National Instruments Phase Matrix PXI-1430B User manual

Phase Matrix, Inc. 4600 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara CA 95054 Tel: [phone] www.phasematrix.com
PXI MICROWAVE
RF DOWNCONVERTER MODULE
Model PXI-1430B
Quick Start GuideQuick Start Guide
PXI-1430B CCN 14501
Manual Assy Part Number 5585113-01
Manual Text Part Number 5580113-01 Rev '

Notices
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CAUTION
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Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 3
Introducing the PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Congratulations on purchasing a
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF 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-1430B and to confirm
basic module operation.
This document describes information for the PXI-1430B when used in a
PXI system with an embedded controller or a PXI remote controller.
“Step 1. Confirm Module Operating Requirements" on page 4
“" 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-1430B RF 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 7 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.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 5
Step 2. Perform Hardware Installation/Configuration
Step 2-1. Unpack Hardware
Each PXI-1430B 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-1430B RF Downconverter Module, the PXI chassis must be
powered off and unplugged to prevent damage to PXI modules.
The PXI-1430B can be installed in any standard-PXI slot marked with a
peripheral slot compatibility image (a circle containing the slot number).
The PXI-1430B 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-1430B into a slot for PXI Express (PXIe) modules.
NOTE
A PXI-1430B can be used in a PXI or PXIe chassis, with either a PXI or PXIe remote
controller, but the PXI-1430B 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-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Unpack the contents of the box and verify that everything is included:
•PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
•Optional CD (included if specifically ordered; otherwise PXI device
driver software and Soft Front Panel are available from 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.

Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 7
Quick Start Guide
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-1430B by the injector/ejector handle, slide it into an
available PXI (or hybrid) slot, as shown in Figure 1.
aInstall the PXI-1430B 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-1430B 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-1430B 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-1430B 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-1430B. 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-1430B RF 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-1430B RF 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-14XX Series 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-14XX Series 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-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Step 3-1. Installing the PXI-14XX Series Device Driver
This procedure is used to install the PXI module’s device driver on an
embedded controller or a PXI remote controller running
Windows 7/XP.
1Install the PXI device driver 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
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-1430B RF Downconverter Module, the PXI chassis must be
powered off and unplugged to prevent damage to PXI modules.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 11
2Install PXI modules into the PXI chassis and turn on power.
3Launch the PXI-14XX Series Device Driver Installer, PXI-14XX
Driver (32 bit).exe or PXI-1400 Driver (64 bit).exe.
The PXI-14XX Series Device Driver Installer will open with a welcome
window similar to the one shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2 Example Welcome Window
4Select Next to continue.
Windows will display the End User License Agreement (EULA) as
shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3 Example of Software License Agreement

12 Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
5Carefully read through the EULA.
•If you accept the terms of the EULA, select “I accept this
Agreement” and select Next to continue.
•If you do not accept the agreement, you will not be able to insall
the software.
Figure 4 Example of Windows Security Window
A Windows security window similar to the one shown in Figure 4 will
appear.
6Select Install to continue.
Figure 5 Example of Completing the Installer
Windows should display a message indicating that the installation was
successful.
7Select Finish to complete the device driver installation.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 13
Step 3-2. Installing the Soft Front Panel
This procedure is used to install the PXI-1430B’s Soft Front Panel
graphical user interface on an embedded controller or a
PXI remote controller running Windows 7/XP.
1Install the Soft Front Panel using one of the following methods:
•Insert the optional CD containing the Soft Front Panel.
•Download the latest available Soft Front Panel from the
Phase Matrix web site and unzip it to a location on the
embedded controller or the PXI remote controller.

Soft Front Panels are available at: www.phasematrix.com
2Start the installation process by selecting Start > Run > Browse,
navigate to the "setup.exe" file and select Open to start the
installation wizard.

After a small delay, a screen similar to Figure 6 is displayed. The
actual screen that appears will have the label of the module Soft
Front Panel being installed, so instead of “PXI-14XX,” the label is
displayed as either “PXI-1410,” “PXI-1420,” “PXI-1430B,”
“PXI-1440,” or “PXI-1450B.”
NOTE
The device driver software must be installed before the Soft Front Panel can be used to
control the PXI-1430B.
Refer to “Step 3-1. Installing the PXI-14XX Series Device Driver" on page 10 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 XP and may vary
slightly for systems running Windows 7.

14 Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Figure 6 Example of Starting the Soft Front Panel Installation Wizard
3Continue to the next screen.
Figure 7 Example of Selecting Destination Directory for Executables
4Enter the destination directory for the PXI-1430B’s Soft Front Panel
executables or browse to a destination directory by selecting the
Browse button.
5Once the file path has been entered,
select Next to continue to the Software License Agreement.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 15
Figure 8 Example Software License Agreement
6Carefully read through the Software License Agreement.
•If you agree to the terms of the software license agreement,
select "I accept the License Agreement" and select Next to
continue.
•If you do not agree, you will not be able to install the software.
Figure 9 Example Summary of Files Being Installed
7Review the list of files to be installed and select Next to begin the
installation.

16 Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Figure 10 Example of Completing Soft Front Panel Installation Wizard
8Select Finish to complete the Soft Front Panel installation.

Quick Start Guide
Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 17
(Step 3-3. Optional) Uninstalling the PXI Device Driver
This procedure is used to uninstall previous versions of the
PXI-1430B’s device driver from an embedded controller or a
PXI remote controller running Windows 7/XP.
Figure 11 Example of Device PX14XX Under “NI-VISA PXI Devices”
1Open the Device Manager by selecting Start > Control Panel
> Performance and Maintenance > System.
2Select the Hardware tab and select Device Manger.
3Select the View pull-down menu.
4Select Devices by connection and the device should appear under
"NI-VISA PXI Devices" with the label as "PM14XX."*
NOTE
•If this is the first time that a PXI-1430B’s device driver is being installed, this
procedure is optional and can be skipped.
•If the embedded controller or the PXI remote controller has previously had a device
driver of the same type installed, it must be removed before installing a new
PXI-1430B’s device driver.
NOTE
The following procedure is shown for systems running Windows XP and may vary
slightly for systems running Windows 7.
* PM14XX will actually display as PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module.

18 Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
5To uninstall the device driver for a selected module, right-click on
the selected device and a popup menu is displayed with five
selectable choices.
6Select Uninstall and a popup window is displayed with a
conformation to continue with the uninstall process.
Figure 12 Example of Confirming Device Driver Removal
7Select OK to confirm the prompt and uninstall the device driver.

Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module 19
Quick Start Guide
Step 4. Review Hardware and Software Front Panels

20 Phase Matrix PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
Quick Start Guide
Hardware Front Panel
Figure 13 Hardware Front Panel of the
PXI-1430B RF Downconverter Module
CAUTION
The maximum power input to the input connector (RF B IN 100 kHz to 2.9 GHz) must
not exceed +10 dBm!