National Instruments PXI-5402 PXI Waveform Generator

The National Instruments PXI-5402 (part numbers: 779655-01, 192887E-01L) is a 20 MHz PXI Waveform Generator designed to create various waveforms and standard functions. Boasting 14 bits of DAC resolution, the PXI-5402 offers incredible precision and fidelity for a wide range of applications. Designed with a singular analog output channel, this function generator is capable of producing signals ranging from -5 V to 5 V. The front panel of the device features 4 BNC female connectors, designated for analog output, PLL reference clock input, and trigger input / sample clock output.

A variety of common functions are possible with the NI PXI-5402. Sine, Square, and User-Defined functions have a maximum frequency of 20 MHz and a maximum sample rate of 400 MS/s. The maximum frequency of both Ramp and Triangle functions is 1 MHz, and they each have a maximum sample rate of 100 MS/s. The sample clock of the NI PXI-5402 Waveform Generator is an onboard VCXO clock with a maximum frequency of 100 MHz. By utilizing the TClk synchronization driver from National Instruments, the sample clocks from multiple SMC-based modules in a chassis can be synchronized.

In order to maintain precision, it is recommended to calibrate the PXI-5402 every two years. There are two calibration options with the waveform generator: self-calibration or external calibration. The self-calibration capability of the device is the best choice for calibrate the gain and offset, using an onboard 24 bit ADC. The external calibration option of the device should be used to correct the VCXO, voltage reference, and aspects of the self-calibration. The NI PXI-5402 has a 15 minute warm up time prior to calibration.

Physically, the PXI-5402 measures dimensions of 21.6 × 2.0 × 13.0 cm (8.5 × 0.8 × 5.1 in.) and weighs in at 351 g (12.4 oz). The device has an operating temperature range of 0 to +55 ºC and a storage temperature range of –25 to +85 ºC. Additional specifications for the PXI-5402 can be found in the manuals and datasheets under the "Manuals & PDFs" tab.

PXI-5402 Mature Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the waveform generator will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.