The Agilent/Keysight E8491B is a C-size, single-slot VXI module that establishes direct, high-speed PC-to-VXI mainframe connectivity via IEEE-1394 (FireWire). Installed in Slot 0 as the mainframe’s Resource Manager, the E8491B bridges Windows-based control systems to VXI instrumentation with up to 400 Mbits/second data transfer rates. The module supports asynchronous transfers using fair arbitration protocol, enabling equal bus access across multiple devices. Differential signal transmission over controlled-impedance twisted-pair wire delivers high noise immunity with 200 mV signal levels.
Technical Specifications
• Bus Standard: IEEE-1394 (FireWire)
• Form Factor: C-size VXI, 1-slot module
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 400 Mbits/second
• Signal Level: 200 mV (differential transmission)
• Resource Manager: Slot 0, Logical Address 0
• Host Interface: IEEE-1394/PCI host adapter (Option 001) with three external ports
• Cable Length: 4.5 meters per segment; up to 72 meters total system distance
• Power Supply: 12 V at up to 1.5 A (IEEE-1394 devices)
• PCI Compliance: PCI 2.1
• Operating Systems: Windows 95, 98, 98 SE, Me, NT, 2000, and Windows 7
– Key Features
• High-performance data block transfers for rapid acquisition
• Fair arbitration protocol ensures deterministic bus access
• Hot plug-in capability—no system restart required for device recognition
• Supports daisy-chain, tree, and star topologies
• Multiple mainframes (up to 16) operable from single PC via E8491B per mainframe
• Includes 4.5-meter IEEE-1394 cable and SICL/VISA I/O library software
• 32-bit Interpreted SCPI (I-SCPI) command support
– Typical Applications
Data acquisition systems, automated test equipment, and VXI-based instrumentation control requiring direct PC integration with deterministic data transfer performance.
– Compatibility & Integration
Requires PCI 2.1 compliant slot with current BIOS. Supplied host adapter delivers 12 V power to external IEEE-1394 devices. PC 12 V disk drive power bus connection available via included cable. Complete driver and library support for documented Windows platforms.
