National Instruments Phase Matrix PXI-1420 User manual

Phase Matrix, Inc. 4600 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara CA 95054 Tel: [phone] www.phasematrix.com
PXI MICROWAVE
MW DOWNCONVERTER MODULE
Quick Start GuideQuick Start Guide
PXI-1420 CCN 12801
Manual Assy Part Number 5585112-01
Manual Text Part Number 5580112-01 Rev &
Model PXI-1420

Notices
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Phase Matrix, Inc. warrants this product
to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for one year from the date
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CAUTION
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hazard. It calls attention to an
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the like that, if not correctly per-
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in damage to the product or loss of
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beyond a CAUTION notice until
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hazard. It calls attention to an
operating procedure or practice
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Document created for Phase Matrix, Inc.
2010 by RLTechnical.com

Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module 3
Quick Start Guide
Introducing the PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
Congratulations on purchasing a
Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module!
To get the most out of your purchase, it is recommended that this
Quick Start Guide be read carefully and completely.
In this document...
The scope of this document is to describe the installation process of the 
stand-alone hardware and software for the PXI-1420 and to confirm
basic module operation.
This document describes information for the PXI-1420 when used in a
PXI system with an embedded controller or a PXI remote controller.
“Step 1. Confirm Module Operating Requirements" on page 4
“Step 2. Perform Hardware Installation/Configuration" on page 5
“Step 3. Perform Software Installation/Configuration" on page 9
“Step 4. Review Hardware and Software Front Panels" on page 19
“Step 5. Confirm Basic Module Operation" on page 31

4 Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Step 1. Confirm Module Operating Requirements
Table 1 Module Operating Requirements When Used in a PXI System
Operating System
•Windows 7 (32- and 64-bit versions)
•Windows XP (32-bit version)
•LabVIEW Real-Time (Version 8.2.1 and later)
BIOS - computers manufactured prior to 2008 require NI MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software.
This BIOS software is available on the Internet at: NI > Support > Drivers and Software > 
MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software - Windows Vista x86/XP
RAM - minimum of 256 MB required by LabVIEW.
CD Drive - used to install PXI device driver software and Soft Front Panel from an optional CD
PXI device driver software and Soft Front Panels are available from an optional CD
or from the Phase Matrix web site at: www.phasematrix.com
Screen Resolution - at least 1024 × 768 pixels, recommended.
Adobe Reader - 6.0.1 or later to view or search PDF versions of manuals.
Interface/Controller - select either an embedded controller or a PXI remote controller.
Embedded Controller
NI PXI-8106 2.16 GHz Dual-Core PXI Embedded Controller
or NI PXIe-8106 2.16 GHz Dual-Core PXI Express Embedded Controller
or equivalent embedded controller running Windows 7/XP
PXI Remote Controller
NI PXI-CardBus8310 Laptop Control of PXI with PCMCIA CardBus
or NI PXIe-ExpressCard8360 Laptop Control of PXI Express with ExpressCard
or equivalent PXI remote controller running Windows 7/XP
NOTE
LabVIEW does not support Windows NT/Me/98/95, any of the Windows Server
editions, or Windows XP x64.
LabVIEW does support Windows 7 (64-bit version).
LabVIEW or the LabVIEW Run-Time Engine does support Windows 2000 with
Service Pack 3 or later.

Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module 5
Quick Start Guide
Step 2. Perform Hardware Installation/Configuration
Step 2-1. Unpack Hardware
Each PXI-1420 ships in an antistatic package to prevent damage from
electrostatic discharge (ESD). Because ESD can damage several
components of a hardware module, store all modules in antistatic
envelopes when not in use.
CAUTION
PXI hardware does not support “hot-swap” capabilities!
Before installing the PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module, the PXI chassis must be
powered off and unplugged to prevent damage to PXI modules.
The PXI-1420 can be installed in any standard-PXI slot marked with a
peripheral slot compatibility image (a circle containing the slot number).
The PXI-1420 can also be installed in any hybrid-PXI slot marked with a
peripheral slot compatibility image (the letter “H” and a solid circle
containing the slot number).
Do not install the PXI-1420 into a slot for PXI Express (PXIe) modules.
NOTE
A PXI-1420 can be used in a PXI or PXIe chassis, with either a PXI or PXIe remote
controller, but the PXI-1420 must only be installed into a standard-PXI slot or a
hybrid-PXI slot.
CAUTION
•To avoid damage when handling a module, do not touch exposed connector pins.
•Before touching or handling a module, use a grounding strap or touch a grounded
object to ground yourself.
•Before touching or removing a module from its package, touch the antistatic package
to a metal part of your computer chassis.
•Remove each module from its package and inspect it for loose components or any
signs of damage. Notify Phase Matrix if any module appears damaged in any way.
•Do not install damaged modules into a system.

6 Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Unpack the contents of the box and verify that everything is included:
•PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
•Optional CD (included if specifically ordered; otherwise, PXI device
driver software and Soft Front Panels are available the Phase Matrix
web site at: www.phasematrix.com).
Step 2-2. Install PXI Modules into a PXI Chassis
Figure 1 Install PXI Modules into a PXI Chassis
Phase Matrix PXI modules are sensitive instruments that should be
handled carefully. Do not expose modules to temperatures or humidity
beyond their rated maximums.
CAUTION
•For information about the rated maximums, refer to each module’s specifications
document available at: www.phasematrix.com
•Keep the module free of dust by cleaning only with compressed air.
•Do not clean the module with any solvents or liquids.
•To prevent damage to the module caused by ESD or contamination, handle the
module using the edges or the metal bracket.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module 7
1Assure that the power switch is in the Off (Standby) position and
unplug the PXI chassis.
2If the chassis has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are
set to automatic. Do not set the fan speed to low or turn it off.
3Position the chassis so that there is ample space between the chassis
fan intake and exhaust vents. Blockage by walls or obstructions
affects the air flow needed for cooling. (Refer to the chassis
documentation for more information about cooling.)
4Holding the PXI-1420 by the injector/ejector handle, slide it into an
available PXI (or hybrid) slot, as shown in Figure 1.
aInstall the PXI-1420 into the PXI (or hybrid) slot of the chassis by
placing the module card edges into the front module guides (top
and bottom).
bSlide the PXI-1420 to the rear of the chassis and assure that the
injector/ejector handle is pushed down in the unlatched
(downward) position.
cSlide the module completely into the chassis. When you begin to
feel resistance, push up on the injector/ejector handle to fully
inject the module into the chassis frame.
5Latch the PXI-1420 by pulling up on the injector/ejector handle and
secure the module front panel to the chassis using the module
front-panel mounting screws.
6Tighten the screws on the PXI-1420 front panel. Performance may
suffer if the screws are not tightened properly.
7Verify that the PXI chassis fans are operable and free of dust and
other contaminants that may restrict airflow.
8Install all chassis covers and filler panels after installing the
PXI-1420. Missing filler panels disrupt necessary air circulation in
the chassis.
9Plug-in and power-on the PXI chassis.
NOTE
Phase Matrix recommends installing slot blockers in adjacent vacant PXI slots to
maximize cooling air flow to the PXI modules.
A PXI Chassis Slot Blocker Kit (National Instruments part number 778678-01) is
available for purchase at www.ni.com.

8 Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Step 2-3. Connect to the Host Computer and Power Source
Embedded Controller
1Connect the keyboard, mouse, monitor and any other external
devices to the PXI embedded controller.
2Connect the chassis’ AC or DC inlet to the power source using an
appropriate power cable.
3When the power switch is in the ON position, observe that fans
become operational.
4If the power outlet does not have an appropriate ground connection,
connect the premise safety ground to the chassis grounding screw.
Refer to the chassis’ user manual at ni.com/manual for instructions.

PXI systems can be controlled from a
PC or laptop computer through a
software transparent link using
National Instruments’ PXI Remote
Controllers.


- PC control of PXI consists of a
PCI/PCI Express board in the
computer and a PXI/PXI Express
module in slot 1 of the PXI system,
connected by a copper or fiber-optic
cable.


- Laptop computer control of 
PXI consists of an
ExpressCard/PCMCIA CardBus card
in the laptop and a PXI/PXI Express
module in slot 1 of the PXI system,
connected by a copper cable.
PXI Remote Controller
1Install the PCI/PCI Express board in a PC or
insert the ExpressCard/PCMCIA CardBus card in a laptop computer.
2Connect the chassis’ AC or DC inlet to the power source using an
appropriate power cable.
3When the power switch is in the ON position, observe that fans
become operational.
4If the power outlet does not have an appropriate ground connection,
connect the premise safety ground to the chassis grounding screw.
Refer to the chassis’ user manual at ni.com/manual for instructions.
(Step 2-4. Optional) Uninstall PXI Modules
Before uninstalling PXI modules, power off the PXI chassis!
When removing PXI modules from a chassis, ensure that you are
grounded with a grounding strap or are touching a grounded metal
surface. To avoid ESD, do not touch the exposed connector pins or any
exposed circuitry on the device. When not in use, PXI modules should
be stored in the original antistatic envelope to avoid damage.

Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module 9
Quick Start Guide
Step 3. Perform Software Installation/Configuration
Complete the following steps to install the PXI device driver software
and Soft Front Panel available from an optional CD or from the Phase
Matrix web site at: www.phasematrix.com
Embedded Controller
1Install the PXI device driver from the optional CD or
from the Phase Matrix web site.
See “Step 3-1. Installing the PXI Device Driver" on page 10.
2Install the Soft Front Panel from the optional CD or
from the Phase Matrix web site.
See “Step 3-2. Installing the Soft Front Panel" on page 13.
PXI Remote Controller
PXI systems can be controlled from a
PC or laptop computer through a
software transparent link using
National Instruments’ PXI Remote
Controllers.


- PC control of PXI consists of a
PCI/PCI Express board in the
computer and a PXI/PXI Express
module in slot 1 of the PXI system,
connected by a copper or fiber-optic
cable.


- Laptop computer control of 
PXI consists of an
ExpressCard/PCMCIA CardBus card
in the laptop and a PXI/PXI Express
module in slot 1 of the PXI system,
connected by a copper cable.
1If the PXI remote controller (PC or laptop computer) being used is a
Windows based operating system and was manufactured prior to
2008, install NI MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software:
NI MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software
2Install the NI PXI Platform Services Software that accompanies the
PXI remote controller: NI PXI Platform Services Software
3Install the PXI device driver from the optional CD or
from the Phase Matrix web site.
See “Step 3-1. Installing the PXI Device Driver" on page 10.
4Install the Soft Front Panel from the optional CD or
from the Phase Matrix web site.
See “Step 3-2. Installing the Soft Front Panel" on page 13.
5Connect the PXI remote controller, using the manufacture’s
provided cable, to the expansion card in the PXI remote controller.
6Reboot the PXI remote controller.
NOTE
Any application development environment (ADE) that is to be used (such as LabVIEW,
LabWindows/CVI, or a third-party program) must be installed prior to installing the
PXI device driver software or its Soft Front Panel.

10 Phase Matrix PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Step 3-1. Installing the PXI Device Driver
This procedure is used to install the PXI-1420’s device driver using the
“Found New Hardware Wizard” on an embedded controller or a
PXI remote controller running Windows 7/XP.
1Install PXI device drivers using one of the following methods:
•Insert the optional CD containing the device driver.
•Download the latest available PXI device driver from the
Phase Matrix web site and unzip it to a location on the
embedded controller or the PXI remote controller.

Device drivers are available at: www.phasematrix.com

NOTE
If the embedded controller or the PXI remote controller being used has previously had a
device driver of the same type installed, it must be removed before installing a new
PXI-1420’s device driver.

Refer to “(Step 3-3. Optional) Uninstalling the PXI Device Driver" on page 17 for
further details.
NOTE
Any application development environment (ADE) that is to be used (such as LabVIEW,
LabWindows/CVI, or a third-party program) must be installed prior to installing the
PXI device driver software or its Soft Front Panel.
NOTE
The following procedure is shown for systems running Windows 7 and may vary slightly
for systems running Windows XP.
NOTE
Anti-virus software may prevent the PXI device driver installer from executing.
CAUTION
PXI hardware does not support “hot-swap” capabilities!
Before installing the PXI-1420 MW Downconverter Module, the PXI chassis must be
powered off and unplugged to prevent damage to PXI modules.