PXI Modules

What Is a PXI Module

A PXI module is a plug-in measurement or control card installed into a PXI or PXIe chassis. Each module performs a specific function such as signal generation, data acquisition, switching, RF measurement, or timing and synchronization.

PXI modules communicate over a high-bandwidth backplane and share system clocks and triggers, enabling deterministic operation across multiple instruments. This architecture allows engineers to build compact, scalable test systems that outperform traditional rack-and-stack instruments in speed, synchronization, and automation capability.

PXI Architecture and Why It Matters

PXI systems are built on a modular hardware architecture designed specifically for measurement applications.

Core architectural elements include:
• High-speed PCI Express backplane for data transfer
• Shared system timing and trigger buses
• Dedicated synchronization resources
• Centralized system controller
• Modular slot-based expansion

This architecture allows PXI modules to operate as a tightly integrated measurement system rather than independent instruments.

Types of PXI Modules We Offer

PXI Data Acquisition Modules

PXI data acquisition modules are used to capture analog and digital signals from sensors, devices, and systems under test. These modules support high channel counts, precise timing, and synchronized sampling across multiple inputs.

They are widely used in structural testing, environmental monitoring, electronics validation, and system characterization.

PXI Signal Generation Modules

PXI signal generators produce precise electrical, RF, or digital waveforms for stimulus and excitation. These modules are used to emulate real-world signals, drive devices under test, and perform closed-loop validation.

Signal generation modules are commonly deployed in RF testing, digital interface validation, and semiconductor characterization.

PXI RF and Microwave Modules

PXI RF modules support high-frequency signal generation and analysis within a modular platform. They are used for wireless testing, radar validation, and RF component characterization.

These modules benefit from shared reference clocks and tight phase alignment across multiple channels.

PXI Switching Modules

PXI switching modules provide automated signal routing between instruments and devices under test. They enable scalable test architectures by eliminating manual cabling and improving test throughput.

Switching modules are essential in high-channel-count ATE systems.

PXI Timing and Synchronization Modules

Timing modules distribute reference clocks, triggers, and synchronization signals across the PXI system. They are critical for applications requiring phase coherence, deterministic timing, and repeatable measurements.

PXI Control and Interface Modules

PXI interface modules provide connectivity to external buses and control protocols. These modules enable integration of PXI systems with legacy equipment, industrial controllers, and embedded devices.

Key PXI Module Specifications Engineers Evaluate

When selecting PXI modules, engineers focus on several critical system-level parameters:

• Measurement bandwidth and resolution
• Sampling rate and data throughput
• Channel count and isolation
• Timing accuracy and synchronization capability
• Trigger latency and determinism
• Software driver and API support
• Long-term platform availability

Matching module capabilities to system requirements is essential for building reliable automated test systems.

PXI Module Brands We Sell

Aumictech supplies PXI modules from industry-leading manufacturers trusted in professional automated test environments.

• National Instruments
PXI and PXIe modules for data acquisition, RF, and automated test systems

• Keysight Technologies
High-performance PXI modules for RF, microwave, and semiconductor testing

• Pickering Interfaces
PXI switching modules for automated test and signal routing

• Astronics
PXI modules and ATE platforms for aerospace and defense testing

• Marvin Test Solutions
PXI modules for military, aerospace, and production test systems

Used and Laboratory-Grade PXI Modules

PXI systems are designed for long operational lifetimes and are often deployed in test platforms for many years. Professionally sourced used and surplus PXI modules provide a cost-effective solution for expanding system capability, replacing failed modules, and supporting legacy PXI installations.

These modules are commonly used in aerospace labs, semiconductor fabs, defense test facilities, and university research environments where platform continuity is critical.

Why PXI Modules Are Central to Modern Test Systems

As test requirements continue to demand higher speeds, tighter synchronization, and greater scalability, modular PXI systems have become the preferred architecture for advanced measurement and validation.

PXI modules enable engineers to build compact, software-defined test systems that evolve with changing requirements while maintaining precision and reliability. From R&D validation to high-volume production testing, PXI modules remain a cornerstone technology in modern automated test and measurement.