RF test systems for cost-sensitive applications

Emerson announces the latest additions to its NI PXI Vector Signal Transceiver (VST) portfolio designed to expand access to high-performance RF test technologies in cost-sensitive applications, including medical device development and electronic validation and production environments.

The new Core VST instruments—including the PXIe-5841 and PXIe-5820—deliver calibrated, synchronized RF measurements in a modular platform optimised for speed, automation and ease of use. By combining high-performance RF capability with a more accessible price point, the enhanced NI VST portfolio now enables more engineering teams to adopt advanced measurement techniques earlier in development and then scale them up through production with consistency and efficiency.

The PXIe-5841 features 200-megahertz instantaneous bandwidth and a fixed FPGA configuration, providing a streamlined option for fast, repeatable measurements. Alongside the PXIe-5820, these instruments integrate with the NI RFmx measurement software to deliver validated results in a simple, interactive environment that supports more efficient workflows from signal generation through analysis.

Key capabilities include:

• Expanded frequency coverage for cost-sensitive applications, starting at 9 kilohertz, enables industrial, scientific and medical (ISM), AM/FM and radar test alongside wireless and medical device validation — while maintaining a lower system cost.
• Scalable, cost-effective RF measurements deliver calibrated performance at a lower system cost, enabling teams to expand test coverage without significantly increasing system investment.
• Flexible test configurations support vector signal analysis (VSA), vector signal generation (VSG) and transceiver workflows with bandwidth options ranging from 200 megahertz to 1 gigahertz designed to meet a wide range of RF validation needs.
• A modular, AI-ready platform enables teams to customise, scale and reuse PXI-based test systems as requirements evolve across validation and production.
• Streamlined software integration uses NI RFmx within a connected software workflow to accelerate setup, support multiple programming environments, and simplify measurement development.

“RF test is shifting from specialised, high-cost setups to scalable platforms that teams can standardise on,” said Sarah LaSelva, director of RF and wireless marketing for Emerson’s test and measurement business. “The NI PXI Core VST products lower the barrier to calibrated, synchronised measurements without adding system complexity — so engineers can move from research to production faster while managing growing system complexity with greater confidence in their results.”