NI Single-Board RIO

NI Single-Board RIO (sbRIO) combines a real-time processor, a reconfigurable field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and input/output capabilities on an open printed circuit board. Built on the CompactRIO architecture, this platform is designed for original equipment manufacturers integrating measurement and control into custom products. Applications include machine automation, embedded monitoring, robotics, and specialized test systems that require predictable timing and adaptable hardware.

Unlike packaged CompactRIO systems, sbRIO controllers are intended for installation inside an application-specific enclosure. The processor manages communications, data logging, and supervisory control, while the FPGA can implement parallel processing, custom digital interfaces, and tightly timed control loops. This separation helps engineers tailor acquisition and response behavior to their equipment instead of relying entirely on software scheduling.

The sbRIO-960x, sbRIO-962x, and sbRIO-963x families include different combinations of processing resources, onboard I/O, and expansion connections. For example, the sbRIO-9607 features a 667 MHz dual-core processor, Zynq-7020 FPGA, 512 MB DRAM, and 512 MB storage. Its RIO Mezzanine Card (RMC) connector exposes 96 digital I/O lines for custom integration.

For applications needing analog measurements and outputs, the sbRIO-9627 provides sixteen 16-bit analog inputs, four 16-bit analog outputs, and 100 digital lines, including RMC I/O. The sbRIO-9637 provides sixteen 16-bit analog inputs, four 16-bit analog outputs, and 28 digital lines. Development-kit part numbers include 783816-01 for sbRIO-9607, 783817-01 for sbRIO-9627, and 783818-01 for sbRIO-9637; corresponding OEM kits use -02 suffixes.

The portfolio also includes the sbRIO-9608, sbRIO-9609, sbRIO-9628, sbRIO-9629, and sbRIO-9638. The sbRIO-9609 offers a 1.91 GHz quad-core processor, Artix-7 200T FPGA, 2 GB DRAM, and 4 GB storage. Its development and OEM kits are 787289-01 and 787289-02. Compare individual specifications rather than assuming boards within a naming family share identical capabilities.

For OEM projects, evaluate the complete system rather than the controller alone. Analog channel count, FPGA resources, memory capacity, and available communications must match the application. Ethernet, USB, CAN, and serial connectivity differ across products. Plan the enclosure, wiring, and expansion hardware alongside software development, especially when migrating an established design to a controller with a different processor or FPGA architecture.

Typical LabVIEW development uses LabVIEW Real-Time for processor applications, LabVIEW FPGA for custom FPGA logic, and compatible NI CompactRIO Device Drivers. Software versions, target operating systems, and available programming modes vary by model. Certain controllers support additional I/O through a compatible RMC, but expansion connectors are not universal and should never be assumed interchangeable.

When selecting replacement hardware, verify the complete model and part number, connector layout, power requirements, cooling, I/O voltage levels, and existing application compatibility. Apex Waves helps customers source NI Single-Board RIO controllers for established embedded systems. Request a quote with your required configuration, and confirm availability, condition, accessories, and service options before ordering.