National Instruments PCI-8368 Remote Control Module

The PCI-8368 from National Instruments is a Remote Control Module from the MXI-Express x1 Series. This compact module is equipped with a single slot, and features 2 LED indicators alongside the front connector. These LEDs are labeled as “PWR” and “LINK”, providing quick visual insight as to the status of these features of the PCI-8368. The MXI-Express x1 series of devices separates the host PC / laptop from the measurement or automation system, allowing the user to remotely control of the backplane of the PXI/e, CompactPCI/e, VXI, or cRIO device.

Two different types of cabling are available for MXI-Express Remote Control Modules: fiber-optic, copper, or both. Although the fiber-optic cables are available in options up to 100 meters long, they typically have a lower information throughput capacity than copper cables do. While shorter (between 1 to 10 meters long), copper cables typically allow for a greater throughput capacity for information. When using copper cable, the National Instruments PCI-8368 is able to achieve a Gen2 x8 association speed of 3.2 GB/s. When using fiber-optic cabling, the device reaches a Gen2 x4 association speed of 1.6 GB/s.

Designed for use in indoor environments only, the NI PCI-8368 has an operating temperature range of 0 to 55 °C with an operating humidity ranging from 10 to 90% (noncondensing). When not in use, the module can withstand storage temperatures ranging from -40 to 70 °C, with a similarly noncondensing humidity range spanning from 5 to 95%. The PCI-8368 measures 10.0 cm × 16.0 cm (3.9 in. × 6.3 in.) in dimensions and has a typical weight of 0.25 kg (0.55 lb).