NI PXI-6541 Digital Waveform Generator / Analyzer

The NI PXI-6541 is a high-performance digital waveform generator and analyzer that interfaces with digital electronics via 32 bidirectional data channels and 4 programmable function interface (PFI) channels, each with per-channel direction control. Operating at a maximum sample clock rate of 50 MHz with a maximum digital toggle rate of 25 MHz per channel, the module supports TTL voltage levels of 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5.0 V. The PXI-6541 leverages Synchronization and Memory Core (SMC) technology to enable waveforms and instructions to share onboard memory, facilitating integration into mixed-signal test systems and low-skew, multi-channel synchronization with other digital devices.

– Technical Specifications

Channel Configuration
• 32 bidirectional data channels with per-channel direction control
• 4 programmable function interface (PFI) channels with per-channel direction control

Memory Architecture
• Synchronization and Memory Core (SMC) technology—waveforms and instructions share onboard memory
• Three memory variants: 1 Mbit/channel (778952-01), 8 Mbit/channel (778952-02), and 64 Mbit/channel (778952-03)
• User-defined allocation of script instructions and waveform storage samples
• Waveform lengths must be integer multiples of 2 samples

Timing and Clocking
• Maximum sample clock rate: 50 MHz
• Maximum digital toggle rate: 25 MHz per channel
• Sample clock sources: internal VCXO with divider, CLK IN (SMB), PXI_STAR, or STROBE (DDC connector, acquisition only)
• CLK IN frequency range: 20 kHz to 50 MHz
• PXI_STAR frequency range: 48 Hz to 50 MHz
• Sample clock relative delay adjustment: 0 to 1 sample clock period
• Clock export to DDC CLK OUT and CLK OUT (SMB jack)

Waveform Capability
• Single-shot, repetitive (n times), or continuous waveform generation
• Simple or complex waveform sequencing

– Key Features

• TTL input compatibility: 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5.0 V
• Deep onboard memory with flexible waveform and instruction allocation
• Per-channel triggering and pattern sequencing
• NI Digital Waveform Editor support (included with 8 and 64 Mbit/channel models; optional for 1 Mbit/channel)

– Typical Applications

Testing high-pin-count digital integrated circuits and digital hardware requiring synchronized, multi-channel stimulus and response measurement.

– Compatibility & Integration

Supported by NI-HSDIO driver with API support across multiple development environments and National Instruments Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) for basic testing and configuration.