NI PCI-5142 – 14‑bit PCI IF Digitizer for high‑resolution baseband and IF signal capture

The NI PCI-5142 is a 14‑bit, multi‑purpose PCI digitizer that’s well suited for intermediate‑frequency (IF) and baseband capture inside a standard PC. From my experience, teams pick it when they need better vertical resolution than 8‑bit oscilloscopes, but don’t want to jump to a full RF analyzer. It integrates cleanly with NI‑SCOPE, streams reliably over the PCI bus, and typically handles dual‑channel workflows like I/Q capture, mixed‑signal debugging, and communications receiver testing without drama.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty period: 365 days
• Delivery time: 1 week for in-stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment, full payment before delivery
• Express delivery methods: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• 14‑bit resolution – Captures subtle amplitude changes that 8‑bit scopes often miss, useful for demodulated IF and low‑noise sensors.
• Dual analog inputs – Two synchronized channels make I/Q capture and differential measurements straightforward.
• IF/baseband workflow – Designed for intermediate‑frequency acquisition; in many cases you can decimate and analyze directly in LabVIEW or Python via NI‑SCOPE.
• PCI bus integration – Standard PCI interface for dependable streaming into a desktop workstation; you avoid the overhead of external boxes.
• Software support – Works with NI‑SCOPE drivers and common analysis toolkits; typically easy to script automated tests.
• Triggering and timing – External trigger/clock options allow alignment with pattern generators, AWGs, or DUT events.
• Practical use cases – IF chain characterization, receiver prototyping, vector signal demodulation, mixed‑signal board bring‑up, and education labs.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI PCI-5122 – 14‑bit, up to 100 MS/s oscilloscope board; similar resolution, focused on general‑purpose time‑domain capture.
• NI PCI-5152 – 8‑bit, higher sample rate class (for faster but lower‑resolution signals).
• NI PXI-5142 – PXI version for modular test systems needing tight multi‑module synchronization.
• Accessories – Low‑loss BNC coax leads (50 Ω), external 10 MHz reference source (if clock sync is required), and a clean linear bench supply for DUTs to minimize noise coupling.

Installation & Maintenance

• PC chassis – Use a clean, grounded enclosure with adequate airflow; keep adjacent slots open if thermal rise is noticeable under sustained sampling.
• Wiring & terminations – Match 50 Ω source/termination for IF work. You might notice improved SNR using short, low‑loss coax and proper shielding.
• Software & drivers – Install NI‑SCOPE and verify the card with NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX). From my experience, running a short streaming test upfront saves troubleshooting later.
• Safety & ESD – Observe ESD precautions during installation; avoid over‑range conditions at the inputs to protect the front‑end.
• Routine care – Annual calibration is typically recommended for measurement accuracy. Keep vents clear of dust; update drivers/firmware on a controlled schedule.

Quality & Certifications

• CE and RoHS compliant; manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• Designed for installation inside IT/measurement equipment; components typically meet UL recognition within the host system
• Warranty: 365 days (replacement or repair within policy)