Electronic test instruments generate or receive signals to help measure and analyze the performance of electronic components and devices. Common test instruments include multimeters, oscilloscopes, digitizers, source measure units, and waveform generators. 

Digital instruments convert an analog signal into a numerical value for processing and display results on a screen. Digital test instruments offer various benefits, including taking extremely precise measurements that can be imported into software programs for analysis.

Analog test instruments measure continuously varying signals and display results through physical movement, such as a needle sweeping across a gauge to show voltage. While still common in consumer devices, digital instruments are generally preferred for automated testing due to their higher precision, easier data logging, and integration with software.

NI electronic test instruments provide precise, real-time measurements and are designed for easy incorporation into existing automated test systems. Their modular design allows for flexible customization, and they work well with third-party hardware. Straightforward integration with test and measurement software and extensive training and support resources simplify automated testing across industries, including the semiconductor, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

Modular instruments are measurement and test instruments built as plug‑in modules. Instead of each instrument having its own stand-alone box, modular instruments share power, timing, triggering, and data communication through the chassis backplane. This architecture lets engineers mix and match instrument types, scale channel counts, synchronize multiple modules with sub‑nanosecond precision, and create flexible, software‑defined test systems for automated testing, validation, and high‑performance measurement applications.