The NI PXIe-8381 is a high-performance MXI-Express Gen II x8 interface module that connects a PXI Express chassis to a remote computer, providing transparent control and communication with PXI modules as if locally connected. Operating at PCIe Gen 2 speeds, it delivers up to 4 GB/s bidirectional data transfer with 3.2 GB/s sustained throughput per direction, enabling efficient remote measurement and automation system deployment across desktop PCs and embedded controllers.
Technical Specifications
Connectivity & Performance
• MXI-Express Gen II x8 interface for high-bandwidth remote chassis control
• Transparent PCI bridge allows PXI/PXIe modules to enumerate as native PCI boards in host OS
• Dual-link mode support: four x4 links merge into two x8 links for increased bandwidth capacity
• Data transfer: up to 4 GB/s bidirectional; sustained 3.2 GB/s per direction
• Compatible with copper and fiber optic cables; fiber limited to Gen 2 x4
• Utilizes MXI-Express x8 copper cables for primary connectivity
Physical
• Dimensions: 10.7 × 17.5 cm (4.4 × 6.9 in.)
• Weight: 0.42 lb (0.19 kg)
• Single PXI chassis system slot required
• Interfaces via PCI Express-to-PCI bridge with installed PCIe-8381
Environmental
• Operating temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C
• Storage temperature: –40 °C to 71 °C
• Operating vibration: 0.3 grms (5 Hz to 500 Hz)
• Non-operating vibration: 2.4 grms (5 Hz to 500 Hz)
• Operating humidity: 10% to 90% noncondensing
• Storage humidity: 5% to 95% noncondensing
– Key Features
• Control multiple PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis from single PC or embedded controller
• Physical system separation—measure/automate remotely while host remains isolated
• Low-latency transparent link eliminates complex driver abstractions
• EMC compliance: EN 61326-1 Class A; EN 55011 Group 1 Class A emissions
– Typical Applications
• Remote PXI chassis control from desktop workstations
• Multi-chassis measurement system coordination
• Distributed test automation architectures
• Applications requiring measurement hardware isolation from host environment
– Compatibility & Integration
• PXI Express Hardware Specification Revision 2.0 compliant
• PICMG CompactPCI Express EXP.0 R2.0 support
• PCIe External Cable Specification compatible
• Requires NI MXI-Express BIOS Compatibility Software for complex PCI Express topology enumeration on certain PCs
• Driver support: Windows XP/Vista/7/8
