NI PXI-1042Q Quiet 8-Slot 3U PXI Chassis

The NI PXI-1042Q is an 8-slot, 3U PXI chassis designed for test and measurement applications in noise-sensitive environments. It delivers a high-performance platform with integrated cooling and synchronized timing, achieving acoustic noise levels as low as 43 dBA. The chassis supports both PXI and CompactPCI modules across seven peripheral slots plus one system controller slot, with automatic fan control that balances thermal performance and acoustic emissions.

– Technical Specifications

Chassis Architecture
• 8 slots total: one system controller slot (Slot 1) and seven peripheral slots
• 3U form factor, PXI Specification Revision 2.0 compliant
• CompactPCI-interoperable backplane accepting 3U PXI and CompactPCI modules
• Maximum system bandwidth: 132 MB/second
• Slot cooling capacity: 30 W per slot
• 8 shared PXI trigger lines with Star Trigger (ST) in Slot 2

Timing and Synchronization
• Built-in 10 MHz reference clock: 25 ppm accuracy, <5 ps jitter, 250 ps slot-to-slot skew
• External 10 MHz reference input via rear-panel BNC (AUTO-selects external when detected)
• 10 MHz reference clock output via rear-panel BNC
• Multi-chassis synchronization supported via NI PXI-6653 in Slot 2

Cooling and Acoustic Performance
• Two system fans plus power supply fan with filtered, forced-air cooling
• HIGH and AUTO fan settings; AUTO adjusts speed based on air intake temperature
• Acoustic noise: 43 dBA (ISO 7779, sound pressure level at operator position)

Power and Electrical
• Universal AC power supply: 100–240 VAC input, 90–264 VAC operating range, 50/60 Hz
• Removable supply with 10 A circuit breaker and overcurrent protection
• Isolated 12 VDC line for cooling fans reduces backplane electrical noise

– Key Features

• Low-noise operation ideal for office, laboratory, and benchtop deployments
• P1 connector compliance with CompactPCI peripheral and system module specifications
• Precision timing with sub-nanosecond trigger skew across all slots
• Wide AC input tolerance supports global installations

– Typical Applications

Automated test equipment, measurement systems, and control platforms requiring synchronized multi-module configurations in acoustically constrained spaces.

– Compatibility & Integration

Backplane architecture supports standard CompactPCI products. Integrates with NI PXI controllers and peripheral modules rated for 30 W slot dissipation. External timing reference capability enables master-slave chassis configurations.