National Instruments PXI-8430/4 Serial Interface Module

The NI PXI-8430/4 (Part Number: 778983-01) is a high performance, 4-Port, RS232 PXI Serial Interface Module designed for high-speed communication and reliable synchronization with RS232 enabled devices. This model has the following features: multithreading, multiprocessor support, and efficient DMA transfers. It also appears as a standard COM port for compatibility with software applications where serial communication is used. This model comes with a 10P10C connector and offers flexible baud rates up to 1000.0 Max Baud (kbaud). Data transfer rates within a range of 57 b/s and 1,000 kb/s are possible with the NI PXI-8430/4 at 1% and 0.01% accuracy for nonstandard and standard baud rates. These characteristics make this model an ideal choice for a broad range of applications where data acquisition is involved.

This Serial Interface Module comes with RTS, and DTS hardware implemented flow control and adjustable FIFO settings. It has a FIFO size of 128 bytes. Also, it is equipped with a RS-232 Transceiver State. With the efficient DMA engine, this module has, the user will be able to accomplish elevated throughput with nominal CPU usage. Another great feature this product offers is memory mapping through which more communication points can be connected without resource conflicts. The device is equipped with a 10-position modular jack I/O connector. It has a power requirement of +5 VDC at 400 mA typical and 600 mA maximum.

The NI PXI-8430/4 is a universal PCI board, which is fully compatible with both 3.3 and 5 V signaling arrangements, so the board can work with a wide range of PCs. With full Windows compatibility, this model can bring the great benefit of automatic configuration for easier maintenance and installation. The user can employ these devices as standard serial ports through their existing applications or with other NI-VISA based applications. For improved performance, this device comes with an enhanced driver. The NI device weighs 137 g, and measures 3.94 x 6.37 in. in physical dimensions. It has a recommended operating temperature range of 0 to 55 °C.

PXI-8430/4 Mature Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.