Description
The PXI-6551 is a high-performance PXI Digital Instrument designed to meet the needs of a wide range of testing and measurement applications. This device comes with several part numbers, including 778538-01, 778538-02, 778538-03, and 188524K-24L, each offering different memory options to accommodate specific user requirements.
Regarding memory, the PXI-6551 offers three configurations: 1 Mb/channel (778538-01), 8 Mb/channel (778538-02), and 64 Mb/channel (778538-03), providing flexibility in how much data can be stored during testing processes. This device operates at a maximum clock rate of 50 MHz and supports 20 channels, making it suitable for handling complex and high-speed digital signals.
The voltage range for the PXI-6551 is quite broad, spanning from -2.0 to 5.5 V, which allows for a wide variety of signal levels to be accommodated. It also has a maximum power requirement of 26.5 W, ensuring that it can perform optimally without excessive power consumption.
Software compatibility is a crucial aspect of the PXI-6551, and it excels in this area by supporting a range of environments including NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, LabWindows/CVI, and other text-based environments. This compatibility ensures that users can easily integrate the PXI-6551 into their existing setups without needing to overhaul their software infrastructure. Additionally, the device is supported by the NI-HSDIO driver, which facilitates efficient communication between the hardware and software components.
Although it has been announced as obsolete by National Instruments, the PXI-6551 remains available for purchase and repairs through Apex Waves. This ensures that users can continue to rely on this robust instrument for their testing needs. Furthermore, calibration services are available, with options including NIST accredited calibrations through a 3rd party and optional in-house calibration, ensuring that the PXI-6551 maintains its accuracy and reliability over time.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 778538-01, 778538-02, 778538-03, 188524K-24L |
| Model | PXI-6551 |
| Category | PXI Digital Instruments |
| Memory Options | 1 Mb/channel (778538-01), 8 Mb/channel (778538-02), 64 Mb/channel (778538-03) |
| Maximum Clock Rate | 50 MHz |
| Channels | 20 |
| Voltage Range | -2.0 to 5.5 V |
| Maximum Power Requirement | 26.5 W |
| Software Compatibility | NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, LabWindows/CVI, and other text-based environments |
| Driver Software | NI-HSDIO driver |
| Obsolete Status | Announced by National Instruments, available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves |
| Calibration | Available, with NIST accredited calibrations through a 3rd party and optional in-house calibration |
Question 1: What is the max clock rate of the PXI-6551?
Answer 1: 50 MHz
Question 2: How many memory configurations does the PXI-6551 offer?
Answer 2: Three configurations: 1 Mb, 8 Mb, 64 Mb
Question 3: What software environments does the PXI-6551 support?
Answer 3: NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, LabWindows/CVI
Question 4: Is the PXI-6551 still available for purchase despite being obsolete?
Answer 4: Yes, via Apex Waves
Question 5: Can the PXI-6551 accommodate a wide variety of signal levels?
Answer 5: Yes, voltage range from -2.0 to 5.5 V




