Configuring a PXI Test System with Pickering Test System Architect
Configuring a PXI Test System with Pickering Test System Architect 
This three-part video series demonstrates a typical project workflow using Pickering Test System Architect. In the first video, the Product Selector and System Configuration Tool are used to configure and visualize a PXI chassis.
The process begins by opening Test System Architect and creating a new project. Using the Product Selector, selected low-frequency test modules are added to the project, starting with a digital I/O module. Engineers can immediately access detailed datasheets that outline functionality and specifications before saving the module to the project items list.
Additional components are then added, including an analog output module and a Pickering BRIC integrated matrix. A custom digital multimeter (DMM) module is also created using the System Configuration Tool. With the Custom Product Creator, a schematic component with four pins is defined, a front panel layout is designed, and connectors—such as four female banana sockets—are positioned and labeled. The schematic connections are then mapped to the physical connectors before saving the model to the custom product library.
Next, the RF section of the test system is configured by selecting a waveform generator and RF matrix. A custom model for a third-party digitizer is also created and added to the project library. Finally, a power supply multiplexer is included to complete the set of PXI modules required for the system.
Once all modules are assigned to the project, the system can be configured by importing all project items into the System Configuration Tool, along with the custom products. An appropriate chassis—such as an 18-slot full hybrid PXI Express chassis—is then selected to provide an optimal balance of performance, scalability, and cost. Modules can be arranged in the chassis to match the desired system configuration.
The completed system visualization can be electronically shared with colleagues or directly with Pickering engineers for review. Users can also generate a bill of materials and export a PDF report containing the chassis layout and Pickering BOM.
In the second video, a rack-mount power supply and DUT fixture adapter are added to the system and connected using the schematic design tool. In the final video, all required cables are automatically generated using the Cable Design Tool.
To learn more, visit PickeringTest.com/TSA .
