NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide
Contents
1. N NO AA Y Qg ni com 3 NI 565X RF Signal Generator Module 4 Ejector Handle in Down Position Figure 2 Install the NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module 10 Verify that the PXI chassis fans are operable and free of dust and other Performance may suffer if the screw is not tightened properly contaminants restricting airflow Tighten the captive screw at the top of the device front panel the ejector handle 6 Slide the device completely into the chassis and latch by pulling up on filler panels 9 Before operating the device cover all empty PXI slots using blank PXI 10 Plug in and power on the PXI chassis T 8 PXI Chassis 2 Rubber Screw Cover 1 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Cooling When installing the hardware refer to the guidelines in the Maintain Forced Air Cooling Note to Users included with the NI RF signal generator to ensure that the device can cool itself effectively UN Caution Inadequate air circulation could cause the temperature inside the chassis to rise above the optimal operating temperature for the RF signal generator potentially causing thermal shutdown shorter lifespans or improper performance NI567x Under conditions of proper air flow and 25 C 63 F ambient temperatures the NI 5610 upconverter module operates at internal temperatures of approximately 45 C 113 F the NI 5421 module at approxima2. Figure 14 While Loop with STOP Button Complete steps 21 and 22 to add an error indicator to the VI front panel 21 Create an error indicator by right clicking the error out terminal of the niRFSG Close VI and selecting Create Indicator The error out terminal is highlighted in Figure 15 error out Figure 15 Error Out Terminal on niRFSG Close VI 22 Verify that the VI block diagram now looks like the example in Figure 16 requency Hz nIRFSG Initialize vi INIRFSG Initiate vi Do wE Figure 16 Basic Sine Wave Generation VI Block Diagram NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 28 ni com 23 Verify that the VI front panel looks like the example in Figure 17 Figure 17 Basic Sine Wave Generation VI Front Panel Using NI 567X 3 Note Populate the resource name control with the NI 5610 upconverter module name refer to the Rename Both Modules section for more information or the NI 565x name specified in MAX o gt 24 Click the Run icon on the VI taskbar to initiate sine wave generation 25 Click the VI front panel STOP button to stop sine wave generation UN Caution Always stop VI operation using the front panel STOP button you created Never stop a VI with the ABORT button on the taskbar The ABORT button does not free memory resources and leaves hardware and software in an unknown state You have successfully generated a continuous sine wave signal using the
3. The module is generating a signal applicable PLLs are locked RED The module has detected an error state this may indicate lock failure in an applicable PLL a self test or calibration failure or a thermal shutdown condition Appendix B Building a Basic NI RFSG Application Complete the following steps in LabVIEW to build a basic NI RFSG application for generating continuous sine wave signals 1 Select Start All Programs National Instruments lt Lab VIE W gt LabVIEW to launch LabVIEW The LabVIEW screen appears 2 Click New choose Blank VI and click OK to create a blank VI 3 Display the block diagram by clicking it or by selecting Window Show Block Diagram 4 Activate the LabVIEW context help by pressing lt Ctrl H gt Navigate to the NI RFSG VIs on the Functions Measurement I O NI RFSG palette 6 Create the block diagram shown in Figure 9 by wiring the five VIs on the block diagram in the order in which they appear in the top row of the NI RFSG Functions palette Initialize Configure RF Initiate Check Generation Status Close Figure 9 Basic NI RFSG Block Diagram National Instruments Corporation 25 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 7 Hover the cursor over the resource name terminal on the niRFSG Initialize VI and right click Select Create Control to create a front panel control where you specify the RF signal generator device name The resou
4. NIRF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide this document Read Me First Safety and Radio Frequency Interference Maintain Forced Air Cooling Note to Users Q Either an NI 567x or NI 565x device The components for each device are described in Tables and 2 respectively Table 1 NI 567x Required Parts Inventory and Replacement Part Numbers Hardware Component Replacement Part Number Two hardware modules e NI 5610 wideband RF upconverter 189718D 01 module e NI 5421 or NI 5441 AWG module 778697 02 NI PXI 5421 779058 02 NI PXI 5441 Two semi flexible SMA to SMB 190846A 01 coaxial cables 1 8 in combination Phillips flathead 772006 01 screwdriver Plastic collars cable wrenches for 746016 01 gripping the coaxial cable hex connectors NI PXI 1042 chassis with controller 188079B 01 not included 100 N cm SMA torque wrench N A not included National Instruments Corporation 5 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Table 2 NI 565x Required Parts Inventory and Replacement Part Numbers Hardware Component Replacement Part Number NI PXI 5650 191967C 01 NI PXI 5651 191967C 02 NI PXI 5652 191967C 03 1 8 in combination Phillips flathead 772006 01 screwdriver NI PXI 1042 chassis with controller 188079B 01 not included 100 N cm SMA torque wrench N A not included 4 Installing the Software This section describes t
5. bold italic module monospace monospace italic MXI NI 54xx NI 565x NI 567x Platform PLL RF upconverter Bold text denotes items that you must select or click in the software such as menu items and dialog box options Bold text also denotes parameter names Italic text denotes variables emphasis a cross reference or an introduction to a key concept Italic text also denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or value that you must supply Refers to the NI 565x hardware or to one of the two hardware components of the NI 567x RF signal generator the AWG PXI module or the upconverter PXI module Text in this font denotes text or characters that you enter from the keyboard This font is also used for the proper names of paths directories programs functions operations variables and filenames Italic text in this font denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or value that you must supply Multisystem Extension Interface a high speed serial interface bus designed to connect computers to PXI or to connect multiple PXI chassis In this document MXI refers to NI MXI 3 MXI 4 or MXI Express systems NI 54xx refers to the AWG module included with the NI 5610 upconverter module to make up the NI 567x Supported AWG modules include the NI PXI 5421 and NI PXI 5441 NI 565x refers to the NI PXI 5650 NI PXI 5651 or NI PXI 5652 RF signal generators These devices consist of a single PXI hardware
6. 1 Ensure that the PXI chassis is powered off 2 Install the NI 54xx AWG module by completing the following steps a Remove the black plastic protectors from the two captive screws in the module front panel b Slide the NI 54xx AWG module into the slot immediately to the right of the NI 5610 upconverter module Press firmly until the ejector handle locks in the upright position c Tighten both screws in the NI 54xx AWG module front panel Continue with the procedure in section 6 Interconnecting NI 567x Modules NI 565x You can install the NI 565x RF signal generator in any PXI slot marked with a peripheral slot compatibility glyph a circle containing the slot number To install the NI 565x complete the following steps 1 Power off and unplug the PXI chassis before installing a PXI device 2 Ifthe PXI chassis has multiple fan speed settings ensure that the fans are set to high 3 Position the PXI chassis so that inlet and outlet vents are not obstructed For more information refer to the chassis documentation 4 Ensure that the ejector handle is in the unlatched downward position National Instruments Corporation 9 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide ensuring that the base card the card on the left when you look at the front of the device engages with the card guides in the chassis as Holding the device by the ejector handle slide it into an empty slot shown in Figure 2 5
7. NI RFSG driver software and the RF signal generator hardware National Instruments Corporation 29 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Appendix C Troubleshooting Module Front Panel ACCESS LED is Off When PXI Chassis is On If the ACCESS LED fails to light after you power on the PXI chassis a problem may exist with the PXI power rails a hardware module or the LED 3 Note The LEDs may not light until the device has been configured in MAX Before proceeding verify that the RF signal generator module s appear in MAX Troubleshoot this issue by completing the following steps 1 2a 3 Power off the PXI chassis Disconnect any signals from the PXI module front panels Remove any module front panel connections from the RF signal generator hardware module s Remove the RF signal generator hardware and inspect for damage Do not reinstall a damaged device Reinstall the RF signal generator in different PXI slot s Use the procedure detailed in section 5 Installing the Hardware for more information Power on the PXI chassis Verify that the RF signal generator module s appear in MAX Reset the RF signal generator module s in MAX and perform a self test Refer to section 7 Configuring the NI 567x in MAX or 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX for information on performing device resets and self tests in MAX If either ACCESS LED still fails to light and failures continue contact NI technical support or visit
8. Status VI so that signal generation continues and waveform status is continuously checked until you click STOP Build a STOP button by completing steps 13 through 17 13 14 15 Display the block diagram by clicking it or selecting Window Show Block Diagram Select the While Loop on the Functions Programming Structures palette Enclose the niRFSG Check Generation Status VI in the While Loop as shown in Figure 13 niRFSG Check Generation Status vi il ES Ez lethal a oon Condition 46 National Instruments Corporation Figure 13 Enclose niRFSG Check Generation Status VI in the While Loop Hover the mouse over the While Loop tunnels and select Replace with Shift Register Select the Unbundle by Name primitive on the Functions Programming Cluster amp Variant palette Place the primitive inside the While Loop Wire the error out terminal of the niRFSG Check Generation Status VI to the Unbundle by Name primitive Wire the output terminal of the status element to the Loop Condition terminal of the While Loop using a logical Or gate Right click the unused input terminal of the Or gate Loop Condition terminal and select Create Control to create a STOP button on the VI front panel The portion of the block diagram resulting from steps 17 through 20 is shown in Figure 14 27 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide niRFSG Check Generation Status vi 0
9. hardware modules are activated 3 Note If either ACTIVE LED does not illuminate or if the RF signal generator test panel generates an error refer to Appendix C Troubleshooting 17 Click Stop to stop waveform generation 18 Click Close to return to MAX 19 Exit MAX You have completed setup configuration and testing of the NI 567x RF Signal Generator 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX Use Measurement amp Automation Explorer MAX to configure your National Instruments hardware MAX informs other programs about which devices reside in the system and how they are configured MAX is automatically installed with the NI RFSG driver To use MAX to configure self test associate and generate signals with the NI 565x complete the following steps Ww 1 Launch MAX by navigating to Start All Programs National tite Instruments Measurement amp Automation or by clicking the MAX desktop icon 2 Inthe Configuration pane double click Devices and Interfaces and expand the NI DAQmx Devices folder You will see a list of installed devices that includes the NI PXI 565x RF signal generator module 3 Check that your device appears under Devices and Interfaces If your device does not appear press lt F5 gt to refresh the view in MAX If the NI 565x is still not recognized refer to ni com support install 3 Note Ifyou are using a MXI interface to control a PXI chassis and encounter performance or initialization issues refer t
10. more information Y Tip If you rename the NI 54xx AWG module after association you must repeat the association Association between NI 567x hardware modules is lost when a previously associated AWG module is renamed 13 Click OK to close the dialog box Generate a Signal Using the NI 567x RF Signal Generator Test Panel To verify your device configuration use the NI RFSG test panel in MAX to generate a simple signal using the RF signal generator hardware The NI RFSG test panel tests both NI 567x hardware modules as a single instrument Complete steps 14 through 19 to use the RF signal generator test panel 3 Note This test requires front panel interconnection as shown in Figure 3 and the association of an NI 54xx AWG module with the NI 5610 upconverter module as described in steps 11 through 13 14 Right click the NI PXI 5610 upconverter module and select Test Panels 15 In the NI PXI 567x tab of the Test Panels dialog box specify a frequency and a power level for signal generation National Instruments Corporation 15 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide A Caution Running the test panel outputs a signal from the RF OUTPUT front panel connector Disconnect any equipment that can be damaged by the test signal prior to running the test panel 16 The test panel allows you to verify that the device is operating properly Click Start to begin signal generation During signal generation the ACTIVE LEDs on both NI 567x
11. ni com support Hardware Module Does Not Appear in MAX Use the following procedure if an RF signal generator hardware module does not appear in MAX 1 In the MAX Configuration pane click Devices and Interfaces to expand the category 2 Click NI DAQmx Devices folder and press lt F5 gt to refresh the list of installed devices 3 Ifan RF signal generator module is still not listed power off the system ensure that all RF signal generator hardware is correctly installed and restart the system NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 30 ni com Open the Windows Control Panel and select System Hardware Device Manager Complete the appropriate step for the setup e If using a PXI controller verify that a National Instruments entry appears in the system device list Reinstall NI RFSG and the RF signal generator hardware modules if error conditions are present in the list e If using a MXI 3 controller right click PCI to PCI Bridge and select Properties from the shortcut menu to verify that the bridge is enabled If either module still fails to appear in the MAX NI DAQmx Devices folder contact NI technical support or visit ni com support Module Fails the Self Test The MAX self test performs a brief test of device resources If an RF signal generator hardware module does not pass the self test complete the following steps 1 2 Reboot the system Launch MAX and perform the self test again If the mo
12. 0 N cm National Instruments Corporation 13 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 4 Power up the PXI chassis and controller system 5 Verify that the ACCESS LEDs on both modules are illuminated If the LEDs are not illuminated refer to Appendix C Troubleshooting 7 Configuring the NI 567x in MAX Use Measurement amp Automation Explorer MAX to configure your National Instruments hardware MAX informs other programs about which devices reside in the system and how they are configured MAX is automatically installed with the NI RFSG driver 3 Note MAX treats the NI 5610 upconverter module and the NI 54xx AWG module as separate but associated devices The MAX association is necessary for transparent operation of both modules as a single instrument the NI 567x using the NI RFSG driver To use MAX to configure self test associate and generate signals with the NI 567x complete the following steps w 1 Launch MAX by navigating to Start All Programs National t Instruments Measurement amp Automation or by clicking the MAX desktop icon 2 Inthe Configuration pane double click Devices and Interfaces to see the list of installed devices 3 Expand the NI DAQmx Devices folder You will see a list of installed devices that includes the NI PXI 5610 upconverter module and an AWG module B Note If you do not see both the NI PXI 54xx AWG module and the NI PXI 5610 upconverter module listed refer to Appendix C Tr
13. 00 MS s AWG Figure 7 NI 54xx AWG Module Front Panel Table 5 NI 54xx AWG Module Front Panel Connectors Connector Use CH0 Output terminal for an IF waveform for upconversion to the desired RF frequency Connect to the IF INPUT connector on the NI 5610 front panel CLK IN Output terminal for the AWG module reference clock signal Connect to the REF OUT connector on the NI 5610 module front panel PFI 0 Bidirectional SMB connectors As an input the PFI terminals can accept PFI 1 a trigger from an external source to start or step through signal generation NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 22 ni com Table 6 NI 54xx AWG Module Front Panel LEDs LED Indications ACCESS Indicates the basic hardware status of the NI 54xx AWG module This LED functions identically to the ACCESS LED on the NI 5610 upconverter module front panel OFF The module is not yet functional or has detected a problem with a power rail AMBER The module is being accessed GREEN The module is ready to be programmed ACTIVE Indicates the state of the NI 54xx AWG module OFF The module is not armed or triggered AMBER The module is armed and waiting for a Start trigger GREEN The module has received a Start trigger and is generating a waveform RED The module has detected an error state this may indicate PLL unlocking self test failure or calibration fai
14. a GETTING STARTED GUIDE NI RF Signal Generators This guide explains how to install configure test and begin using NI RF signal generators For more information such as RF signal generator features and programming refer to the NI RF Signal Generators Help accessible at Start All Programs National Instruments NI RFSG Documentation Refer to the specifications document that ships with your device for detailed specifications For the most current versions of documentation visit ni com manuals For the most current example programs visit ni com instruments For the latest version of NI RFSG visit ni com rf Contents CONVENTIONS ssseceesdccsecs esses este E AAA AAE 2 1 Verifying System Requirements 0 eee eee eee ceeeseeeeeneeeeeeaeteeeaes 4 Ae Unpac kin Desi u ee E E E E 4 3 Verifying Kit Contents sicrcrosrorecri ciaee 4 4 Installing the Software sissciresssisiirsnrip ce 6 Install Application Development Softwate ce eeeeseeeeeeeeeeees 6 Install the NI RFSG Instrument Driver 0 cc eeceeeeeseeeneeeeeeeneees 6 Install Toolkits or Add On Software ecceecceseeeereeeteceneeeeeeeeaees 7 5 Installing the Hardware sssini 7 NI SOTK oriri eiii o TEREA EEEE ORE wissen tees R 7 Choose a PXI Slot Location cece ceeseeseeseeeneeeneeeeneeeeeeeeaees 7 Install the Upconverter Module oes ec eeeeeeseeeeseeeeeeeeeseesseeaeeeeees 8 Install the AWG Module eee eeeeeeeeeeeseeeseeeeeeeeteece
15. add on software you intend to use with the RF signal generator after installing the NI RFSG CD 3 Note You must install the NI RFSG instrument driver before installing the Modulation Toolkit add on software in order to properly install the Modulation Toolkit examples for NI RFSG If the Modulation Toolkit is already installed repeat or repair the Modulation Toolkit installation after installing NI RFSG 5 Installing the Hardware NI PXI modules are sensitive instruments that should be handled carefully Do not expose the module to temperatures or humidity beyond the rated maximums Keep the module free of dust by cleaning with compressed air only Do not clean the module with any solvents or liquids For more information about module cooling refer to the guidelines in the Maintain Forced Air Cooling Note to Users included with the NI RF signal generator NI 567x Choose a PXI Slot Location Installation of the NI 567x hardware requires three vacant PXI slots two slots for the NI 5610 upconverter module and one slot for the NI 54xx AWG module The NI 54xx AWG module must be installed in the adjacent slot immediately to the right of the NI 5610 upconverter module to allow use of the included SMA to SMB coaxial cables The NI 5610 upconverter module onboard frequency reference can drive the PXI backplane clock only if the upconverter module is installed in PXI Slot 2 When the NI 5610 is installed in PXI Slot 2 you can configure it to lo
16. aeeeseeeneees 9 NUD OOK sorene nri aa nhevs techies Mvaslanievers ante diate eelteail 9 ooN at n tA E E Neaseesissapehtcsestaprberadivausoues 11 6 Interconnecting NI 567x Modules ssseseeeesesssseessersrrssrreresreresreresns 11 7 Configuring the NI 567x in MAX ssessesesseeeresrerierrsrerrsrerreresesresreresrs 14 Rename Both Modulles eeeecsesceseeececesceeeeeceneeeeeeseeseeeeeeeeeaees 14 Associate an NI 54xx AWG Module 0 0 ce eeeecceeseeseeeteeeteeeneeeenees 15 lt 7 NATIONAL p INSTRUMENTS Generate a Signal Using the NI 567x RF Signal Generator Test Panele srest apenn resna E n EA th E ERRi 15 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX essssessseerssrereresreerrsesrrsreresreseseeses 16 Generate a Signal Using the NI 565x RF Signal Generator Test Pan lossnisona a a AA E E A A edhe sees 17 9 Programming the RF Signal Generator ssssseesseeesesesreeesrreresrereereree 18 NI RFSG Instrument Driver essseeseseeeeeeseresreerssrsrrsrerrerereeresrrresreet 18 NI RFSG Ex mpl Snn onna e 19 Appendix A Hardware Front Panel Connectors and Indicators 20 NI 5610 RF Upconverter Module eee eeeeeeseeseeeeeseeeeeaeeees 20 NI D420 AWG Modill s 532 2g edieiies docsetieenis ievadatiieascicilbeneiies 22 NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module eee eee eeeeseeseeeeneeees 24 Appendix B Building a Basic NI RFSG Application 25 Appendix C Troubleshooting 0 cece eee seceeseesseeseceeeeseeseeeseeneeeae
17. basic modulation tasks using LabVIEW VIs or LabWindows CVI functions In the case of NI 567x RF signal generators the NI RFSG instrument driver transparently operates the NI 5610 upconverter module and the NI 54xx AWG module as a single instrument Optional add on software available from NI including the Modulation Toolkit and the Spectral Measurements Toolkit extends the capability of NI RF signal generators to include additional modulation domain and frequency domain tasks The RF signal generator hardware software architecture is shown in Figure 5 LabVIEW and or LabWindows CVI Application Development Environment NI RFSG Instrument Driver NI 567X NI 565X RF Signal Generator Hardware Figure 5 RF Signal Generator Hardware Software Architecture NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 18 ni com B Note Refer to the NI RF Signal Generators Help for more information on RF signal generator hardware software architecture The M RF Signal Generators Help is available at Start All Programs National Instruments NI RFSG Documentation NI RFSG Examples NI RFSG includes several example applications for both LabVIEW and LabWindows CVI These examples serve as interactive tools programming models and building blocks in your own applications For more information on NI RFSG examples and locations refer to the NI RFSG Instrument Driver Readme which is available on the NI RFSG CD National Instr
18. calibration If you searched ni com and could not find the answers you need contact your local office or NI corporate headquarters Phone numbers for our worldwide offices are listed at the front of this manual You also can visit the Worldwide Offices section of ni com niglobal to access the branch office Web sites which provide up to date contact information support phone numbers email addresses and current events National Instruments Corporation 33 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide National Instruments NI ni com and LabVIEW are trademarks of National Instruments Corporation Refer to the Terms of Use section on ni com 1legal for more information about National Instruments trademarks Other product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies For patents covering National Instruments products refer to the appropriate location Help Patents in your software the patents txt file on your CD or ni com patents 2004 2007 National Instruments Corporation All rights reserved 371356D 01 Mar07
19. ck the PXI backplane to the NI 5610 onboard oven controlled crystal oscillator OCXO or to an external frequency source connected to the REF IN connector on the NI 5610 module front panel National Instruments Corporation 7 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Install the Upconverter Module Install the NI 5610 RF upconverter module by completing the following steps 1 Verify that NI RFSG is installed on your system 2 Power off the PXI chassis 3 Insert the NI 5610 upconverter module as shown in Figure 1 This module requires two vacant PXI slots Note The NI 5610 must be installed in PXI Slot 2 to optionally drive the PXI backplane with the NI 5610 onboard OCXO or an external reference signal 3 a Remove the black plastic protectors from the four captive screws in the module front panel b Slide the NI 5610 into an available PXI slot until the ejector handle locks in the upward position Tighten the four screws in the module front panel C v Ky A YO VU M A S x A Q Q N N y N NA 3 NI 5610 Upconverter Module 9 oO gt O z o2 Q o O 8 og zS ar N 4 Ejector Handle in Down Position Install the NI 5610 Upconverter Module Figure 1 ni com NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Install the AWG Module Install the NI 54xx AWG module by completing the following steps
20. dule still fails the self test proceed to step three Uninstall the NI RFSG driver software using the Add Remove Programs option on the Windows Control Panel Never attempt to uninstall by deleting files Reinstall NI RFSG by running setup exe on the NI RFSG CD If either module still fails the self test contact NI technical support or visit ni com support Thermal Shutdown Error The thermal shutdown error appears when device temperatures exceed safe limits The RF signal generator shuts down until temperatures fall to acceptable levels and you reset the device in MAX To re enable the RF signal generator after thermal shutdown complete the following steps l 2 National Instruments Corporation Power down the chassis that contains the device Review the procedure in the section titled Cooling and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the device is effectively cooled Call niRFSG_ResetDevice NI RFSG Reset Device VI or perform a device reset in MAX The thermal shutdown error continues to be reported until the device has been successfully reset 31 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide B Note Refer to section 7 Configuring the NI 567x in MAX or 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX for information on performing device resets in MAX Performance Issues Using A MXI Connection When using a MXI 3 connection to control the PXI chassis you must run the MXI Optimization Application prior to using the NI s
21. e IF signal from the NI 54xx AWG module for frequency translation Connect to the CH 0 output on the NI 54xx front panel LOCAL OSC OUT 0 Output terminal for the auxiliary local oscillator signal RF OUTPUT Output terminal for the upconverted signal at the requested RF frequency Table 4 NI 5610 RF Upconverter Module Front Panel LEDs LED Indications ACCESS Indicates the basic hardware status of the NI 5610 module This LED functions identically to the ACCESS LED on the AWG module front panel OFF The module is not yet functional or has detected a problem with a PXI power rail AMBER The module is being accessed GREEN The module is ready to be programmed ACTIVE Indicates the status of the NI 5610 PLLs OFF The module is in an uninitialized state there is no error AMBER The module PLLs are attempting to lock GREEN The module is in a ready state applicable PLLs are locked and the reverse power protection circuit is closed RED The module has detected an error state this state may indicate an overload reverse power protection circuit is open lock failure in an applicable PLL a self test or calibration failure or a thermal shutdown condition National Instruments Corporation 21 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide NI 54xx AWG Module The front panel of the NI 54xx AWG module contains four connectors and two multicolor LEDs as shown in Figure 7 O Q NATIONAL P gt INSTRUMENTS 16 Bit 1
22. eaees 30 Module Front Panel ACCESS LED is Off When PXI Chassis is ON oo eee eeeeseeeseceeeeseeseeeseeneeeaeeneeeaeeaes 30 Hardware Module Does Not Appear in MAX seese 30 Module Fails the Self Test 0 eee ceceeseceeeesecseeeseeseeeseeseenseeaes 31 Thermal Shutdown Error cece cece esecseeeeeseceseeseeeseeeeseaseneeeaeeaes 31 Performance Issues Using A MXI Connection eee 32 Technical Support and Professional Services 32 Conventions The following conventions are used in this manual The symbol leads you through nested menus to a final action The sequence File Page Setup Options directs you to pull down the File menu select the Page Setup item and select Options from the last dialog 2 b go box The symbol indicates that the following text applies only to a specific product a specific operating system or a specific software version This icon denotes a tip which alerts you to advisory information This icon denotes a note which alerts you to important information This icon denotes a caution which advises you of precautions to take to avoid injury data loss or a system crash When symbol is marked on a product it denotes a component that may be hot Touching this component may result in bodily injury Arbitrary Waveform Generator trefers to the NI RFSG supported arbitrary waveform generator hardware module used in NI 567x devices NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 2 ni com
23. he software installation process for NI RF signal generators Install Application Development Software You can create applications for RF signal generators using application development environments ADE such as LabVIEW LabWindows CVI or other development environments If you have not already installed an ADE follow the instructions in the product documentation to install your ADE now Install the NI RFSG Instrument Driver Complete the following steps to install the contents of the NJ RFSG CD 1 Insert the NJ RFSG CD The NI RFSG installer should open automatically If not select Start Run and enter x setup exe where xis the letter of the CD drive 2 Follow the instructions in the installation prompts to complete the NI RFSG installation For troubleshooting and operating system specific instructions refer to the Hardware Installation Wizard atni com support install Windows Vista Users may see access and security messages during installation Accept the prompts to complete the installation 3 When the installer completes a dialog box appears that asks if you want to restart shut down or restart later Select Restart NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 6 ni com Install Toolkits or Add On Software Optional add on software such as the Modulation Toolkit extends the generation capability of NI RF signal generators for modulation domain and frequency domain applications Install any toolkits or
24. ignal generator By default this application runs automatically when Windows starts Using a MXI connection without running this application may result in a time exceeded or internal software error or an initialization timeout or performance issue when using an RF signal generator For MXI 3 optimization select Start All Programs National Instruments MXI 3 MXI 3 Optimization MXI 4 optimization is performed automatically by the MXI 4 hardware If the MXI software is not installed refer to the setup instructions included with the MXI kit to install the software from the MXI software CD or National Instruments Driver CD After installation you may be required to reboot the computer before using the MXI application If you continue to have initialization or performance issues refer to the MXI documentation included in your MXI kit or visit NI Technical Support at ni com support Technical Support and Professional Services Visit the following sections of the National Instruments Web site at ni com for technical support and professional services e Support Online technical support resources at ni com support include the following Self Help Resources For answers and solutions visit the award winning National Instruments Web site for software drivers and updates a searchable KnowledgeBase product manuals step by step troubleshooting wizards thousands of example programs tutorials application notes instrument dr
25. ip in antistatic packages to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge ESD Because ESD can damage several components of the RF signal generator store all RF signal generator hardware modules in the antistatic envelopes when not in use UN Caution Never touch exposed connector pins To avoid damage when handling RF signal generator hardware modules take the following precautions e Ground yourself using a grounding strap or by touching a grounded object e Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis before removing the hardware module from the package Remove each hardware module from the package and inspect it for loose components or any signs of damage Notify NI if either hardware module appears damaged in any way Do not install a damaged module into the system 3 Verifying Kit Contents Verify that the kit contains the following items required to set up and use the NI RF signal generator Q CD which installs the following software components NI RFSG instrument driver including NI RFSG examples Hardware and software electronic documentation e NIRF Signal Generators Help online help e NIRF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide PDF NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 4 ni com e Specifications documents for your device PDF e Hardware user manual for your device PDF Q Other included documents The specifications document for your RF signal generator
26. ivers and so on Free Technical Support All registered users receive free Basic Service which includes access to hundreds of Application Engineers worldwide in the NI Discussion Forums at ni com forums National Instruments Application Engineers make sure every question receives an answer For information about other technical support options in your area visit ni com services or contact your local office at ni com contact NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 32 ni com Training and Certification Visit ni com training for self paced training eLearning virtual classrooms interactive CDs and Certification program information You also can register for instructor led hands on courses at locations around the world System Integration If you have time constraints limited in house technical resources or other project challenges National Instruments Alliance Partner members can help To learn more call your local NI office or visit ni com alliance Declaration of Conformity DoC A DoC is our claim of compliance with the Council of the European Communities using the manufacturer s declaration of conformity This system affords the user protection for electronic compatibility EMC and product safety You can obtain the DoC for your product by visiting ni com certification Calibration Certificate If your product supports calibration you can obtain the calibration certificate for your product at ni com
27. lure National Instruments Corporation 23 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module The NI 565x RF signal generator module front panel contains two connectors and two multicolor LEDs as shown in Figure 8 NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS NI PXI 5652 RF Signal Generator ACCESS ACTIVE 500 kHz 6 6 GHz O Reverse Power IN 5 Vp p MAX OUT 1 Vp p A A Figure 8 NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module Front Panel Table 7 NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module Front Panel Connectors Connector Use RF OUT Output terminal for the RF signal at the requested frequency and power level REF IN OUT Routes a frequency reference signal to or from the NI 565x This connector can be configured as an external frequency reference input or as an output for the onboard 10 MHz reference clock NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 24 ni com Table 8 NI 565x RF Signal Generator Module Front Panel LEDs LED Indications ACCESS Indicates the basic hardware status of the NI 565x module OFF The module is not yet functional or has detected a problem with a PXI power rail AMBER The module is being accessed GREEN The module is ready to be programmed ACTIVE Indicates the status of the NI 565x OFF The module is in an uninitialized state there is no error AMBER The module PLLs are attempting to lock GREEN
28. module NI 567x refers to the NI PXI 5670 or NI PXI 5671 RF signal generators The NI 567x instruments are comprised of an upconverter hardware module an AWG hardware module and the NI RFSG instrument driver There is no single physical device labeled NI PXI 5670 or NI PXI 5671 Text in this font denotes a specific platform and indicates that the text following it applies only to that platform Phase Locked Loop an electronic circuit that controls an oscillator so that the circuit maintains a constant phase angle relative to a reference signal Radio Frequency refers to the signal output from the RF OUTPUT connector on the RF signal generator device front panels A device that frequency translates IF signals to center around a specified RF frequency refers to an NI 5610 2 slot RF upconverter hardware module National Instruments Corporation 3 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 1 Verifying System Requirements 2 Unpacking Your system must meet certain requirements to use NI RF vector signal generators For more information on minimum system recommended system and supported application development environments ADEs refer to the NI RFSG Instrument Driver Readme which is available on the NI RFSG CD After you install NI RFSG you can access the NJ RFSG Instrument Driver Readme at Start All Programs National Instruments NI RFSG Documentation RF signal generator hardware modules sh
29. o your MXI documentation to ensure that the MXI interface is properly set up Software optimization might be necessary For MXI 3 optimization select Start All Programs National Instruments MXI 3 MXI 3 Optimization MXI 4 optimization is performed automatically by the MXI 4 hardware NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 16 ni com 4 Perform a device self test to verify installation by right clicking the NI 565x device and selecting Self Test A dialog box appears and indicates whether the device passed the test When the self test finishes a message indicates successful verification or if an error occurred If an error occurs refer to ni com support instal1 for troubleshooting information 5 Record the device number or device name assigned to the device You need this number when programming the device The assigned device name is appended to the device in its configuration tree label For example after installing the NI 565x the device configuration tree label may appear as NI _PXI 565X Dev1 where Dev1 is the device name When developing your application the resource name for your device is the device name MAX assigned to the device 3 Note You can rename NI DAQmx devices by right clicking the device and selecting Rename Generate a Signal Using the NI 565x RF Signal Generator Test Panel To verify your device configuration use the NI RFSG test panel in MAX to generate a simple signal using the NI 565x RF signal genera
30. oubleshooting Rename Both Modules MAX allows you to rename both NI 567x hardware modules The MAX name is used in software to operate the NI 567x hardware resources You do not have to change the module names from the default but doing so can make programming easier To rename both NI 567x hardware modules complete steps 4 through 10 If you do not wish to rename the modules skip to step 11 4 Right click the NI 5610 upconverter module and select Rename from the shortcut menu 5 Enter the new name for the NI 5610 upconverter module 3 Note The device must consist only of alphanumeric and underscore characters NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 14 ni com 6 Click OK 7 Right click the AWG module and select Rename from the shortcut menu 8 Enter the new name for the AWG module 9 Click OK 10 Verify that the new names for both modules are displayed before proceeding to step 11 Associate an NI 54xx AWG Module You must create a MAX association between the NI 5610 upconverter module and the NI 54xx AWG module to control both hardware modules as a single RF signal generator Complete steps 11 through 13 to make this association 11 Right click NI PXI 5610 and select Properties 12 In the NI 5610 Device Properties dialog box use the drop down listbox to specify the NI 54xx AWG module that is connected to the NI 5610 by front panel coaxial cables Refer to section 6 Interconnecting NI 567x Modules for
31. rce name terminal is shown in Figure 10 resource name Js Figure 10 Resource Name Terminal on niRFSG Initialize VI 8 Hover the mouse tool over the frequency Hz and power level dBm terminals of the niRFSG Configure RF VI These terminals are shown in Figure 11 frequency Hz a power level dBm Figure 11 Frequency and Power Level Terminals on the niRFSG Configure RF VI 9 Right click each terminal and select Create Control from the shortcut menu to create frequency and power controls as shown in Figure 12 requency Hz Figure 12 Frequency and Power Level Controls on the Block Diagram 10 Display the VI front panel by clicking it or by selecting Window Show Front Panel Controls are displayed in which you can specify a frequency and power level 11 In the VI front panel power level dBm control enter 0 In the frequency Hz control enter 100M 100 MHz NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 26 ni com 12 In the VI front panel resource name control enter the NI 5610 upconverter device name or the NI 565X device name that you specified in MAX the NI 5610 upconverter module must be associated with an AWG module Refer to section 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX for more information You can control continuous waveform generation using a Stop button A Stop button is typically used within a While Loop This example places a While Loop around the Check Generation
32. rent cables may affect performance NATIONAL 7 NATIONAL M NSTRUMENTS INSTRUMENTS NI PXI 5610 16 Bit 100 MS s AWG RF Upconverter O ACCESS 15 35MHz 50 Q 10 MHz OUT 24 dBm 50 Q 1Vp p L a 5V DC MAX OO ACCESS ACTIVE A A RF OUTPUT 50 Q 250 kHz 2 7 GHz Figure 3 Proper NI 567x Front Panel Interconnection NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 12 ni com 3 Carefully tighten all SMA connectors to 100 N cm using an SMA torque wrench not included as shown in Figure 4 Tighten only until the wrench clicks 3 Note Incorrect torque at SMA connections can degrade signal fidelity PLL performance and insertion loss Use an SMA torque wrench to ensure all SMA connections are properly torqued to 100 N cm 7 NATIONAL lt 7 NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS INSTRUMENTS NI PXI 5610 16 Bit 100 MS s AWG RF Upconverter os ge E Hil access bee 1 i TO AWG j RPO 15 35MHz 10 MHz OUT r 500 PP LOCAL L OSC OUT 0 500 MAX 5V DC MAX 6 dBm OO ACCESS ACTIVE AN A OS O8 RF OUTPUT 502 H 250 kHz 2 7 GHz Te 4 1 100 N cm SMA Torque Wrench 2 Apply Force Here Until Wrench Clicks Figure 4 Torque All SMA Connectors to 10
33. tely 51 C 124 F and the NI 5441 module at approximately 58 C 136 F NI565x Under conditions of proper air flow and 25 C 63 F ambient temperatures the NI 565X operates at internal temperatures of approximately 38 C 100 F AN Hot Surface If the RF signal generator has been in use it may exceed safe handling temperatures and cause burns Allow the RF signal generator to cool before removing it from the PXI chassis Tip NI recommends that you install PXI slot blockers between the RF signal generator and adjacent hardware modules to maximize cooling air flow The PXI Chassis Slot Blocker Kit part number 778678 01 is available for purchase at ni com If you are setting up an NI 565x signal generator proceed to section 8 Configuring the NI 565x in MAX 6 Interconnecting NI 567x Modules The NI 567x hardware modules interconnect through the front panels Complete the following steps to interconnect the NI 567x hardware module front panel connectors as shown in Figure 3 1 Connect the INPUT connector on the NI 5610 upconverter module to the CH 0 connector on the NI 54xx AWG module 2 Connect the TO AWG CLK IN connector on the NI 5610 upconverter module to the CLK IN connector on the NI 54xx AWG module National Instruments Corporation 11 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide B Note Published NI 567x RF signal generator specifications assume use of the included cables Substituting diffe
34. tor hardware Complete steps 1 through 6 to use the RF signal generator test panel 1 Right click the NI PXI 565x RF signal generator module and select Test Panels 2 Inthe Test Panels dialog box specify a frequency and a power level for signal generation UN Caution Running the test panel outputs a signal from the RF OUTPUT front panel connector Disconnect any equipment that can be damaged by the test signal prior to running the test panel 3 The test panel allows you to verify that the NI 565x device is operating properly Click Start to begin signal generation During signal generation the ACTIVE LED on the NI 565x hardware module is activated 3 Note Ifthe LED does not illuminate or if the RF signal generator test panel generates an error refer to Appendix C Troubleshooting 4 Click Stop to stop waveform generation 5 Click Close to return to MAX 6 Exit MAX National Instruments Corporation 17 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide You have completed setup configuration and testing of the NI 565x RF Signal Generator 9 Programming the RF Signal Generator You can generate signals with the NI RF signal generator using the NI RESG instrument driver You also can run the NI RFSG examples to demonstrate the functionality of the RF signal generator NI RFSG Instrument Driver The NI RFSG driver configures and operates the RF signal generator hardware performs waveform programming and generation and
35. uments Corporation 19 NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide Appendix A Hardware Front Panel Connectors and Indicators This appendix describes the connectors and LED indicators on the front panels of both NI RF signal generator hardware modules All inputs and outputs are AC coupled NI 5610 RF Upconverter Module The NI 5610 RF upconverter module front panel contains six connectors and two multicolor LEDs as shown in Figure 6 Y NATIONAL l INSTRUMENTS PXI 5610 RF Upconverter 250 kHz 2 7 GHz 2 O8608 008 ACCESS ACTIVE E RF OUTPUT 502 11 Figure 6 NI 5610 Upconverter Module Front Panel NI RF Signal Generators Getting Started Guide 20 ni com Table 3 NI 5610 RF Upconverter Module Front Panel Connectors Connector Use 10 MHz OUT Output terminals for replications of the upconverter 10 MHz frequency TO AWG CLK IN reference signal which is useful for driving other devices Each 10 MH T replication is 180 out of phase with the other The output signal at these 0 z OU connectors is always on and cannot be disabled Connect the TO AWG CLK IN connector to the CLK IN connector on the NI 54xx module front panel REF IN Routes an external frequency reference signal that can be propagated to the PXI backplane The NI 5610 can lock to this signal IF INPUT Routes th
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