The National Instruments PXIe-8115 is an embedded PXI Express controller designed to serve as the computing core of a modular test and measurement system. It uses an Intel Core i7 processor and installs in the system slot of a compatible PXI Express chassis. The controller integrates processing, memory, storage, and communication interfaces into one module, and it manages installed PXI Express modules through the backplane.
Embedded controllers remove the need for an external computer connected to the measurement hardware. The chassis, controller, and modules form one integrated unit, which simplifies cabling and supports deterministic control of modules. The PXIe-8115 suits automated test, laboratory instrumentation, production validation, and industrial measurement applications.
Processing and Memory Resources
The Intel Core i7 processor provides the computing power needed for measurement applications, data processing, and instrument communication. System memory supports multitasking workloads, and onboard storage holds the operating system, application software, and data. Engineers should plan memory and storage capacity against the record lengths and logging rates the application requires.
Where signals are processed locally, controller performance affects achievable throughput. Engineers should consider filtering, averaging, and analysis load when sizing the configuration. For systems that stream data to disk, storage write speed and free capacity should be monitored during commissioning.
Interfaces and Connectivity
The controller provides Ethernet, USB, serial, and display connectivity depending on configuration. Ethernet supports network communication, remote access, and data transfer to enterprise systems. USB ports connect peripherals such as keyboards, storage devices, and cameras. Display outputs support local operator interfaces, and serial ports support integration with industrial equipment.
Network planning should include addressing, segmentation, and access control. Where the controller is accessible from a wider network, security configuration should be applied before the system enters service. Documenting network settings simplifies troubleshooting and future maintenance.
PXI Express Integration
The PXIe-8115 occupies the system slot and connects to the PXI Express backplane. This connection provides high throughput data transfer between the controller and installed modules, and it gives the controller access to backplane trigger and clock resources. Engineers can coordinate acquisition across multiple modules using these resources.
Chassis selection should consider slot count, power capacity, and cooling. Module placement should account for thermal load and for access to connectors. A documented slot map supports maintenance and reduces the risk of channel mapping errors.
Software and Workflow
The controller supports NI software environments and standard operating system tools. Engineers can develop applications in graphical or text based programming, deploy them locally, and run operator interfaces on the controller. Applications can also communicate with remote clients for monitoring and reporting.
For automated test, the controller sequences instrument configuration, acquisition, and limit evaluation. Software should include error handling, logging, and a defined shutdown sequence. Keeping software and driver versions under revision control helps preserve a known working configuration.
Applications
The PXIe-8115 is suited to automated test, laboratory measurement, production validation, and control applications. It supports PXI Express systems that require an embedded controller with substantial processing capability and flexible connectivity.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation requires inserting the controller into the system slot of a compatible chassis, connecting power and peripheral cables, and installing the operating system and drivers. The chassis should provide adequate cooling and remain within its environmental limits.
Maintenance includes checking connections, reviewing software and firmware versions, monitoring storage capacity, and verifying network communication. Periodic review of logs helps identify developing issues before they affect test availability.
Summary
The National Instruments PXIe-8115 Embedded Controller provides an Intel Core i7 computing core with connectivity for PXI Express systems. It supports integrated measurement, processing, and communication within a single chassis. The controller is a practical choice for automated test and laboratory systems that need local computing power and modular expansion.
