PXIe-3352

The PXIe-3352 (Part Number: 785034-01) is the world’s first PXI rubidium synchronization module, engineered to deliver unparalleled time and frequency accuracy for automated measurement equipment. Combining a high-precision rubidium oscillator with an integrated GPS receiver into a single instrument, this dual-width PXI Express module sets a new standard for high-density functionality. It is designed to act as the ultimate timing foundation for mission-critical commercial, military, and aerospace test systems.

Engineered for extreme frequency stability, the PXIe-3352 generates highly accurate 10 MHz sine wave and square wave clock signals, alongside a precise 1 pulse-per-second (1 PPS) timing output. With an exceptional onboard clock accuracy of 50 ppt and ultra-low phase noise ranging from −102 to −150 dBc/Hz, it easily surpasses traditional timing standards. This makes it an invaluable asset for frequency-critical applications, including advanced RF subsystems, telecommunications timing, and high-tier metrology.

The true architectural advantage of the PXIe-3352 lies in its GPS disciplining and robust holdover capabilities. When disciplined to GPS satellites via its 22-channel receiver, the module achieves a 1 PPS timing accuracy of ±11 nanoseconds. If GPS signals become unavailable, the module seamlessly enters a holdover mode, relying entirely on the rubidium frequency standard to maintain unshakable frequency stability and long-term continuous operation without signal degradation.

To guarantee maximum uptime and eliminate warm-up delays, the PXIe-3352 features a dedicated 12 V DC external power input on the front panel. This unique design allows the rubidium oscillator to remain powered even when the host PXI chassis is completely shut down, eliminating the crippling effects of oscillator retrace. Furthermore, the GPS receiver utilizes an internal battery to retain location data and SRAM, ensuring lightning-fast position fixes upon system reboot.

From a software and integration perspective, the module delivers frictionless compatibility with the PXI ecosystem. Utilizing the dedicated Astronics driver, engineers gain comprehensive support for LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and NI-VISA. This native connectivity empowers test engineers to interactively query and monitor operating temperatures, event histories, and system diagnostics through a soft front panel, significantly reducing the overhead of manual sequence programming.

The PXIe-3352 is meticulously tailored for applications where timing precision is non-negotiable. It is the definitive choice for synchronized radar evaluation, defense instrumentation, satellite communications, and distributed high-speed data acquisition architectures. Its ability to centralize and distribute flawlessly stable clocks across multiple devices makes it an essential backbone for massive, scalable automated test equipment (ATE) platforms.

Overall, the  PXIe-3352 Rubidium/GPS Frequency Standard represents a pinnacle of synchronization hardware for engineers who demand uncompromised timing resolution and reliability. By fusing rubidium holdover performance with GPS accuracy and continuous external power management, the PXIe-3352 provides a highly dependable, future-proof timing solution for the most demanding test and measurement environments.