National Instruments NI User manual

February 2007

373308G-01

GETTING STARTED GUIDE

NI Digital Waveform

Generator/Analyzer

This document explains how to install, configure, and test a National

Instruments digital waveform generator/analyzer and how to program it

using NI-HSDIO driver software. This document applies specifically to the

following devices:

• NI PXI/PCI-6541/6542 (NI 654x)

• NI PXI/PCI-6551/6552 (NI 655x)

• NI PXI/PCI-6561/6562 (NI 656x)

For more information about features and programming, refer to the

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Help at Start»Programs»

National Instruments»NI-HSDIO»Documentation»NI Digital

Waveform Generator/Analyzer Help.

Refer to the specifications document that ships with your device for detailed

specifications.

The most recent versions of product documentation are available at

ni.com/manuals. Visit ni.com/idnet for the latest version of NI-HSDIO

driver software.

Contents

Conventions ...............................................................................................2

1. Verifying the System Components ........................................................4

2. Unpacking ..............................................................................................4

3. Verifying the Kit Contents.....................................................................4

Documentation...................................................................................5

EMI Gasket (NI PXI-655xOnly).......................................................5

4. Installing the Software ...........................................................................5

Choose and Install Your ADE ...........................................................5

Install NI-HSDIO...............................................................................5

(Optional) Install the NI Digital Waveform Editor ...........................6

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 2 ni.com

5. Installing the Hardware..........................................................................7

Installing a PXI Module.....................................................................7

Installing a PCI Device ......................................................................9

6. Configuring and Testing in MAX..........................................................10

Using the Test Panel to Generate and Acquire Data .........................11

7. Connecting Signals ................................................................................13

Connecting Cables and Accessories ..................................................13

Wiring for Common Measurements ..................................................18

8. Programming the Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer.....................19

NI-HSDIO Instrument Driver ............................................................19

NI LabVIEW SignalExpress Limited Edition ...................................19

NI-HSDIO Examples .........................................................................20

Appendix A: Device Front Panels .............................................................20

Appendix B: Troubleshooting ...................................................................29

Where to Go for Support ...........................................................................31

Conventions

The following conventions are used in this guide:

<> Angle brackets that contain numbers separated by

an ellipsis represent a range of values associated

with a bit or signal name—for example, AO <3..0>.

»The »symbol leads you through nested menu items

and dialog box options to a final action. The

sequence File»Page Setup»Options directs you to

pull down the File menu, select the Page Setup

item, and select Options 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. When this symbol is marked on the

product, refer to the Read Me First: Safety and

Radio-Frequency Interference document that

shipped with your device for precautions to take.

When symbol is marked on a product, it denotes a

component that may be hot. Touching this

component may result in bodily injury.

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.

CompactPCI CompactPCI refers to the core specification defined

by the PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers

Group (PICMG).

italic Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, or a

cross-reference. 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 bold Bold text in this font denotes the messages and

responses that the computer automatically prints to

the screen. This font also emphasizes lines of code

that are different from the other examples.

monospace italic

Italic text in this font denotes text that is a

placeholder for a word or value that you must

supply.

PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) is a

high-performance expansion bus architecture

originally developed by Intel to replace ISA

and EISA.

Platform Text in this font denotes a specific platform and

indicates that the text following it applies only to

that platform.

PXI PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation (PXI) is a

rugged, open system for modular instrumentation

based on CompactPCI, with special mechanical,

electrical, and software features.

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 4 ni.com

1. Verifying the System Components

Your system must meet certain requirements to use NI digital waveform

generator/analyzers with NI-HSDIO. For more information on minimum

system, recommended system, and supported application development

environments (ADEs), refer to the NI-HSDIO Instrument Driver Readme,

which is available on the NI-HSDIO CD.

Note After you install NI-HSDIO, you can access the NI-HSDIO

Instrument Driver Readme at Start»All Programs»National

Instruments»NI-HSDIO»Documentation.

2. Unpacking

The NI digital waveform generator/analyzer ships in an antistatic package to

prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can damage several components

on the device.

Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.

To avoid ESD damage in handling the device, take the following precautions:

• Ground yourself with a grounding strap or by touching a grounded

object.

• Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of your computer chassis

before removing the device from the package.

Remove the device from the package and inspect it for loose components or

any other signs of damage. Notify NI if the device appears damaged in any

way. Do not install a damaged device in your computer or chassis.

Store the device in the antistatic package when the device is not in use.

3. Verifying the Kit Contents

Verify that the kit contains the following items:

❑DVD-sized case, which contains the following items:

– NI-HSDIO (High-Speed Digital I/O) instrument driver software

CDs, which include the NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer

Help

–NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Getting Started Guide

❑NI digital waveform generator/analyzer

❑Mounting screw (PCI devices only)

❑Other documentation included with the digital waveform

generator/analyzer and driver software. Refer to the Documentation

section for a list of the documentation you may have.

Documentation

The NI digital waveform generator/analyzer kit may also include the

following documents:

• NI digital waveform generator/analyzer specifications—This printed

document provides specifications for your device.

•Read Me First: Safety and Radio-Frequency Interference

•Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users

•Retrofitting Your PXI Module Note to Users (NI PXI-655x only)

EMI Gasket (NI PXI-655xOnly)

The NI PXI-655xkit also includes an EMI gasket and documentation that

describes under what conditions you should install the gasket. Refer to

step 5. Installing the Hardware for more information about the gasket.

4. Installing the Software

This section describes the software installation process for the NI digital

waveform generator/analyzer.

Choose and Install Your ADE

You can create applications for your digital waveform generator/analyzer

using LabVIEW, LabWindows™/CVI™, or Microsoft Visual C++.

LabVIEW features interactive graphics, a state-of-the-art interface, and a

powerful graphical programming language. LabWindows/CVI is a complete

ANSI C ADE that features an interactive user interface, code generation

tools, and the LabWindows/CVI Data Acquisition and Easy I/O libraries.

Using LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI can greatly reduce your application

development time.

If you have not already installed the ADE, follow the instructions in the

product documentation to install your ADE now.

Install NI-HSDIO

NI-HSDIO features a set of operations and attributes that allow you to

programmatically configure and control the digital waveform

generator/analyzer.

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 6 ni.com

Note NI-HSDIO 1.5 and later also includes NI LabVIEW

SignalExpress LE, an interactive software environment that allows

you to choose from the included NI-HSDIO express steps to

quickly program common applications, including acquisition,

generation, and hardware comparison (real-time hardware

comparison is supported only on NI 655xdevices).

To install NI-HSDIO, complete the following steps:

1. Insert the first CD of the NI-HSDIO CD set. The NI-HSDIO installer

should open automatically. If not, select Start»Run, and enter

:\setup.exe, where

is the letter of the CD drive.

2. Follow the instructions in the installation prompts. For troubleshooting

and operating system-specific instructions, refer to the Hardware

Installation/Configuration Troubleshooter at ni.com/support/

install.

(Windows Vista) Users may see access and security messages during

installation. Accept the prompts to complete the installation.

3. When the installer completes, a dialog box appears that asks if you want

to restart, shut down, or restart later. Select Restart.

4. If you are using a system running the LabVIEW Real-Time Module,

download NI-HSDIO to the target using MAX. Refer to the MAX Remote

Systems Help by selecting Help»Help Topics»Remote Systems

in MAX.

NI Script Editor

The NI Script Editor is included on the NI-HSDIO CDs and is installed when

you install the driver. The NI Script Editor provides an intuitive interface to

help you develop linking and looping waveform generation operations.

NI Script Editor Help contains more information about the NI Script Editor.

You can access NI Script Editor Help by launching the NI Script Editor and

selecting Help»NI Script Editor Help from the toolbar.

(Optional) Install the NI Digital Waveform Editor

The NI Digital Waveform Editor (DWE) is included with the higher-memory

versions of NI digital waveform generator/analyzers and also can be

purchased separately at ni.com. The NI DWE allows you to easily import

data from popular third-party electronic design automation (EDA) programs,

create your own waveforms, edit these waveforms, and view acquired

waveforms.

If you are using the NI DWE, install it after you install NI-HSDIO.

5. Installing the Hardware

To install your NI digital waveform generator/analyzer, follow the

instructions in the section that describes your hardware platform.

When installing your hardware, follow the instructions in this section to

ensure that your device can cool itself effectively. If the device temperature

rises above the optimal operating temperature range, the device disables

itself, and MAX or NI-HSDIO notifies you with an error message. For more

information about re-enabling your device, refer to the I Received a Thermal

Shutdown Error section in Appendix B: Troubleshooting.

Installing a PXI Module

To install the module, refer to Figure 1 and complete the following steps:

Figure 1. PXI Installation

1. Power down the chassis before installing the module.

2. If the chassis has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are set

to the highest setting. Do not set the fan speed to low or turn the fan off.

3. Position the chassis so that you allow plenty of space between the chassis

fan intake and exhaust vents. Blocking the fans affects the air flow

needed for cooling. For more information, refer to the chassis

documentation.

1 PXI Chassis

2 Ejector Handle

3 Captive Screw

4 NI PXI Device

NI PXI-1042

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 8 ni.com

4. If you need to use an EMI gasket to reduce high-frequency emissions,

install it now. Refer to the Retrofitting Your PXI Module Note to Users

for gasket installation instructions.

5. Remove the packaging material on the PXI connector and on the screws.

6. Ensure that the ejector handle is in the unlatched (downward) position,

as shown in Figure 1.

7. Holding the module by the ejector handle, slide it into an empty slot,

ensuring that the base card (on the left when looking at the front of the

module) engages with the card guides in the chassis.

8. Slide the module completely into the chassis and latch by pulling up on

the ejector handle.

9. Tighten the captive screws at the top and bottom of the module front panel.

10. Before operating the module, install all chassis covers and filler panels.

Missing filler panels disrupt the necessary air circulation in the chassis.

Note NI recommends that you install slot blockers between

modules to maximize air flow. NI recommends using the PXI

Chassis Slot Blocker Kit, part number 778678-01, available for

purchase at ni.com.

11. Plug in and power on the chassis.

NI PXI modules are sensitive instruments that should be handled carefully.

Do not expose the module to temperatures or humidity beyond the rated

maximums. Keep the module free of dust by cleaning with compressed air

only. Do not clean the module with any solvents or liquids. For more

information about module cooling, refer to the guidelines in the Maintain

Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users included with your NI digital waveform

generator/analyzer.

Maintaining PXI Systems

Clean the fan filters on the chassis regularly to prevent air circulation path

blockage. Cleaning frequency depends on the amount of use and the

operating environment. For specific information about cleaning procedures,

and other recommended maintenance, refer to the module specifications and

the chassis user documentation.

Uninstalling PXI Modules

When removing PXI modules from the chassis, first power down the chassis.

Then ensure that you are grounded with a grounding strap or are touching a

grounded metal surface. To avoid ESD, do not touch the exposed pins of the

PXI connector or any exposed circuitry on the module. When not in use, PXI

modules should be stored in the original antistatic packaging to avoid

damage.

Hot Surface During operation, the metal surfaces of PXI modules

may become hot. Be careful when removing the module from the

chassis or when moving it to a different peripheral slot. When

removing the module, hold it by only the ejector handle and front

panel.

Installing a PCI Device

To install your PCI device, complete the following steps:

1. Power off and unplug the PC.

2. If the PC has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are set to

the highest setting.

3. Remove the PC cover.

4. Insert the device into an open PCI slot, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2. PCI Installation

NI recommends either leaving the slot adjacent to the fan side of the

device empty or using lower-profile devices in the slot adjacent to the

fan side.

5. Secure the device with the screw provided in the kit.

1 NI PCI Device 2PCISlot 3 Personal Computer

NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Guide 10 ni.com

Caution It is important to completely screw the device into the PCI

slot, both for mechanical stability and for creating a solid ground

connection, which reduces signal noise. Some computer

manufacturers use a plastic securing lever to secure PCI devices;

such a lever is unacceptable and must be removed, or you must use

a different chassis. Improperly secured devices may affect the

accuracy of device specifications.

6. Before operating the device, install all filler panels. Missing filler panels

disrupt the necessary air circulation in the PC.

7. Replace the PC cover.

8. Plug in and power on the PC.

Maintaining PCI Systems

Inspect the onboard fan on a regular basis to prevent fan and air circulation

path blockage. Cleaning frequency depends on the amount of use and the

operating environment.

6. Configuring and Testing in MAX

To configure and test the NI digital waveform generator/analyzer in MAX,

complete the following steps:

1. Launch MAX to configure and test the digital waveform

generator/analyzer. MAX should automatically detect the device

you installed.

2. Expand Devices and Interfaces.

If you are using an NI digital waveform generator/analyzer with the

LabVIEW Real-Time Module, expand Remote Systems. Find your

target IP address or name, expand it, and then expand Devices and

Interfaces.

3. Expand NI-DAQmx Devices.

4. Check that your device appears under NI-DAQmx Devices.

Note If your device does not appear under NI-DAQmx Devices,

MAX did not detect the device, so you might need to refresh MAX

by selecting File»Refresh from the MAX menu or pressing <F5>.

5. You can perform a self-test on devices listed under NI-DAQmx Devices.

The self-test ensures that the device is installed correctly and can

communicate with NI-HSDIO. To perform a self-test, complete the

following steps:

a. Right-click the device you want to test.

b. Select Self-Test, shown in Figure 3.

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