The National Instruments VXI-8345 is a single-port MXI-3 interface module that bridges PCI bus architecture to VXIbus, enabling high-speed communication between a host computer and VXI chassis. Operating as a PCI-to-PCI bridge, the VXI-8345 presents VXI instruments as local PCI devices to the host system, eliminating the need for custom drivers. The module achieves sustained data transfer rates of 16 Mbytes/s with peak performance of 33 Mbytes/s at the PCI bus frequency, while the serial link operates at 1.5 Gbits/s. Fiber-optic cabling supports distances up to 200 meters, making the interface suitable for electrically isolated or geographically distributed test systems.
Technical Specifications
• Interface Technology: MXI-3 (Multisystem eXtension Interface)
• Data Transfer Rate: 16 Mbytes/s sustained, 33 Mbytes/s peak
• Serial Link Rate: 1.5 Gbits/s per link
• PCI Bus Interface: 33 MHz operation, PCI-to-PCI bridge implementation
• Cabling: Fiber-optic with SC/PC optical connectors
• Maximum Link Distance: 200 meters (fiber-optic)
• Maximum Links Supported: 254 (BIOS dependent)
• Module Dimensions: 9.2 x 13.4 inches
• Weight: 2.6 lbs (single-port)
• Connectors: SC/PC optical I/O (MXI), Trig I/O, EXT CLK
– Key Features
• Single-port MXI-3 interface for VXI Slot 0 operation
• Incorporates MXI-3 and MITE ASICs for optimized PCI-to-VXI bridging
• Functions as transparent PCI-PCI bridge; VXI devices appear as local PCI peripherals
• Supplied with NI-VXI/NI-VISA bus interface software
• VXIplug&play compliant architecture
– Compatibility & Integration
• Operating Systems: Windows 2000/NT/Me/98
• Software: NI-VXI, NI-VISA bus interface libraries
• Host Interface: PCI slot in computer
• VXI Chassis: Direct connection to Slot 0
• Multi-Chassis Expansion: Dual-port variant supports daisy-chain topologies
