The National Instruments PXI-1033 is a 5-slot PXI chassis that serves as a rugged platform for test, measurement, and control applications. Built around PXI Hybrid architecture, it accepts 3U PXI and CompactPCI modules and integrates an MXI-Express controller for remote instrumentation via sustained 110 MB/s throughput. The system provides precision timing, multi-voltage DC distribution, and flexible cooling control in a compact form factor.
Technical Specifications
Slot Configuration & Compatibility
• 5 PXI peripheral slots supporting 3U PXI and CompactPCI modules
• PXI Hybrid Compatible; complies with PXI Hardware Specification Revision 2.2
• Accepts 5 V and universal PXI-compatible products; all 64-bit CompactPCI modules supported
• Integrated MXI-Express controller with 110 MB/s sustained remote link throughput
Power Distribution
• 400 W Universal AC Power Supply (100–240 VAC input; 90–264 VAC operating range; 50/60 Hz nominal, 47–63 Hz operating)
• DC outputs: +3.3 V @ 10 A, +5 V @ 15 A, +12 V @ 2.5 A, −12 V @ 0.8 A
• 25 W cooling capacity per slot
• >70% efficiency at full load
• Short-circuit and over-voltage protection on all outputs
Timing & Synchronization
• 10 MHz System Reference Clock (PXI_CLK10) to each peripheral slot
• Clock accuracy ±25 ppm; maximum slot-to-slot skew 250 ps
• PXI trigger bus; star trigger slot 2
• External clock capability via PXI_CLK10_IN on P2 connector (star slot)
Thermal Management
• AUTO/HIGH fan-speed selector
• AUTO mode: 37.4 dBA at 25 °C ambient (minimizes acoustic emissions)
• HIGH mode: 51.5 dBA (maximum cooling)
Physical
• Dimensions: 257.1 mm W × 177 mm H × 212.8 mm D (10.12 × 6.97 × 8.38 in.); add 12.7 mm (0.50 in.) with feet installed
• Weight: 5 kg (11.0 lbs)
– Key Features
• Integrated MXI-Express controller eliminates external adapter cards
• Precision 10 MHz reference clock with ±25 ppm accuracy and 250 ps skew specification
• Dual power rails (+12 V, −12 V) for mixed-signal instrumentation
• Front-panel power switch with AC disconnect capability
• Flexible thermal management with selectable fan modes
– Typical Applications
• Custom instrumentation system development
• Multi-module test configurations requiring precise timing synchronization
• Laboratory and production test environments with remote measurement needs
• Mixed-signal and analog/digital hybrid measurement systems
– Compatibility & Integration
The PXI-1033 operates within the PXI ecosystem, supporting both native PXI modules and standard CompactPCI 64-bit products. The MXI-Express controller enables transparent remote operation, making it suitable for distributed measurement architectures and automated test stands.

















