National Instruments PXIe-8381 PXI Remote Control Module

The PXIe-8381 (Part Number: 782362-01) is an advanced PXI Remote Control Module from National Instruments. This module allows the user to control PXI and CompactPCI systems from a PC. The NI PXIe-8381 is installed in a PXI chassis, and has a requirement of 1 system slot for operation. The module uses a PCI Express-to-PCI bridge to interface with an installed PCIe-8381. A copper, x1, MXI-Express cable is required for the interface. The PXIe-8381 can also create a multi-chassis system using the PXIe-8384. The NI PXIe-8381 module can configure a complete PXI system.

The National Instruments PXIe-8381 Remote Control Module uses x8 Gen 2 MXI-Express links to connect a PXI Express chassis to desktop PCs. The user can also separate the measurement or automation system from a host PC. Multiple chassis can be controlled with a single PC or controller. This module uses a fully transparent MXI-Express link. For a cabled link, all PXI and PXIe modules appear as PCI boards within the computer itself. It offers high bandwidth and low latency. The link can transmit data at a rate of 4 GB per second in each direction simultaneously.

The design of the PXIe-8381 is compatible with various commercially available PCs. The driver for the NI PXIe-8381 Remote Control Module is supported for Windows XP/Vista/7/8. NI MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software addresses common PC limitations. These limitations are related to enumerating complex PCI Express topologies. The PXIe-8381 is compatible with the PXI Express Hardware Specifications, Revision 2.0. The NI PXIe-8381 also supports PICMG CompactPCI Express EXP.0 R2.0.  It is compatible with copper and fiber optic cable types.

The PXIe 8381 is based on PCI Express technology, and it can be configured using the PXI platform services software and the Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) tool.

The NI device weighs 0.42 lb, and measures 4.4 x 6.9 in. in physical dimensions. It has a recommended operating temperature range of 0 °C to 55°C, a storage temperature range of –40 to 71 °C, an operating and non-operating random vibration of 0.3 grms and 2.4 grms respectively–both at a frequency range of 5 to 500 Hz.