The NI PXI-8335 MXI-3 Interface Module is a PCI-to-PCI bridge designed to establish high-performance communication between a PXI chassis and host computer. This module implements MXI-3 technology over fiber-optic or copper connections, delivering serial data rates up to 1.5 Gbit/s with peak throughput of 132 Mbytes/s and sustained performance of 84 Mbytes/s. The PXI-8335 enables direct PC control of CompactPCI and PXI backplanes, supports expansion from one chassis to two via linked modules, and can control up to 255 buses from any PCI-based system with appropriate BIOS support. Automatic configuration as primary or secondary module occurs based on slot position, eliminating manual setup.
Technical Specifications
• Serial Data Rate: 1.5 Gbit/s
• Peak Throughput: 132 Mbytes/s
• Sustained Throughput: 84 Mbytes/s
• Maximum Cable Length (Fiber-optic): 200 m
• Maximum Cable Length (Copper): 10 m
• Maximum Controllable Buses: 255 (PCI-based systems with BIOS support)
• 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
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.9 inches
• Weight: 8 oz
• Emissions: FCC Class A, EN 55011:1991 Group 1 Class A (10 m)
– Key Features
• SC/PC optical I/O connectors for MXI interface
• Trigger I/O and external clock connectors
• 20-bit parallel bus converted to 1.5 Gbits/s serial transmission
• Fiber-optic support up to 200 m; copper alternative to 10 m
• Dual-chassis linking capability
• Compatible with LabVIEW and Measurement Studio
• Driver support via DAQmx and NI software packages
– Typical Applications
• Physical separation of automation and measurement systems from host PC
• Multi-chassis PXI/CompactPCI system expansion
• Integration of PCI, PXI, and CompactPCI devices in unified systems
– Compatibility & Integration
The PXI-8335 interfaces with PXI/CompactPCI host systems and standard CompactPCI chassis meeting PICMG CompactPCI 2.0 R2.1 specification. Confirmed compatibility includes Windows XP Professional SP3.
