PXI-8461

Description

PXI-8461

1. Technical Specifications

• Power Supply:
  • The PXI – 8461 typically operates on a PXI – compliant power supply. It draws power from the PXI backplane, which usually provides +5V, +12V, and – 12V DC power sources. The power consumption is relatively low, around 10 – 15W, ensuring energy – efficient operation within the PXI chassis.
• Communication Interfaces:
  • It is equipped with four RS – 232/422/485 serial ports. These ports support a wide range of baud rates, typically from 110 baud to 921.6 kbaud, providing flexibility for different communication requirements.
  • The ports can operate in either full – duplex or half – duplex modes, and they support various flow control methods, including hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control.
• Data Transfer Rate:
  • The maximum data transfer rate of each serial port is up to 921.6 kbps, enabling fast and reliable data communication between the PXI – 8461 and external devices.
• Isolation:
  • The serial ports are optically isolated, providing protection against electrical interference and ground loops. This isolation helps to ensure reliable communication in noisy industrial environments.

2. Applications

• Industrial Automation:
  • In industrial automation systems, the PXI – 8461 can be used to communicate with a variety of serial – based devices, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators. It can collect data from these devices and send control commands, enabling seamless integration of different components in the automation process.
• Test and Measurement:
  • In test and measurement applications, it can be used to interface with test equipment that uses serial communication protocols. For example, it can communicate with oscilloscopes, multimeters, and function generators to collect measurement data and control the operation of the equipment.
• Instrumentation and Control:
  • In instrumentation and control systems, the PXI – 8461 can be used to communicate with remote instruments and control their functions. It can also be used to monitor and control processes in real – time, such as temperature, pressure, and flow control.

3. Weight and Dimensions

• Weight:
  • The module weighs approximately 0.5 kg, which is relatively light and easy to handle and install within the PXI chassis.
• Dimensions:
  • The overall dimensions are designed to fit the standard PXI form factor. It typically has a length of around 160mm, a width of 107mm, and a height that conforms to the PXI card height specification, allowing for easy integration into PXI – based systems.

PXI-8461

4. Features

• Multiple Serial Ports:
  • The presence of four serial ports provides the ability to communicate with multiple serial – based devices simultaneously, increasing the system’s flexibility and functionality.
• High – Speed Data Transfer:
  • The high – speed data transfer rate of up to 921.6 kbps ensures fast and efficient communication between the module and external devices.
• Optical Isolation:
  • The optical isolation of the serial ports protects the module from electrical interference and ground loops, enhancing the reliability of communication in harsh industrial environments.
• Software Compatibility:
  • The PXI – 8461 is compatible with a wide range of software development environments, such as LabVIEW, enabling easy programming and integration into existing test and control systems.

5. Stability and Reliability

• Robust Design:
  • The module is built with high – quality components and a sturdy enclosure that provides protection against shock, vibration, and temperature variations. This ensures stable operation in demanding industrial and test environments.
• Quality Assurance:
  • Through strict quality control during manufacturing and extensive testing, the PXI – 8461 offers high reliability and long – term performance.
• Technical Support:
  • The manufacturer provides comprehensive technical support, including software updates and troubleshooting assistance, to ensure the continued reliable operation of the module.

6. Real – world Examples

• Automotive Testing:
  • In an automotive testing laboratory, the PXI – 8461 is used to communicate with various on – board diagnostic (OBD) devices and sensors in a vehicle. It can collect data on engine performance, emissions, and other parameters, allowing engineers to analyze and optimize the vehicle’s performance.
• Industrial Process Monitoring:
  • In a chemical plant, the PXI – 8461 is used to communicate with a network of temperature and pressure sensors installed throughout the plant. It can collect real – time data from these sensors and send control commands to valves and pumps to maintain optimal process conditions.