Product Overview
The National Instruments PXI-4110 is a programmable DC power supply module for PXI systems. It provides three isolated outputs in a single PXI slot, which allows a test system to power multiple device rails without adding external bench supplies. The module is intended for automated test, design validation, and production verification where programmable voltage and current are required.
The PXI-4110 is part of the NI PXI instrument family. Because it is a PXI module, it shares the chassis power, cooling, and timing resources with other instruments. Engineers can control the supply through software and synchronize its operation with switches, DMMs, and digitizers during a test sequence, which improves repeatability compared with manually operated power supplies.
Three Isolated Outputs
The module provides three isolated output channels, each capable of independent voltage and current setting. Isolation allows the outputs to be connected in different reference arrangements, which is useful when a device under test requires separate analog, digital, and auxiliary rails. Engineers should confirm the output range and current capability of each channel for the specific device requirement.
Independent channel control allows a test sequence to power up rails in a defined order, which is important for devices that specify sequencing requirements. Channels can also be disabled independently when a fault is detected. This flexibility supports both simple single rail tests and more complex multi rail device validation.
Setting Resolution and Accuracy
The PXI-4110 provides 16 bit setting resolution for voltage and current, which supports fine adjustment of bias levels. High resolution is useful when testing devices that are sensitive to small supply variations or when characterizing behavior near a threshold. Engineers should verify the specified accuracy and stability for the chosen range in the product documentation.
Remote sense connections allow the module to regulate voltage at the device under test rather than at the module terminals. This compensates for voltage drop in the test cables and improves accuracy when current is significant. Remote sense is particularly useful in high current tests or when long cables connect the supply to the load.
Protection and Measurement
The module includes voltage and current limiting to protect the device under test. Engineers can set compliance limits so that a fault condition does not damage the load or the supply. Current limit behavior should be understood for the specific device, because some devices require foldback or shutdown rather than constant current limiting.
The PXI-4110 also provides voltage and current measurement, allowing the test application to verify the applied bias without a separate DMM in some cases. Measurement accuracy and range should be confirmed for the application. For critical measurements, an external DMM may still be preferred for higher accuracy or for traceability requirements.
Software and PXI Integration
The PXI-4110 is supported by NI instrument driver software and can be programmed with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and other compatible development environments. Engineers can set voltage, current limit, output enable, and measurement functions through the driver. Test sequences can be automated so that bias conditions are applied consistently across units.
Within a PXI chassis, the module can be synchronized with switching, measurement, and signal generation. This allows a test to apply power, route signals, measure response, and remove power in a controlled sequence. The PXI form factor reduces bench clutter and supports compact, repeatable test stations.
Typical Applications
Device power and bias in automated test systems
Multi rail sequencing for electronic assemblies
Design validation and characterization
Production verification with programmable limits
Power consumption and current draw measurement
Compact PXI based test stations
The PXI-4110 provides three isolated programmable DC outputs with 16 bit setting resolution and remote sense in a PXI module. Its protection features and software control make it a practical supply for automated device test and validation.
