Product Overview
The National Instruments PXIe-1073 is a five slot PXI Express chassis designed for compact test and measurement systems. It includes an integrated MXI-Express controller, which allows the chassis to be connected to a host computer through a high speed cable. The chassis provides PXI Express slots for instruments and modules while keeping the overall footprint small.
The PXIe-1073 is used in automated test, laboratory measurement, and portable system applications where a full size chassis is unnecessary. Its integrated controller simplifies system architecture because a separate controller slot is not required, leaving more slots available for instruments. The chassis is suitable for bench top setups and for rack mounting in test equipment.
Slot Configuration and Backplane
The chassis provides five slots for PXI Express and compatible modules. The integrated controller occupies the system slot function, and the remaining slots are available for instruments and I/O. The backplane provides high bandwidth connections between the controller and the installed modules.
Engineers should plan the slot assignment based on the bandwidth and timing requirements of each module. High throughput instruments benefit from direct connections to the backplane, while lower bandwidth modules can share resources. The chassis documentation defines the slot capabilities and should be consulted during system design.
Integrated MXI-Express Control
The integrated MXI-Express controller connects the chassis to a host computer over a high speed cable. This architecture allows the host to be located away from the chassis, which is useful when the measurement hardware must be close to the device under test while the computer remains in a convenient location. The controller is detected by the host software as part of the PXI system.
MXI-Express provides a transparent programming model, so PXI Express modules can be configured and used in the same way as in an embedded controller system. Engineers should verify cable length and host compatibility for the planned configuration, and should confirm that the host has the required interface card or port.
Cooling and Acoustic Performance
The PXIe-1073 is designed with cooling that supports the installed modules while keeping acoustic noise low. Quiet operation is valuable in laboratory environments where the chassis is located near engineers or sensitive equipment. Engineers should still verify the power and cooling requirements of each module and ensure that the total system remains within the chassis specifications.
Airflow should not be obstructed by cables or nearby equipment. Rack mounting should leave space for ventilation, and filters should be checked periodically if the chassis operates in a dusty environment. These practices help maintain reliable operation over the life of the system.
Software and System Integration
The PXIe-1073 works with NI software and drivers for PXI Express instruments. Engineers can configure and program modules with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and other compatible development environments. The chassis supports PXI Express timing and trigger resources, allowing modules to be synchronized for coordinated measurement and control.
The chassis can be integrated into larger test systems through the host computer network interfaces. Engineers should document the slot assignments, cable routing, and controller configuration so that the system can be reproduced or serviced. These records also help when the system is expanded with additional modules.
Typical Applications
Compact automated test systems
Bench top measurement and validation
Portable PXI Express configurations
Rack mounted test equipment
Multi instrument systems with a remote host
Laboratory research platforms
The PXIe-1073 provides a five slot PXI Express chassis with an integrated MXI-Express controller and quiet cooling. Its compact size and integrated control make it a practical platform for bench top and rack mounted test systems.
