RF Recording Software Hardware Overview

The RF Recording Software system includes the following hardware components.

Notice This system and the surrounding environment must meet the requirements defined in the specifications documents for each hardware component.

The following table describes the general components in an RF Recording Software system.

Note Not all supported channel configurations require every component in this table. Refer to the table for your channel-count and configuration type to obtain a detailed list of required components.
Table 1. System Hardware Components
Component Description and Recommendations
Hardware Rack

Stores all hardware components, allowing for airflow and access to the front and rear connectors of all components.
Note Refer to Hardware Rack Guidance for information about compatible hardware racks and guidance about mounting hardware components in the rack.
PXI Chassis

 Houses the system and supplies power, communication, and timing/synchronization for the functions.

Required model: PXIe-1095

Note You can use the PXIe-1095 chassis with or without the timing and synchronization upgrade. The timing and synchronization upgrade option is only available at the time of the PXI chassis purchase. The timing and synchronization option is not required for the RF Recording Software system.
PXIe Controller

 Interacts with the instruments using NI device drivers.

Required model: PXIe-8881, Windows 10 64-bit

Note 1- and 2-channel local record configurations require the RAM upgrade for the PXIe-8881.
MXI Controller

 Enables control of a PXI Express chassis from an external host. It is required for systems with 8- or 16-channel configurations.

Recommended model: PXIe-8398
MXI Daisy Chain

Allows you to create multi-chassis PXI systems that interface to the same computer (PXIe controller). Required for systems with 8- or 16-channel configurations.

Recommended model: PXIe-8394
Vector Signal Transceiver (VST) Instrument

Generates and analyzes RF signals with a high-speed serial interface.

Required model: PXIe-5841

Note The PXIe-5841 can be purchased with or without a PXIe-5655 module or separately. One PXIe-5655 is required on systems with LO sharing.
RAID

Exports and imports reference clocks and triggers for systems with local record configurations.

Required model: PXIe-8267
Data Storage Computer

Provides storage for systems with remote record configurations.

Required model: Dell PowerEdge R7525

Note Refer to Data Storage Computer Guidance for the required specifications.
LO Source

 The RF Analog Signal Generator that provides the LO source for the system.

Required model: PXIe-5655

Note The PXIe-5655 can be purchased as part of the PXIe-5841 or separately. One PXIe-5655 is required on systems with LO sharing.
Stream Translator

 Provides high-speed FPGA coprocessing capabilities to systems with remote record configurations.

Required model: PXIe-7903
LO Amplifier

Shares the LO source in a star configuration for systems with 8- or 16-channel configurations.

Required model: SCT SC2215
Synchronization Module

 Exports and imports reference clocks and triggers in systems with 8- or 16-channel configurations.

Required model: PXIe-6674T
Synchronized Signal Distribution Device

Shares the reference clock and triggers in a star configuration for systems with 8- or 16-channel configurations.

Required model: CDA-2990 (without GPSDO)

Note The RF Recording Software system only supports the CDA-2990 without GPSDO.
RF Splitter

Required for systems with 2-, 4-, 8-, or 16-channel configurations.

Recommended models are listed in the tables for each channel-count and configuration type.
Cables and Accessories

 Cables and accessories not included in the hardware kits, that allow connectivity to/from the instruments for measurements and communication.

Recommended models are listed in the tables for each channel-count and configuration type.