The NI PXI-8156B is a PXI/cPCI embedded controller that serves as the system controller within PXI mainframes, delivering real-time processing, data acquisition, and signal control for demanding test and measurement applications. It integrates a high-performance processor, expandable memory architecture, and multiple I/O interfaces into a compact 3.2 x 5.1 x 8.5 inch form factor optimized for modular instrumentation systems.
Technical Specifications
Processing & Memory
• Processor options: 233 MHz Intel Pentium MMX or 333 MHz AMD K6-2
• Base SDRAM: 32 MB, upgradable to 256 MB maximum via two user-accessible SO-DIMM sockets
• Additional DRAM: 2 MB
• Graphics: Built-in SuperVGA controller with 2 MB SGRAM/EDO DRAM
Storage
• Ultra DMA IDE hard drive: 2 GB to 9.35 GB
• 1.44 MB floppy drive
System Architecture
• PCI local bus and ISA bus support
• Occupies 1 system slot and 3 controller expansion slots in PXI chassis
– Key Features
Communication Interfaces
• 1 GPIB port with TNT4882C ASIC controller, compatible with IEEE 488.2 and NI-488.2M
• 1 Ethernet port (10BaseT, RJ-45) with TX/RX LED status
• 2 RS-232 serial ports
• 1 IEEE 1284 ECP/EPP parallel port for high-speed module support
• 1 USB 1.1 port
• VGA and PS/2 keyboard/mouse connectors
Environmental Performance
• Operating temperature: 0° to 50° C
• Storage temperature: -20° to 70° C
• Operating humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing
• Weight: 2.4 lb (1.1 kg)
– Compatibility & Integration
The PXI-8156B installs directly into PXI-1020 and PXI-1025 chassis system controller slots. It supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, NI-VISA, NI-488.2M, and NI-DAQ software tools under Windows 2000, NT, 9x, and RT operating systems. This architecture enables seamless integration with PC-compatible development environments and NI instrumentation ecosystems.
