PXIe-4480 High-Bandwidth Sound and Vibration Module
The PXIe-4480 is a 24-bit, six-channel PXI sound and vibration module designed for high-bandwidth audio, acoustic, pressure and vibration measurements. It combines simultaneous dynamic signal acquisition with integrated conditioning for IEPE, charge-output and voltage-excited sensors.
In frequency-domain mode, the module acquires all six channels at rates up to 1.25 MS/s per channel and provides a dynamic range of up to 115 dB. For high-speed transient events, time-domain mode can acquire data at up to 20 MS/s per channel.
Integrated AC/DC coupling, IEPE current, voltage excitation, charge measurement and TEDS support make the PXIe-4480 suitable for building advanced PXI sound and vibration systems without requiring separate conditioning hardware for every sensor.
Key Features of the PXIe-4480
- Six simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- 24-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converters
- 100 S/s to 1.25 MS/s frequency-domain sampling
- Up to 20 MS/s per channel in time-domain mode
- Up to 115 dB dynamic range
- Alias-free frequency-domain bandwidth up to approximately 503.75 kHz
- Four software-selectable voltage ranges
- Four software-selectable charge ranges
- Voltage and charge measurement modes
- Independent AC or DC coupling in voltage mode
- Integrated 4 mA, 10 mA and 20 mA IEPE excitation
- 10 V and 25 V sensor voltage excitation
- IEEE 1451 Class I TEDS support
- Differential and pseudodifferential voltage input configurations
- Single-ended charge input configuration
- Integrated antialiasing and digital filtering
- InfiniBand front-panel sensor connector
- SMB programmable function interface
- PXI Express interface
PXIe-4480 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXIe-4480 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 784277-01 |
| Product Type | PXI Sound and Vibration Module |
| Analog Input Channels | 6 simultaneously sampled channels |
| Analog Output Channels | None |
| ADC Resolution | 24 bits |
| ADC Type | Delta-sigma |
| Frequency-Domain Sample Rate | 100 S/s to 1.25 MS/s per channel |
| Time-Domain Sample Rate | Up to 20 MS/s per channel |
| Dynamic Range | Up to 115 dB |
| Alias-Free Bandwidth | DC to 0.403 × sample rate |
| Maximum Frequency-Domain Bandwidth | Approximately 503.75 kHz |
| Alias Rejection | 120 dBc minimum |
| Measurement Types | Voltage or charge, independently selectable per channel |
| Voltage Input Ranges | ±0.5 V, ±1 V, ±5 V and ±10 V peak |
| Charge Input Ranges | ±1,000 pC, ±2,000 pC, ±10,000 pC and ±20,000 pC peak |
| Voltage Input Coupling | AC or DC |
| Charge Input Coupling | AC |
| Voltage AC-Coupled Cutoff | Approximately 0.49 Hz at −3 dB |
| Charge AC-Coupled Cutoff | Approximately 2.2 Hz at −3 dB |
| IEPE Excitation | Off, 4 mA, 10 mA or 20 mA |
| IEPE Compliance | 22 V |
| Voltage Excitation | 10 V or 25 V, depending on configuration |
| TEDS Support | IEEE 1451 Class I |
| Front Connector | InfiniBand and SMB |
| Bus Interface | PXI Express |
Six Simultaneously Sampled Input Channels
The PXIe-4480 acquires all six input channels simultaneously. This architecture maintains the timing and phase relationship among sensors, which is essential for acoustic arrays, structural measurements, modal analysis and multichannel vibration testing.
Each channel can be configured independently for its measurement type, input range, coupling and sensor excitation. Different supported sensor types can therefore be connected to the same module when the application requires a mixed measurement configuration.
Frequency-Domain Measurement Mode
Frequency-domain mode is optimized for spectral analysis and provides configurable sampling rates from 100 S/s to 1.25 MS/s. The module uses analog and digital filtering to provide strong rejection of out-of-band signals and prevent unwanted frequency components from appearing in the measured spectrum.
The alias-free bandwidth is approximately 0.403 times the selected sample rate. At 1.25 MS/s, this provides a maximum alias-free bandwidth of approximately 503.75 kHz.
Frequency-domain mode is appropriate for:
- Fast Fourier transform analysis
- Frequency-response measurements
- Order analysis
- Octave analysis
- Vibration spectrum measurements
- Acoustic and hydrophone analysis
- Rotating machinery diagnostics
- Audio and ultrasonic testing
20 MS/s Time-Domain Measurement Mode
Time-domain mode allows the PXIe-4480 to acquire data at rates up to 20 MS/s per channel. This mode is designed for capturing rapid signal changes and transient events that require higher temporal resolution than conventional dynamic signal acquisition.
Typical time-domain applications include:
- Blast and shock pressure measurements
- Fast pressure transients
- Impact testing
- Pyrotechnic event monitoring
- High-speed structural events
- Short-duration acoustic pulses
- Rapid machinery fault events
Frequency-domain and time-domain modes serve different measurement requirements. Select frequency-domain mode when spectral accuracy and digital filtering are most important, and time-domain mode when capturing a sudden event with high time resolution is the priority.
24-Bit Dynamic Signal Acquisition
The PXIe-4480 uses 24-bit delta-sigma converters to provide low-noise dynamic measurements. Its dynamic range can reach 115 dB under supported sample-rate, input-range and bandwidth conditions.
Four software-selectable voltage ranges allow the measurement resolution to be matched to the sensor output. Selecting the smallest range that accommodates the expected signal generally provides the best use of the converter’s available resolution.
| Voltage Range | Full-Scale Peak Input |
|---|---|
| 0.5 V | ±0.5 V peak |
| 1 V | ±1 V peak |
| 5 V | ±5 V peak |
| 10 V | ±10 V peak |
Voltage and Charge Measurement Modes
Each PXIe-4480 channel can be independently configured to measure either voltage or charge. Voltage mode supports differential or pseudodifferential connections, while charge mode uses a single-ended configuration.
Charge mode enables direct measurement of supported piezoelectric sensors that produce a high-impedance charge output. This eliminates the need for a separate external charge amplifier in many measurement systems.
| Charge Range | Full-Scale Peak Input |
|---|---|
| 1,000 pC | ±1,000 pC peak |
| 2,000 pC | ±2,000 pC peak |
| 10,000 pC | ±10,000 pC peak |
| 20,000 pC | ±20,000 pC peak |
When selecting a charge range, calculate the sensor’s maximum expected charge from its sensitivity and measurement range. The expected signal must remain within the selected PXIe-4480 charge range.
AC and DC Coupling
Voltage measurements support independently selectable AC or DC coupling. DC coupling preserves static and dynamic components, making it suitable for pressure sensors, direct-voltage signals and low-frequency events.
AC coupling removes the DC component and is useful for vibration, acoustic and dynamic pressure measurements. The voltage input’s −3 dB high-pass cutoff is approximately 0.49 Hz, while the charge input’s −3 dB cutoff is approximately 2.2 Hz.
Charge measurement uses AC coupling. If the application must measure static or very slowly changing force or pressure, confirm that a charge-output sensor and the module’s high-pass response are suitable.
Integrated IEPE Signal Conditioning
The PXIe-4480 provides software-selectable IEPE excitation on each channel. Available current settings are 4 mA, 10 mA and 20 mA, along with an off setting. The IEPE compliance voltage is 22 V.
IEPE conditioning allows compatible accelerometers, microphones and pressure sensors to operate directly from the module without a separate constant-current supply. Before enabling IEPE excitation, verify the sensor’s required current, bias voltage and compliance requirements.
Sensor Voltage Excitation
Integrated sensor voltage excitation supports transducers that require a powered voltage supply. Available configurations include 10 V and 25 V excitation, with additional adjustment available around the 10 V setting.
Voltage excitation is useful for supported pressure sensors, conditioned transducers and other powered measurement devices. Check the sensor datasheet carefully before enabling excitation, as an incorrect excitation voltage can damage the connected sensor.
TEDS Smart Sensor Support
The PXIe-4480 supports IEEE 1451 Class I Transducer Electronic Data Sheet technology. A compatible TEDS sensor stores information such as model, serial number, sensitivity and calibration data in onboard memory.
Measurement software can read this information and apply the correct channel configuration and engineering-unit scaling. TEDS reduces manual setup time and helps prevent errors caused by entering an incorrect sensor sensitivity.
Suitable Sensors for the PXIe-4480
- IEPE accelerometers
- Charge-output accelerometers
- IEPE microphones
- Measurement microphones with compatible conditioning
- Dynamic pressure sensors
- Charge-output pressure transducers
- Hydrophones
- Underwater acoustic transducers
- Impact and blast sensors
- Voltage-output vibration sensors
- TEDS-compatible transducers
Typical PXIe-4480 Applications
- High-bandwidth sound and vibration measurement
- Automotive NVH analysis
- Aerospace vibration and acoustic testing
- Underwater acoustic measurement
- Hydrophone data acquisition
- Blast and pressure event acquisition
- Structural dynamics testing
- Modal and impact analysis
- Machine condition monitoring
- Rotating machinery diagnostics
- Audio and ultrasonic testing
- Charge-output piezoelectric sensor measurement
- Research and laboratory automation
- High-speed transient capture
Synchronization and Triggering
The PXIe-4480 supports PXI Express timing and triggering resources for synchronizing measurements with additional data acquisition or instrumentation modules. Its front-panel SMB programmable function interface can be used for supported external trigger and timing signals.
Multiple PXIe-4480 modules can be synchronized when more than six channels are required. For accurate intermodule phase measurements, use a common timebase and allow all modules to complete the recommended warm-up procedure.
Software and Driver Support
The PXIe-4480 uses the NI-DAQmx driver for channel configuration, sensor excitation, TEDS communication, timing, triggering and data acquisition.
FlexLogger can be used for interactive sensor configuration, data logging, alarms and test automation. LabVIEW provides programmatic measurement control, while the LabVIEW Sound and Vibration Toolkit adds frequency, octave, order, transient and vibration analysis functions.
NI DIAdem can be used for offline processing, visualization and automated report generation. Verify the required NI-DAQmx, operating-system and application-software versions before adding the module to an existing system.
PXIe-4480 Connectivity
The PXIe-4480 uses a front-panel InfiniBand connector for its six conditioned analog input channels. An application-specific cable or terminal accessory is required to connect individual sensors to the module.
The front panel also includes an SMB PFI connection for supported triggering and timing functions. Sensors and cables are normally ordered separately.
PXIe-4480 Chassis Compatibility
The PXIe-4480 is a PXI Express module and requires a compatible PXI Express peripheral or hybrid slot. It cannot operate in a traditional PXI-only slot.
Before purchasing, verify the chassis slot type, controller compatibility, required cooling, NI-DAQmx support and available backplane bandwidth. Time-domain acquisition from multiple channels can generate significant data throughput, so controller and storage performance should also be considered.
PXIe-4480 Troubleshooting
The Input Signal Is Clipped
Select a wider voltage or charge range. Check the sensor sensitivity, expected measurement range, bias voltage and transient peak amplitude before starting acquisition.
An IEPE Sensor Produces No Valid Signal
Confirm that IEPE excitation is enabled and that the current setting matches the sensor. Check sensor wiring, cable integrity, bias voltage and compliance requirements.
A Charge Sensor Produces Incorrect Values
Verify the sensor sensitivity, selected charge range and engineering-unit scaling. Ensure the calculated maximum sensor output does not exceed ±20,000 pC.
Low-Frequency Signals Are Attenuated
Check the selected coupling and measurement mode. AC-coupled voltage and charge measurements have different high-pass cutoff frequencies. Use DC-coupled voltage mode when the signal content must extend to DC.
TEDS Information Cannot Be Read
Confirm that the sensor supports IEEE 1451 Class I TEDS and that the selected cable correctly connects the TEDS data path. Check the NI-DAQmx device and channel configuration.
Recorded Data Contains Aliased Frequencies
Use frequency-domain mode with an appropriate sample rate and confirm that the desired signal remains within the alias-free bandwidth. External interference outside the usable passband may also need to be reduced.
Time-Domain Data Cannot Stream Continuously
Check the chassis backplane, PXI controller, system memory and storage write rate. Six channels operating at high sampling rates can produce a large amount of data.
PXIe-4480 Compared with Similar Sound and Vibration Modules
| Model | Input Channels | Maximum Standard Sample Rate | Dynamic Range | Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PXIe-4464 | 4 | 204.8 kS/s | 119 dB | IEPE |
| PXIe-4468 | 2 | 250 kS/s | 121 dB | IEPE, plus 2 analog outputs |
| PXIe-4480 | 6 | 1.25 MS/s | 115 dB | IEPE, charge, voltage excitation and TEDS |
| PXIe-4481 | 6 | 1.25 MS/s | 115 dB | Voltage measurement without the PXIe-4480 sensor-conditioning set |
The PXIe-4480 is preferred when the application requires high bandwidth and direct connection to several sensor types. The PXIe-4481 provides similar high-bandwidth voltage acquisition but is intended for applications that do not need integrated charge measurement, voltage excitation or the complete PXIe-4480 sensor-conditioning feature set.
The PXIe-4468 is better suited to stimulus-response applications requiring both analog inputs and outputs, while the PXIe-4464 provides four lower-bandwidth acquisition channels with high dynamic range.
Recommended Related Products
- PXIe-4481 24-Bit Analog Input Module – Provides six high-bandwidth voltage input channels without the complete sensor-conditioning functions of the PXIe-4480.
- PXIe-4468 Sound and Vibration Module – Combines two 250 kS/s analog inputs with two precision analog outputs and IEPE conditioning.
- PXIe-4464 Sound and Vibration Module – Provides four 24-bit input channels for lower-bandwidth acoustic and vibration measurements.
- PXIe-4499 Sound and Vibration Module – A higher-channel-count option for acoustic arrays and large vibration measurement systems.
How to Select the Correct Sound and Vibration Module
Choose the PXIe-4480 when the application requires six simultaneously sampled channels, frequency-domain acquisition up to 1.25 MS/s or direct support for IEPE, charge-output and voltage-excited sensors.
Before ordering, confirm the following:
- Required number of input channels
- Frequency-domain or time-domain measurement mode
- Required sampling rate and bandwidth
- Voltage or charge measurement range
- Sensor excitation requirements
- IEPE current and compliance voltage
- TEDS compatibility
- InfiniBand cable or terminal accessory
- PXI Express chassis and controller bandwidth
- NI-DAQmx and analysis software compatibility
Why Choose the PXIe-4480?
The PXIe-4480 combines six high-bandwidth, 24-bit acquisition channels with conditioning for several important sensor types. This reduces the amount of external conditioning hardware required for complex acoustic, pressure and vibration systems.
Its selectable frequency-domain and time-domain modes allow one instrument to perform accurate spectral measurements and capture fast transient events. The module is particularly valuable for test systems that must support conventional IEPE sensors, passive charge-output transducers and voltage-excited devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXIe-4480?
The PXIe-4480 is a six-channel, 24-bit PXI Express sound and vibration module with integrated IEPE, charge, voltage-excitation and TEDS sensor support.
What is the PXIe-4480 part number?
The standard NI part number is 784277-01.
What is the maximum standard sample rate?
In frequency-domain mode, the PXIe-4480 samples at rates up to 1.25 MS/s per channel.
Can the PXIe-4480 sample at 20 MS/s?
Yes. Time-domain mode supports sampling rates up to 20 MS/s per channel for high-speed transient events.
How many input channels does it have?
The module provides six simultaneously sampled analog input channels.
Does the PXIe-4480 have analog outputs?
No. It is an analog input and sensor-conditioning module. Select a module such as the PXIe-4468 if analog signal generation is also required.
Does it support charge-output sensors?
Yes. It provides four charge ranges from ±1,000 pC to ±20,000 pC for compatible piezoelectric sensors.
Does the PXIe-4480 support IEPE sensors?
Yes. IEPE excitation can be independently configured to off, 4 mA, 10 mA or 20 mA on each channel.
What voltage ranges are available?
The module provides full-scale voltage ranges of ±0.5 V, ±1 V, ±5 V and ±10 V peak.
What is TEDS used for?
TEDS allows compatible sensors to provide identification, sensitivity and calibration information to the measurement software, reducing manual configuration errors.
What connector does the PXIe-4480 use?
The sensor channels use a front-panel InfiniBand connector. The module also includes an SMB programmable function interface for supported triggering and timing signals.
Which driver controls the PXIe-4480?
The module uses NI-DAQmx and can be operated with supported versions of FlexLogger, LabVIEW and the LabVIEW Sound and Vibration Toolkit.
Request a Quote for the PXIe-4480
Contact us for current availability, lead time and project pricing for the PXIe-4480 High-Bandwidth Sound and Vibration Module, part number 784277-01.
We can also help verify compatible PXI Express chassis, controllers, InfiniBand cables, terminal accessories and sensor-conditioning requirements for your measurement system.
