The Ametek/VTI Instruments/VXI Technology EX2500A is a Slot 0 interface module that bridges LXI and VXI systems over Gigabit Ethernet. It enables high-speed data transfer and control between LXI controllers and VXI instruments, supporting block transfer rates exceeding 40 MB/s via a high-performance DMA controller while maintaining traditional message-based command performance. The module extends all eight VXI TTL triggers across multiple mainframes and to other LXI devices, accommodates host distances up to 200 meters via CAT5e or 10 km via fiberoptic cable, and provides an embedded web interface for instrument control, trigger routing configuration, and system status monitoring.
Technical Specifications
• Data Transfer: Block transfer rates exceeding 40 MB/s with DMA controller architecture
• Host Connection: Up to 200 meters via CAT5e Ethernet; up to 10 km via fiberoptic interface
• Triggering: Eight VXI TTL triggers extended across mainframes and LXI devices via LXI Trigger Bus compliant LVDS connectors; SMB connectors for legacy trigger systems
• Clock Options: On-board TCXO (Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator) and OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator) with external Clock In/Out capability
• Software Interface: VXIplug&play compliant; VISA API layer compatible with Agilent Technologies and National Instruments VISA implementations; includes standard VISA I/O library
• Instrument Discovery: LXI standard VXI-11 mechanism
• Web Interface: Interactive utility for instrument control, trigger routing configuration, installed hardware inventory, memory allocation, IP configuration, and logical address information
– Key Features
• Backward compatible with VXI 1.4 and 2.0 products
• Preserves existing Test Program Set (TPS) and driver investments without code modification
• SMB connectors for external reference clock input/output support legacy systems
• Gigabit Ethernet primary interface with distributed trigger capability across rack systems
– Compatibility & Integration
The EX2500A integrates LXI standard features with VXI architecture, enabling transparent communication between heterogeneous test systems. VXIplug&play compliance and VISA standardization ensure compatibility across Agilent and National Instruments ecosystems without requiring existing application modifications.
