National Instruments PXI-8336 Interface Module

Featured with fiber-optic connectors, the National Instruments NI PXI-8336 (Part Number: 778957-01) is an MXI-4 Interface Module. The PXI-8336 can be paired with the PCI-8336 or another PXI-8336 card. This card is one of four offered in the MXI-4 Series. The MXI-4 is a system which is used to couple two physically separate buses. This coupling is achieved through a data link capable of offering up to 1.5 GB/s in data transfer rates. With a PXI-8336 and PCI-8336 based system, the user can control a CompactPCI/PXI backplane through a PCI based computer. The device requires 1 slot for operation.

Also, the controlling of a PXI/CompactPCI backplane through another CompactPCI/PXI based system will be possible through this interface module and a compatible interface board. In addition, the PXI-8336 and other cards from the MXI-4 Series can bring surplus PXI or CompactPCI slots for the user’s application. With this solution, users can achieve a swift separation between their automation or measurement systems from a host PC. The MXI-4 offers the user the required resources for combining CompactPCI, PCI, and PXI devices in one system. This card can be used in two basic configurations. It can be inserted in the controller slot or a non-controller slot of a compatible PXI/CompactPCI chassis.

The NI PXI-8336 comes with the capability of detecting whether it is in a non-controller or controller slot and it keeps itself configured accordingly. With the help of more than one MXI-4 pair, a user can achieve large PXI/CompactPCI/PCI systems. The MXI-4 based hardware, including the PXI-8336, offers everything to support PCI provisions for the simultaneous existence of up to 255 bus segments in a PCI hierarchy.

The device is run on the NI-VISA driver software which enables use of the MXI-4 connection monitor. The device software is compatible with application development environments (ADEs) such as LabVIEW Real-Time module. The LabVIEW RT module can be updated using the Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) tool. The device weighs 0.55 lbs., and measures 3.9 x 6.3 in. in physical dimensions.

PXI-8336 Obsolete Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.