National Instruments PCI-8517 FlexRay Interface Device

The PCI-8517 (Part number: 780685-02) is a FlexRay Interface Device designed by National Instruments. This device is suitable for FlexRay applications and is a member of the NI‑XNET family. The NI PCI‑8517 is viable for high-speed and real-time applications. These applications can manipulate many FlexRay signals and frames, which includes quick control prototyping and hardware‑in‑the‑loop imitation. It also includes automation control, bus monitoring, and much more. The NI PCI‑8517 consists of two operational FlexRay interfaces. It allows the device to connect the individual electronic control unit with the interface. The ECU helps the interface when cold-start nodes are not accessible.

The National Instruments PCI-8517 FlexRay Interface Device has two TJA1080 transceivers. These transceivers help with normal and cold-start applications. The interfaces can be connected separately to two distinct FlexRay networks. The device can maintain its performance on both distinct interfaces. Each transceiver is completely attuned with the FlexRay criteria, with a baud rate range from 1 Mbps to 10 Mbps. The NI PCI-8517 also has a sleep mode feature. This mode enhances power management by using low power.

The National Instruments PCI-8517 has a built-in power system for FlexRay interfaces. The COM pin helps as the reference ground for the bus signals. It increases the dimensions of the frame significantly. It also has a unified FlexRay database. This database can be used for editing and importing purposes. The NI PCI-8517 is compatible with LabVIEW RT operating systems and is workable with C/C++ on Windows. The device is also structured with a Bus Monitor feature, which is a universal analysis tool. It displays and logs the FlexRay network data.