The NI VXI-8345 MXI-3 Interface – Dual Port is a single-slot C-size VXI module that bridges PCI bus architecture to VXIbus systems, enabling high-speed bidirectional communication for automated test and measurement applications. The dual-port MXI-3 configuration supports daisy-chaining of multiple VXI chassis over distances up to 200 m using fiber-optic cabling, making it suitable for distributed test environments requiring extended physical separation between controllers and instrumentation.
Technical Specifications
• Interface Technology: MXI-3
• Data Transfer Rates: 16 Mbytes/s sustained; 33 Mbytes/s peak
• Maximum Link Distance: 200 m (fiber-optic)
• PCI Bridge Frequency: 33 MHz
• Maximum Link Capacity: 254 links (BIOS-dependent)
• Power Requirements: +5 VDC; 2.2 A typical, 3.5 A maximum
• Operating Systems Supported: Windows 2000, NT, Me, 98, XP, Vista, 7
– Key Features
• Dual MXI-in and MXI-out ports for transparent chassis expansion
• SC/PC fiber-optic connectors for long-distance, noise-immune signal transmission
• Direct trigger and interrupt control with dedicated Trig I/O and EXT CLK connectors
• PCI-to-PCI bridging via MXI-3 ASIC running at full PCI bus frequency
• Word Serial (message-based) and register-based communication protocols
• Functions as VXI Commander and Resource Manager
• Physical footprint: 9.2 × 13.4 in.; weight 2.7 lb
– Compatibility & Integration
The module integrates with VXI and PXI systems through VXIplug&play compliance. Included software includes NI-VISA and NI-VXI bus interface drivers, enabling operation with applications written to either standard. Measurement & Automation Explorer provides configuration and diagnostics. The interface supports any NI controller compatible with NI-VXI or NI-VISA driver software.
