National Instruments NI User manual

February 2007
373308G-01
GETTING STARTED GUIDE
NI Digital Waveform
Generator/Analyzer
This document explains how to install, configure, and test a National
Instruments digital waveform generator/analyzer and how to program it
using NI-HSDIO driver software. This document applies specifically to the
following devices:
• NI PXI/PCI-6541/6542 (NI 654x)
• NI PXI/PCI-6551/6552 (NI 655x)
• NI PXI/PCI-6561/6562 (NI 656x)
For more information about features and programming, refer to the
NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Help at Start»Programs»
National Instruments»NI-HSDIO»Documentation»NI Digital
Waveform Generator/Analyzer Help.
Refer to the specifications document that ships with your device for detailed
specifications.
The most recent versions of product documentation are available at
ni.com/manuals. Visit ni.com/idnet for the latest version of NI-HSDIO
driver software.
Contents
Conventions ...............................................................................................2
1. Verifying the System Components ........................................................4
2. Unpacking ..............................................................................................4
3. Verifying the Kit Contents.....................................................................4
Documentation...................................................................................5
EMI Gasket (NI PXI-655xOnly).......................................................5
4. Installing the Software ...........................................................................5
Choose and Install Your ADE ...........................................................5
Install NI-HSDIO...............................................................................5
(Optional) Install the NI Digital Waveform Editor ...........................6

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 2 ni.com
5. Installing the Hardware..........................................................................7
Installing a PXI Module.....................................................................7
Installing a PCI Device ......................................................................9
6. Configuring and Testing in MAX..........................................................10
Using the Test Panel to Generate and Acquire Data .........................11
7. Connecting Signals ................................................................................13
Connecting Cables and Accessories ..................................................13
Wiring for Common Measurements ..................................................18
8. Programming the Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer.....................19
NI-HSDIO Instrument Driver ............................................................19
NI LabVIEW SignalExpress Limited Edition ...................................19
NI-HSDIO Examples .........................................................................20
Appendix A: Device Front Panels .............................................................20
Appendix B: Troubleshooting ...................................................................29
Where to Go for Support ...........................................................................31
Conventions
The following conventions are used in this guide:
<> Angle brackets that contain numbers separated by
an ellipsis represent a range of values associated
with a bit or signal name—for example, AO <3..0>.
»The »symbol leads you through nested menu items
and dialog box options 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 box.
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 this symbol is marked on the
product, refer to the Read Me First: Safety and
Radio-Frequency Interference document that
shipped with your device for precautions to take.
When symbol is marked on a product, it denotes a
component that may be hot. Touching this
component may result in bodily injury.

© National Instruments Corporation 3 NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide
bold 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.
CompactPCI CompactPCI refers to the core specification defined
by the PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers
Group (PICMG).
italic Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, or a
cross-reference. Italic text also denotes text that is a
placeholder for a word or value that you must
supply.
monospace Text in this font denotes text or characters that you
should enter from the keyboard, sections of code,
programming examples, and syntax examples. This
font is also used for the proper names of disk drives,
paths, directories, programs, subprograms,
subroutines, device names, functions, operations,
variables, filenames, and extensions.
monospace bold Bold text in this font denotes the messages and
responses that the computer automatically prints to
the screen. This font also emphasizes lines of code
that are different from the other examples.
monospace italic Italic text in this font denotes text that is a
placeholder for a word or value that you must
supply.
PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) is a
high-performance expansion bus architecture
originally developed by Intel to replace ISA
and EISA.
Platform Text in this font denotes a specific platform and
indicates that the text following it applies only to
that platform.
PXI PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation (PXI) is a
rugged, open system for modular instrumentation
based on CompactPCI, with special mechanical,
electrical, and software features.

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 4 ni.com
1. Verifying the System Components
Your system must meet certain requirements to use NI digital waveform
generator/analyzers with NI-HSDIO. For more information on minimum
system, recommended system, and supported application development
environments (ADEs), refer to the NI-HSDIO Instrument Driver Readme,
which is available on the NI-HSDIO CD.
Note After you install NI-HSDIO, you can access the NI-HSDIO
Instrument Driver Readme at Start»All Programs»National
Instruments»NI-HSDIO»Documentation.
2. Unpacking
The NI digital waveform generator/analyzer ships in an antistatic package to
prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can damage several components
on the device.
Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.
To avoid ESD damage in handling the device, take the following precautions:
• Ground yourself with a grounding strap or by touching a grounded
object.
• Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of your computer chassis
before removing the device from the package.
Remove the device from the package and inspect it for loose components or
any other signs of damage. Notify NI if the device appears damaged in any
way. Do not install a damaged device in your computer or chassis.
Store the device in the antistatic package when the device is not in use.
3. Verifying the Kit Contents
Verify that the kit contains the following items:
❑DVD-sized case, which contains the following items:
– NI-HSDIO (High-Speed Digital I/O) instrument driver software
CDs, which include the NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer
Help
–NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Getting Started Guide
❑NI digital waveform generator/analyzer

© National Instruments Corporation 5 NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide
❑Mounting screw (PCI devices only)
❑Other documentation included with the digital waveform
generator/analyzer and driver software. Refer to the Documentation
section for a list of the documentation you may have.
Documentation
The NI digital waveform generator/analyzer kit may also include the
following documents:
• NI digital waveform generator/analyzer specifications—This printed
document provides specifications for your device.
•Read Me First: Safety and Radio-Frequency Interference
•Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users
•Retrofitting Your PXI Module Note to Users (NI PXI-655x only)
EMI Gasket (NI PXI-655xOnly)
The NI PXI-655xkit also includes an EMI gasket and documentation that
describes under what conditions you should install the gasket. Refer to
step 5. Installing the Hardware for more information about the gasket.
4. Installing the Software
This section describes the software installation process for the NI digital
waveform generator/analyzer.
Choose and Install Your ADE
You can create applications for your digital waveform generator/analyzer
using LabVIEW, LabWindows™/CVI™, or Microsoft Visual C++.
LabVIEW features interactive graphics, a state-of-the-art interface, and a
powerful graphical programming language. LabWindows/CVI is a complete
ANSI C ADE that features an interactive user interface, code generation
tools, and the LabWindows/CVI Data Acquisition and Easy I/O libraries.
Using LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI can greatly reduce your application
development time.
If you have not already installed the ADE, follow the instructions in the
product documentation to install your ADE now.
Install NI-HSDIO
NI-HSDIO features a set of operations and attributes that allow you to
programmatically configure and control the digital waveform
generator/analyzer.

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 6 ni.com
Note NI-HSDIO 1.5 and later also includes NI LabVIEW
SignalExpress LE, an interactive software environment that allows
you to choose from the included NI-HSDIO express steps to
quickly program common applications, including acquisition,
generation, and hardware comparison (real-time hardware
comparison is supported only on NI 655xdevices).
To install NI-HSDIO, complete the following steps:
1. Insert the first CD of the NI-HSDIO CD set. The NI-HSDIO installer
should open automatically. If not, select Start»Run, and enter
x :\setup.exe, where x is the letter of the CD drive.
2. Follow the instructions in the installation prompts. For troubleshooting
and operating system-specific instructions, refer to the Hardware
Installation/Configuration Troubleshooter at ni.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.
4. If you are using a system running the LabVIEW Real-Time Module,
download NI-HSDIO to the target using MAX. Refer to the MAX Remote
Systems Help by selecting Help»Help Topics»Remote Systems
in MAX.
NI Script Editor
The NI Script Editor is included on the NI-HSDIO CDs and is installed when
you install the driver. The NI Script Editor provides an intuitive interface to
help you develop linking and looping waveform generation operations.
NI Script Editor Help contains more information about the NI Script Editor.
You can access NI Script Editor Help by launching the NI Script Editor and
selecting Help»NI Script Editor Help from the toolbar.
(Optional) Install the NI Digital Waveform Editor
The NI Digital Waveform Editor (DWE) is included with the higher-memory
versions of NI digital waveform generator/analyzers and also can be
purchased separately at ni.com. The NI DWE allows you to easily import
data from popular third-party electronic design automation (EDA) programs,
create your own waveforms, edit these waveforms, and view acquired
waveforms.
If you are using the NI DWE, install it after you install NI-HSDIO.

© National Instruments Corporation 7 NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide
5. Installing the Hardware
To install your NI digital waveform generator/analyzer, follow the
instructions in the section that describes your hardware platform.
When installing your hardware, follow the instructions in this section to
ensure that your device can cool itself effectively. If the device temperature
rises above the optimal operating temperature range, the device disables
itself, and MAX or NI-HSDIO notifies you with an error message. For more
information about re-enabling your device, refer to the I Received a Thermal
Shutdown Error section in Appendix B: Troubleshooting.
Installing a PXI Module
To install the module, refer to Figure 1 and complete the following steps:
Figure 1. PXI Installation
1. Power down the chassis before installing the module.
2. If the chassis has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are set
to the highest setting. Do not set the fan speed to low or turn the fan off.
3. Position the chassis so that you allow plenty of space between the chassis
fan intake and exhaust vents. Blocking the fans affects the air flow
needed for cooling. For more information, refer to the chassis
documentation.
1 PXI Chassis
2 Ejector Handle
3 Captive Screw
4 NI PXI Device
3
2
4
NI PXI-1042
1

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 8 ni.com
4. If you need to use an EMI gasket to reduce high-frequency emissions,
install it now. Refer to the Retrofitting Your PXI Module Note to Users
for gasket installation instructions.
5. Remove the packaging material on the PXI connector and on the screws.
6. Ensure that the ejector handle is in the unlatched (downward) position,
as shown in Figure 1.
7. Holding the module by the ejector handle, slide it into an empty slot,
ensuring that the base card (on the left when looking at the front of the
module) engages with the card guides in the chassis.
8. Slide the module completely into the chassis and latch by pulling up on
the ejector handle.
9. Tighten the captive screws at the top and bottom of the module front panel.
10. Before operating the module, install all chassis covers and filler panels.
Missing filler panels disrupt the necessary air circulation in the chassis.
Note NI recommends that you install slot blockers between
modules to maximize air flow. NI recommends using the PXI
Chassis Slot Blocker Kit, part number 778678-01, available for
purchase at ni.com.
11. Plug in and power on the chassis.
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 your NI digital waveform
generator/analyzer.
Maintaining PXI Systems
Clean the fan filters on the chassis regularly to prevent air circulation path
blockage. Cleaning frequency depends on the amount of use and the
operating environment. For specific information about cleaning procedures,
and other recommended maintenance, refer to the module specifications and
the chassis user documentation.
Uninstalling PXI Modules
When removing PXI modules from the chassis, first power down the chassis.
Then ensure that you are grounded with a grounding strap or are touching a
grounded metal surface. To avoid ESD, do not touch the exposed pins of the
PXI connector or any exposed circuitry on the module. When not in use, PXI
modules should be stored in the original antistatic packaging to avoid
damage.

© National Instruments Corporation 9 NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide
Hot Surface During operation, the metal surfaces of PXI modules
may become hot. Be careful when removing the module from the
chassis or when moving it to a different peripheral slot. When
removing the module, hold it by only the ejector handle and front
panel.
Installing a PCI Device
To install your PCI device, complete the following steps:
1. Power off and unplug the PC.
2. If the PC has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are set to
the highest setting.
3. Remove the PC cover.
4. Insert the device into an open PCI slot, as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2. PCI Installation
NI recommends either leaving the slot adjacent to the fan side of the
device empty or using lower-profile devices in the slot adjacent to the
fan side.
5. Secure the device with the screw provided in the kit.
1 NI PCI Device 2PCISlot 3 Personal Computer
1
2
3

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 10 ni.com
Caution It is important to completely screw the device into the PCI
slot, both for mechanical stability and for creating a solid ground
connection, which reduces signal noise. Some computer
manufacturers use a plastic securing lever to secure PCI devices;
such a lever is unacceptable and must be removed, or you must use
a different chassis. Improperly secured devices may affect the
accuracy of device specifications.
6. Before operating the device, install all filler panels. Missing filler panels
disrupt the necessary air circulation in the PC.
7. Replace the PC cover.
8. Plug in and power on the PC.
Maintaining PCI Systems
Inspect the onboard fan on a regular basis to prevent fan and air circulation
path blockage. Cleaning frequency depends on the amount of use and the
operating environment.
6. Configuring and Testing in MAX
To configure and test the NI digital waveform generator/analyzer in MAX,
complete the following steps:
1. Launch MAX to configure and test the digital waveform
generator/analyzer. MAX should automatically detect the device
you installed.
2. Expand Devices and Interfaces.
If you are using an NI digital waveform generator/analyzer with the
LabVIEW Real-Time Module, expand Remote Systems. Find your
target IP address or name, expand it, and then expand Devices and
Interfaces.
3. Expand NI-DAQmx Devices.
4. Check that your device appears under NI-DAQmx Devices.
Note If your device does not appear under NI-DAQmx Devices,
MAX did not detect the device, so you might need to refresh MAX
by selecting File»Refresh from the MAX menu or pressing <F5>.
5. You can perform a self-test on devices listed under NI-DAQmx Devices.
The self-test ensures that the device is installed correctly and can
communicate with NI-HSDIO. To perform a self-test, complete the
following steps:
a. Right-click the device you want to test.
b. Select Self-Test, shown in Figure 3.