National Instruments PCI-8336

The National Instruments PCI-8336 is a half-sized PCI interface card that bridges host PCs to external PXI systems via MXI-4 (Multisystem Expansion Interface) technology. Operating as a PCI-to-PCI bridge, it enables direct control of PXI modules as if installed locally in the PC, eliminating the need for custom driver development. The card uses fiber-optic cabling for the MXI-4 link, providing extended range and electrical isolation advantages over copper alternatives.

– Technical Specifications

• Interface Technology: MXI-4 PCI-to-PCI bridge with fiber-optic link
• Serial Link Speed: 1.5 GB/s
• Peak Link Performance: 132 Mbytes/s
• Sustained Link Performance: 78 Mbytes/s
• PCI Signaling Support: 3.3 V and 5 V
• Power Consumption: +3.3 VDC at 0.35 ADC; +5 VDC at 1.5 ADC
• Form Factor: Half-sized PCI card (approximately 4.2 x 6.9 inches)
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 55 °C
• Storage Temperature: –20 to 70 °C
• Operating Humidity: 10 to 90% RH (non-condensing)
• Storage Humidity: 5 to 95% RH (non-condensing)

– Key Features

• Software-transparent operation—no additional programming required
• Integrated error checking and retransmission on serial link for enhanced reliability
• Fiber-optic cables available in 10 m, 30 m, and 200 m lengths
• Supports multi-chassis PXI system configurations with up to 255 connected buses
• Backward compatible with PCI Specification Revision 2.2 and later

– Typical Applications

• Industrial test and measurement systems requiring remote PXI control
• Scientific data acquisition from geographically distributed instrument racks
• Multi-chassis PXI architectures demanding electrical isolation and extended cabling distances

– Compatibility & Integration

The PCI-8336 requires paired installation with a PXI 8336 MXI-4 PXI Card and cannot operate standalone. It works with any standard CompactPCI chassis meeting PCI Specification Revision 2.2 or later. Windows 10 support requires PXI Platform Services 18.0 or later. Fiber-optic cables are not interchangeable with copper alternatives—dedicated fiber-optic kits are required.