Product Overview
The National Instruments PXI-1042 is an 8 slot PXI chassis designed to host PXI instruments and modules. It supplies the mechanical enclosure, power supply, cooling, and backplane that allow multiple PXI modules to operate as one integrated test system. The chassis is commonly used in automated test, laboratory measurement, and production verification.
The PXI-1042 is a core element of the PXI platform. Engineers install a controller or remote control module in the system slot and add instruments in the remaining slots. In the configuration described here, the NI PXI-8360 interface card provides the link that connects the chassis to a host computer, allowing the installed modules to be controlled from outside the chassis.
Eight Slot Configuration
The chassis provides eight slots. One slot is occupied by the system controller or remote control module, and the remaining slots accept PXI instruments and I/O modules. This capacity supports a compact system that combines measurement, switching, signal generation, and data acquisition in a single enclosure.
Engineers should plan slot assignment according to the bandwidth and timing requirements of each module. High throughput instruments benefit from suitable backplane connections, while lower bandwidth modules can share resources. The chassis documentation defines slot capabilities and should be consulted when the system is designed.
Remote Control with PXI-8360
The NI PXI-8360 interface card is used in MXI-Express configurations to connect a host computer to a PXI chassis. This allows the host to control the chassis and its modules as part of the host system while the measurement hardware remains in the chassis. Remote control is useful when the measurement hardware must be located near the device under test.
Engineers should confirm cable type, cable length, and host compatibility for the planned configuration. Once the link is established, PXI modules are detected by the host software and can be configured and programmed in the same way as modules in an embedded controller system.
Power and Cooling
The chassis provides power and forced air cooling for the installed modules. Engineers should verify the power budget and thermal load for the planned module mix. High power instruments may require careful slot placement and airflow planning to stay within the chassis specifications.
The chassis should be installed where intake and exhaust vents are not obstructed. Filters should be checked periodically in dusty environments. Rack mounting should leave space for ventilation so that internal temperatures remain within limits during continuous operation.
Software and System Integration
PXI modules installed in the PXI-1042 work with NI software and drivers for their respective instrument families. Engineers can configure and program the system with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and other compatible development environments.
The chassis supports the timing and trigger resources of the PXI backplane. Trigger lines and clocks are available to installed modules, allowing coordinated operation between instruments. Engineers should document the slot assignments, controller configuration, and cable routing so that the system can be reproduced or serviced.
Typical Applications
Multi instrument automated test systems
Laboratory measurement and validation benches
Production verification with switching and measurement
Systems requiring remote control of PXI hardware
Rack mounted test equipment
Research platforms built on the PXI platform
The PXI-1042 provides an 8 slot PXI chassis with power, cooling, and backplane resources, and can be combined with the PXI-8360 for remote control. Its capacity and integration make it a practical platform for compact modular test systems.
