Description
The PXI-6551 is a highly versatile PXI Digital Instrument designed for advanced digital testing and measurement systems. It features an impressive 50 MHz maximum clock rate and offers a significant 64 Mb/ch Digital Waveform Instrument capability, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. This instrument is programmable and operates within a voltage range of -2.0 to 5.5 V, providing flexibility for various testing scenarios.
This model is identified by several part numbers, including 778538-01, 778538-02, 778538-03, and 188524K-24L, each corresponding to different memory options. Specifically, the memory options available are 1 Mb/channel (778538-01), 8 Mb/channel (778538-02), and 64 Mb/channel (778538-03), allowing users to select the most appropriate configuration for their needs.
Equipped with 20 channels, the PXI-6551 is capable of handling multiple signals simultaneously, enhancing the efficiency and productivity of testing procedures. This instrument is also designed to be user-friendly, with software compatibility that includes NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, and LabWindows/CVI, ensuring integration into existing systems is seamless and straightforward.
The PXI-6551 requires a power input of 26.5 W and utilizes NI-HSDIO driver software for operation, highlighting its energy efficiency and compatibility with standard software tools. Despite being announced as obsolete by National Instruments, it remains available for purchase and repairs through Apex Waves, ensuring long-term usability and support.
Furthermore, the device comes with options for calibration, including available NIST accredited calibrations through a 3rd party, as well as basic in-house calibration prior to shipping. This ensures that the instrument maintains its accuracy and reliability over time, providing users with confidence in their measurements and testing outcomes.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 778538-01, 778538-02, 778538-03, 188524K-24L |
| Category | PXI Digital Instruments |
| Model | PXI-6551 |
| Description | 50 MHZ, 64 Mb/ch Digital Waveform Instrument; Programmable; -2.0 to 5.5 V |
| Channels | 20 |
| Maximum Clock Rate | 50 MHz |
| Memory Options | 1 Mb/channel (778538-01), 8 Mb/channel (778538-02), 64 Mb/channel (778538-03) |
| Software Compatibility | NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, LabWindows/CVI |
| Power Requirement | 26.5 W |
| Driver Software | NI-HSDIO |
| Obsolete Status | Announced by National Instruments, available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves |
| Calibration | Available, NIST accredited calibrations through a 3rd party, basic in-house calibration prior to shipping |
Question 1: What is the maximum clock rate of the PXI-6551?
Answer 1: 50 MHz
Question 2: How many channels does the PXI-6551 have?
Answer 2: 20 channels
Question 3: What is the voltage range for the PXI-6551?
Answer 3: -2.0 to 5.5 V
Question 4: Is the PXI-6551 compatible with NI LabVIEW?
Answer 4: Yes, it’s compatible with NI LabVIEW.
Question 5: What are the memory options for the PXI-6551?
Answer 5: 1 Mb/ch, 8 Mb/ch, and 64 Mb/ch



