National Instruments PXI-PCI8330 MXI-3 Interface Kit

The National Instruments PXI-PCI8330 (Part Number: 777942-01) provides computers with direct control of PXI or CompactPCI systems with a transparent software and hardware link. This Interface Kit utilizes MXI-3 technology. The NI PXI-PCI-8330 kit is comprised of the PCI-8330 plug-in board, the PXI-8330 module, and an MXI-3 cable. The kit can be purchased with all required parts mentioned or the components can be purchased separately. In addition, two PXI-8330 modules can be used to link two PXI/CompactPCI systems. MXI-3 is suitable for daisy-chaining numerous systems since it complies with the PCI-to-PCI bridging specification. Star configurations are feasible as well. MXI-3 systems do not require software for regular functioning.

When the PXI-PCI-8330 kit is installed in a PC, the computer can recognize and service PXI/CompactPCI interrupt lines in every chassis it links. Also, the PXI/CompactPCI interrupt lines are transparently prolonged across each chassis. This MXI-3 Interface Kit can function with several types of operating systems, including Sun Solaris, Microsoft Windows, and Apple Mac OS.

The NI PXI-PCI8330 Interface Kit can be used with a copper cable. The copper cable length can vary from 2 to 10 m. The interface kits that use copper cables are a more affordable option, while the kits which require fiber-optic cables are more costly but can be used for longer distances or electrical isolation. When the two buses are linked with the copper cable, the data link can reach 1.5 Gbit per second serial data rates. The device is equipped with the NI MXI-3 ASIC, Serial Transmitter, Serial Receiver, High Speed Serial Data Connector (HSSDC) Receptacle, and a High Speed Serial Data Connector (HSSDC) Cable.

The PCI model of the device weighs 5 oz and measures 4.2 x 6.9 in. in physical dimensions, while its PXI counterpart weighs 8 oz, and has the dimensions: 3.9 x 6.3 in. in physical dimensions. It has a recommended operating temperature range of 0 to 50 °C, a storage temperature range of –20 to 70 °C, and noncondensing operating and storage humidity ranges of 10 to 90% and 5 to 95% respectively.

National Instruments has declared the PXI-PCI8330 Obsolete, but the Interface Kit will remain available for both purchase and repairs with Apex Waves.