Hardware Components
- Updated2025-12-19
- 3 minute(s) read
The RF Record Software system supports the following 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. |
PXIe Chassis |
Houses the system and supplies power and communication
for the functions. Required model: PXIe-1095 without the timing and synchronization upgrade option (part number 783882-01) |
PXIe Controller |
Interacts with the instruments using NI device
drivers. Required model: PXIe-8881, Windows 11 64-bit (part number 789431-01) |
Vector Signal Transceiver (VST) Instrument  |
Generates and analyzes RF signals with a high-speed
serial interface. Required model: PXIe-5842 VST (Up to 2 GHz BW) (part number 789600-26211) |
Stream Translation Module  |
Translates high-speed serial connections to 100 GbE RDMA
connections. An STsc instance may require up to a maximum of four stream
translation modules. Required model: PXIe-8290 (part number 789548-01) |
Data Storage Server  |
Provides data storage for the system. Required model: Dell PowerEdge R7625 Note Refer to RPDSsc
Hardware for the required specifications. |
MXI-Express Controller |
Enables control of a PXI Express chassis from an
external host. It is required for systems with 4-VST configurations.
Recommended model: PXIe-8398 (part number 784178-01) |
| MXI-Express Daisy Chain |
Allows you to create multi-chassis PXI systems that
interface to the same computer (PXIe controller). Required for systems
with 4-VST configurations. Recommended model: PXIe-8394 (part number 785157-01) |
Synchronization Module |
Exports and imports reference clocks and triggers.
Required for systems with 4-VST configurations. Required model: PXIe-6674T (part number 781037-01) |
SMA Power Splitter  |
Required for systems with 2-VST and 4-VST
configurations. Recommended models are listed in the tables for each configuration in System Hardware Configuration Examples. |
Clock Distribution Device  |
Required for 4-VST multi-chassis
configurations. Required model: CDA-2990 without GPSDO (part number 784305-01) |
Cables and Accessories |
Cables and accessories (not included in the hardware
kits) that allow connectivity to/from the instruments for calibration,
communication, and measurements. Recommended cables and accessories are listed in the tables for each configuration in System Hardware Configuration Examples. |
Related Information
- ICsc Hardware
Learn about the required ICsc hardware.
- STsc Hardware
Learn about the required STsc hardware.
- RPDSsc Hardware
Learn about the required hardware for the RPDSsc modular system component.
- Setting Up Hardware
- System Hardware Configuration Examples
Set up your hardware with one, two, or four VSTs.
- Hardware Rack Guidance
Select a hardware rack that complies with the recommended physical characteristics.
- Analog Cable Guidance
Learn about the NI analog cable options for LO sharing, reference clock, and triggering for your system.