Residual DC Offset Error When Using TB-4309 ST with PXIe-4311

Updated Aug 5, 2026

Reported In

Hardware

  • PXIe-4309
  • TB-4309

Issue Details

I am measuring unexpected residual DC offsets (from 5-8uV) with my PXIe-4311 connected to the TB-4309 Screw Terminal (ST) block. What is causing this error? 

Solution

Errors in your PXIe-4311 measurement can occur when using the module with the TB-4309 ST without connecting the proper signal ground reference.  

 

The PXIe-4311 is a 32-channel, high-speed analog input module. It is non-channel isolated, meaning all channels share the same ground reference.  

 

The TB-4309 screw terminal (ST) block does not expose dedicated ground terminals, therefore you must connect the PFI_GND terminal on the TB-4309 ST as a signal ground for all PXIe-4311 channel (AI+ and AI-) connections. In your setup, this can look like connecting your device’s or system’s ground to PFI_GND. 

 

Removing the PFI_GND connection will leave the common mode voltage source floating and may introduce measurement errors. The following figure  illustrates the grounded source PXIe-4311 block diagram with TB-4309. See PXIe-4311 User Manual: Block Diagram for more details. 

 

 

 

If measuring a floating source, the diagram below illustrates the recommended wiring. See  PXIe-4311 User Manual: Shielding for more details. 

 

 
 

The PFI_GND connection is important to be aware of especially if transitioning your system from the PXIe-4309 to the PXIe-4311, as the PXIe-4309 analog input module is a channel-isolated and does not require the signal ground reference.