Vector signal transceiver to help solve RF design and test applications

A second-generation vector signal transceiver (VST) has been announced by National Instruments (NI). The PXIe-5840 module, said to be the world’s first 1GHz bandwidth VST, is designed to solve RF design and test applications.

The PXIe-5840 combines a 6.5GHz RF vector signal generator, 6.5GHz vector signal analyser, user programmable FPGA, and serial and parallel digital interfaces into a single two slot PXI Express module. The VST is suited to a range of applications, including 802.11ac/ax device testing, mobile/Internet of Things device testing, 5G design and testing, RFIC testing and radar prototyping.

“Although engineers can use the second generation VST to solve many advanced RF test applications right out of the box, its software designed architecture enables engineers to customise the user programmable FPGA,” said Charles Schroeder, vice president of product marketing, RF at NI. “Using the LabVIEW system design software, engineers can transform the VST into exactly what they need it to be at the firmware level and ultimately address the most demanding test and measurement challenges.”

Key Features:
  • 1GHz of instantaneous bandwidth for advanced digital pre-distortion test and wideband signals such as radar, LTE-Advanced Pro and 5G
  • Measurement accuracy of 802.11ax Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) performance of -50dB
  • Small size and tight synchronisation allowing for up to 8x8 multiple input, multiple output configuration in a single 18-slot chassis
  • User-programmable FPGA that engineers can easily design with LabVIEW