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Product Overview
The NI PCI-5421 is a National Instruments PCI-based arbitrary waveform generator designed for automated test, signal simulation, and precision electronic measurement applications. It provides 16-bit analog waveform generation at sampling rates up to 100 MS/s, with a maximum bandwidth of 43 MHz. The board can generate user-defined arbitrary waveforms as well as standard sine, square, triangle, and ramp functions. Output levels range from -6 V to +6 V, while direct digital synthesis enables precise frequency and phase control. NI offered several hardware configurations with 8 MB, 32 MB, or 256 MB of onboard waveform memory and corresponding part numbers 778692-01, 778692-02, and 778692-03. NI now lists the PCI-5421 as discontinued with limited support and recommends 785116-01 as a replacement.
Technical Specifications — PCI-5421
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | PCI-5421 |
| Manufacturer | National Instruments (NI) |
| Product Type | Arbitrary Waveform Generator |
| Bus / Form Factor | PCI |
| DAC Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 100 MS/s |
| Maximum Bandwidth | 43 MHz |
| Output Range | -6 V to +6 V |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Waveform Memory | 8 MB / 32 MB / 256 MB, configuration dependent |
| Waveform Functions | Arbitrary, sine, square, triangle, ramp |
| Signal Generation | Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) |
| Communication / Protocol | PCI bus |
| Synchronization | Advanced synchronization support |
| Data Streaming | Supported |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | PCI board format; verify mechanical drawing |
| Weight | Verify actual board and packaging |
| Lifecycle Status | Discontinued; limited support |
The available memory capacity depends on the specific PCI-5421 variant. NI identifies 778692-01, 778692-02, and 778692-03 as the relevant part numbers.
NI PCI-5421
Key Features and Benefits — PCI-5421
- 16-bit digital-to-analog conversion for detailed waveform reproduction.
- 100 MS/s maximum sample rate for fast signal generation.
- 43 MHz analog bandwidth for a broad range of test signals.
- Supports custom waveforms in addition to standard mathematical functions.
- DDS technology provides precise waveform generation.
- Advanced synchronization and data-streaming functions support automated test systems.
- Available with different onboard memory capacities for application-specific waveform storage.
For maintenance inventories, the memory variant matters. Personally, I would verify the complete NI assembly or order number rather than treating every PCI-5421 board as identical.
Related Models
NI PXI-5421 — PXI-based version of the same 16-bit, 100 MS/s arbitrary waveform generator architecture.
NI PCI-5412 — Related PCI waveform generator offering 14-bit resolution and 100 MS/s operation.
NI PCI-5406 — PCI function generator with 16-bit resolution and up to 400 MS/s operation.
NI 785116-01 — NI’s recommended replacement for the discontinued PCI-5421. Compatibility should be checked at the application and chassis level before migration.
Installation and Maintenance — PCI-5421
Before installation or replacement, shut down the host computer and disconnect mains power. Observe ESD precautions when handling the PCI board, and verify that the host system provides a compatible PCI slot rather than PCI Express.
Record the installed driver version, application configuration, calibration status, and waveform memory variant before removing the existing board. Check the output connector accessories and synchronization wiring as well. Personally, I would confirm the hardware suffix and software environment before substituting a newer instrument, because legacy NI test systems can depend on specific driver behavior.
Product Warranty — PCI-5421
Warranty terms depend on supplier, condition, test status, and purchase agreement. NI currently classifies the PCI-5421 as no longer available, with limited support and no guaranteed repair or calibration service, while recommending 785116-01 as the replacement. For used or refurbished inventory, request functional-test and calibration information where available. The NI PCI-5421 should be matched to the existing test-system hardware and software before commissioning.
