Product Overview
The National Instruments PXIe-6396 is a PXI Express embedded controller for PXI systems. It combines a computer processor, memory, storage, and common computer input and output interfaces in a single PXI Express module. The controller is designed to be installed in a compatible PXI Express chassis and to run test and measurement applications directly in the chassis.
An embedded controller removes the need for an external computer in many PXI systems. This can simplify cabling, improve physical integration, and make the test system more compact. The PXIe-6396 is suitable for automated test, laboratory measurement, industrial monitoring, and research applications that use PXI Express instruments and modules.
Processing and System Resources
The PXIe-6396 provides a quad core processor and integrated system memory to support demanding test applications. It includes internal storage for the operating system, software, and test data. The controller is designed to run NI software such as LabVIEW and other compatible development environments. It can manage data acquisition, instrument control, and data processing tasks within the PXI Express chassis.
The controller uses the PXI Express backplane to communicate with installed modules. This provides a high bandwidth connection between the controller and PXI Express instruments. The integrated design helps reduce latency and supports deterministic communication with measurement and control modules in the same chassis.
Computer Interfaces
The PXIe-6396 includes common computer interfaces for connecting displays, peripherals, and networks. These interfaces typically include USB ports, Ethernet ports, serial ports, and display outputs. The exact port configuration depends on the controller version and system configuration. These interfaces allow engineers to connect a monitor, keyboard, mouse, network cable, and other peripherals directly to the controller.
The Ethernet connection supports network based communication for remote control, data transfer, and system integration. USB ports support peripherals such as storage devices and instrumentation accessories. Display outputs allow a local user interface for bench top use. These interfaces make the controller usable as a standalone PXI Express computer in a test rack.
Software and PXI Integration
The PXIe-6396 is designed to work with NI software and drivers for PXI Express systems. It supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, and other development environments used for test and measurement. The controller can be used with NI-DAQmx, NI-DMM, NI-XNET, and other instrument drivers installed on the system.
The controller integrates with the timing and synchronization resources of the PXI Express chassis. PXI trigger lines and clocks are available to installed modules, allowing coordinated operation between instruments. The embedded controller can run the full test application, log data, and communicate with enterprise systems through its network interface. This makes it a central component of a compact PXI Express test system.
Typical Applications
Embedded control of PXI Express test systems
Automated production test and measurement
Laboratory instrument control and data processing
Industrial monitoring and control systems
Portable or rack mounted PXI Express systems
Research and development test benches
The PXIe-6396 is a PXI Express embedded controller that combines processing, memory, storage, and computer interfaces in a single module. Its integration with PXI Express instruments and NI software makes it a practical controller for compact automated test and measurement systems.
