The NI PXI-8330 is a legacy high-performance interface module developed by National Instruments (NI) under the MXI-3 (Multisystem eXtension Interface) series. It serves as a critical bridge for connecting PXI/CompactPCI systems to external computing platforms or other PXI systems, enabling transparent data transmission and remote control in test and measurement environments . Below is its comprehensive detail:
- Brand: National Instruments (NI)
- Model: PXI-8330
- Series: MXI-3 (Multisystem eXtension Interface)
- Product Type: PXI-to-PCI/PCI-to-PXI interface module
- Part Number: Typically sold as part of the PXI-PCI 8330 kit (Part No.: 777942-01), which includes the PXI-8330 module, a PCI-8330 plug-in board, and an MXI-3 cable .
- Life Cycle Status: Obsolete (discontinued by NI, but still available for purchase and repair through third-party suppliers) .
- Software Compatibility: Compatible with NI device drivers compliant with PCI-PCI bridge specifications; no custom driver modification required for existing PCI-based applications . Supports integration with LabVIEW and other NI test software .
- Form Factor: 3U PXI single-width module, dimensions: 10.0 × 16.0 cm (3.9 × 6.3 in) .
The PXI-8330 leverages MXI-3 technology to implement a PCI-PCI bridge, making all devices on the connected PXI/CompactPCI system appear as "local" to the host PCI system . This eliminates the need for custom driver rewriting, ensuring seamless compatibility with existing automation workflows.
With support for both copper (10m) and fiber-optic (200m) cables, it enables remote control of PXI systems in physically separated environments (e.g., test chambers, industrial workshops) . Fiber-optic cables further enhance noise immunity for high-interference scenarios.
It supports daisy-chain or star topologies, allowing users to link multiple PXI/CompactPCI systems or control up to 255 buses from a single PCI-based host . Two PXI-8330 modules can also be paired to directly connect two PXI systems .
Designed to withstand harsh test environments, it meets strict EMC standards and operates stably across a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent performance in manufacturing and research settings .
The NI PXI-8330 is widely used in test, measurement, and automation scenarios requiring remote or distributed PXI system control:
- Automated Test Systems (ATE): Enables host computers to control PXI-based test stations for electronics manufacturing (e.g., board-level validation, component testing) .
- Transportation Testing: Integrated into PXI-based platforms for urban rail vehicle bogie testing, facilitating high-speed acquisition of strain, voltage, and acceleration signals .
- Distributed Measurement: Links geographically dispersed PXI data acquisition systems (e.g., in aerospace ground testing or energy grid monitoring) for unified data aggregation .
- Lab Automation: Connects PXI instruments (e.g., digitizers, signal generators) to desktop PCs for streamlined experiment control in research labs .
As a legacy module, it remains a cost-effective solution for maintaining and upgrading existing MXI-3-based PXI systems, though newer applications typically adopt NI’s MXI-Express (e.g., PXIe-8360) technology .
