M9420A/M9421A VXT Multichannel Setup

Multichannel configurations can achieve up to 8 channels of synchronous acquisition using a multi-chassis setup consisting of two chassis with four channels each.

Requirements for Multichannel Configurations:

Each module must have the MMO option.
All modules must be the same model and have the same firmware version.
For configurations that span multiple PXI chassis, each module must have the MTS option.

Prior to VSA 29.00, modules were required to have the same bandwidth, frequency, and memory options. Starting with VSA 29.00, that restriction has been removed, and the least common denominator of capabilities will be used for the bandwidth and capture memory when using multichannel.

M9420A/M9421A VXT Multi-Chassis Setup

A multi-chassis configuration (up to 2 chassis) can be used to achieve up to 8 channels of synchronous acquisition.

A VXT firmware version greater than M.23.00 is recommended for improved multi-channel synchronization.

Steps to set up the configuration:

Ensure the M9300A module is in the system timing slot in each chassis. This is the slot with a square symbol on it.
Connect the cabling between the two chassis. Pick one chassis to be the primary chassis and the other to be the secondary chassis.
1. Connect the primary chassis left-most module Trigger 2 connector to the secondary chassis left-most module Trigger 1 connector.
2. Connect the primary chassis left-most module Trigger 4 connector to the secondary chassis left-most module Trigger 3 connector.
3. Connect the primary Chassis M9300A 10 MHz Megahertz: A unit of frequency equal to one million hertz or cycles per second. out connector to the secondary chassis M9300A Ref In connector.
Run the C:\Program Files\Keysight\X-Series\MTRX\MimoOn.exe utility on the embedded controller on each chassis. Note: The MimoOff.exe utility can be used to turn this back off.
In the 89600 VSA software, when creating a hardware configuration, make sure to pick modules in the order of left to right from the primary chassis and then left to right on the secondary chassis.