Product Overview
The National Instruments PXI-4070 is a FlexDMM digital multimeter module for PXI systems. It provides 6.5 digit resolution for voltage, current, resistance, and temperature measurement, and it includes an isolated digitizer capable of capturing waveforms at high speed. The combination allows one PXI module to serve both precision measurement and transient capture roles in a test system.
The PXI-4070 is used in automated test, calibration support, production verification, and laboratory measurement. Because it is a PXI module, it can be synchronized with switches, signal generators, and other instruments in the same chassis. This integration supports test sequences that route signals, apply stimuli, measure parameters, and capture waveforms in one application.
Precision Multimeter Functions
The module measures DC and AC voltage, DC and AC current, two wire and four wire resistance, and temperature with resistive sensors. The 6.5 digit resolution supports fine measurement steps for calibration work and for verifying devices with tight tolerances. Four wire resistance measurement removes lead resistance errors when testing low resistance devices and connections.
Multiple measurement ranges allow the module to cover small sensor signals as well as higher voltage and current levels. Low noise input circuitry and a stable internal reference support repeatable readings. The module supports self calibration and external calibration, which are important for maintaining measurement confidence over time.
Isolated Digitizer Mode
In addition to DMM functions, the PXI-4070 includes an isolated digitizer that can capture waveforms at rates up to 1.8 MS/s. The digitizer is useful for recording transients, power supply startup behavior, pulse waveforms, and signals that change faster than standard DMM reading rates. Isolation protects the host system and improves signal integrity in noisy environments.
The digitizer can be triggered and synchronized with other PXI modules, allowing waveform capture to be correlated with test events. Engineers can use the digitizer for time domain analysis and then return to precision DMM measurement on the same module. This dual capability reduces instrument count and simplifies test sequencing.
Accuracy and Stability
The PXI-4070 is designed for stable and repeatable measurements. Its DC voltage accuracy supports demanding calibration and production test tasks. Careful thermal design and low noise input paths help maintain performance across the operating range. These characteristics matter when measuring low level signals or comparing devices with narrow limits.
Temperature measurement with RTDs and thermistors expands the module beyond electrical parameters. This is useful in environmental chambers, thermal validation, and device characterization. The module can also perform diode tests and continuity checks, making it a versatile tool for bench and automated test use.
Software and PXI Integration
The PXI-4070 is supported by NI-DMM driver software and can be programmed with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and other development environments. PXI trigger lines and synchronization features allow the module to work with switches, signal generators, digitizers, and other instruments in a unified test system.
The module fits into standard PXI chassis and shares timing and synchronization resources with other PXI modules. This makes it suitable for high channel count systems, automated production lines, and laboratory benches that require consistent measurement results across multiple test points.
Typical Applications
Precision voltage, current, and resistance measurement
Calibration support and production verification
Semiconductor and electronic device characterization
Power supply and battery validation
Temperature measurement with RTD and thermistor sensors
Transient capture using the isolated digitizer
The PXI-4070 combines 6.5 digit multimeter accuracy with an isolated high speed digitizer in a PXI module. Its measurement range, calibration features, and PXI integration make it a flexible instrument for precision automated test and measurement systems.
