The NI PCI-8335 MXI-3 Interface Module is a PCI-to-PCI bridge that extends PCI bus connectivity to remote PXI/CompactPCI systems over high-speed serial links. Operating as a master/slave device, it provides transparent hardware and software integration, allowing direct control of external measurement and automation chassis from a host PC. The module supports up to 255 buses from a single PCI-based system and enables physical separation of instrumentation from the host while combining PCI, CompactPCI, and PXI devices within unified applications.
Technical Specifications
• Interface Technology: MXI-3 (Multisystem eXtension Interface)
• Communication Protocol: Word Serial (message-based) and Register-Based Communication
• Serial Data Rate: 1.5 Gbit/s
• Peak Throughput: 132 Mbytes/s
• Sustained Throughput: 84 Mbytes/s
• PCI Bus: 32-bit at 33 MHz, compliant with PCI-to-PCI Bridge Architecture Specification v1.0 and PCI Specification Revision 2.1
• Connectivity: Fiber-optic interface (SC multimode duplex); maximum cable length 200 m. Copper cable option available.
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 °C
• Storage Temperature: -20 to 70 °C
• Operating Humidity: 10 to 90% non-condensing
• Storage Humidity: 5 to 95% non-condensing
• Emissions: FCC Class A and EN 55011:1991 Group 1 Class A at 10 m
• Dimensions: 4.2 in. × 6.9 in.
• Weight: 0.33 lb
– Key Features
• Transparent operation across Windows XP, Apple Mac OS, and Sun Solaris platforms
• Interrupt extension without operating system intervention
• Support for multiple chassis linking from single PCI host
• Half-size PCI and 3U PXI module form factors
• Fiber-optic isolation for extended distances
– Compatibility & Integration
Requires NI-VXI or NI-VISA drivers, typically supplied with DAQmx and related NI software packages. Full operating system warranty limited to Windows XP; compatibility with Windows 7 and later versions is not supported.
