NI Blog

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As wireless technologies continue to evolve, engineers are looking to optimize RF integrated circuits, such as power amplifiers and front-end modules, to maximize performance without sacrificing variables (such as power consumption or size). This places added pressure on instrumentation to both meet the primary test requirements and address complex nonlinearities; for example, second- or third-order harmonics. Pushing these components to their limit can become problematic.

Extend Frequency Range and Harmonic Measurements

Engineers and scientists have used the NI Vector Signal Transceiver to help accelerate their pursuit with high-performance, reliable measurements using a software-defined approach that flexes to meet evolving requirements.

That’s why our new collaboration with SignalCraft Technologies (SCT), to extend generation and analysis capabilities even further in PXI-based test systems, is so exciting.

SCT recently released the SC2250, a signal conditioning module that extends the useful range of traditional 6 GHz RF instruments to microwave frequencies up to 18 GHz. It’s designed to work seamlessly with National Instruments PXI Vector Signal Transceiver (VST) products.

The RF signal conditioning module extends the frequency range of PXI-based test applications for precise harmonic measurements, ultimately providing a cost-effective solution to demanding applications that require higher frequency coverage.

The new SC2250 brings flexibility and precision to harmonic measurement test in the form of a single-slot module to make measurements traditionally only achievable through bulky, expensive equipment.

By integrating a number of features that ensure accuracy, the need for auxiliary test bench equipment is eliminated.

It provides user-friendly, selectable filtering for signal conditioning applications requiring spurious and harmonic rejection. Additionally, the high accuracy and up-/down-conversion capability of the SC2250 offers compatibility with applications that benefit from frequency extension in addition to harmonic measurements, including:

• Benchtop designer verification testing
• Wi-Fi 6 testing using legacy 6 GHz instruments
• Intermediate frequency measurements for 5G radios
• Mission-critical record and playback for aerospace applications

Learn more about the SC2250 RF signal conditioning module or see purchasing options in the NI Shop.