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What is PXI?
NI PXI systems provide high-performance modular instruments and other I/O modules that feature specialized synchronization and key software features for test and measurement applications from device validation to automated production test. NI is the PXI industry leader, with the broadest array of best-in-class products and services on the market.
Industry-Standard
NI led the creation of the PXI standards body to create an open standard, so you can augment your NI system with specialty modules from up to 60 other vendors.
High-Performance
NI PXI hardware utilizes the latest technology, incorporating powerful multicore processors, FPGAs, and other technology to increase measurement range and performance.
Scalable
PXI’s architecture makes it possible to synchronize measurements across multiple modules or multiple chassis, so you can add to your systems as requirements change.
Accurate
PXI offers some of the highest frequency and accuracy specifications, so you can ensure your test systems deliver the production test results you need.
PXI System
PXI systems are composed of three main hardware components: Chassis, controller, and modules. System software is both reconfigurable and customizable.
Components
Chassis
The chassis—the PXI system backbone—is comparable to a desktop PC’s mechanical enclosure and motherboard. It provides power, cooling, and a communication bus to the system, and supports multiple instrumentation modules within the same enclosure. PXI uses commercial PC-based PCI and PCI Express bus technology while combining rugged CompactPCI modular packaging, as well as key timing and synchronization features. Chassis range in size from four to 18 slots to fit the needs of any application, whether you require a portable, benchtop, rack-mount, or embedded system.
Controller
PXI controllers are either integrated or remote. Integrated controllers contain everything you need to run your PXI system without an external PC, while remote controllers let you control your PXI system from desktops, laptops, or server computers.
Modules
NI offers more than 600 PXI modules that acquire data, trigger and synchronize devices, generate and route signals, and make a variety of measurements ranging from DC to mmWave. Also, the PXI portfolio includes modular instruments—such as oscilloscopes and digital multimeters—that can replace traditional box instruments and with which you can integrate PXI switches in a variety of topologies. Because PXI is an open industry standard, nearly 1,500 products are available from more than 70 different instrument vendors.
Software
Build systems faster with NI’s extensive software portfolio. Take quick interactive measurements with InstrumentStudio™ software, use VeriStand for HIL testers, or build validation and production testers using TestStand test management software and the LabVIEW programming environment. Get the scalability and flexibility you need to build software-connected testers based on PXI that simplify test development and reduce long-term maintenance.