The PXIe-5842 is a modular RF vector signal transceiver (VST). The PXIe-5842 module combines with other modules to form complete PXIe-5842 instruments.

The PXIe-5842 combines a vector signal generator and vector signal analyzer with FPGA-based, real-time signal processing and control.

The PXIe-5842 name encompasses the following instruments:

Table 1. PXIe-5842 Instruments
Instrument Constituent Modules
PXIe-5842 VST (PXIe-5842 VST (Up to 2 GHz BW) and PXIe-5842 VST (4 GHz BW))
  • PXIe-5842
  • PXIe-5655
PXIe-5842 VST with 54 GHz Frequency Extension
  • PXIe-5842
  • PXIe-5655 (×2)
  • PXIe-5543
  • RMM-5585
PXIe-5842 VST with S-Parameters
  • PXIe-5842
  • PXIe-5655
  • PXIe-5633

Content applies to all PXIe-5842 configurations unless otherwise noted. Content that applies to the specific PXIe-5842 module within a larger PXIe-5842 instrument is noted accordingly.

In addition, the PXIe-5842 is available with a variety of hardware options that extend performance or enable specific features. The contents of this manual encompass the full capability of the PXIe-5842.

Instrument Personalities

Some PXIe-5842 configurations support more than one personality. The personality of your VST can define its behavior and performance during any new sessions that you create.

Table 2. Supported Personalities
Personality Supported Hardware Configurations Features
Standard All hardware configurations
  • Provides all core functionality of the instrument
  • Flexible IQ rate up to 1.25 × maximum bandwidth
  • Frequency range from 30 MHz up to the maximum licensed frequency
4 GHz Bandwidth PXIe-5842 VST (4 GHz BW) configuration only
  • Allows acquisitions and generations with up to 4 GHz bandwidth
  • IQ rate locked at 5 GS/s
  • 1.75 GHz minimum frequency
  • May have lower maximum generation power at high frequencies

To configure your device personality, use either the Hardware Configuration Utility or MAX.