National Instruments PXI-8421/8 RS-485 Interface

The National Instruments PXI-8421/8 is a Serial Interface Module for PXI systems. This module is designed for communicating with RS-422 and RS-485 serial devices. The PXI-8421/8 (Part Number: 777735-08) has 8 ports, whereas this module is also available in 4-port (777735-04) and 2-port (777735-02) versions. This serial interface module is offered with an adaptor cable that can be used for the interconnection of the SCSI 68-pin connector provided on the module and eight standard DB-9 male connectors.

The NI PXI-8421/8 is fully compatible with a standard PC serial port. This module comes with Plug and Play compatibility to provide the user with a switchless configuration experience. With this module, users will be able to connect to various serial devices for test and measurement, laboratory data acquisition, industrial, and various manufacturing applications. This 8-port module also offers RTS/CTS hardware handshake lines and can receive and transmit FIFOs as well.  The NI PXI-8421/8 comes equipped with an SCSI 68-pin I/O connector, has 64 Bytes FIFO, and offers a data transfer rate of up to 460.8 kb per second. As far as its power consumption is concerned, the NI PXI-8421/8 consumes 1.1 A of current while operating in typical conditions, and a maximum of 2 A at +5 VDC.

This Serial Interface Module fully supports LabVIEW Real-Time and can be installed and utilized as a standard serial port through existing applications. Moreover, this module can be configured through applications written with NI-VISA development environments, including NI LabVIEW, C++, Excel, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, etc. This module offers 2,000 V port-to-port isolation for the minimization of troubles such as ground loops.

The NI device measures 3.94 x 6.37 in. in physical dimensions. It has recommended operating and storage temperature ranges of 0 to 55 °C and –20 to 70 °C respectively, non-condensing operating and storage humidity ranges of 10 to 90% RH and 5 to 95% RH. The serial interface module is designed to comply with the following electrical safety standards: IEC 61010-1, EN 61010-1, UL 61010-1, and CSA 61010-1.

PXI-8421/8 Obsolete Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.