The NI PMC-GPIB is a GPIB controller card designed for the PCI Mezzanine Card (PMC) standard, enabling direct control and communication with IEEE 488-compatible instruments. Built around the TNT4882C ASIC, it implements full Talker, Listener, and Controller functions per IEEE 488.2, with support for the patented HS488 high-speed protocol. The card delivers maximum transfer rates of 1536 kbytes/s using standard 3-wire communication, or up to 8 Mbytes/s via HS488 acceleration—extending conventional IEEE 488.1-1987 performance significantly. Installation is straightforward: the card mounts into any unused PMC slot as a 32-bit, Universal Signaling interface, with included NI-488.2 driver software supporting Windows (2000/NT/XP/Me/9x), Solaris, and real-time operating systems. Connection to instruments uses a standard Micro D-Sub 25-pin GPIB connector. Bus-powered operation eliminates external power requirements. Physical footprint is 7.4 cm × 14.9 cm, making it ideal for embedded test platforms and modular instrumentation systems requiring GPIB instrument integration.
Technical Specifications
• ASIC Core: TNT4882C for IEEE 488 Talker, Listener, and Controller functions
• Standards Compliance: IEEE 488.2; IEEE 488.1-1987 (enhanced via HS488)
• Data Transfer Rates (Standard): Up to 1536 kbytes/s (3-wire)
• Data Transfer Rates (HS488): Up to 8 Mbytes/s
• GPIB Connector: Micro D-Sub 25-pin
• PMC Connector: 32-bit, Universal Signaling (IEEE P1386.1)
• Dimensions: 7.4 cm × 14.9 cm (2.9 in. × 5.9 in.)
• Power: Bus-powered
– Key Features
• HS488 patented protocol accelerates GPIB transfers by approximately 5× over standard rates
• Plug-and-play installation with no external power or jumper configuration required
• Compatible with any PMC-slot chassis or carrier board
• Included NI-488.2 driver eliminates separate software licensing
– Typical Applications
• Embedded test systems and automated measurement platforms
• Distributed instrument control in modular chassis
• Legacy GPIB instrument integration in modern systems
– Compatibility & Integration
• Operating Systems: Windows 2000/NT/XP/Me/9x; Solaris (PCI-GPIB driver); Real-Time OS support
• Driver: NI-488.2 (included license)
• Installation: Requires unused PMC slot; power-down required; ESD precautions and mounting hardware provided
