NI PXIe-8821 PXI Embedded Controller

The NI PXIe-8821 is a PXI Express embedded controller that integrates a complete PC-compatible computer into a compact four-wide 3U module for demanding test and measurement systems. Built around an Intel Core i3-4110E dual-core processor running at 2.6 GHz with 3 MB cache, it delivers sufficient processing power for real-time control and data acquisition in PXI Express chassis. Standard configuration includes 2 GB DDR3L SDRAM (expandable to 8 GB) and 320 GB SATA storage, with extended-temperature options providing 80 GB SSD for high-reliability 24/7 operation.

– Technical Specifications

Processor & Memory
• Intel Core i3-4110E, dual-core, 2.6 GHz, 3 MB cache
• 2 GB DDR3L SDRAM (1600 MHz, PC3 12800), upgradeable to 8 GB via single SO-DIMM
• 320 GB SATA HDD standard; 80 GB SATA SSD option for extended-temperature environments

I/O Connectivity
• 1x Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Base-T)
• 1x RS-232 serial port
• 2x USB 2.0 Hi-Speed ports
• 2x USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports
• 1x DisplayPort video output (DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter compatible)
• 1x PXI trigger bus input/output

PXI Express Configuration
• Four-wide 3U module requiring one system slot plus three controller expansion slots
• Fully compatible with PXI Express Specification 1.0
• x1/x1/x1/x1 four-link or x1/x1 two-link configurations available

Environmental
• Operating temperature: 5 °C to 50 °C or 0 °C to 55 °C (extended range)
• Storage temperature: -40 °C to 65 °C or -40 °C to 71 °C (extended range)
• Humidity: 10–90% or 5–95% noncondensing
• Shock rating: 30 g peak, half-sine, 11 ms pulse
• Weight: 0.98 kg typical

– Key Features

• Modular design fits PXI Express chassis alongside instrumentation modules
• USB 3.0 support for high-speed peripheral and external storage connectivity
• 2.5 in. SATA drive bay accepts HDD or SSD depending on thermal requirements
• Single-slot controller expansion capability for distributed processing

– Typical Applications

• Automated test systems requiring local processing and real-time control
• Data logging and instrument sequencing in PXI chassis
• Embedded control for environmental test chambers and chamber-integrated measurement

– Compatibility & Integration

Operating system support includes Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 7 Professional for Embedded Systems, and LabVIEW Real-Time, enabling integration with existing NI software stacks and third-party measurement applications.