NI PXI-8430/4 High-Performance, 4-Port Serial Interface

The NI PXI-8430/4 is a 4-port RS-232 serial interface module for PXI systems, providing high-speed communication with RS-232-enabled devices at data rates up to 1 Mbps. The module appears as a standard COM port, ensuring compatibility with legacy serial software and NI-VISA-based applications without modification. Built for multiprocessor environments, it features multithreading support, efficient DMA transfers with minimal CPU overhead, and memory mapping to prevent resource conflicts when scaling communication points. Hardware-implemented RTS/CTS flow control and interrupt sharing between ports enable robust handshaking and streamlined interrupt handling.

– Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: PXI Hybrid Compatible
• Serial Standard: RS-232
• Port Count: 4
• Data Rate: Up to 1 Mbps (57 b/s to 1,000 kb/s)
• Baud Rate Range: 2 to 1,000,000 baud, with 0.01% accuracy for standard rates and 1% for non-standard rates
• FIFO Buffer: 128 bytes transmit and receive
• Flow Control: RTS/CTS hardware-implemented handshake
• Connectors: 10-position modular jack (10P10C) with four DB9 male converter cables included
• Maximum Cable Length: 15.6 m
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 55 °C
• Power: +5 VDC typical 400 mA, maximum 600 mA (internally powered)
• Dimensions: 3.94 × 6.37 in.
• Weight: 137 g

– Key Features

• DMA-enabled high-throughput transfers with reduced CPU utilization
• Multicore and hyperthreading support for multiprocessor systems
• Interrupt sharing across ports
• Memory mapping for extended communication point connectivity
• Standard COM port integration—no custom drivers required
• LabVIEW RT compatible

– Operating Environments

Windows and Real-Time OS platforms. MXI compatible for remote chassis integration.

– Compatibility & Integration

NI-VISA compliant. Operates within PXI hybrid systems without additional interface hardware.