National Instruments Introduces PXI Express System Expansion Modules

By DE Editors

National Instruments has introduced two system expansion options for creating multichassis PXI Express systems. The NI PXIe-8364 and NI PXIe-8374 are the first NI PXI Express remote control modules intended to make it possible for engineers to directly interface multiple PXI Express chassis to a single host computer using any expansion topology, without requiring custom solutions.

The modules’ interconnectivity and PXI-based architecture are intended to increase system design efficiency and overall system performance in a variety of high-channel-count data acquisition and high-speed automated test applications, including RF and semiconductor test.

The NI PXIe-8364/74 modules use x1 and x4 MXI-Express links, respectively, to connect downstream and upstream PXI Express chassis, and all PXI modules in the downstream chassis appear as local devices in the upstream chassis.

Additionally, the modules use cabled PCI Express as their underlying communication technology. The NI PXIe-8364/74 modules provide a maximum data bandwidth of 250 MB/s and 1 GB/s, respectively. Engineers can use the new modules to create systems with multiple PXI Express chassis connected in complex topologies such as star, line or tree.

For more information, visit National Instruments.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.