The Agilent/Keysight E8491A is an IEEE-1394 (FireWire) to VXI interface module that bridges a PC’s IEEE-1394 bus with a VXI mainframe. Housed in a C-size, single-slot form factor, it functions as a message-based commander and Resource Manager, residing in Slot 0 of the VXI mainframe. The E8491A enables high-performance data block transfers between PC and VXI systems, supporting control and data acquisition from VXI instruments across multiple mainframes. Up to 16 VXI mainframes can be managed from a single PC via daisy-chain or star configuration. Hot-plugging capability simplifies system reconfiguration without powering down.
Technical Specifications
Data Transfer Performance
• Maximum sustained data transfer (16-bit): 14 MB/sec
• Maximum backplane burst rate (16-bit): 13 MB/sec
• Shared memory: 128 kB
• Bus support: A16, A24, A32, D08, D16, D32, D64
Interface and Connectivity
• Interface type: IEEE-1394 (FireWire)
• VXI module size: C-size, 1-slot
• Included cable length: 4.5 meters
• IEEE-1394 ports (Option 001 host adapter): 3 external ports
• Multiple mainframe interconnection: Daisy-chain or star configuration
Power Consumption
• +5 V: 2.5 A (IPM), 0.001 A (IDM)
• +12 V: 0.35 A (IPM), 0.050 A (IDM)
• –12 V: 0.015 A (IPM), 0.001 A (IDM)
• –5.2 V: 0.180 A (IPM), 0.001 A (IDM)
• –2 V: 0.360 A (IPM), 0.001 A (IDM)
• IEEE-1394 device power (Option 001): 12 V at up to 1.5 A
– Key Features
• Message-based commander with Resource Manager functionality
• Hot-plugging support for dynamic reconfiguration
• 4.5 meter FireWire cable included
• Supports up to 16 mainframes per PC
• 128 kB shared memory for efficient data buffering
• RoHS compliant and CE marked
– Compatibility & Integration
Operating Systems: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows 7
Software Support: SICL/VISA, VISA COM; 32-bit Interpreted SCPI (I-SCPI); VXIplug&play compliant
Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual Basic, Agilent VEE, LabVIEW/VISA
Regulatory: IEC 61010-1, CSA C22.2 #1010.1:1992, CISPR 22 Class A, CISPR 11 Group 1 Class A
