National Instruments PXIe-5668 User manual

GETTING STARTED GUIDE
PXIe-5668
Up to 26.5 GHz PXI Vector Signal Analyzer
Note Before you begin, install and configure your chassis and controller.
This document explains how to install, configure, and test the PXIe-5668. The PXIe-5668 is a
26.5 GHz or 14 GHz modular vector signal analyzer (VSA). The PXIe-5668 ships with the
NI-RFSA instrument driver, which you use to program the device. You can also use NI-RFmx,
available at ni.com/downloads, to program the device.
The PXIe-5668 comprises the following devices:
• PXIe-5606 RF Signal Downconverter (PXIe-5606) RF downconverter
• PXIe-5624 IF Digitizer (PXIe-5624) intermediate frequency (IF) digitizer
• PXIe-5653 RF Analog Signal Generator (PXIe-5653) synthesizer/local oscillator (LO)
source module
In this document, PXIe-5668 refers to both the PXIe-5668 26.5 GHz VSA and the PXIe-5668
14 GHz VSA unless otherwise specified.
Caution The protection provided by this product may be impaired if it is used in a
manner not described in this document.
Hot Surface If the PXIe-5668 has been in use, it may exceed safe handling
temperatures and cause burns. Allow the PXIe-5668 to cool before removing it from
the chassis.
Contents
Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines...............................................................................2
Verifying the System Requirements..........................................................................................2
Unpacking the Kit..................................................................................................................... 2
Verifying the Kit Contents................................................................................................ 4
Preparing the Environment....................................................................................................... 5
Choosing and Installing the Software....................................................................................... 5
Software Options...............................................................................................................5
Installing the Software...................................................................................................... 6
Installing the PXIe-5668........................................................................................................... 7
Interconnecting the PXIe-5668 Modules.......................................................................... 8
Configuring the PXIe-5668 in MAX...................................................................................... 22

Self-Calibration.......................................................................................................................23
Performing a Device Self-Calibration Using the NI-RFSA SFP....................................24
Locating the Software and Examples......................................................................................24
Software Locations......................................................................................................... 24
Programming Examples Locations................................................................................. 27
Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................... 28
Installation.......................................................................................................................28
Configuration.................................................................................................................. 29
Measurements................................................................................................................. 31
Where to Go Next................................................................................................................... 32
Worldwide Support and Services............................................................................................ 32
Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines
This product was tested and complies with the regulatory requirements and limits for
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) stated in the product specifications. These requirements
and limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the product is
operated in the intended operational electromagnetic environment.
This product is intended for use in industrial locations. However, harmful interference may
occur in some installations, when the product is connected to a peripheral device or test object,
or if the product is used in residential or commercial areas. To minimize interference with
radio and television reception and prevent unacceptable performance degradation, install and
use this product in strict accordance with the instructions in the product documentation.
Furthermore, any changes or modifications to the product not expressly approved by National
Instruments could void your authority to operate it under your local regulatory rules.
Caution To ensure the specified EMC performance, operate this product only with
high-quality shielded cables and accessories.
Caution To ensure the specified EMC performance, operate this product only with
cables less than 1 meter in length.
Verifying the System Requirements
To use the PXIe-5668, your system must meet certain requirements. For more information
about minimum system requirements, recommended system, and supported application
development environments (ADEs), refer to the readme, which is installed or available at
ni.com/manuals.
Unpacking the Kit
Notice To prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging the device, ground
yourself using a grounding strap or by holding a grounded object, such as your
computer chassis.
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1. Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis.
2. Remove the device from the package and inspect the device for loose components or any
other sign of damage.
Notice Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.
Note Do not install a device if it appears damaged in any way.
3. Unpack any other items and documentation from the kit.
Store the device in the antistatic package when the device is not in use.
PXIe-5668 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 3

Verifying the Kit Contents
Figure 1. PXIe-5668 Kit Contents and Replacement Part Numbers
3
12
13 14 15 16
467 5
810 11 12
9
1. PXIe-5624 IF Digitizer Module
2. PXIe-5606 RF Downconverter Module
3. PXIe-5653 Synthesizer/LO Source Module
4. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled V, Part Number
152638A-01
5. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled W, Part Number
152639A-01
6. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled U, Part Number
152637A-01
7. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled Y, Part Number
152641A-01
8. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled X, Part Number
152640A-01
9. SMA Driver Bit, Part Number 190487B-01
10. RF Torque Screwdriver, Part Number 780487-01
11. Screwdriver, Part Number 772006-01
12. 50 ΩLoads (x3), Part Number 778353-01
13. Driver Software DVD
14. Read Me First: Safety and Electromagnetic
Compatibility
15. Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users
16. PXIe-5668 Getting Started Guide (This
Document)
Note The three 50 Ω loads are shipped installed on the downconverter front panels.
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Other Equipment
There are several required items not included in your device kit that you need to operate the
PXIe-5668. Your application may require additional items not included in your kit to install or
operate your device.
• A PXI Express chassis and chassis documentation. The PXIe-1085 chassis is one
available option for your device. For more information about compatible chassis options,
refer to ni.com.
• An embedded controller or MXI controller system that meets the system requirements
specified in this guide and chassis documentation.
Preparing the Environment
Ensure that the environment you are using the PXIe-5668 in meets the following
specifications.
Operating ambient temperature
(IEC 60068-2-1, IEC 60068-2-2)
0 °C to 55 °C
Operating relative humidity
(IEC 60068-2-56)
10% to 90%, noncondensing
Maximum altitude 2,000 m (800 mbar) (at 25 °C ambient
temperature)
Pollution Degree 2
Indoor use only.
Notice Clean the hardware with a soft, nonmetallic brush or lint free cloth. Make
sure that the hardware is completely dry and free from contaminants before returning
it to service.
Note Refer to the PXIe-5668 Specifications at ni.com/manuals for complete
specifications.
Choosing and Installing the Software
Software Options
NI provides several software options for the PXIe-5668—NI-RFmx, the NI-RFSA instrument
driver software, and the NI-RFSA Soft Front Panel (SFP).
PXIe-5668 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 5

Table 1. PXIe-5668 Software Options
Software
Option
Description Use Case
NI-RFmx Provides a single-handle
instrument driver with built-in
measurements.
Use NI-RFmx SpecAn to perform
spectral measurements.
Use NI-RFmx Demod to perform
modulation quality measurements,
such as EVM.
Use NI-RFmx cellular personalities to
perform physical layer measurement
analysis on supported cellular signals.
NI-RFSA
instrument
driver
The NI-RFSA APIs each provide a
fixed API for interacting with your
PXIe-5668 device.
NI-RFSA provides standard IVI-
based functionality needed for
most vector signal analyzer
applications.
Use NI-RFSA to create custom
measurements or applications that
require I/Q data.
Use NI-RFSA along with the
NI Modulation Toolkit to analyze
modulated signals to test receivers.
NI-RFSA SFP Controls, analyzes, and presents
data similar to stand-alone RF
vector signal analyzers. The NI-
RFSA SFP operates on the PC, so
it provides processing, storage, and
display capabilities.
Use the NI-RFSA SFP to interactively
acquire data.
Installing the Software
You must be an Administrator to install NI software on your computer.
1. Install an ADE, such as LabVIEW or LabWindows™/CVI™.
2. Install the driver software using NI Package Manager or by inserting your driver software
media into your computer.
If you do not already have NI Package Manager installed, visit ni.com/r/NIPMDownload
to download NI Package Manager. Refer to the NI Package Manager Manual for more
information about installing, removing, and upgrading NI software using NI Package
Manager.
3. Follow the instructions in the installation prompts.
Note Windows users may see access and security messages during
installation. Accept the prompts to complete the installation.
4. When the installer completes, select Restart in the dialog box that prompts you to restart,
shut down, or restart later.
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Installing the PXIe-5668
Notice To prevent damage to the PXIe-5668 caused by ESD or contamination,
handle the module using the edges or the metal bracket.
You must install NI-RFSA before installing the hardware.
Before you install the hardware, refer to the guidelines in the Maintain Forced-Air Cooling
Note to Users included with the module to ensure that the device can cool itself effectively.
To use the included cables, you must install the PXIe-5624 IF digitizer immediately to the left
of the PXIe-5606 RF downconverter module, and you must install the PXIe-5653 LO source
module immediately to the right of the PXIe-5606 RF downconverter module.
1. Ensure the AC power source is connected to the chassis before installing the module.
The AC power cord grounds the chassis and protects it from electrical damage while you
install the module.
2. Power off the chassis.
3. Inspect the slot pins on the chassis backplane for any bends or damage prior to
installation. Do not install a module if the backplane is damaged.
4. Remove the black plastic covers from all the captive screws on the module front panel.
5. Identify a supported slot in the chassis. The following figure shows the symbols that
indicate the slot types.
Figure 2. Chassis Compatibility Symbols
NI PXIe-1062Q
12 3 45
1. PXI Express System Controller Slot
2. PXI Peripheral Slot
3. PXI Express Hybrid Peripheral Slot
4. PXI Express System Timing Slot
5. PXI Express Peripheral Slot
PXIe-5668 modules can be placed in PXI Express peripheral slots, PXI Express hybrid
peripheral slots, or PXI Express system timing slots.
6. Touch any metal part of the chassis to discharge static electricity.
7. Ensure that the ejector handle is in the downward (unlatched) position.
8. Place the module edges into the module guides at the top and bottom of the chassis. Slide
the module into the slot until it is fully inserted.
PXIe-5668 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 7

Figure 3. Module Installation
2
3
NI PXIe-1075
1
1. Chassis
2. Hardware Module
3. Ejector Handle in Downward (Unlatched) Position
9. Latch the module in place by pulling up on the ejector handle.
10. Secure the module front panel to the chassis using the front-panel mounting screws.
Note Tightening the top and bottom mounting screws increases mechanical
stability and also electrically connects the front panel to the chassis, which can
improve the signal quality and electromagnetic performance.
11. Cover all empty slots using EMC filler panels or fill using slot blockers to maximize
cooling air flow, depending on your application.
12. Power on the chassis.
Related Information
Installing the Software on page 6
Interconnecting the PXIe-5668 Modules
Complete the following steps to interconnect the PXIe-5668 front panel connectors, as shown
in the following figure.
Notice The signal pins of this product's input/output ports can be damaged if
subjected to ESD. To prevent damage, remove power from the product before
connecting cables and employ industry-standard ESD prevention measures during
installation, maintenance, and operation.
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Figure 4. Installation of the PXIe-5668 Cables and 50 ΩLoads
ACCESS
ACTIVE
431
5
6
2
3
1. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled V
2. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled U
3. 50 ΩLoad
4. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled Y
5. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled X
6. SMA-to-SMA Cable, Labeled W
1. Using the three SMA-to-SMA coaxial cables labeled W, X, and Y, connect the LO1, LO2,
and LO3 connectors on the NI 5653 front panel to the associated LO1 IN, LO2 IN, and
LO3 IN connectors on the PXIe-5606 front panel.
2. Using the SMA-to-SMA cable labeled U, connect the LO2 OUT connector on the
NI 5606 front panel to the CLK IN connector on the NI 5624R front panel.
3. Using the SMA-to-SMA cable labeled V, connect the IF OUT connector on the
PXIe-5606 front panel to the IF IN connector on the NI 5624R front panel.
4. Install a 50 Ω load on each of the PXIe-5606 module LO1 OUT, LO3 OUT, and
IF IN / BIAS OUT connectors.
PXIe-5668 Getting Started Guide | © National Instruments | 9

5. Hand-tighten all SMA cable ends on the SMA connectors after the cable center pins are
correctly aligned and connected. The cable connectors should tighten without much
torque or effort.
Note If the SMA cable does not exactly align with the SMA connector, bend
the cable slightly by hand to align the cable and the connector. The amount of
bending should be minimal. The cables can be damaged by excessive bending.
6. Carefully complete tightening all SMA connectors to 1 N · m using an appropriate torque
wrench (not included) or torque screwdriver and SMA driver bit. Tighten only until the
wrench clicks.
Caution Incorrect torque at SMA connections can damage device connectors,
degrade signal fidelity and phase locked loop performance, or cause insertion
loss. Use an appropriate torque wrench or torque screwdriver and SMA driver
bit to ensure all SMA connections are properly torqued. SMA connectors for
connections to external equipment may require torque different from 1 N · m,
depending on the connector type, material, and manufacturer.
7. Power on your PXI Express chassis and controller system. If you are using a MXI device
and a remote controller, ensure that the chassis is powered on prior to triggering the
remote controller. Using the controller system before the chassis is powered on may cause
installed devices to not appear in MAX.
8. Verify that the ACCESS LED is on for all three modules.
Related Information
Troubleshooting on page 28
If an issue persists after you complete a troubleshooting procedure, contact NI technical
support or visit ni.com/support.
Refer to the NI RF Vector Signal Analyzers Help for information about how to make
connections using an external clock, or how to connect multiple NI 5668R modules.
Direct Connections to the PXIe-5606
The PXIe-5606 is a precision RF instrument that is sensitive to ESD and transients. Ensure
you are making proper direct connections to the PXIe-5606 to avoid damaging the device.
Notice Apply external signals only while the PXIe-5606 is powered on. Applying
external signals while the device is powered off may cause damage.
• Ensure you are properly grounded when manipulating cables or antennas connected to the
PXIe-5606 RF IN connector.
• If you are using noninsulated devices, such as an RF antenna, ensure the devices are
maintained in a static-free environment.
• If you are using an active device, such as a preamplifier or switch routed to the
PXIe-5606 RF IN connector, ensure that the device cannot generate signal transients
greater than the RF and DC specifications of the PXIe-5606 RF IN connector.
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