Pickering Expands Analog Output Portfolio for Functional Test and HIL

­Pickering Interfaces, the leading supplier of modular signal switching and simulation solutions for use in electronic test and verification, has announced three new PXI/PXIe analog output modules, expanding its growing portfolio of signal sourcing and sensor simulation for functional and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) applications. 

The new modules span multi-channel waveform generation, precision digital-to-analog converter (DAC) outputs, and high-density thermocouple simulation, enabling engineers to stimulate embedded controllers with realistic analog, sensor, and waveform conditions from compact, open-platform test systems. Designed for high channel density in a single PXI/PXIe slot, broad chassis compatibility, and comprehensive driver support, the modules help engineers build capable automated test systems while reducing rack space, system complexity, and long-term obsolescence risk.

“Building on Pickering’s industry-leading position in modular signal switching and sensor simulation, our expanding portfolio of PXI/PXIe analog output instrumentation modules spans a broad spectrum of electronics test applications—from multi-channel waveform and function generation to precision DAC outputs and high-density thermocouple simulation,”saidStephen Jenkins, Simulation Product Manager at Pickering.“Whether you’re building a functional tester for the production line or an HIL test system, Pickering’s instrumentation offering delivers high channel density, reliable precision, and dependable long-term support.” 

The 41-770 PXI and 43-770 PXIe DACmodules provide up to four fully isolated analog output channels in a single 3U PXI/PXIe slot. Each channel is independently programmable across multiple voltage and current ranges, with voltage outputs up to ±40 V and current outputs up to ±20 mA. The modules can also simulate open-circuit conditions, enabling engineers to replicate real-world failure modes such as faulty wiring or sensor failure for fault-injection testing. A hardware interlock feature provides additional protection for the device under test and the wider test system.

The 41-625 PXI and 43-625 PXIe multi-channel waveform generators provide up to 32 independent output channels in a single 3U PXI/PXIe slot. The modules support waveform generation from DC to 300 kHz, making them well-suited to simulate signals from real-world accelerometers and other multi-channel stimulus conditions.Each channel can store waveforms in independent memory blocks, supporting sine waves, standard waveforms, or customer-defined arbitrary waveforms, with instantaneous frequency adjustment under software control using Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS). Trigger functions allow events from other instruments to initiate waveform generation or frequency sweeps.

The PXI 41-761A analog output/thermocouple simulator modulesare a dedicated, purpose-built solution for simulating thermocouple sensor outputs with precise µV-level resolution and built-in fault insertion. It provides independently isolated, two-wire low-voltage outputs that cover the output ranges of the most common thermocouple types, supports multiple cold junction configurations, and correctly handles common-mode voltages for true sensor-level simulation. With up to 32 fully isolated channels per slot, no external switching or system expansion required—delivering the industry's highest thermocouple simulation density in a single PXI slot. 

“These new analog output modules deliver true signal simulation, not approximation,”addedJenkins.“They are purpose-built for test, rather than repurposed general-purpose instruments. Each module is designed to accurately replicate real-world sensor or signal behavior for a specific simulation task — thermocouple, DAC, or arbitrary waveform — enabling more realistic and reliable automated testing than general-purpose voltage sources or arbitrary waveform generators.”

Designed for HIL simulation, functional test, sensor simulation, production test, and fault injection, these modules enable software-controlled electrical stimulus of embedded controllers and devices under test (DUT), eliminating the need for physical sensors, environmental chambers, or manual fault setups. For slot-constrained PXI and PXIe systems, they consolidate signal generation, sensor simulation, switching, and interconnect within a single modular signal-path architecture.

Drivers are available for both Windows and Linux operating systems, with a driver API supported in multiple programming languages, including C, Python, C#, MATLAB, Simulink, and LabVIEW, as well as a Soft Front Panel to simplify development and debugging. PXI and PXIe variants are available, including with PXI modules that integrate into standard PXI and Pickering LXI/USB chassis, enabling engineers to build sustainable, long-lifecycle test architectures on open, industry-standard platforms.

All standard products manufactured by Pickering Interfaces include a three-year warranty and guaranteed long-term product support. For pricing, availability, and contact information, please go here.