NI PXI-8430/2 High-Performance, 2-Port Serial Interface

The NI PXI-8430/2 is a high-performance, 2-port serial interface module for PXI systems that delivers reliable RS-232 communication with serial devices. Operating at baud rates from 57 to 1,000,000 baud, it achieves ±0.01% accuracy on standard rates and ±1% on nonstandard rates. The module integrates a DMA engine for high-throughput data transfer with minimal CPU overhead, supported by multicore processor and hyperthreading capability. Each port presents as a standard COM interface, enabling direct compatibility with existing serial software without driver modification.

– Technical Specifications

• Supported Protocol: RS-232
• Maximum Data Rate: 1 Mbps
• Baud Rate Range: 57 to 1,000,000 baud
• Baud Rate Accuracy: ±0.01% (standard), ±1% (nonstandard)
• FIFO Buffer: 128 Bytes transmit and receive
• I/O Connector: DB-9 male
• Bus Connector: PXI Hybrid
• Power: +5 VDC, 325 mA typical, 500 mA maximum
• Dimensions: 4.2 in. × 5.6 in.
• Weight: 134 g (0.19 lb)

– Key Features

• Dual independent RS-232 ports for concurrent serial communication
• DMA-driven transfers reduce CPU load on multicore systems
• Memory mapping eliminates resource conflicts across multiple communication endpoints
• Standard COM port enumeration integrates with Windows and LabVIEW Real-Time OS
• Precision baud rate generation supports legacy and high-speed serial protocols
• 128-byte FIFO buffers on each port buffer incoming and outgoing data

– Typical Applications

• Legacy serial device integration in automated test systems
• Instrument control and data acquisition from RS-232 devices
• Multiport serial logging and monitoring in PXI chassis
• Real-time serial communication in distributed test environments

– Compatibility & Integration

The module operates on Windows and LabVIEW Real-Time operating systems. NI-Serial device driver and NI-VISA support provide flexible programming options. Standard COM port mapping allows software built for serial APIs to function without modification. PXI Hybrid bus connection integrates into any PXI-compatible chassis.