NI VXI-MXI PCB Assembly

The NI VXI-MXI PCB Assembly is a VXIbus mainframe extender module that extends VXI instrumentation systems beyond physical mainframe boundaries using the MXIbus interface. Designed for high-speed data transfer and transparent system management, this C-size, 1-slot module integrates multiple VXIbus mainframes into a single logical system while maintaining full VXI-6 compliance. The assembly supports both legacy MXI-2 and modern MXI-3 architectures, enabling seamless communication between PCI-based computers and distributed VXI instrumentation.

– Technical Specifications

• Module Type: VXIbus Mainframe Extender, C-size, 1-slot form factor (B-size options available)
• Interface: MXIbus (MXI-2 or MXI-3 depending on model); incorporates MITE ASIC for high-performance connectivity
• Slot Configuration: Supports Slot 0 operation with Resource Manager and CLK10 source functions, or installation in any standard VXIbus slot
• Data Transfer Rates:
– D64 mode: up to 38 Mbytes/s maximum DMA
– MXI-2/MITE systems: 33 MB/s burst, 23 MB/s sustained
– MXI-3 systems: 33 Mbytes/s peak, 16 Mbytes/s sustained
• VXIbus Connectors: Dual 96-pin connectors (J1, J2)
• Power Consumption: 2.5 A typical, 3.5 A maximum from +5 VDC source
• Board Dimensions: 233.35 × 340 mm (9.187 × 13.386 in.); shielded metal enclosure

– Key Features

• Transparent interrupt propagation across multiple mainframes and units
• Front-panel SMB connectors for TTL trigger input/output and external clock I/O
• Multi-mainframe integration appearing as unified system to host
• VXIplug&play driver compliance
• Metal EMI shielding for noise-sensitive measurement environments

– Typical Applications

• Distributed VXI measurement systems requiring external mainframe expansion
• Remote instrument control via PCI/PCI Express host computers
• Multi-chassis automated test setups with synchronized triggering
• System integration across geographically separated test facilities

– Compatibility & Integration

Supports Windows (7, Vista, XP), Linux, Solaris, and Mac OS operating systems. Compatible with PCI, PCI Express, and ExpressCard-based host platforms. Full VXIbus Mainframe Extender Specification (VXI-6) conformance ensures interoperability with standard VXI instrumentation.