National Instruments PXI-7842R PXI Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module

The National Instruments PXI-7842R (Part Number: 780338-01, 198219C-05L) Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module is part of the R Series. This module has the following specifications: Virtex-5 LX50 FPGA, 200 kS per second maximum sample rate, eight analog input channels, eight analog output channels, 96 bidirectional digital channels, an analog input voltage range from -10 V to 10 V, and a maximum clock rate of 40 MHz. The device operates using the NI-RIO driver software.

The FPGA on the PXI-7842R can be utilized for high-performance onboard processing and governing over I/O signals to guarantee full versatility of system timing and harmonization. This Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module can be tailored to suit the user by using the LabVIEW Real-Time module to create applications needing exact timing and control. These applications include high-speed control, hardware-in-the-loop assessment, sensor simulation, and custom protocol communication. The LabVIEW FPGA Module can also be used in programming the device.

The National Instruments PXI-7842R input mode is software configurable with three different input modes: differential, referenced single ended, and non-referenced single ended. Whichever input mode the user chooses will apply to every input channel. The user must also be careful not to surpass the differential and common-mode input ranges because this will distort the input signals. This can additionally result in harming the module and the computer. There are also floating and ground-referenced signal sources. A device with an isolated output is a floating signal source, whereas a device with a non-isolated output is a ground referenced signal source. Several examples of a floating signal source are battery devices, and ungrounded thermocouples. An example of a grounded signal source are plug-in devices with non-isolated outputs.

A variety of cables can be used with the PXI 7842R – they are: the SHC68-68-RMIO, SHC68-68-RDIO, and SH68-C68-S cables, all with the NI SCB-68 shielded connector block accessory. The device is self-calibrating that is, it can internally measure, correct, and ensure its accuracy in the absence of external signal connections; however it can also be externally calibrated.

PXI-7842R Mature Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.