Pxie5644r Calibration

CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
NI PXIe-5644R
Reconfigurable 6 GHz RF Vector Signal Transceiver
This document contains information about calibrating the National Instruments PXIe-5644R
(NI 5644R) RF vector signal transceiver. This document provides performance tests to verify
whether the instrument is performing within the published specifications. For more information
about calibration, visit ni.com/calibration.
Caution Do not disconnect the cable that connects CAL IN to CAL OUT.
Removing the cable from or tampering with the CAL IN or CAL OUT front panel
connectors voids the product calibration, and specifications are no longer warranted.
Contents
Conventions .............................................................................................................................. 2
Software Requirements............................................................................................................. 2
Documentation Requirements .................................................................................................. 3
Calibration Interval................................................................................................................... 3
Test Equipment......................................................................................................................... 3
Test Conditions......................................................................................................................... 7
Calibration Procedures ............................................................................................................. 7
Initial Setup....................................................................................................................... 7
Test System Characterization ........................................................................................... 8
Power Sensor Zero.................................................................................................... 8
Power Splitter Characterization................................................................................ 8
As-Found and As-Left Limits........................................................................................... 14
Self-Calibration ................................................................................................................ 14
Verification....................................................................................................................... 14
Internal Frequency Reference Verification .............................................................. 15
LO OUT (RF IN 0 and RF OUT 0) Verification...................................................... 17
RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification.............................................. 19
RF Input Frequency Response Verification ............................................................. 23
RF Input Average Noise Density Verification ......................................................... 28
RF Input Non-Harmonic Spurs Verification ............................................................ 29
RF Output Power Level Accuracy Verification ....................................................... 32
RF Output Frequency Response Verification........................................................... 36
RF Output Noise Density Verification ..................................................................... 41
RF Output Third Order Intermodulation Output Verification.................................. 43
RF Output Harmonics Verification .......................................................................... 46
RF Output Non-Harmonic Spurs Verification.......................................................... 48
RF Output Spectral Purity Verification .................................................................... 50
RF Input Spectral Purity Verification ....................................................................... 52

RF Residual LO Power and Residual Sideband Image Suppression Verification ... 55
RF Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) Verification ..................................................... 59
Optional Verification Procedures ..................................................................................... 61
RF Input and Output Return Loss Verification ........................................................ 61
RF Input Third-Order and Second-Order Input Intermodulation Verification......... 63
Where to Go for Support .......................................................................................................... 66
Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:
The symbol leads you through nested menu items and dialog box
options to a final action. The sequence OptionsSettingsGeneral
directs you to pull down the Options menu, select the Settings item,
and select General from the last dialog box.
This icon denotes a tip, which alerts you to advisory information.
This icon denotes a note, which alerts you to important information.
This icon denotes a caution, which advises you of precautions to take
to avoid injury, data loss, or a system crash.
bold
Bold text denotes items that you must select or click in the software,
such as menu items and dialog box options. Bold text also denotes
parameter names.
italic
Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, a cross-reference, or an

introduction to a key concept. Italic text also denotes text that is a
placeholder for a word or value that you must supply.
monospace
Text in this font denotes text or characters that you should enter from
the keyboard, sections of code, programming examples, and syntax
examples. This font is also used for the proper names of disk drives,
paths, directories, programs, subprograms, subroutines, device names,
functions, operations, variables, filenames, and extensions.
monospace italic Italic text in this font denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or
value that you must supply.
Software Requirements
To calibrate the NI 5644R, you must install the following software on the calibration system:
NI LabVIEW 2012 Base/Full/Pro
NI LabVIEW 2012 Support for NI PXIe-5644R
2 | ni.com | NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure
NI-RFSA version 2.5.2 or later
NI Modulation Toolkit 4.3.3 or later
NI Spectral Measurements Toolkit version 2.5 or later
Documentation Requirements
You might find the following documentation helpful as you perform the calibration procedure:
NI PXIe-5644R Getting Started Guide
NI RF Vector Signal Transceivers Help
NI PXIe-5644R Specifications
The latest versions of these documents can be found on ni.com/manuals.
Calibration Interval
The measurement accuracy requirements of your application determine how often you should
calibrate your device. NI recommends that you perform a complete calibration of the NI5644R
at least once a year. You can shorten this calibration interval based on the accuracy demands of
your application.
A two year calibration interval is also supported for the NI 5644R. The limits listed for the
following procedures must be expanded, as documented in the NI PXIe-5644R Specifications.
RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification
RF Input Frequency Response Verification
RF Output Power Level Accuracy Verification
RF Output Frequency Response Verification
Refer to the Calibration section of the NI PXIe-5644R Specifications for more information about
recommended calibration intervals and warranted specifications and expansion factors.
Test Equipment
National Instruments recommends that you use the equipment in Table 1 for calibrating the
NI 5644R.
NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure | National Instruments | 3
Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration
Equipment
Frequency reference
Recommended Model
Measured Specification
Minimum Requirements
Symmetricom 8040
Rubidium Frequency
Standard
Internal frequency reference,

Input/output non-harmonic spurs,
Input third order and second order input
intermodulation,
Output noise density,
Output third order output intermodulation,
Output harmonics
Frequency: 10 MHz
Power sensor
Rohde & Schwarz (R&S)

NRP-Z91
Input/output frequency response,

Input/output absolute amplitude accuracy,
LO OUT (RF IN 0 and RF OUT 0)
Range: -67 dBm to +23 dBm

Frequency range: 65 MHz to 6 GHz
Accuracy: 0.5%
VSWR: <1.2
CW signal generator
(Source 1)
NI PXIe-5652 (NI 5652)
Internal frequency reference,

Output third order output intermodulation,
Output harmonics,
Output non-harmonic spurs,
Input/output spectral purity,
Input non-harmonic spurs,
Input spectral purity,
intermodulation

Frequency resolution: <5 Hz
Amplitude range: -30 dBm to
0 dBm
Frequency accuracy: 1E-9
Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration (Continued)
Equipment
Recommended Model
Vector signal analyzer
NI PXIe-5665 (NI 5665)
Output third order intermodulation output,

Output harmonics,
Output non-harmonic spurs,
Input/output spectral purity
Frequency range: 65 MHz to

12 GHz
Instantaneous bandwidth: 50 MHz
Phase noise at 20 kHz offset:
<-125 dBm/Hz
Vector signal analyzer

with preamplification
option
NI PXIe-5665 (NI 5665)

with NI PXI-5691
(NI 5691)
Output noise density
Frequency range: 65 MHz to

12 GHz
Noise floor at 6 GHz:
<-158 dBm/Hz
Instantaneous bandwidth: 50 MHz
Phase noise at 20 kHz offset:
<-125 dBm/Hz
Power splitter
Aeroflex/Weinschel 1593

Input/output absolute amplitude accuracy
SWR: 1.25 at 18 GHz

Amplitude tracking: <0.25 dB
6 dB attenuator (2)
Anritsu 41KB-6

Frequency range: DC to 6 GHz

SWR: 1.1
Input average noise density

Maximum VSWR: 1.11
50 SMA terminator
Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration (Continued)
Equipment
Recommended Model
Adapter SMA
(m)-to-N (f)
Huber+Suhner
32_SMA_N-50-1/1-_U


Impedance: 50
Return loss: DC to 6 GHz 23 dB
Adapter
3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm
(m)
Huber+Suhner
31_PC35_50-0-2/199_N


Impedance: 50
Return loss: DC to 6 GHz 30 dB
Table 2 lists equipment required to perform optional calibration for non-warranted specifications of the NI 5644R.
Table 2. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for Optional NI 5644R Calibration
Equipment
Recommended Model
CW signal generator
(Source 2)
NI PXIe-5652

intermodulation

Frequency resolution: <5 Hz
Amplitude range: -30 dBm to
0 dBm
2-port vector network

analyzer
NI PXIe-5630
Input/output return loss
Power combiner
Minicircuits ZFRSC-123+

intermodulation
>20 dB reverse isolation at 6 GHz
Test Conditions
The following setup and environmental conditions are required to ensure the NI 5644R meets
published specifications:
Keep cabling as short as possible. Long cables act as antennae, picking up extra noise that
can affect measurements.
Verify that all connections, including front panel connections and screws, are secure.
Ensure that the PXI Express chassis fan speed is set to HIGH, that the fan filters (if present)
are clean, and that the empty slots contain filler panels and slot blockers. For more
information about chassis cooling, refer to the Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users
document available at ni.com/manuals.
Keep relative humidity between 10% and 90%, noncondensing.
Maintain an ambient temperature of 23 C 5 C.
Allow a warm-up time of at least 30 minutes after the chassis is powered on. The warm-up
time ensures that the NI 5644R and test instrumentation are at a stable operating
temperature.
Each verification procedure requires a delay to allow the devices to settle in between
configuring all devices and acquiring measurements. This delay may need to be adjusted
depending on the instruments used.
Calibration Procedures
The calibration process includes the following steps:
1.
Initial SetupInstall the device and configure it in Measurement & Automation Explorer
(MAX). Refer to the NI PXIe-5644R Getting Started Guide for more information about
how to configure your device.
2.
Test System CharacterizationCharacterize the response of the test system. The measured
response is used during the verification tests.
3.
Self-CalibrationAdjust the self-calibration constants of the device.
4.
VerificationVerify the existing operation of the device. This step confirms whether the
device is operating within its specified range.
5.
AdjustmentIf the device does not fall within the desired specifications, return the device
to NI for calibration to adjust the calibration constants. Visit ni.com/calibration for
information about returning a device to NI.
6.
ReverificationRepeat the verification procedure to ensure that the device is operating

within its specifications after adjustment.
Initial Setup
Refer to the NI PXIe-5644R Getting Started Guide for information about how to install the
software and hardware and how to configure the device in MAX.
Test System Characterization

These procedures are used to characterize the test system response. The results of these
procedures are used in the Verification section of this document.
The power splitter response is measured at the RF input frequencies used in the verification tests.
The connectors on the device under test (DUT) and test equipment are
fragile. Perform the steps in these procedures with great care to prevent damaging any
DUTs or test equipment.
Caution
Power Sensor Zero

1.
Ensure that the power sensor is not connected to any signals.
2.
Zero the power sensor using the built-in function.
Power Splitter Characterization

Zero the power sensor using the procedure in the Power Sensor Zero section
of this document prior to starting this procedure.
Note
Use the power splitter characterization procedures to characterize the test system response. You
use the results of these procedures in the Verification section of this document.
Measure the power splitter (and attenuation) response over 65 MHz to 6 GHz with frequency
points inclusive of the frequencies used in the verification tests.
Splitter Balance Characterization for RF Input Verification (With Attenuator)

Complete the following procedure to characterize the loss between the two output terminals of
the splitter, where the second terminal is terminated into an attenuator. The RF Input Absolute
Amplitude Accuracy Verification and RF Input Frequency Response Verification require
characterization data from this procedure.
1.
Connect the SMA (m) connector of the 6 dB attenuator to the RF OUT front panel
connector of the CW signal generator (Source 1)
2.
Connect the SMA (f) connector of the 6 dB attenuator to the input port of the power splitter
using an SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
3.
Connect the power sensor to one of the output ports of the power splitter using the SMA
(m)-to-N (f) adapter. Refer to this port as Splitter Output 1.
4.
Connect the other power splitter output to the SMA (f) connector of the second 6 dB
attenuator using an SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) adapter. Refer to the combined power splitter
output and 6 dB attenuator as Splitter Output 2.
5.
Connect the 50 terminator to Splitter Output 2 using an SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) adapter.
Figure 1 illustrates the hardware setup.
Figure 1. Connection Diagram for Measuring at Splitter Output 1

2
1
2
3
4
6.
CW Signal Generator (Source 1)

50 Terminator
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Adapter
Power Splitter
5
6
7
Power Sensor
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
6 dB Attenuator
Configure the CW signal generator using the following settings:
Center frequency (Hz): 65 MHz; store as Frequency
Power level (dBm): 0 dBm
7.
Configure the power sensor to correct for Frequency using the power sensor's frequency
correction function.
8.
Use the power sensor to measure the power.
9.
Repeat steps 6 through 8 by updating Frequency from 65 MHz to 6 GHz in 5 MHz steps.
Record the resulting measurements as Splitter Output 1 Power. Each frequency should have
a corresponding value.
10. Disconnect the power sensor and 50 terminator from the power splitter.
11. Connect the power sensor to Splitter Output 2 using an SMA (f)-to-SMA (f) adapter and an
SMA (m)-to-N (f) adapter.
12. Connect the 50 terminator to Splitter Output 1. Figure 2 illustrates the hardware setup.
Figure 2. Connection Diagram for Measuring at Splitter Output 2
7
1
2
3
4

Power Sensor
Power Splitter
5
6
7
50 Terminator
6 dB Attenuator
13. Configure the CW signal generator using the following settings:
Center frequency (Hz): 65 MHz; store as Frequency
14. Configure the power sensor to correct for Frequency using the power sensor frequency
15. Use the power sensor to measure the power.
16. Repeat steps 13 through 15 by updating Frequency from 65 MHz to 6 GHz in 5 MHz steps.
Record the resulting measurements as Splitter Output 2 Power. Each frequency should have
a corresponding value.
17. Calculate the Splitter Balance for each frequency point using the following equation:
Splitter Balance = Splitter Output 2 Power Splitter Output 1Power
Splitter Loss Characterization for RF Output Verification

Complete the following procedure to characterize the loss through the splitter. The RF Output
Power Level Accuracy Verification and RF Output Frequency Response Verification require
characterization data from this procedure.
1.
Connect the SMA (m) connector of the 6 dB attenuator to the RF OUT front panel
connector of the CW signal generator (Source 1).
2.
Connect the SMA (f) connector of the 6 dB attenuator to the power sensor using an SMA
(m)-to-N (f) adapter. Figure 3 illustrates the hardware setup.
Figure 3. Connection Diagram for Measuring Splitter Input Power
1
2
3.
6 dB Attenuator
Power Sensor
Generate a tone with the CW signal generator using the following settings:
Center frequency (Hz): 65 MHz; store as frequency
4.
Configure the power sensor to correct for frequency using the power sensor frequency
5.
Use the power sensor to measure the output power.
6.
Repeat steps 3 through 5 by updating frequency from 65 MHz to 6 GHz in 5 MHz steps.
7.
Disconnect the power sensor from the 6 dB attenuator.
8.
Connect the power splitter input port to the SMA (f) port of the 6 dB attenuator using an
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) adapter.
9.
Connect the power sensor to one of the splitter output ports using the SMA (m)-to-N (f)
adapter. Refer to this port as Splitter Output 1 for the remainder of this procedure and all
tests that use the resulting characterization data.
Record the resulting measurements as Splitter Input Power.
10. Connect the other output of the power splitter to the SMA (f) connector of a second 6 dB
attenuator using an SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
11. Connect the SMA (m) connector of the second 6 dB attenuator to the RF IN front panel port
of the NI 5644R. The NI 5644R RF IN terminal is used only for termination in this
procedure. Figure 4 illustrates the hardware setup.
Figure 4. Connection Diagram for Measuring Splitter Output 1 Power
8
1
NI PXIe-5644R
Vector Signal Transceiver
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
6
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
4

6 dB Attenuator
Power Sensor
5
6
7
8
Power Splitter
SMA (m)-to-N (f) Adapter
NI 5644R
12. Configure the NI 5644R using the following settings:
Center frequency (Hz): 65 MHz, store as Frequency
Reference level (dBm): 10 dBm
13. Generate a tone with the CW signal generator (source 1) using the following settings:
Center frequency (Hz): Frequency

14. Configure the power sensor to correct for frequency using the power sensor's frequency
15. Use the power sensor to measure the output power.
16. Repeat steps 12 through 15 by updating Frequency from 65 MHz to 6 GHz in 5 MHz steps.
Record the resulting measurements as Splitter Output 1 Power at 10 dBm Reference Level.
17. Repeat steps 12 through 17 with the NI 5644R configured for a -30 dBm reference level.
Record the resulting measurements as Splitter Output 1 Power at 30 dBm Reference Level.
18. Calculate the loss through the splitter at each frequency point and for each configured
reference level using the following equation:
Splitter Loss at 10 dBm Reference Level = Splitter Output 1 Power at 10 dBm Reference Level
Splitter Input Power
Splitter Loss at 30 dBm Reference Level = Splitter Output 1 Power at 30 dBm Reference
Level Splitter Input Power
As-Found and As-Left Limits

The as-found limits are the published specifications for the NI 5644R. NI uses these limits to
determine whether the NI 5644R meets the device specifications when it is received for
calibration.
The as-left limits are equal to the published NI specifications for the NI 5644R, less guard bands
for the measurement uncertainty, temperature drift, and drift over time. NI uses these limits to
ensure that the NI 5644R meets the published specifications over its calibration interval.
Self-Calibration
The NI 5644R includes precise internal circuits and references used during self-calibration to
adjust for any errors caused by short-term fluctuations in the environment. It is important that
the self-calibration function be performed to validate the specifications listed in the next section.
You can perform the self-calibration from the installed self-calibration executable located at
Program Files\National Instruments\NI VST\Self Calibration.
You can also use the niVST Self-Calibrate VI, located on the FunctionsInstrument I/O
Instrument DriversNI VST Calibration palette. Refer to the NI RF Vector Signal
Transceivers Help for more information about self-calibration.
Note
Allow a 30 minute warm-up period before you begin self-calibration.
Verification
This section describes the steps needed to verify the published specifications for the NI 5644R.
Verification tests the following NI 5644R specifications:
Internal Frequency Reference
RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy
RF Input Frequency Response
RF Input Average Noise Density
RF Input Non-Harmonic Spurs
RF Output Power Level Accuracy
RF Output Frequency Response
RF Output Noise Density
RF Output Third Order Output Intermodulation
RF Output Harmonics
RF Output Non-Harmonic Spurs
RF Spectral Purity
RF LO Residual Power
RF Residual Sideband Image Suppression
RF Error Vector Magnitude
Internal Frequency Reference Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the frequency accuracy of the NI 5644R onboard
frequency reference using a CW signal generator. During this procedure, the CW signal
generator stimulates the NI 5644R receiver with a frequency accurate signal.
1.
Connect the CW signal generator RF OUT front panel connector to the NI 5644R RF IN
front panel connector.
2.
Connect an available 10 MHz rubidium frequency reference rear panel BNC connector to
the CW signal generator REF IN connector. Figure 5 illustrates the complete hardware
setup.
Figure 5. Internal Frequency Reference Verification Cabling Diagram

2
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
3
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
3.
4.
NI 5644R
Configure the CW signal generator to generate a 2.22 GHz signal with a 0 dBm average
output power, using the following settings:
Center frequency: 2.22 GHz
Output power: 0 dBm
Reference clock source: External
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire and measure the signal generated in step 3, using the
following settings:
Center frequency: 2.22 GHz
Reference level: +10 dBm
Resolution bandwidth: 100 Hz
Span: 100 kHz
FFT window: Hanning
Averaging type: RMS
Number of averages: 20
Reference clock source: Onboard
5.
Measure the frequency of the peak acquired tone.
6.
Calculate the deviation using the following equation:

f measured ( GHz ) 2.2GHz
f = ---------------------------------------------------------------2.2GHz
7.
The results in step 6 should be less than the following equation:

Initial Accuracy + Aging + Temperature Stability
Where
Initial Accuracy = 200 109

6
1 x10
Aging = -------------------year
NumberofYearsSinceLastAdjustment
Temperature Stability = 1 106

Note You can find NumberofYearsSinceLastAdjustment programmatically using
the NI LabVIEW 2012 support for NI-PXIe 5644R software.
LO OUT (RF IN 0 and RF OUT 0) Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the power level of the local oscillator (LO) for the input
and output channels of the NI 5644R. Use a power sensor to accurately measure the output
power of each LO at the LO OUT connector.
Note Zero the power sensor using the procedure in the Power Sensor Zero section
1.
Connect the NI 5644R LO OUT (RF IN 0) front panel connector to the power sensor using
the SMA (m)-to-N (f) adapter. Figure 6 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 6. LO OUT (RF IN 0) Verification Cabling Diagram
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
2.
NI 5644R
Power Sensor
Configure the NI 5644R RF IN channel to export the local oscillator, using the following
settings:
Center frequency: 100 MHz
LO OUT enabled: Enabled
3.
Configure the power sensor to correct for the frequency listed in step 2 by configuring the
frequency correction function.
4.
Use the power sensor to measure the signal power at the LO OUT (RF IN 0) connector.
5.
Compare the measured LO OUT (RF IN 0) output power to the limits listed in Table 3.
6.
Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the remaining frequencies between 100 MHz and 6 GHz, in
100 MHz steps.
7.
Repeat steps 1 through 6 for the LO OUT (RF OUT 0) connector.

Table 3. LO OUT Power Test Limits
LO OUT Power
Frequency
LO OUT
(RF IN 0)
(dBm)
LO OUT
(RF OUT 0)
(dBm)
As-Found
Limit (dB)
As-Left
Limit (dB)
65 MHz to <3.6 GHz
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
3.6 GHz to 6
*
GHz*
The expected output power of the LO OUT (RF OUT 0) is 3 dBm above 3.6 GHz.
Note The As-Found Limits and As-Left Limits are not found in the published
specifications for the NI 5644R. These limits are based on published specifications
found in the NI PXIe-5644R Specifications, less guard bands for measurement
uncertainty, temperature drift, and drift over time.
RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the absolute amplitude accuracy of the NI 5644R input
channels. Use a power sensor and signal generator to measure the absolute amplitude accuracy
at a given center frequency over a broad range of reference levels.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the input terminal of the power
splitter using a SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
2.
Connect Splitter Output 1 directly to the power sensor input connector using the SMA
(m)-to-N(f) adapter.
3.
Connect Splitter Output 2 to the SMA (f) end of the 6 dB attenuator using a 3.5 mm
(m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adapter.
4.
Connect the remaining 6 dB attenuator SMA (m) connector directly to the NI 5644R RF IN
front panel connector. Figure 7 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 7. RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification Cabling Diagram
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
1
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
4
5.
NI 5644R
Power Splitter
Power Sensor
5
6
7
SMA 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adapter

6dB Attenuator
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal at 500 MHz, using the following settings:
Reference level: 30 dBm

Steps 6 through 10 create correction factors that transfer the accuracy of the
power sensor to the generator. Record the results from these steps in a lookup table
called Accuracy Transfer Results.
Note
6.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a 80 MHz tone, using the following settings:
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Output power: power listed under Configure Output Power (dBm) in the Transfer A
row in Table 4.
7.
Configure the power sensor to correct for the frequency listed in step 6 by configuring the
frequency correction function.
8.
Measure the power of the signal present at the reference output of the power splitter with
the power sensor.
9.
Repeat steps 6 through 8 for the remaining frequencies listed in the Transfer A row of
Table 4.
10. Repeat steps 6 through 9 for transfers B and C, shown in Table 4. Record the results from
this step as Accuracy Transfer Result. Create a table and include a value for each test point,
Transfer versus Frequency.
Table 4. RF Input Accuracy Transfer Table
Transfer
Supported
Reference
Levels
(dBm)
30 to -10
Configure
Output
Power
(dBm)
Start
Frequency
Stop
Frequency
Frequency
Step Size
10
80 MHz
105 MHz
5 MHz
250 MHz
6 GHz
10 MHz
80 MHz
105 MHz
5 MHz
250 MHz
6 GHz
10 MHz
80 MHz
105 MHz
5 MHz
250 MHz
6 GHz
10 MHz
-10 to -30
-30 to -60
-10
-30
11. Configure the NI 5644R to acquire at 80 MHz, using the following settings:
Span: 10 MHz
Resolution bandwidth: 1 kHz
Averaging type: RMS
FFT window: Flat Top
12. Configure the NI 5644R to generate a signal at the center frequency specified in step 11
with a 3.75 MHz signal offset, using the following settings:
Center frequency: Frequency from step 11 + 3.75 MHz

Power level: Configure Output Power (dBm) from the transfer found in Table 4, which
supports the reference level from step 11.
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Digital gain:
Reference Level from step 11 Power Level from step 12 or 0 dB, whichever is less.
13. Calculate the Transfer Input Power using the following equation:
Transfer Input Power = Accuracy Transfer Result + Digital Gain from Step 12
Tip Find the Accuracy Transfer Result by interpolating between the data points in
the Accuracy Transfer Results table.
14. Calculate the Corrected Input Power using the following equation:
Corrected Input Power = Transferred Input Power + Splitter Balance
Tip Find the Splitter Balance by interpolating between data points from the Splitter
Balance Characterization for RF Input Verification (With Attenuator) procedure.
15. Configure the NI 5644R using the settings from step 11, perform an acquisition, and
measure the tone present at the offset of 3.75 MHz.
16. Calculate the Absolute Amplitude Accuracy using the following equation:
Absolute Amplitude Accuracy = NI 5644R Input Power Corrected Input Power
17. Repeat steps 11 through 16 for the remaining frequencies in Table 4.
18. Repeat steps 11 through 17 for the remaining reference levels from 30 dBm to -30 dBm in
10 dB increments.
19. Compare the Absolute Amplitude Accuracy values measured to the verification test limits
in Table 5.
Table 5. RF Input Absolute Accuracy Test Limits
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dB)
As-Left Limit
(dB)
65 MHz to <375 MHz
0.70
0.45
375 MHz to 2 GHz
0.65
0.45
>2 GHz to 4 GHz
0.70
0.40
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
0.90
0.55
RF Input Frequency Response Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the frequency response of the NI 5644R input channels.
Use a power meter and signal generator to measure the relative flatness at a given center
frequency over a range of reference levels.
1.
splitter using an SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
2.
Connect Splitter Output 1 directly to the power sensor input connector using the
SMA (m)-to-N(f) adapter.
3.
Connect Splitter Output 2 to the SMA (f) end of the 6 dB attenuator using a
3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adapter.
4.
Connect the remaining 6 dB attenuator SMA (m) connector directly to the NI 5644R RF IN
front panel connector. Figure 8 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 8. RF Input Frequency Response Verification Cabling Diagram

4
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
1
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
4
5.
NI 5644R
Power Splitter
Power Sensor
5
6
7
SMA 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adapter

6 dB Attenuator
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal using the following settings:

Note Steps 6 through 11 create correction factors that transfer the accuracy of the
power sensor to the generator. Record the results from these steps in a lookup table
called Accuracy Transfer Results.
6.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate an 85 MHz tone, using the following settings:
Center frequency: 85 MHz - (Test Bandwidth/2) MHz, where Test Bandwidth is the
value specified in Table 7.
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Output power: Power listed in the Transfer A row in Table 6.

Table 6. RF Input Frequency Response Accuracy Transfer Table
Supported Reference
Levels (dBm)
Transfer
Configure Output Power

(dBm)
30 to -10
10
-10 to -30
-10
-30 to -60
-30
7.
Use the frequency correction function to configure the power sensor to correct for the
frequency listed in step 6.
8.
Measure the power of the signal present at Splitter Output 1 of the power splitter with the
power sensor.
9.
Repeat steps 6 through 8 by sweeping the generator from the center frequency in step 6 to
85 MHz + (Test Bandwidth/2) MHz in 2 MHz steps, where Test Bandwidth is the value
specified in Table 7.
Table 7. RF Input Flatness Test Points
Test Points (MHz)
85
Test Bandwidth (MHz)
20
300
Table 7. RF Input Flatness Test Points (Continued)
Test Points (MHz)
450
550
600
650
800
950
1,000
1,050
1,200
1,550
1,600
1,650
2,000
2,650
2,700
2,750
3,000
3,800
3,950
4,000
4,050
4,500
4,950
5,000
5,050
5,500
5,950
80
10. Repeat steps 6 through 9 for the remaining center frequency points listed in Table 7.
11. Repeat steps 6 through 10 for the remaining transfers listed in Table 6.
12. Configure the NI 5644R RF to acquire a signal at 85 MHz, using the following settings:
Span: Test Bandwidth listed in Table 7
Averaging type: RMS
13. Configure the NI 5644R to generate at the center frequency specified in step 12 - (Test
Bandwidth/2), where Test Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 7, using the following
settings:
Center frequency: Frequency from step 12 - (Test Bandwidth/2) MHz
Power level: Configure Output Power (dBm) from the Transfer found in Table 6,
which supports the reference level from step 12.
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Digital gain:
Reference Level from step 10 Power Level from step 13 or 0 dB, whichever is less.
14. Calculate the Transfer Input Power using the following equation:
Transfer Input Power = Accuracy Transfer Result + Digital Gain from step 13
the Accuracy Transfer Results table.
15. Calculate the Corrected Input Power using the following equation:
Corrected Input Power = Transferred Input Power + Splitter Balance
Tip Find the Splitter Balance by interpolating between data points from the Splitter
Balance Characterization for RF Input Verification (With Attenuator) procedure.
16. Configure the NI 5644R using the settings from step 12, perform an acquisition, and
measure the tone present at the center frequency from step 13.
Absolute Amplitude Accuracy = NI 5644R Input Power Corrected Input Power
18. Repeat steps 13 through 17 by sweeping the generator from the center frequency in step 13
to the center frequency of Step 12 + (Test Bandwidth/2) in 2 MHz steps, where Test
Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 7.
19. Subtract the maximum and minimum Absolute Amplitude Accuracy values from the results
of step 18. This value is the RF input Equalized Frequency Response for the center
frequency of step 12.
20. Repeat steps 12 through 19 for the remaining center frequencies in Table 7.
21. Repeat steps 12 through 20 for the remaining reference levels between 0 dBm and -30 dBm
in 10 dB steps.
22. Compare the Equalized Frequency Response values measured to the verification test limits
in Table 8.
Table 8. RF Input Frequency Response Test Limits
Equalized
Bandwidth (MHz)
As-Found
Limit (dB)
As-Left Limit
(dB)
109 MHz
20
0.5
0.5
>109 MHz to 375 MHz
20
0.5
0.5
>375 MHz to 6 GHz
80
0.5
0.5
Frequency
RF Input Average Noise Density Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the average noise level of the NI 5644R. The RF input of
the NI 5644R is terminated with a 50 termination. Measure the terminated average noise
density at a given center frequency over several reference levels.
1.
Connect a 50 termination to the NI 5644R RF IN front panel connector.
2.
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal at 65 MHz center frequency, using the following
settings:
Reference level: -50 dBm
Span: 10 MHz
PSD enabled: True
Averaging type: RMS
3.
Read the power spectral density from the NI 5644R.
4.
Convert the sorted spectrum magnitude values from dBm to watts, calculate the mean, and
convert the result back to dBm. This value is the Average Noise Density for the
configuration in step 2. Record the result.
5.
Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the remaining frequencies from 65 MHz to 6 GHz in 20 MHz
steps.
6.
Change the reference level to -10 dBm and repeat steps 2 through 5.
7.
Compare the NI 5644R Average Noise Density to the verification test limits listed in
Tables 9 and 10.
Table 9. RF IN Average Noise Density Test Limits (50 dBm Reference Level)
As-Found Limit
(dBm/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBm/Hz)
65 MHz to 4 GHz
-159
-159
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
-156
-156
Frequency
Table 10. RF IN Average Noise Density Test Limits (10 dBm Reference Level)
As-Found Limit
(dBm/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBm/Hz)
65 MHz to 4 GHz
-145
-145
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
-144
-144
Frequency
RF Input Non-Harmonic Spurs Verification

Complete the following procedure to verify the non-harmonic spurs in the presence of an
external signal. Use a CW signal generator to provide a signal to the RF inputs. The spurious
energy is verified within the supported instantaneous bandwidth of the NI 5644R at a specified
center frequency.
1.
Connect the CW signal generator RF OUT connector to the RF IN front panel connector of
the NI 5644R.
2.
Connect the NI 5644R REF IN front panel connector to an available 10 MHz rubidium
frequency reference rear panel BNC connector.
3.
the REF IN of the CW signal generator used in step 1. Figure 9 illustrates the complete
hardware setup.
Figure 9. Non-Harmonic Spurs Verification Cabling Diagram

2
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
3
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
4.
5.
NI 5644R
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire an 80 MHz wide signal, using the following settings:
Span: 80 MHz
Averaging type: RMS
Configure the CW signal generator and generate a single -1 dBr tone at the center frequency
specified in step 4.
Note The following steps provide a general method for validating the
non-harmonic spurs. For an improved measurement, use a peak detect method to
differentiate spurious content from noise.
6.
Acquire an 80 MHz wide spectrum using the NI 5644R.
7.
Measure the peak power within 100 kHz to 1 MHz offset of the tone on either side of the
carrier frequency from the data acquired in step 6. Record the maximum value for
comparison to the >100 kHz offset limits.
8.
Measure the peak power at a >1 MHz offset of the tone on either side of the carrier
frequency from the data acquired in step 6. Record the maximum value for comparison to
the >1 MHz offset limits.
9.
Repeat steps 4 through 8 by sweeping the NI 5644R and CW tone to the carrier frequency
of 145 MHz in 200 kHz steps.
10. Repeat steps 4 through 9 for the remaining test points listed in Table 11.
11. Compare the results from step 10 to the test limits in Table 12.
Table 11. RF Input Non-Harmonics Test Points
Start Frequency (MHz)
Stop Frequency (MHz)
Step Size (kHz)
143
145
200
263
265
200
503
505
200
1,007
1,009
200
2,015
2,017
200
2,519
2,521
200
3,023
3,025
200
4,007
4,009
200
5,015
5,017
200
Table 12. RF Input Non-harmonic Spurs
Frequency
Offset (kHz)
As-Found Limit
(dBc)
As-Left Limit
(dBc)
65 MHz to 3 GHz
>100
-60
-60
>1,000
-75
-75
>100
-55
-55
>1,000
-70
-70
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
RF Output Power Level Accuracy Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the power level accuracy of the NI 5644R output channel.
Use a power sensor to measure the output power at a given center frequency over a range of
output power levels.
Note
1.
splitter using a 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adapter.
2.
Connect Splitter Output 1 directly to the power sensor using the SMA (m)-to-N(f) adapter.
3.
Connect the remaining power splitter output to one end of the 6 dB attenuator using an
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
4.
Connect the other port of the 6 dB attenuator directly to the NI 5644R RF IN front panel
connector. Figure 10 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 10. RF Output Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Cabling Diagram

3
5
NI PXIe-5644R

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
1
PFI 0
DO NOT REMOVE
LV T T L
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
4
5.
NI 5644R
6 dB Attenuator
3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adapter
5
6
7
Power Splitter
Power Sensor
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a tone using the following settings:
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Output power: Power listed in the Transfer A row in Table 13.
6.
Configure the power sensor to correct for the frequency value specified in step 5.
7.
Measure the power of the signal present on Splitter Output 1 with the power sensor. Record
this value as Measurement at Power Standard.
8.
9.
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal using the following settings:
Reference level: Configured Reference Level (dBm) specified in the Transfer A row in
Table 13.
Span: 1 MHz
Acquire the signal with the NI 5644R and measure the peak tone power. Record this value
as Measurement at Transferred Standard.
10. Repeat steps 5 through 9 for the remaining frequency points listed in the Transfer A row in
Table 13
11. Repeat steps 5 through 10 for the remaining transfers listed in Table 13. Store the results of
this step in a table of values, Transfer versus Frequency, where Transfer is defined by the
following equation:
Accuracy Transfer Result = Measurement at Transferred Standard
Measurement at Power Standard
Each Transfer listed in Table 13 should have a corresponding row of data points.
Table 13. RF Output Accuracy Transfer Table
Transfer
Supported
Output
Power
Levels
(dBm)
Configured
Output
Power
(dBm)
Configured
Reference
Level
(dBm)
Start
Frequency
Stop
Frequency
Frequency
Step Size
+10 to 20
10
80 MHz
105 MHz
5 MHz
250 MHz
6 GHz
10 MHz
80 MHz
105 MHz
5 MHz
250 MHz
6 GHz
10 MHz
20 to 40
15
30
12. Configure the NI 5644R to generate a tone using the following settings:
Output power: 10 dBm
Tone offset: 3.75 MHz
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
13. Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal at the center frequency specified in step 12
using the following settings:
Center frequency: Center frequency from step 12
Reference level: Configured Reference Level (dBm) from the Transfer found in
Table 13 that supports the output power from step 12.
Span: 10 MHz
14. Acquire the waveform with the NI 5644R and measure the tone power located at the center
frequency + the tone offset from step 12. This value is the Measured Tone Power.
15. Calculate the Transferred Output Power using the following equation:
Transferred Output Power = Accuracy Transfer Result Measured Tone Power
the Accuracy Transfer Results table you created in step 11.
16. Calculate the Correct Output Power using the following equation:
Corrected Output Power = Transferred Output Power Splitter Loss
Tip Find the Splitter Loss by interpolating between data points from the Splitter
Loss Characterization for RF Output Verification procedure. Choose the appropriate
value based on the transfer used.
Absolute Amplitude Accuracy = NI 5644R Output Power Corrected Output Power
where NI 5644R Output Power is the configured output power of the NI 5644R RF output
path.
18. Repeat steps 12 through 17 for the remaining frequencies listed in Table 13.
19. Repeat steps 12 through 18 for the remaining power levels between 10 dBm and -70 dBm
in 10 dB steps.
20. Compare the Absolute Amplitude Accuracy values measured to the verification test limits
in Table 14.
Table 14. RF Output Absolute Accuracy Test Limits
Frequency
As-Found Limit (dB)
As-Left Limit (dB)
65 MHz to <375 MHz
0.70
0.40
375 MHz to 2 GHz
0.75
0.40
>2 GHz to 4 GHz
0.75
0.45
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
1.00
0.55
RF Output Frequency Response Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the frequency response of the NI 5644R outputs. Use a
power meter to measure the relative flatness at a given center frequency over a range of output
levels.
Note
1.
splitter using a 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adapter.
2.
Connect Splitter Output 1 directly to the power sensor using the SMA (m)-to-N (f) adapter.
3.
Connect the remaining power splitter output to one end of the 6 dB attenuator using an
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.
4.
Connect the other port of the 6 dB attenuator directly to the NI 5644R RF IN front panel
Figure 11. RF Output Frequency Response Verification Cabling Diagram

3
5
NI PXIe-5644R

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
1
PFI 0
DO NOT REMOVE
LV T T L
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
4
5.
NI 5644R
6 dB Attenuator
3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adapter
5
6
7
Power Splitter
Power Sensor
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a tone at 85 - (Test Bandwidth /2) MHz, where Test
Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 16, using the following settings:
Tone offset: - (Test Bandwidth /2) MHz
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Output power: power listed in the Transfer A row in Table 15.
6.
Configure the power sensor to correct for the frequency listed in step 5.
7.
Measure the power of the signal present on the first output of the power splitter with the
power sensor. Record this value as Measurement at Power Standard.
8.
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal at the tone frequency of step 5, using the
following settings:
9.
Center frequency: (Center frequency of step 5 + tone offset from step 5) in MHz
Reference level: Reference level listed in the Transfer A row in Table 15.
Span: 1 MHz
Acquire the signal generated with the NI 5644R and measure the peak tone power. Record
this value as Measurement at Transferred Standard.
10. Repeat steps 5 through 9 by sweeping the tone offset from -(Test Bandwidth/2) to +(Test
Bandwidth/2) in 2 MHz steps, where Test Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 16.
11. Repeat steps 5 through 10 for the remaining center frequencies listed in Table 16.
12. Repeat steps 5 through 11 for the remaining transfers listed in Table 15. Store the results of
this step in a table of values, Transfer Versus Frequency, where Transfer is defined by the
following equation:
Accuracy Transfer Result = Measurement at Transferred Standard Measurement at Power
Standard
Each Transfer listed in Table 15 should have a corresponding row of data points.
Table 15. RF Output Frequency Response Transfer Table
Transfer
Supported Output
Power Levels (dBm)
Configured Output
Power (dBm)
Configured
Reference Level
(dBm)
+10 dBm to -20 dBm
10
-20 dBm to -40 dBm
-15
-15
Table 16. RF Output Frequency Response Test Points
Test Points (MHz)
85
300
20
Table 16. RF Output Frequency Response Test Points (Continued)
Test Points (MHz)
450
80
550
600
650
800
950
1,000
1,050
1,200
1,550
1,600
1,650
2,000
2,650
2,700
2,750
3,000
3,800
3,950
4,000
4,050
4,500
4,950
5,000
5,050
5,500
5,950
13. Configure the NI 5644R to generate a signal at 85 MHz with a tone at

-(Test Bandwidth/2) MHz offset, where Test Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 16,
using the following settings:
Tone offset: -(Test Bandwidth/2) MHz
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Output power: 0 dBm.
14. Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a signal at the tone frequency specified in step 13, using
the following settings:
Center frequency: (Center frequency of step 13 + the tone offset from step 5) in MHz
Reference level: Configured Reference Level (dBm) from the Transfer found in
Table 15 that supports the output power from step 13.
Span: 1 MHz
15. Acquire the waveform with the NI 5644R, and measure the tone power located at the center
frequency + the tone offset from step 13. This value is the Measured Tone Power.
16. Calculate the Transferred Output Power using the following equation:
Transferred Output Power = Accuracy Transfer Result Measured Tone Power
the Accuracy Transfer Results table you created in step 12.
17. Calculate the Corrected Output Power using the following equation:
Corrected Output Power = Transferred Output Power Splitter Loss
Tip Find the Splitter Loss by interpolating between data points from the Splitter
Loss Characterization for RF Output Verification procedure. Choose the appropriate
value based on the transfer used.
Absolute Amplitude Accuracy = NI 5644R Output Power Corrected Output Power
where NI 5644R Output Power is the configured output power of the NI 5644R RF output
path.
19. Repeat steps 13 through 18 by sweeping the tone offset from -(Test Bandwidth/2) to +(Test
Bandwidth/2) in 2 MHz steps, where Test Bandwidth is the value specified in Table 16.
20. Subtract the maximum and minimum Absolute Amplitude Accuracy values from the results
of step 19. This value is the RF Input Equalized Frequency Response for the center
frequency of step 13.
21. Repeat steps 13 through 20 for the remaining center frequencies in Table 16.
22. Repeat steps 13 through 21 for power levels from 0 dBm to -30 dBm in 10 dB steps.
23. Compare the Equalized Frequency Response values measured to the verification test limits
specified in Table 17.
Table 17. RF OUT Frequency Response Test Limits
Frequency
Equalized
Bandwidth (MHz)
As-Found Limit
(dB)
As-Left Limit
(dB)
109 MHz
20
0.5
0.5
>109 MHz to 375 MHz
20
0.5
0.5
>375 MHz to 6 GHz
80
0.5
0.5
RF Output Noise Density Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the generated noise density of the NI 5644R outputs. Use
a high dynamic range spectrum analyzer with an internal or external pre-amplification stage to
characterize the generated noise at a given frequency over several output levels.
Note This measurement requires a measuring instrument average noise density
better than -158 dBm/Hz. You may need an external preamplifier if your spectrum
analyzer does not have an internal gain mode that can meet this requirement. If you
are using an external preamplifier, proceed to step 1, otherwise continue on to step 3.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the input connector of the external
preamplifier.
2.
Connect the preamplifier output to the RF IN front panel connector of the spectrum
analyzer.
3.
the NI 5644R REF IN front panel connector.
4.
the spectrum analyzer REF IN front panel connector. Figure 12 illustrates the complete
hardware setup.
Figure 12. RF Output Noise Density Verification Cabling Diagram

2
NI PXI-5691
NI PXIe-5644R
RF Amplifier

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
ACCESS
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
50
REF OUT
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5622
ACTIVE
50 KHz - 8 GHz
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
ACCESS
Synthesizer
ACTIVE
ACCESS
ACTIVE
IF IN
REF IN
RF IN
IN
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz
+30 dBm
MAX
50
REF OUT
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
1.65Vp-p
CH 0
50
CAL
IN
PFI 0
LV T T L
REF OUT
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
CAL
OUT
OUT
IN
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
OUT
50
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
IN
+30 dBm
MAX
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
CH 1
LV T T L
CLK OUT
50
2 Vp-p
NOM
50
LO1
OUT
LO1
LO1
ESD
SENSITIVE
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
5.
6.
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
NI 5644R
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
50
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
NI 5691
ALL PORTS
50
NI 5665
Generate an arbitrary waveform using an array of all zeros using the following settings:
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Power level: 10 dBm
Reference clock source: REF IN
Measure the output noise floor 2 MHz above the generated frequency using the spectrum
analyzer and the following settings:
Minimize the spectrum analyzer noise contribution by using a preamplifier,
minimal attenuation, and a low reference level.
Tip
7.
Center frequency: Frequency in step 5 + 2 MHz
Frequency span: 100 kHz
Attenuation: 0 dB
Convert the sorted spectrum magnitude values from dBm to watts, calculate the mean, and
convert the result to dBm. This value is the Average Noise Density for the configuration in
step 5. Record the result.
8.
Repeat steps 5 and 7 for the remaining RF frequencies between 109 MHz and 6 GHz in
20 MHz steps.
9.
Repeat steps 5 through 8 for the 0 dBm output power level.
10. Compare the results of this procedure to the specified limits in Tables 18 and 19.
Table 18. RF OUT Noise Density Test Limits (10 dBm Power Level)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBm/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBm/Hz)
65 MHz to 500 MHz
-136
-136
>500 MHz to 2.5 GHz
-141
-141
>2.5 GHz to 3.5 GHz
-139
-139
>3.5 GHz to 6 GHz
-136
-136
Table 19. RF OUT Noise Density Test Limits (0 dBm Power Level)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBm/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBm/Hz)
65 MHz to 500 MHz
-150
-150
>500 MHz to 2.5 GHz
-151
-151
>2.5 GHz to 3.5 GHz
-149
-149
>3.5 GHz to 6 GHz
-147
-147
RF Output Third Order Intermodulation Output Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the nonlinear performance of the output channel. Use a
high dynamic range spectrum analyzer to verify the third order intermodulation distortion of a
generated two tone signal at a specified center frequency. This procedure verifies the third order
intermodulation at several output levels.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the spectrum analyzer RF IN front
panel connector.
2.
the REF IN front panel connector of the NI 5644R.
3.
the spectrum analyzer REF IN connector. Figure 4 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 13. RF Output Third Order Intermodulation Output Verification Cabling Diagram
2
NI PXIe-5644R
NI PXIe-5622

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
Synthesizer
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACTIVE
ACCESS
ACTIVE
IF IN
REF IN
RF IN
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
REF OUT
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
REF OUT
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
IN
OUT
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
CLK OUT
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
2 Vp-p
NOM
50
LO1
50
LO1
LO1
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
4.
5.
6.
NI 5644R
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
ESD
SENSITIVE
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
NI 5665
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
Configure the NI 5644R to generate two single sideband tones simultaneously at 2 MHz
(f1) and 2.5 MHz (f2) offset from the carrier, using the following settings:
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Relative tone power (dB): -6 dB
Use the spectrum analyzer to measure the generated signal using the following settings:
Center frequency: Center frequency + (f1+ f2)/2 from step 4
Reference level: Power level from step 4 + 10 dB
Span: 5 MHz
Averaging type: RMS
Measure and record the peak power of the following tones and distortion locations:
Center Frequency + f1, record as Fundamental Tone1
Center Frequency + f2, record as Fundamental Tone2
Center Frequency + 2 f2 - f1, record as IMD Tone1
Center Frequency + 2 f1 - f2, record as IMD Tone2
7.
Calculate the Output IMD using the following equation:
8.
Repeat steps 4 through 7 for the remaining frequencies listed in Table 20.
9.
Repeat steps 4 through 8 for the tone output power levels -6 dBm and -36 dBm.
Output IMD = Maximum (IMD Tone) Minimum (Fundamental Tone)
10. Compare the Output IMD values from step 7 to the corresponding limits in Tables 21
and 22.
Table 20. RF OUT Third Order Output Intermodulation (IMD3) (dBc)
0 dBm Tones
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc)
As-Left Limit
(dBc)
65 MHz to 1 GHz
-51
-51
>1 GHz to 3 GHz
-53
-53
>3 GHz to 5 GHz
-46
-46
>5 GHz to 6 GHz
-42
-42
Table 21. RF OUT Third Order Output Intermodulation (IMD3)(dBc)

6 dBm Tones
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc)
As-Left Limit
(dBc)
65 MHz to 1 GHz
-50
-50
>1 GHz to 3 GHz
-54
-54
>3 GHz to 5 GHz
-50
-50
>5 GHz to 6 GHz
-47
-47
Table 22. RF OUT Third Order Output Intermodulation (IMD3)(dBc)

36 dBm Tones
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc)
As-Left Limit
(dBc)
65 MHz to 200 MHz
-52
-52
>200 MHz to 6 GHz
-52
-52
RF Output Harmonics Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the generated harmonics of the NI 5644R outputs. Use a
high dynamic range spectrum analyzer to measure the second harmonic energy relative to the
fundamental energy of a generated CW signal. This procedure verifies the harmonic
performance at a specified generated center frequency over several power levels.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the spectrum analyzer RF IN front
panel connector.
2.
3.
the spectrum analyzer REF IN connector. Figure 14 illustrates the complete hardware
setup.
Figure 14. RF Output Harmonics Verification Cabling Diagram
2
NI PXIe-5644R
NI PXIe-5622

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
Synthesizer
ACTIVE
ACCESS
ACCESS
IF IN
REF IN
RF IN
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
LV T T L
REF OUT
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
ACTIVE
REF OUT
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
OUT
IN
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
CLK OUT
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
2 Vp-p
NOM
50
LO1
LO1
LO1
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
ESD
SENSITIVE
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
4.
NI 5644R
NI 5665
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a signal using the following settings:
Frequency: 65 MHz
Power level: 7 dBm
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Tone offset: 1 MHz
Tone digital gain: -1 dBfs
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
5.
6.
Reference clock frequency: 10 MHz

Use the spectrum analyzer to measure the fundamental tone power using the following
settings:
Center frequency: Center frequency + tone frequency from step 4
Reference level: +20 dBm

Use the spectrum analyzer to measure the second harmonic power level using the following
settings:
Center frequency: 2 center frequency from step 5.
7.
Calculate the distortion level in dBc by subtracting the fundamental power from the second
harmonic power.
8.
Compare the values calculated in step 7 to the corresponding limits in Table 23.
9.
Repeat steps 4 through 8 for the remaining frequencies from 65 MHz to 5.965 GHz in
50 MHz steps.
Table 23. RF OUT Second Harmonic Level
Frequency
As-Found Limit (dBc)
As-Left Limit (dBc)
65 MHz to 2 GHz
-30
-30
>2 GHz to 3.75 GHz
-28
-28
>3.75 GHz to 4 GHz
-25
-25
>4 GHz to 4.5 GHz
-28
-28
>4.5 GHz to 5.5 GHz
-30
-30
>5.5 GHz to 6 GHz
-34
-34
RF Output Non-Harmonic Spurs Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the non-harmonic spurs generated by the NI 5644R RF
output. Use a high dynamic range spectrum analyzer to measure the spurious energy surrounding
a generated signal.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the RF IN connector of the
spectrum analyzer.
2.
3.
the REF IN front panel connector of the spectrum analyzer. Figure 15 illustrates the
complete hardware setup.
Figure 15. RF Output Non-harmonic Spurs Verification Cabling Diagram
2
NI PXIe-5644R
NI PXIe-5622

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
ACCESS
Synthesizer
ACTIVE
ACCESS
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF IN
RF IN
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
LV T T L
REF OUT
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
ACTIVE
IF IN
RF
IN
REF OUT
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
REF OUT
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
IN
OUT
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
CLK OUT
2 Vp-p
NOM
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
50
LO1
LO1
LO1
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
4.
NI 5644R
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
ESD
SENSITIVE
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
NI 5665
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a CW tone using the following settings:
Power level: 0 dBm
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Digital gain: -1 dB
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
5.
Configure the spectrum analyzer to acquire a spectrum using the following settings:
Center frequency: Frequency from step 4
Span: 80 MHz
Averaging type: RMS
6.
Measure the peak power within 100 kHz to 1 MHz offset of the tone on either side of the
carrier frequency from the data acquired in step 5. Record the maximum value for
comparison to the >100 kHz offset limits in Table 25.
7.
Measure the peak power at >1 MHz offset of the tone on either side of the carrier frequency
from the data acquired in step 6. Compare the maximum value to the >1 MHz offset limits
in Table 25.
8.
Repeat steps 4 through 7 by sweeping the NI 5644R and spectrum analyzer to the carrier
frequency of 145 MHz in 200 kHz steps.
9.
Repeat steps 4 through 8 for the remaining test points listed in Table 24.
Table 24. RF OUT Non-harmonics Test Points
Start Frequency
(MHz)
Stop Frequency
(MHz)
Step Size
(kHz)
143
145
200
263
265
200
503
505
200
1,007
1,009
200
2,015
2,017
200
2,519
2,521
200
3,023
3,025
200
4,007
4,009
200
5,015
5,017
200
Table 25. RF Output Non-harmonics Spurs
Frequency
Offset (kHz)
As-Found Limit
(dBc)
As-Left Limit
(dBc)
65 MHz to 3 GHz
>100
-62
-62
>1,000
-75
-75
>100
-57
-57
>1,000
-70
-70
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
RF Output Spectral Purity Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the RF output spectral purity of the NI 5644R. This
procedure measures the single sideband (SSB) phase noise at 20 kHz offset from the tuned
frequency of the NI 5644R. Use a spectrum analyzer to verify the transmission channel. An
additional step validates the receiver SSB phase noise by measuring the local oscillator output.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the RF IN front panel connector
of the spectrum analyzer. The complete hardware setup can be seen in Figure 16.
Figure 16. RF Output Spectral Purity Verification Cabling Diagram
2
NI PXIe-5644R
NI PXIe-5622

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
REF OUT
50
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
Synthesizer
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACTIVE
ACCESS
REF IN
RF IN
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
REF OUT
CAL
IN
LV T T L
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
ACTIVE
IF IN
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
CAL
OUT
IN
OUT
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
LV T T L
CLK OUT
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
2 Vp-p
NOM
50
LO1
LO1
LO1
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
NI 5644R
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
ESD
SENSITIVE
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
NI 5665
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
2.
Connect an available 10 MHz rubidium frequency reference BNC to the REF IN front panel
connector of the NI 5644R.
3.
Connect an available 10 MHz rubidium frequency reference BNC to the REF IN of the
spectrum analyzer.
4.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate an offset CW tone using the following settings:
5.
Center frequency: 1 GHz
Output power: 0 dBm
Tone offset: 3.75 MHz
I/Q rate: 10 MS/s
Loop bandwidth: Low
Fractional mode: Enabled
Step size: 200 kHz
Configure the spectrum analyzer to acquire a spectrum, using the following settings:
Center frequency: 1 GHz + 3.75 MHz
Span: 100 Hz
Averaging type: RMS
6.
Measure the peak power at the center frequency. The measured power should match the
power, in dBm, of the generated tone.
7.
Center Frequency: Center Frequency from step 5 + 20 kHz
Span: 100 Hz
Averaging type: RMS
8.
Measure the power at a 20 kHz offset. Normalize the result to 1 Hz bin width by subtracting
10 log (RBW), where RBW is the setting specified in step 7. The result of this step is in
dBm/Hz.
9.
Calculate the relative difference between the signal and the noise by subtracting the
measurement in step 6 from the measurement in step 8. The result of this step is in dBc/Hz.
10. Compare the results of step 9 to the specified limits in Table 26.
11. Repeat steps 4 through 10 for the frequencies 1 GHz, 1.9 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 3 GHz, 4.4 GHz,
and 5.8 GHz.
12. Repeat steps 3 through 11 for the remaining loop bandwidths specified in Tables 27 and 28.
Table 26. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (Low Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-99
-99
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-91
-91
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-93
-93
Table 27. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (Medium Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-99
-99
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-93
-93
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-93
-93
Table 28. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (High Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-94
-94
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-91
-91
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-87
-87
RF Input Spectral Purity Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the RF input spectral purity of the NI 5644R. This
procedure measures the single sideband (SSB) phase noise at 20 kHz offset from the tuned
frequency of the NI 5644R. Use a spectrum analyzer to verify the receiver SSB noise by
measuring the local oscillator output.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R LO OUT (RF IN 0) front panel connector to the RF IN connector of
the spectrum analyzer. Figure 17 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 17. RF Input Spectral Purity Verification Cabling Diagram

2
NI PXIe-5644R
NI PXIe-5622

65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
ACCESS
Synthesizer
ACTIVE
ACCESS
REF IN
RF IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
10 MHz
2 V p-p MAX
0 V DC
LV T T L
REF OUT
10 MHz
0.5 V rms
+20 dBm MAX

50
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
ACTIVE
IF IN
RF
IN
REF OUT
ACTIVE
NI PXIe-5653
NI PXIe-5605
16-Bit IF Digitizer
ACCESS
REF OUT
100 MHz
0.5 V rms
IN
OUT
DO NOT REMOVE
PFI 1
LO3
LO3
LO3
TTL
800 MHz
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
CLK IN
6.3 Vp-p
MAX
50
LO2
LO2
LO2
CLK OUT
2 Vp-p
NOM
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
50
LO1
LO1
LO1
+15 dBm MAX

0 V DC
+15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
ESD
SENSITIVE
NI 5644R
3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz
ESD
SENSITIVE
4 GHz
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
NI 5665
OUT
ESD
SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50
2.
Connect an available 10 MHz rubidium frequency reference BNC to the REF IN front panel
connector of the NI 5644R.
3.
Connect an available 10 MHz rubidium frequency reference BNC to the REF IN of the
spectrum analyzer.
4.
Configure the NI 5644R RF IN channel to export the local oscillator using the following
settings:
5.
LO OUT: Enabled
Reference clock source: Onboard
Span: 100 Hz
Averaging type: RMS
6.
Measure the peak power at the center frequency. The measured value is the power, in dBm,
of the generated tone.
7.
Center frequency: Center frequency from step 4 + 20 kHz
Span: 100 Hz
Averaging type: RMS
8.
Measure the power at a 20 kHz offset. Normalize the result to 1 Hz bin width by subtracting
10 log (RBW), where RBW is the resolution bandwidth setting specified in step 7. The
result of this step is in dBm/Hz.
9.
Calculate the relative difference between the signal and noise by subtracting the
measurement in step 6 from the measurement in step 8. The result of this step is in dBc/Hz.
10. Compare the results of step 9 to the specified limits in Table 29.
11. Repeat steps 4 through 10 for the frequencies 1 GHz, 1.9 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 3 GHz, 4.4 GHz,
and 5.8 GHz.
12. Repeat steps 4 through 11 for the remaining loop bandwidths specified in Tables 30 and 31.
Table 29. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (Low Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-99
-99
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-91
-91
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-93
-93
Table 30. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (Medium Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-99
-99
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-93
-93
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-93
-93
Table 31. Single Sideband Phase Noise at 20 kHz Offset (High Loop Bandwidth)
Frequency
As-Found Limit
(dBc/Hz)
As-Left Limit
(dBc/Hz)
< 3 GHz
-94
-94
3 GHz to < 4 GHz
-91
-91
4 GHz to 6 GHz
-87
-87
RF Residual LO Power and Residual Sideband Image

Suppression Verification
Complete the following steps to verify the residual LO power and residual sideband image
suppression of the NI 5644R.
1.
Connect the NI 5644R RF IN front panel connector to the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel
Figure 18. RF Residual LO Power and Residual Sideband Image Suppression Verification
Cabling Diagram
2
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
2.
NI 5644R
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a spectrum at 65 MHz using the following settings:
Span: 40 MHz
Residual bandwidth: 1 kHz
Averaging type: RMS
Window type: Flat Top
3.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a single sideband tone at an offset from the center
frequency listed in step 2 using the following settings:
Center frequency: 85 MHz and LO offset
Power level: reference level from step 2 or 0 dBm, whichever is greater
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Tone offset: -Span/2 from step 2
4.
Acquire the signal using the NI 5644R.
5.
Measure the following tones:
Generated tone power. Record as Fundamental Tone.
Center frequency from step 2. Record as RF Input Residual LO Power.
Center frequency from step 2 + LO offset. Record as RF Output Residual LO Power.
Image of tone relative to center frequency from step 2. Record as RF Input Image.
Image of tone relative to center frequency from step 3. Record as RF Output Image.
6.
Repeat steps 2 through 5 for the remaining tone offsets from -Span/2 to +Span/2 in 2 MHz
steps, where Span is the value is from step 2.
7.
Calculate the RF IN residual sideband image suppression using the following equation:
RF Input Residual Sideband Image = Maximum (RF Input Image) Fundamental Tone
8.
Calculate the RF OUT residual image suppression using the following equation:
RF Output Residual Sideband Image = Maximum (RF Output Image) Fundamental Tone
9.
Calculate the RF IN residual LO power using the following equation:

RF Input Residual LO = Maximum (RF Input Residual LO Power) Reference Level from step 2
10. Calculate the RF OUT residual LO power using the following equation:
RF Output Residual LO = Maximum (RF Output Residual LO Power) Reference Level from step 2
11. Repeat steps 2 through 10 for the remaining center frequencies from 85 MHz to 6 GHz in
100 MHz steps.
12. Repeat steps 2 through 11 for the remaining reference levels from 0 dBm to -30 dBm in
10 dB steps.
13. Compare the results from this procedure to the limits listed in Tables 32 and 33.
Table 32. RF Residual LO Power
RF Input
RF Output
Frequency
As-Found
Limit (dBc)
As-Left
Limit (dBc)
As-Found
Limit (dBc)
As-Left
Limit (dBc)
109 MHz
-62
-67
>109 MHz to 375 MHz
-58
-61
-45
-50
>375 MHz to 2 GHz
-58
-61
-55
-60
>2 GHz to 3 GHz
-55
-58
-50
-53
>3 GHz to 5 GHz
-45
-48
-55
-58
>5 GHz to 6 GHz
-45
-48
-50
-55
Table 33. RF Residual Sideband Image
RF Input
RF Output
Frequency
As-Found
Limit (dBc)
As-Left
Limit (dBc)
As-Found
Limit (dBc)
As-Left
Limit (dBc)
109 MHz
-40
-50
-40
-45
>109 MHz to 375 MHz
-40
-45
>375 MHz to 500 MHz
-40
-45
-60
-65
>500 MHz to 2 GHz
-65
-70
-60
-65
>2 GHz to 3 GHz
-65
-70
-50
-55
>3 GHz to 4 GHz
-55
-60
-50
-55
>4 GHz to 5 GHz
-55
-60
-40
-50
>5 GHz to 6 GHz
-60
-65
-40
-50
RF Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the modulation and demodulation performance of the
NI 5644R. Use a vector signal analyzer to verify the EVM of a modulated signal generated by
the RF output channel at a given center frequency. A second verification involves measuring the
EVM of the same modulated signal as it is demodulated by the RF input path.
1.
Connect the RF IN front panel connector to the RF OUT front panel connector on the
NI 5644R. Figure 19 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 19. RF Error Vector magnitude (EVM) Verification Cabling Diagram

2
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
REF OUT
50
1.65Vp-p
50
CAL
IN
PFI 0
LV T T L
CAL
OUT
DO NOT REMOVE
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
50
0-3 dBm
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
2.
NI 5644R
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
Configure the NI 5644R to acquire a complex modulated signal at 400 MHz using the
following settings:
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Record length: 300 s
3.
4.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a complex modulated signal at the center frequency
specified in step 2 using the following settings:
Power level: -10 dBm
I/Q rate: 120 MS/s
Configure the modulated waveform signal with the NI Modulation Toolkit using the
following settings:
QAM: 64
Symbol rate: 16 MSymbols/s
Samples per symbol: 4
Pulse shape filtering: Root Raise Cosine, 0.25 alpha
PN sequence order: 14
5.
Download the signal to the device and generate the modulated signal.
6.
Acquire the signal and demodulate it with the NI Modulation Toolkit using the same
settings as step 4.
7.
Record the RMS EVM in dB.
8.
Repeat steps 2 through 8 for frequencies from 400 MHz to 6 GHz in 100 MHz steps.
9.
Compare the results from this procedure to the specified limits:
As-Found: -40 dB
As-Left: -40 dB
Optional Verification Procedures

Use the following procedures to verify non-warranted specifications for the NI 5644R.
RF Input and Output Return Loss Verification

Complete the following steps to verify the return loss of the NI 5644R RF input and output. Use
a vector network analyzer (VNA) to measure the return loss at a given frequency over several
NI 5644R-supported reference levels. Then use a VNA to measure the return loss at a given
frequency over supported output powers.
1.
Calibrate the VNA for an S11 (return loss) measurement using the following settings:
Calibration: Short, open, load (SOL)
Sweep: 65 MHz to 6 GHz
Points: 801
IF bandwidth: 3 kHz
Power: 5 dBm
Connection: Male SMA
2.
Connect the NI 5644R RF IN front panel connector to the calibrated PORT 1 of the VNA.
3.
Configure the NI 5644R receiver for 350 MHz with a -10 dBm reference level.
4.
Perform an S11 measurement sweep using the following settings:
5.
Record the minimum absolute return loss value between the start and stop frequency listed
for the specified carrier frequency in step 3. Compare the results with the appropriate limits
listed in Table 35.
6.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the remaining configurations listed in Table 34.
7.
Connect the NI 5644R RF OUT front panel connector to the calibrated PORT 1 of the
VNA.
8.
Configure the NI 5644R to generate a -30 dBm CW tone at 350 MHz.
9.
Perform an S11 measurement sweep. Record the minimum absolute return loss value
between the start and stop frequency listed for the specified carrier frequency in step 3.
Compare the results with the appropriate limits listed in Table 36.
10. Repeat steps 7 and 8 for the remaining configured frequencies listed in Table 34.
Table 34. Return Loss Test Points
Configured Frequency
Measurement Start
Frequency
Measurement Stop
Frequency
350 MHz
109 MHz
<600 MHz
800 MHz
600 MHz
<1,000 MHz
1,200 MHz
1,000 MHz
<1,600 MHz
2,000 MHz
1,600 MHz
<2,700 MHz
3,000 MHz
2,700 MHz
<4,000 MHz
4,500 MHz
4,000 MHz
<5,000 MHz
5,500 MHz
5,000 MHz
6,000 MHz
Table 35. RF Input Return Loss
Frequency
As-Found Limit (dB)
As-Left Limit (dB)
109 MHz f < 2.4 GHz
13
13
2.4 GHz f < 4 GHz
11
11
4 GHz f < 6 GHz
10
10
Table 36. RF Output Return Loss
Frequency
As-Found Limit (dB)
As-Left Limit (dB)
109 MHz f < 2 GHz
16
16
2 GHz f < 5 GHz
13
13
5 GHz f < 6 GHz
specifications for the NI 5644R. These limits are derived from the typical
specifications found in the NI PXIe-5644R Specifications with the addition of guard
bands for measurement uncertainty, temperature drift, and drift over time.
RF Input Third-Order and Second-Order Input Intermodulation

Verification
Complete the following procedure to verify the third-order and second-order intermodulation
distortion products of the NI 5644R. Use two independent CW signal sources to generate a
combined two-tone stimulus. The NI 5644R receives the two-tone signal and verifies the
second-order and third-order intermodulation distortions. Calculate the input second-order and
third-order intercepts from the measured distortions.
1.
Connect the CW signal generator (Source 1) and CW signal generator (Source 2) to the
input ports of the power combiner.
2.
Connect the output of the power combiner to the NI 5644R RF IN front panel connector.
Figure 20 illustrates the complete hardware setup.
Figure 20. RF Input Third Order and Second Order Intermodulation Input Verification
Cabling Diagram
NI PXIe-5644R
65 MHz - 6.0 GHz
RF IN 0
REF IN
5Vp-p MAX
50
RF OUT 0
RF
IN
RF
OUT
+33 dBm
MAX
50
Reverse
Power
+33 dBm
MAX
50
CAL
IN
CAL
OUT
REF OUT
1.65Vp-p
50
PFI 0
LV T T L
DO NOT REMOVE
4
LO
OUT
LO
OUT
0 dBm
0-3 dBm
50
50
LO
IN
LO
IN
+15 dBm
MAX
50
+15 dBm
MAX
50
DIGITAL I/O
LV T T L
ESD
SENSITIVE
1
2
3
NI 5644R
Power Combiner
4
5

3.
Connect the NI 5644R REF IN front panel connector to any rubidium frequency reference
rear panel BNC connector.
4.
Connect any available rubidium reference real panel BNC connector to the Source 1 REF
IN connector.
5.
Connect any available rubidium reference real panel BNC connector to the Source 2 REF
IN connector.
6.
Configure the NI 5644R for a center frequency of 65 MHz, using the following settings:
Span: 20 MHz
Averaging mode: RMS
Window type: Flat Top

Note Steps 7 and 8 configure Source 1 at a 2 MHz ( f1) and Source 2 at a 2.7 MHz
( f2) offset from the center frequency. The spacing of the two tones is the same for all
iterations of this procedure.
7.
8.
Configure Source 1 for a frequency offset of f1 from the center frequency in step 6, using
the following settings:
Center frequency: Frequency from step 6 + f1
Power level: Reference level from step 6
Configure CW signal generator 2 for a frequency offset of f2 from the center frequency in
step 6, using the following settings:
9.
Center Frequency: Frequency from step 6+ f2
Power Level: Reference level from step 6
Acquire a spectrum of the combined signal from steps 7 and 8 using the NI 5644R.
10. Measure the power at expected distortion frequencies using the following settings:
Center frequency from step 6 + f1, record as Fundamental Tone1
Center frequency from step 6 + f2, record as Fundamental Tone2
Center frequency + (2f1 - f2), record as IMD3 Tone
Center frequency + (2f2 - f1), record as IMD3 Tone
Center frequency + (f2 - f1), record as IMD2 Tone
Center Frequency + ( f2 + f1), record as IMD2 Tone
11. Calculate Input IMD3 and Input IP3 using the following equations. Record this value.
Input IMD3 = maximum (IMD3 Tone Power) minimum (Fundamental Tone)
Input IP3 = maximum (IMD3 Tone Power) + (IMD3) / 2
12. Calculate Input IMD2 and Input IP2 using the following equations. Record this value.
Input IMD2 = maximum (IMD2 Tone) minimum (Fundamental Tone)
Input IP2 = 2 * maximum (IMD3 Tone Power) + IMD2
13. Repeat steps 6 through 12 for the remaining frequencies from 65 MHz to 6 GHz, in 90 MHz
steps.
14. Compare the results from this procedure with the specified limits in Tables 37 and 38.
Table 37. RF IN Third-Order Intercept Point (IIP3)
Configured
Reference
Level (dBm)
As-Found Limit
(dBm)
As-Left Limit
(dBm)
65 MHz to 1.5 GHz
-5
19
19
>1.5 GHz to 4 GHz
-5
20
20
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
-2
20
20
Frequency
Table 38. 11 RF IN Second-Order Intercept Point (IIP2)
Configured
Reference
Level (dBm)
As-Found Limit
(dBm)
As-Left Limit
(dBm)
65 MHz to 1.5 GHz
-5
69
69
>1.5 GHz to 4 GHz
-5
58
58
>4 GHz to 6 GHz
-2
52
52
Frequency
Note The As-Found Limits and As-Left Limits are based on the typical
specifications found in the NI PXIe-5644R Specifications.
Where to Go for Support

The National Instruments Web site is your complete resource for technical support. At ni.com/
support you have access to everything from troubleshooting and application development
self-help resources to email and phone assistance from NI Application Engineers.
A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is our claim of compliance with the Council of European
Communities using the manufacturer's declaration of conformity. This system affords the user
protection for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and product safety. You can obtain the DoC
for your product by visiting ni.com/certification. If your product supports calibration,
you can obtain the calibration certificate for your product at ni.com/calibration.
National Instruments corporate headquarters is located at 11500 North Mopac Expressway,

Austin, Texas, 78759-3504. National instruments also has offices located around the world to
help address your support needs. For telephone support in the United States, create your service
request at ni.com/support and follow the calling instructions or dial 512 795 8248. For
telephone support outside the United States, visit the Worldwide Offices section of
ni.com/niglobal to access the branch office Web sites, which provide up-to-date contact
information, support phone numbers, email addresses, and current events.
CVI, LabVIEW, National Instruments, NI, ni.com, the National Instruments corporate logo, and the Eagle logo are trademarks of National
Instruments Corporation. Refer to the Trademark Information at ni.com/trademarks for other National Instruments trademarks. The mark
LabWindows is used under a license from Microsoft Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and other countries. Other product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies. For patents
covering National Instruments products/technology, refer to the appropriate location: HelpPatents in your software, the patents.txt file on
your media, or the National Instruments Patents Notice at ni.com/patents. You can find information about end-user license agreements
(EULAs) and third-party legal notices in the NI Vector Signal Transceivers Readme. Refer to the Export Compliance Information at ni.com/
legal/export-compliance for the National Instruments global trade compliance policy and how to obtain relevant HTS codes, ECCNs, and
other import/export data.
2012 National Instruments. All rights reserved.
373811A-01
Oct12

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CALIBRATION PROCEDURE

RF Input Spectral Purity Verification ....................................................................... 52

Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, a cross-reference, or an

NI LabVIEW 2012 Base/Full/Pro

NI LabVIEW 2012 Support for NI PXIe-5644R

2 | ni.com | NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure

NI-RFSA version 2.5.2 or later

NI Modulation Toolkit 4.3.3 or later

NI Spectral Measurements Toolkit version 2.5 or later

NI PXIe-5644R Getting Started Guide

NI RF Vector Signal Transceivers Help

The latest versions of these documents can be found on ni.com/manuals.

RF Input Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification

RF Input Frequency Response Verification

RF Output Power Level Accuracy Verification

RF Output Frequency Response Verification

NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure | National Instruments | 3

4 | ni.com | NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure

Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration

Internal frequency reference,

Rohde & Schwarz (R&S)

Input/output frequency response,

Range: -67 dBm to +23 dBm

NI PXIe-5652 (NI 5652)

Internal frequency reference,

Frequency range: 65 MHz to 6 GHz

Frequency accuracy: 1E-9

Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration (Continued)

NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure | National Instruments | 5

Vector signal analyzer

NI PXIe-5665 (NI 5665)

Output third order intermodulation output,

Frequency range: 65 MHz to

Vector signal analyzer

NI PXIe-5665 (NI 5665)

Output noise density

Frequency range: 65 MHz to

Input/output frequency response,

SWR: 1.25 at 18 GHz

Input/output frequency response,

Frequency range: DC to 6 GHz

Input average noise density

Frequency range: DC to 6 GHz

6 | ni.com | NI PXIe-5644R Calibration Procedure

Table 1. NI 5644R Required Equipment Specifications for NI 5644R Calibration (Continued)

Input/output frequency response,

Frequency range: DC to 6 GHz

Input/output frequency response,

Frequency range: DC to 6 GHz

Input third order and second order input

Frequency range: 65 MHz to 6 GHz

2-port vector network

Input/output return loss

Frequency range: 65 MHz to 6 GHz

Input third order and second order input

>20 dB reverse isolation at 6 GHz

Keep relative humidity between 10% and 90%, noncondensing.

Maintain an ambient temperature of 23 C 5 C.

Self-CalibrationAdjust the self-calibration constants of the device.