PXIe-5652 6.6 GHz PXI RF Analog Signal Generator
Земля NI PXIe-5652 is a single-slot PXI Express RF analog signal generator designed for automated RF testing, receiver validation, component characterization and local-oscillator applications. It generates continuous-wave RF signals from 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz with programmable frequency and output power.
In addition to CW generation, the PXIe-5652 supports internal frequency modulation, binary frequency-shift keying and on-off keying. This makes it suitable for generating basic modulated RF stimulus without requiring a separate arbitrary waveform generator or I/Q modulator.
The module can operate as a standalone RF source or serve as the local oscillator in compatible modular RF systems such as the PXIe-5663E vector signal analyzer and PXIe-5673E vector signal generator. NI-RFSG software provides interactive and programmatic control of frequency, power, modulation, triggering and reference-clock settings.
Key Features of the PXIe-5652
- 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz calibrated frequency range
- Tunable down to 100 kHz with uncalibrated amplitude
- Single-slot 3U PXI Express module
- Continuous-wave RF signal generation
- Internal frequency modulation
- Binary 2-FSK modulation
- On-off keying modulation
- Frequency resolution better than 3 Hz below 1.3 GHz
- Programmable output levels as low as −90 dBm in supported bands
- Maximum specified output up to +10 dBm in supported bands
- Typical maximum available power up to 2 dB above the specified range
- Output-amplitude resolution better than 0.1 dB
- Narrow and wide PLL loop-bandwidth modes
- Fast frequency settling for automated test sequences
- Internal and external 10 MHz reference support
- Three front-panel RF and reference connectors
- 50 Ω RF output impedance
- NI-RFSG driver and soft-front-panel support
- Can operate as a standalone RF source
- Can function as an LO source in compatible NI RF systems
PXIe-5652 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXIe-5652 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 781217-01 |
| Product Type | PXI Express RF analog signal generator |
| Calibrated Frequency Range | 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz |
| Extended Tuning Range | Down to 100 kHz with uncalibrated amplitude |
| Frequency Resolution | Better than 3 Hz to 12 Hz, depending on frequency |
| Maximum Specified Output | Up to +10 dBm, frequency dependent |
| Minimum Specified Output | Down to −90 dBm, frequency dependent |
| Amplitude Resolution | Better than 0.1 dB |
| Output Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Modulation Types | FM, 2-FSK and OOK |
| FM Waveform Types | Sine, triangle and square |
| FM Waveform Frequency | 1 Hz to 100 kHz |
| FSK Symbol Rate | 763 Hz to 100 kHz |
| OOK Symbol Rate | 153 Hz to 100 kHz |
| Internal Reference Frequency | 10 MHz |
| External Reference Input | 10 MHz ±10 ppm |
| External Reference Lock Time | Less than 1 second |
| RF Reverse-Power Handling | 0.5 W or +27 dBm, subject to operating conditions |
| Maximum Reverse DC Voltage | 25 V |
| Front-Panel Connectors | RF OUT, REF IN/OUT and REF OUT2 |
| Шинный интерфейс | PXI Express |
| Module Size | 3U, one slot |
| Dimensions | 2.0 × 13.0 × 21.6 cm |
| Weight | 415 g |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C |
| Storage Temperature | −40°C to 70°C |
| Warm-Up Time | 30 minutes |
| Calibration Interval | 1 year |
| Software Driver | NI-RFSG |
PXIe-5652 Part Number
| Модель | Part Number | Описание |
|---|---|---|
| PXIe-5652 | 781217-01 | 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz PXI Express RF analog signal generator |
Verify the model name carefully before ordering. The PXIe-5652 uses the PXI Express interface and has three front-panel connectors. The older PXI-5652 uses a PXI hybrid-compatible interface and has a different front-panel reference-connector arrangement.
500 kHz to 6.6 GHz Frequency Coverage
The PXIe-5652 provides calibrated RF generation from 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz. This wide range supports testing of low-frequency RF circuits, broadcast equipment, wireless receivers, cellular devices, WLAN components, satellite subsystems and general-purpose microwave electronics.
The module can tune as low as 100 kHz, but output-amplitude performance below 500 kHz is not calibrated. Applications requiring specified power accuracy should remain within the calibrated 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz range.
PXIe-5652 Frequency Resolution
| Диапазон частот | Frequency Resolution |
|---|---|
| 500 kHz to below 1.3 GHz | Better than 3 Hz |
| 1.3 GHz to below 3.3 GHz | Better than 6 Hz |
| 3.3 GHz to 6.6 GHz | Better than 12 Hz |
Fine frequency resolution enables precise carrier placement and small frequency-step testing. Absolute output-frequency accuracy depends on the selected internal or external reference clock.
Programmable Output Power
The available output range depends on carrier frequency. The PXIe-5652 provides its widest low-level range below approximately 1.6 GHz, where signals can be programmed as low as −90 dBm.
| Диапазон частот | Specified Output Range |
|---|---|
| 500 kHz to below 10 MHz | −90 dBm to +5 dBm |
| 10 MHz to below 50 MHz | −90 dBm to +8 dBm |
| 50 MHz to below 1.6 GHz | −90 dBm to +10 dBm |
| 1.6 GHz to below 2.9 GHz | −80 dBm to +8 dBm |
| 2.9 GHz to below 3.3 GHz | −70 dBm to +8 dBm |
| 3.3 GHz to below 3.7 GHz | −60 dBm to +7 dBm |
| 3.7 GHz to below 5.0 GHz | −40 dBm to +5 dBm |
| 5.0 GHz to 6.6 GHz | −40 dBm to 0 dBm |
The output-amplitude resolution is better than 0.1 dB. When additional power or a lower signal level is required, use an appropriate external amplifier, attenuator or signal-conditioning component rated for the application’s frequency range.
Power-Level Accuracy
| Диапазон частот | Above −40 dBm | At or Below −40 dBm |
|---|---|---|
| 500 kHz to below 10 MHz | ±1.6 dB | ±2.2 dB |
| 10 MHz to below 3.3 GHz | ±0.75 dB | ±1.8 dB |
| 3.3 GHz to 6.6 GHz | ±1.0 dB | ±2.0 dB |
These power-level accuracy values apply under the documented temperature and calibration conditions. RF cable loss, adapters, switches and fixture components must be considered when determining the power delivered to the device under test.
Continuous-Wave RF Generation
The primary operating mode of the PXIe-5652 is continuous-wave generation. Users can program a carrier frequency and output power, enable the RF output and apply a stable sinusoidal test signal to the DUT.
CW generation is suitable for receiver sensitivity testing, filter and amplifier characterization, mixer testing, local-oscillator substitution, calibration stimulus and automated frequency-response measurements.
Internal Frequency Modulation
The PXIe-5652 supports internal FM using sine, triangle or square modulation waveforms. The modulation waveform frequency is programmable from 1 Hz to 100 kHz.
| Carrier-Frequency Range | Typical Maximum Sine-Wave FM Deviation |
|---|---|
| 500 kHz to below 50 MHz | 500 kHz |
| 50 MHz to below 100 MHz | 125 kHz |
| 100 MHz to below 200 MHz | 250 kHz |
| 200 MHz to below 400 MHz | 500 kHz |
| 400 MHz to below 800 MHz | 1 MHz |
| 800 MHz to below 1.6 GHz | 2 MHz |
| 1.6 GHz to below 3.3 GHz | 4 MHz |
| 3.3 GHz to 6.6 GHz | 8 MHz |
The PXIe-5652 does not support an external analog modulation input. The FM waveform and deviation are configured internally through NI-RFSG.
2-FSK Signal Generation
Binary frequency-shift keying alternates the RF carrier between two frequency states. The PXIe-5652 supports 2-FSK generation using internal pseudorandom bit sequences or a user-defined pattern containing as many as 1,022 bits.
Supported FSK symbol rates extend from 763 Hz to 100 kHz. The typical maximum deviation varies with carrier frequency and reaches 2 MHz from 3.3 GHz to below 6.6 GHz.
The FSK generator does not provide pulse shaping. Verify that the waveform characteristics meet the requirements of the receiver or communication system being tested.
On-Off Keying Generation
OOK switches the RF carrier between on and off states according to an internal bit pattern. The module supports fifth-order through thirty-first-order PRBS patterns and user-defined patterns containing as many as 1,024 bits.
OOK symbol rates range from 153 Hz to 100 kHz. This capability is useful for testing basic keyless-entry, identification, telemetry, remote-control and low-data-rate RF receiver designs.
Narrow and Wide Loop-Bandwidth Modes
The PXIe-5652 provides narrow and wide phase-locked-loop bandwidth modes. Narrow-loop operation is generally preferred when close-in spectral purity is more important, while wide-loop operation supports faster frequency settling.
| Loop Mode | Settling Accuracy | Median Settling Time | Maximum Settling Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Narrow | 0.1 ppm or better | 1.5 ms | 6.5 ms |
| Narrow | 0.01 ppm or better | 6.5 ms | 13 ms |
| Wide | 1.0 ppm | 0.2 ms | 0.7 ms |
| Wide | 0.1 ppm | 0.3 ms | 1.0 ms |
| Wide | 0.01 ppm | 1.0 ms | 5.0 ms |
Frequency-settling specifications do not include residual amplitude settling after a large frequency change. Applications requiring accurate power immediately after tuning should include the appropriate settling delay.
PXIe-5652 Phase Noise
| Carrier Frequency | Typical SSB Phase Noise at 10 kHz Offset |
|---|---|
| 100 MHz | Below −111 dBc/Hz |
| 500 MHz | Below −107 dBc/Hz |
| 1 GHz | Below −105 dBc/Hz |
| 2 ГГц | Below −98 dBc/Hz |
| 3 GHz | Below −95 dBc/Hz |
| 4 GHz | Below −93 dBc/Hz |
| 5 GHz | Below −90 dBc/Hz |
| 6.6 GHz | Below −84 dBc/Hz |
Phase-noise requirements should be evaluated at the actual carrier frequency and offset used by the application. For very demanding radar, oscillator or high-order modulation tests, compare these values with the requirements of the DUT before selecting the generator.
10 MHz Reference Clock
The module includes an internal 10 MHz frequency reference and can accept an external 10 MHz reference signal. The REF IN/OUT connector can be configured as either an external reference input or an output for the onboard reference.
A separate REF OUT2 connector provides another reference output. This third connector distinguishes the PXIe version from the older two-connector PXI-5652.
| Reference Parameter | Спецификация |
|---|---|
| Internal Clock Initial Accuracy | ±3 ppm maximum |
| Temperature Stability | ±1 ppm maximum from 15°C to 35°C |
| Aging | ±5 ppm per year maximum |
| Reference Output Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Reference Output Amplitude | 1 Vpk-pk into 50 Ω |
| External Reference Frequency | 10 MHz ±10 ppm |
| External Reference Amplitude | 0.2 to 1.5 Vpk-pk into 50 Ω |
| External Reference Lock Time | Less than 1 second |
RF Output Protection
The RF output has a nominal impedance of 50 Ω and typical reverse-power handling of 0.5 W or +27 dBm. The module also specifies reverse DC protection up to 25 V.
These ratings are protection limits rather than recommended operating conditions. Use suitable DC blocks, attenuators, isolators and external protection when the connected DUT can return RF power or DC voltage to the generator.
Front-Panel Connectors and Indicators
| Connector | Function |
|---|---|
| RF OUT | Outputs the programmed RF signal at the selected frequency and power |
| REF IN/OUT | Accepts an external reference or outputs the internal 10 MHz reference |
| REF OUT2 | Provides an additional reference-clock output |
The ACCESS indicator shows basic communication status. The ACTIVE indicator shows whether the module is generating, waiting for its PLLs to lock or reporting an error such as a lock failure or thermal shutdown.
Typical PXIe-5652 Applications
- Automated receiver testing
- RF component characterization
- CW carrier generation
- FM receiver validation
- FSK and OOK receiver testing
- Local-oscillator substitution
- Wireless-device testing
- RF filter and amplifier testing
- Mixer and frequency-converter testing
- Production functional testing
- Laboratory RF stimulus generation
- PXIe-5663E local-oscillator applications
- PXIe-5673E vector signal generator systems
Receiver Sensitivity Testing
The PXIe-5652 can generate calibrated low-level CW or modulated signals for receiver sensitivity and threshold testing. The output can be stepped downward while test software monitors the receiver’s response.
The minimum available output level becomes less negative at higher frequencies. When testing a highly sensitive receiver above 3.3 GHz, an external precision attenuator may be required to reach the desired input level.
RF Component Characterization
The module can provide an RF stimulus for measuring the response of filters, amplifiers, mixers, frequency converters and other components. Frequency and output power can be changed automatically as a digitizer, spectrum analyzer or power sensor measures the DUT output.
The accuracy of the complete test depends on the signal generator, measurement instrument, cables, switches, adapters and fixture calibration.
Local-Oscillator Applications
The fine frequency resolution and programmable PLL modes make the PXIe-5652 suitable for use as a local oscillator in mixer and frequency-conversion systems.
It can also serve as the LO source in compatible NI modular instruments. When used inside a multicomponent NI RF system, connect the modules using the specified SMA cables and follow the applicable system-level documentation.
PXIe-5652 in the PXIe-5663E
Земля PXIe-5663E Vector Signal Analyzer combines an PXIe-5601 RF downconverter, ан PXIe-5622 IF digitizer and a PXIe-5652 operating as the local oscillator.
In this configuration, NI-RFSA coordinates the separate modules as one vector signal analyzer. The PXIe-5652 should not be independently reconfigured while it is associated with the analyzer.
PXIe-5652 in the PXIe-5673E
The PXIe-5652 can be used as the RF upconversion and local-oscillator source within a compatible PXIe-5673E Vector Signal Generator system.
The system combines the RF source with an arbitrary waveform generator and I/Q modulation hardware to create complex digitally modulated RF signals. The PXIe-5652 alone does not provide arbitrary I/Q waveform generation.
NI-RFSG Software Support
The PXIe-5652 is controlled through the NI-RFSG instrument driver. NI-RFSG provides functions for configuring frequency, power, reference clocks, PLL bandwidth, FM, FSK, OOK and RF output state.
The driver includes a soft front panel for interactive operation and a programmatic API for supported development environments. Engineers can incorporate the module into automated test applications developed with LabVIEW and compatible text-based languages.
PXI Express System Integration
The PXIe-5652 occupies one slot in a compatible PXI Express chassis. It can be combined with RF analyzers, digitizers, power meters, switches and digital instruments to create a software-controlled test system.
Before installation, verify PXI Express slot compatibility, chassis cooling, controller support and NI-RFSG software requirements. Unused chassis slots should be fitted with appropriate filler panels to maintain airflow.
PXIe-5652 Troubleshooting
The PXIe-5652 is not detected
Confirm that the module is fully seated in a compatible PXI Express slot. Check chassis power, controller communication, NI-RFSG installation and device recognition in NI Measurement & Automation Explorer.
No RF output is detected
Verify that RF output generation is enabled and that the requested frequency and power are within the valid range. Check the RF cable, external attenuators, switches and measurement-instrument settings.
The ACTIVE indicator remains amber
An amber ACTIVE indicator means that the phase-locked loops are attempting to lock. Verify the selected reference-clock source, external reference signal and programmed frequency. Allow sufficient settling time after a large frequency change.
The ACTIVE indicator turns red
A red indicator can identify a PLL lock failure, thermal shutdown or another hardware error. Review the NI-RFSG error message, stop generation and check chassis airflow and operating temperature.
The output power is incorrect
Confirm that the requested level is supported at the selected frequency. Allow the module to warm up for at least 30 minutes, check cable loss and perform thermal correction when required by the measurement procedure.
The minimum output level cannot be selected
The low-level amplitude limit changes with frequency. Output down to −90 dBm is available only in the lower bands, while the specified minimum is −40 dBm from 5 GHz to 6.6 GHz.
Frequency accuracy is insufficient
Check whether the internal or external reference is selected. For improved system-level accuracy, connect the generator to a stable compatible 10 MHz reference and confirm that the module reports reference lock.
FSK or OOK generation does not match the application
Verify the symbol rate, bit pattern, deviation and carrier frequency. The internal digital modulation modes do not support pulse shaping and are not replacements for an arbitrary I/Q vector signal generator.
The module becomes hot
RF modules can become hot during normal operation. Confirm adequate chassis airflow and allow the hardware to cool before removal or handling.
PXIe-5652 Comparison with Similar RF Signal Generators
| Модель | General Configuration | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| PXIe-5650 | RF analog signal generator to approximately 1.3 GHz | Lower-frequency CW and basic modulation tests |
| PXIe-5651 | RF analog signal generator to approximately 3.3 GHz | Mid-band RF and wireless testing |
| PXIe-5652 | 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz RF analog signal generator | General-purpose RF, WLAN and microwave stimulus generation |
| PXI-5652 | 6.6 GHz generator using the PXI hybrid interface | Maintaining older PXI-based RF systems |
| PXIe-5654 | Newer wide-frequency-range RF analog signal generator | Applications requiring higher frequency and improved modern performance |
| PXIe-5673E | Vector signal generator system with arbitrary I/Q generation | Complex digitally modulated RF signals |
PXIe-5652 vs PXI-5652
The PXIe-5652 and PXI-5652 provide similar RF-generation functions and frequency coverage, but they use different chassis interfaces. The PXIe-5652 uses PXI Express and provides three front-panel connectors, including REF OUT2.
The PXI-5652 uses a PXI hybrid-compatible interface and has two front-panel connectors. Choose the version that matches the chassis, existing system architecture and system-level instrument in which the source will be used.
PXIe-5652 vs PXIe-5654
Земля PXIe-5654 is a newer RF analog signal generator with frequency options extending beyond the 6.6 GHz range of the PXIe-5652. It is intended for more demanding RFIC, radar and satellite applications.
Choose the PXIe-5652 when 6.6 GHz coverage, CW generation and basic FM, FSK or OOK modulation meet the application requirements. Consider the PXIe-5654 when higher frequency, improved spectral performance or newer-system support is required.
Recommended Related Products
- PXIe-5650 RF Analog Signal Generator
- PXIe-5651 RF Analog Signal Generator
- PXI-5652 6.6 GHz RF Signal Generator
- PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
- PXIe-5663E Vector Signal Analyzer
- PXIe-5673E Vector Signal Generator
- PXIe-5601 RF Downconverter
- PXIe-5622 IF Digitizer
- View More NI PXI and PXI Express Modules
Selecting the Right RF Signal Generator
Choose the PXIe-5652 when the test system requires a compact 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz CW source with programmable output power and basic FM, 2-FSK or OOK modulation. It is also the appropriate choice when replacing the LO module in a compatible PXIe-5663E or PXIe-5673E system.
Choose a vector signal generator when the application requires arbitrary I/Q waveforms, wideband digital modulation, advanced wireless standards or user-defined pulse shaping. Consider a newer RF analog source when the required carrier frequency exceeds 6.6 GHz.
Why Choose the PXIe-5652?
- Covers calibrated frequencies from 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz
- Provides programmable CW RF stimulus
- Supports internal FM, 2-FSK and OOK modulation
- Generates levels as low as −90 dBm in supported bands
- Provides frequency resolution better than 3 Hz to 12 Hz
- Supports narrow and wide PLL loop modes
- Accepts an external 10 MHz frequency reference
- Offers three front-panel RF and reference connectors
- Occupies one PXI Express chassis slot
- Operates as a standalone generator or system LO
- Integrates with NI-RFSG and LabVIEW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PXIe-5652?
The PXIe-5652 is a single-slot PXI Express RF analog signal generator that produces CW and basic modulated signals from 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz.
What is the PXIe-5652 part number?
The standard PXIe-5652 product part number is 781217-01.
What is its calibrated frequency range?
The calibrated frequency range is 500 kHz to 6.6 GHz. The generator can tune down to 100 kHz, but amplitude is uncalibrated below 500 kHz.
What is the maximum output power?
The maximum specified output reaches +10 dBm through several lower-frequency bands. It decreases to 0 dBm from 5 GHz to 6.6 GHz.
What is the minimum output level?
The minimum specified level reaches −90 dBm below 1.6 GHz. At higher frequencies, the minimum output level varies and becomes −40 dBm from 5 GHz to 6.6 GHz.
Which modulation types are supported?
The PXIe-5652 supports internal FM, binary 2-FSK and OOK modulation in addition to continuous-wave generation.
Can it generate arbitrary I/Q signals?
No. The PXIe-5652 is an analog RF source with basic internal modulation. Arbitrary I/Q generation requires a compatible vector signal generator system.
Does it accept an external modulation signal?
No. External analog modulation is not supported. Its FM, FSK and OOK waveforms are generated internally.
Does it support an external reference clock?
Yes. It accepts a 10 MHz external reference between 0.2 and 1.5 Vpk-pk into 50 Ω.
Can the PXIe-5652 operate by itself?
Yes. It can function as a standalone CW and modulated RF signal generator without interconnection to another module.
Can it be used with the PXIe-5663E?
Yes. The PXIe-5652 is used as the local-oscillator source in the PXIe-5663E modular vector signal analyzer.
Which software controls the PXIe-5652?
The module is controlled through the NI-RFSG driver and can be operated interactively with the NI-RFSG Soft Front Panel.
How many chassis slots does it occupy?
The PXIe-5652 occupies one 3U PXI Express slot.
What is the recommended calibration interval?
The recommended external calibration interval is one year.
Request a Quote for the PXIe-5652
Contact us for current availability, condition, calibration options and project pricing for the NI PXIe-5652 6.6 GHz RF Analog Signal Generator. Please confirm whether the module will operate as a standalone RF source or as part of a PXIe-5663E or PXIe-5673E system.
We can also help identify compatible PXI Express chassis, RF cables, attenuators, signal analyzers, PXIe-5601 downconverters, PXIe-5622 digitizers and related NI RF signal-generation products.
