The National Instruments AT-MXI is an ISA interface card that bridges ISA-based computer systems with MXIbus devices, enabling high-speed data transfer and direct communication between host PCs and VXIbus or VMEbus backplane systems. Operating as both MXIbus master and slave, it supports multiple addressing modes and data transfer widths for flexible system integration in instrumentation and control applications.
Technical Specifications
• Interface Type: MXIbus ISA Interface Card
• Bus Compliance: ISA Specification and MXIbus Specification
• Form Factor: Full-length ISA card with 62-pin 3-row D connector
• Master Mode Addressing: 32-bit (A32), 24-bit (A24), and 16-bit (A16)
• Slave Mode Addressing: 24-bit (A24) to PC AT memory; 16-bit (A16) to communication registers and I/O space
• Data Transfer Widths: 16-bit (D16) and 8-bit (D08) in both master and slave modes
• Block-Mode Transfers: Supported
• System Controller Functionality: Can terminate MXIbus signals directly on the interface board
• Arbitration Support: MXIbus arbitration lock and fairness options
– Key Features
• Dual-role operation as MXIbus master and slave
• Multiple addressing standards for diverse backplane configurations
• Block-mode data transfer capability for sustained throughput
• Native system controller functionality without external components
• VXIbus device emulation via standard communication register set
– Typical Applications
• Transparent extension of VXI/VME systems across multiple mainframes
• Integration of external devices into VXI/VME architectures where physical module constraints exist
• Host-to-backplane instrumentation control and data acquisition
– Compatibility & Integration
The AT-MXI functions with IBM PC AT, EISA, PS/2, Sun SPARCstation, DECstation 5000, RISC System/6000, and Macintosh platforms. Other MXIbus devices recognize the AT-MXI as a VXIbus device through its standard communication register set, enabling transparent system interoperability.
