NI PXIe-5105 – 8‑Channel, 12‑Bit Digitizer for synchronized, multi-point measurements in PXI Express

The NI PXIe-5105 is a mid-bandwidth, 8‑channel, 12‑bit digitizer designed for PXI Express systems. From my experience, it’s a solid choice when you need many channels sampling simultaneously, without sacrificing resolution. Typical use cases include power electronics characterization, automotive sensor logging, structural/thermal monitoring, and lab automation where timing alignment across channels really matters. One thing I appreciate is how easily it synchronizes with other PXI(e) instruments using NI-TClk, so you can scale from 8 channels to dozens with predictable timing.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

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

Key Features

• 8 simultaneous analog channels – Capture multiple points in your system at the exact same time, ideal for phase analysis or multi-sensor correlation.
• 12‑bit resolution – Higher vertical resolution than typical 8‑bit scopes for cleaner low-level signal detail and better dynamic range.
• Up to 60 MS/s per channel – Suits mid-bandwidth applications where timing fidelity and record length usually matter more than GHz speeds.
• Hardware triggering and timing – Flexible trigger modes with PXI(e) backplane timing for deterministic start/stop across modules.
• PXI Express throughput – Reliable data streaming to the host; you might notice that continuous multichannel logging becomes far more practical compared to legacy buses.
• NI‑SCOPE driver support – Program from LabVIEW, C/C++, or .NET; easy integration with mixed-signal and RF modules in the same chassis.
• Multi-module synchronization (NI‑TClk) – In most cases, you can align phase and sample clocks across several digitizers with minimal effort.

A customer running a battery pack test bench told me they consolidated eight bench oscilloscopes into one PXIe‑5105 setup, logging current shunts and temperature transducers together with stable timing. Another team used it for inverter gate signal capture and motor phase voltage observation, where the simultaneous sampling and 12‑bit detail seems to be the sweet spot.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI PXIe‑5122 – 2‑ch, 14‑bit, 100 MS/s; higher vertical resolution per channel when you don’t need 8 channels.
• NI PXIe‑5162 – 4‑ch, 10‑bit, up to multi‑GS/s; much higher bandwidth for fast transients.
• NI PXIe‑5172 – 8‑ch, 14‑bit with onboard FPGA; flexible processing and decimation for mixed-signal setups.
• NI PXIe‑6674T – Timing and synchronization; precise reference clocks and triggers for multi-module coherence.
• NI PXIe‑1082 – 8‑slot PXI Express chassis; a good match for mixed measurement systems.
• Coaxial accessories – SMB/MCX/BNC cables and adapters, attenuators, and probe kits suited to the front I/O.

Installation & Maintenance

• Environment – Install in a PXI Express 3U chassis with adequate airflow; keep intake/exhaust vents clear. In many cases, chassis fan speed set to “auto” works well, but verify module temperatures under your longest acquisitions.
• Wiring – Use matched-length coax where channel-to-channel skew matters. Secure cables to avoid strain on front connectors, especially in mobile carts.
• Grounding & noise – Maintain a clean ground reference; consider differential sensing or attenuation for high common‑mode environments.
• Calibration – Run self‑cal after ambient temperature changes; schedule external calibration annually (typical interval) for traceable accuracy.
• Firmware/Driver – Keep NI‑SCOPE and PXI Platform Services up to date. You might notice stability improvements and better streaming performance with newer driver builds.
• Safety – Do not exceed rated input ranges. De‑energize high‑voltage lines before re‑wiring; use attenuators/probes suited to your voltage levels.

Quality & Certifications

• Compliance – Typically meets CE and RoHS requirements; UL safety certification generally applies at the chassis/system level.
• Manufacturing – Produced under ISO 9001 quality systems (typical for NI hardware).
• Warranty – 365‑day warranty coverage as stated above.