasonic echoes and repetitive production-test events.
Pretrigger and Post-Trigger Capture
Pretrigger acquisition records signal behavior before the trigger, while post-trigger acquisition stores what happens afterward. The trigger position can be adjusted according to the required analysis window.
This capability helps identify the sequence of events leading to a fault, threshold crossing or abnormal transient.
Advanced Triggering
The PXI-5124 supports edge, window, hysteresis, video, digital, immediate and software triggering. The trigger can originate from an analog channel, front-panel connector, PXI backplane or software command.
Window triggering detects when a signal enters or exits a voltage band. Hysteresis improves trigger stability when noise is present near the selected threshold.
External Clocking
The module can operate from its internal 200 MHz oscillator or a supported external sample clock. External clocking allows acquisition timing to follow a device under test or another system clock.
The external clock must satisfy the required frequency, amplitude, duty-cycle and jitter specifications to maintain acquisition performance.
PXI and NI-TClk Synchronization
The PXI-5124 uses NI Synchronization and Memory Core technology and supports NI-TClk synchronization. Multiple compatible digitizers can share reference clocks and triggers for phase-coherent acquisition.
The module can also synchronize with arbitrary waveform generators and digital waveform instruments to create coordinated mixed-signal test systems.
Built-In Self-Calibration
Software-controlled self-calibration compensates for gain, offset and timing changes at the current operating temperature. A 15-minute warm-up period is recommended before precision measurements or calibration.
Self-calibration does not replace traceable external calibration. The recommended external calibration interval is two years.
Communications Measurements
The PXI-5124 can acquire baseband and intermediate-frequency signals for communications testing. Its 12-bit resolution provides improved amplitude detail compared with an 8-bit oscilloscope, while the 200 MS/s rate captures higher-frequency waveform behavior.
Software analysis can calculate spectral content, modulation parameters, power, distortion and other application-specific results.
Pulse and Transient Analysis
The 150 MHz bandwidth and 200 MS/s real-time sampling support measurements of pulse amplitude, width, overshoot, ringing and timing relationships.
Multiple-record mode efficiently captures repeated pulses, while pretrigger acquisition records the conditions immediately before an event.
Ultrasonic and Nondestructive Testing
The PXI-5124 can acquire ultrasonic transducer outputs and echo signals within its bandwidth. Deep memory allows long inspection windows or numerous triggered echoes to be stored.
Depending on the transducer, an external pulser, receiver, preamplifier or impedance-matching network may be required.
Power Electronics Testing
The digitizer can acquire gate-drive, control, current-sensor and isolated voltage-probe signals from converters, inverters and motor drives.
The input channels are referenced to chassis ground. Use properly rated differential probes or isolated transducers when measuring floating or high-voltage circuits.
Automated Production Testing
Hardware triggering, deep memory and NI-SCOPE measurements allow the PXI-5124 to perform repeatable waveform tests in production systems. Software can automatically calculate amplitude, frequency, rise time, pulse width and pass-or-fail limits.
The module can operate alongside PXI signal generators, switches, power supplies and digital instruments within one synchronized test platform.
NI-SCOPE Software Support
The PXI-5124 is controlled through the NI-SCOPE instrument driver. NI-SCOPE provides functions for configuring channels, ranges, sampling, triggers, filters, clocks, memory and waveform acquisition.
The driver supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio and compatible C, C++ and .NET environments. A soft front panel is available for interactive configuration and troubleshooting.
Typical PXI-5124 Applications
- High-resolution waveform acquisition
- Automated electronic testing
- Communications signal analysis
- Pulse and transient measurements
- Power electronics validation
- Ultrasonic and nondestructive testing
- Radar and sonar pulse capture
- Consumer electronics testing
- Aerospace and defense validation
- Scientific research
- Frequency-domain analysis
- Video-electronics testing
- Multiple-record event capture
- Mixed-signal test systems
- Synchronized multichannel acquisition
PXI-5124 Troubleshooting
The PXI-5124 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 acquired waveform is clipped
Select a larger input range or adjust the vertical offset. Confirm that the signal, DC component, noise and overshoot remain within the selected range.
The measured amplitude is incorrect
Verify input impedance, source impedance and probe attenuation. A generator calibrated for a 50 Ω load may produce approximately twice the indicated voltage when connected to a 1 MΩ input.
The waveform contains reflections
Use 50 Ω coaxial cable and matching termination for high-frequency sources. Remove unterminated branches and minimize adapters or fixture discontinuities.
The waveform contains excessive noise
Select the smallest appropriate range and enable the noise filter when full bandwidth is unnecessary. Check grounding, shielding and probe compensation.
Random-interleaved sampling produces inconsistent results
Use RIS only for stable repetitive waveforms. Select 200 MS/s real-time sampling for single-shot, modulated or changing signals.
The trigger is unstable
Review the trigger source, level, slope, coupling and hysteresis. Confirm that the source crosses the selected threshold consistently.
The available record length is shorter than expected
Each stored record requires allocation overhead in addition to its waveform samples. Reduce the number of records or select a model with greater onboard memory.
Multiple modules are not synchronized
Confirm that all modules use the same reference clock and trigger source. Configure the NI-TClk synchronization group, clock master and trigger routing correctly.
PXI-5124 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 with deep memory |
| PXI-5122 | 2 channels, 14-bit, 100 MS/s, 100 MHz | High-resolution and low-noise 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-5160 | 2 channels, 10-bit, 2.5 GS/s, 500 MHz | Higher-speed and wider-bandwidth PXI Express acquisition |
PXI-5124 vs PXI-5122
The PXI-5124 provides 12-bit resolution, 200 MS/s sampling and 150 MHz bandwidth. The PXI-5122 provides higher 14-bit resolution but has a lower 100 MS/s sample rate and 100 MHz bandwidth.
Choose the PXI-5124 for faster signals and increased bandwidth. Select the PXI-5122 when amplitude resolution and dynamic range are more important.
PXI-5124 vs PXI-5114
The PXI-5114 provides a slightly faster 250 MS/s real-time rate but uses an 8-bit ADC and offers 125 MHz bandwidth. The PXI-5124 provides 12-bit resolution and 150 MHz bandwidth at 200 MS/s.
Select the PXI-5124 for a better balance of amplitude resolution and bandwidth. Choose the PXI-5114 when maximum real-time sampling rate is the principal requirement.
PXI-5124 vs PXI-5105
The PXI-5124 provides two channels at 200 MS/s and 150 MHz. The PXI-5105 provides eight channels with the same 12-bit resolution but a lower 60 MS/s rate and 60 MHz bandwidth.
Choose the PXI-5124 for faster two-channel measurements. Select the PXI-5105 when simultaneous channel density is more important.
Recommended Related Products
- PXI-5105 8-Channel 60 MHz Oscilloscope
- PXI-5114 250 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope
- PXI-5122 14-Bit 100 MS/s Digitizer
- PXI-5142 14-Bit Digitizer with Onboard Signal Processing
- PXIe-5160 2.5 GS/s PXI Express Oscilloscope
- PXIe-5162 High-Speed 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-5124 when the application requires two simultaneous channels, 12-bit resolution, 200 MS/s real-time sampling and 150 MHz bandwidth. It provides a balanced combination of speed, bandwidth and amplitude resolution.
Select the PXI-5122 when greater vertical resolution and dynamic range are required. Consider the PXI-5114 when a slightly higher real-time sample rate is preferred, or the PXI-5105 when more simultaneous channels are needed.
Choose the 8 MB or 32 MB version for shorter records. Select the 256 MB or 512 MB configuration for long transient captures or large multiple-record acquisitions.
Why Choose the PXI-5124?
- Provides two simultaneously sampled 12-bit channels
- Offers 200 MS/s real-time acquisition
- Provides up to 150 MHz analog bandwidth
- Supports 4 GS/s RIS for repetitive signals
- Offers selectable 50 Ω and 1 MΩ inputs
- Supports input ranges from 200 mVpp to 20 Vpp
- Provides up to 512 MB memory per channel
- Includes advanced triggering and filtering
- Supports NI-TClk synchronization
- Integrates with NI-SCOPE and LabVIEW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXI-5124?
The PXI-5124 is a two-channel, 12-bit PXI oscilloscope with 150 MHz bandwidth, 200 MS/s real-time sampling and up to 512 MB of onboard memory per channel.
What is the maximum real-time sampling rate?
The maximum real-time sampling rate is 200 MS/s on each channel.
Does the PXI-5124 support equivalent-time sampling?
Yes. Random-interleaved sampling provides effective rates up to 4 GS/s for stable repetitive signals.
What is the analog bandwidth?
The maximum analog input bandwidth is 150 MHz.
What is the vertical resolution?
The PXI-5124 provides 12-bit vertical resolution, equivalent to 4,096 theoretical amplitude levels.
Which input impedances are supported?
Each channel can be configured for 50 Ω or 1 MΩ input impedance.
Which part number has 8 MB per channel?
Part number 778757-01 provides 8 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 32 MB per channel?
Part number 778757-02 provides 32 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 256 MB per channel?
Part number 778757-03 provides 256 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Which part number has 512 MB per channel?
Part number 778757-04 provides 512 MB of onboard memory per channel.
Can multiple PXI-5124 modules be synchronized?
Yes. Multiple compatible modules can share reference clocks and triggers through PXI resources and NI-TClk synchronization.
Which driver controls the PXI-5124?
The PXI-5124 is controlled through the NI-SCOPE instrument driver.
Can the PXI-5124 operate in a PXI Express chassis?
Yes. It can operate in a compatible PXI Express hybrid peripheral slot, but not in a PXI Express-only slot without the hybrid connector.
Request a Quote for the PXI-5124
Contact us for current availability, memory configuration, product condition, calibration status, lead time and project pricing for the PXI-5124 12-Bit 150 MHz 200 MS/s PXI Oscilloscope. We can also help identify compatible probes, BNC cables, PXI chassis, controllers and related high-speed digitizers.
