National Instruments Personal Computer MXI User Manual

TM  
MXI  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
MXI-Express for PXI Express: Multisystem eXtension Interface for PCI Express,  
Compact PCI Express, and PXI Express Bus Systems  
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
NI PXIe-8360  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
May 2006  
371814B-01  
 
 
Important Information  
Warranty  
The NI PCIe-8361/8362 and NI PXIe-8360 are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date  
of shipment, as evidenced by receipts or other documentation. National Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace equipment that proves  
to be defective during the warranty period. This warranty includes parts and labor.  
The media on which you receive National Instruments software are warranted not to fail to execute programming instructions, due to defects in  
materials and workmanship, for a period of 90 days from date of shipment, as evidenced by receipts or other documentation. National Instruments  
will, at its option, repair or replace software media that do not execute programming instructions if National Instruments receives notice of such defects  
during the warranty period. National Instruments does not warrant that the operation of the software shall be uninterrupted or error free.  
A Return Material Authorization (RMA) number must be obtained from the factory and clearly marked on the outside of the package before any  
equipment will be accepted for warranty work. National Instruments will pay the shipping costs of returning to the owner parts which are covered by  
warranty.  
National Instruments believes that the information in this document is accurate. The document has been carefully reviewed for technical accuracy. In  
the event that technical or typographical errors exist, National Instruments reserves the right to make changes to subsequent editions of this document  
without prior notice to holders of this edition. The reader should consult National Instruments if errors are suspected. In no event shall National  
Instruments be liable for any damages arising out of or related to this document or the information contained in it.  
EXCEPT AS SPECIFIED HEREIN, NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF  
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CUSTOMERS RIGHT TO RECOVER DAMAGES CAUSED BY FAULT OR NEGLIGENCE ON THE PART OF NATIONAL  
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FROM LOSS OF DATA, PROFITS, USE OF PRODUCTS, OR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY THEREOF. This limitation of  
the liability of National Instruments will apply regardless of the form of action, whether in contract or tort, including negligence. Any action against  
National Instruments must be brought within one year after the cause of action accrues. National Instruments shall not be liable for any delay in  
performance due to causes beyond its reasonable control. The warranty provided herein does not cover damages, defects, malfunctions, or service  
failures caused by owner’s failure to follow the National Instruments installation, operation, or maintenance instructions; owner’s modification of the  
product; owner’s abuse, misuse, or negligent acts; and power failure or surges, fire, flood, accident, actions of third parties, or other events outside  
reasonable control.  
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Under the copyright laws, this publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,  
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Instruments Corporation.  
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Other product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies.  
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Patents  
For patents covering National Instruments products, refer to the appropriate location: Help»Patents in your software, the patents.txt file  
on your CD, or ni.com/patents.  
WARNING REGARDING USE OF NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS  
(1) NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS ARE NOT DESIGNED WITH COMPONENTS AND TESTING FOR A LEVEL OF  
RELIABILITY SUITABLE FOR USE IN OR IN CONNECTION WITH SURGICAL IMPLANTS OR AS CRITICAL COMPONENTS IN  
ANY LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS WHOSE FAILURE TO PERFORM CAN REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO CAUSE SIGNIFICANT  
INJURY TO A HUMAN.  
(2) IN ANY APPLICATION, INCLUDING THE ABOVE, RELIABILITY OF OPERATION OF THE SOFTWARE PRODUCTS CAN BE  
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COMPUTER HARDWARE MALFUNCTIONS, COMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE FITNESS, FITNESS OF COMPILERS  
AND DEVELOPMENT SOFTWARE USED TO DEVELOP AN APPLICATION, INSTALLATION ERRORS, SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE  
COMPATIBILITY PROBLEMS, MALFUNCTIONS OR FAILURES OF ELECTRONIC MONITORING OR CONTROL DEVICES,  
TRANSIENT FAILURES OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS (HARDWARE AND/OR SOFTWARE), UNANTICIPATED USES OR MISUSES, OR  
ERRORS ON THE PART OF THE USER OR APPLICATIONS DESIGNER (ADVERSE FACTORS SUCH AS THESE ARE HEREAFTER  
COLLECTIVELY TERMED “SYSTEM FAILURES”). ANY APPLICATION WHERE A SYSTEM FAILURE WOULD CREATE A RISK OF  
HARM TO PROPERTY OR PERSONS (INCLUDING THE RISK OF BODILY INJURY AND DEATH) SHOULD NOT BE RELIANT SOLELY  
UPON ONE FORM OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEM DUE TO THE RISK OF SYSTEM FAILURE. TO AVOID DAMAGE, INJURY, OR DEATH,  
THE USER OR APPLICATION DESIGNER MUST TAKE REASONABLY PRUDENT STEPS TO PROTECT AGAINST SYSTEM FAILURES,  
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO BACK-UP OR SHUT DOWN MECHANISMS. BECAUSE EACH END-USER SYSTEM IS  
CUSTOMIZED AND DIFFERS FROM NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS' TESTING PLATFORMS AND BECAUSE A USER OR APPLICATION  
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NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS ARE INCORPORATED IN A SYSTEM OR APPLICATION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT  
LIMITATION, THE APPROPRIATE DESIGN, PROCESS AND SAFETY LEVEL OF SUCH SYSTEM OR APPLICATION.  
 
Compliance  
Compliance with FCC/Canada Radio Frequency Interference  
Regulations  
Determining FCC Class  
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has rules to protect wireless communications from interference. The FCC  
places digital electronics into two classes. These classes are known as Class A (for use in industrial-commercial locations only)  
or Class B (for use in residential or commercial locations). All National Instruments (NI) products are FCC Class A products.  
Depending on where it is operated, this Class A product could be subject to restrictions in the FCC rules. (In Canada, the  
Department of Communications (DOC), of Industry Canada, regulates wireless interference in much the same way.) Digital  
electronics emit weak signals during normal operation that can affect radio, television, or other wireless products.  
All Class A products display a simple warning statement of one paragraph in length regarding interference and undesired  
operation. The FCC rules have restrictions regarding the locations where FCC Class A products can be operated.  
Consult the FCC Web site at www.fcc.gov for more information.  
FCC/DOC Warnings  
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in strict accordance with the instructions  
in this manual and the CE marking Declaration of Conformity*, may cause interference to radio and television reception.  
Classification requirements are the same for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Department  
of Communications (DOC).  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by NI could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment under the  
FCC Rules.  
Class A  
Federal Communications Commission  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC  
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated  
in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and  
used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this  
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user is required to correct the interference  
at their own expense.  
Canadian Department of Communications  
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.  
Compliance with EU Directives  
Users in the European Union (EU) should refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for information* pertaining to the  
CE marking. Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this product for any additional regulatory compliance  
information. To obtain the DoC for this product, visit ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line,  
and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.  
*
The CE marking Declaration of Conformity contains important supplementary information and instructions for the user or  
installer.  
 
About This Manual  
Chapter 1  
About the MXI-Express Series......................................................................................1-1  
Description and Features.................................................................................1-1  
Larger MXI-Express Systems .........................................................................1-2  
Chapter 2  
Hardware Installation.....................................................................................................2-1  
Installing an NI PCIe-8361/8362.....................................................................2-1  
Cabling ............................................................................................................2-4  
Chapter 3  
PCI Express Switch.........................................................................................3-2  
Cabled MXI Express Connector......................................................................3-3  
SMBus Master.................................................................................................3-3  
LED Indicators...............................................................................................................3-3  
MXI-Express Cable Options..........................................................................................3-4  
Appendix A  
Specifications  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Contents  
Appendix B  
Technical Support and Professional Services  
Glossary  
Index  
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About This Manual  
This manual describes the features, functions, and operation of the  
MXI-Express for PXI Express series of products. The products in this  
series are the NI PCIe-8361/8362 and the NI PXIe-8360.  
Conventions  
The following conventions appear in this manual:  
»
The » symbol leads you through nested menu items and dialog box options  
to a final action. The sequence File»Page Setup»Options directs you to  
pull down the File menu, select the Page Setup item, and select Options  
from the last dialog box.  
This icon denotes a note, which alerts you to important information.  
This icon denotes a caution, which advises you of precautions to take to  
avoid injury, data loss, or a system crash.  
bold  
Bold text denotes items that you must select or click in the software, such  
as menu items and dialog box options. Bold text also denotes parameter  
names.  
CompactPCI Express/  
CPCIe  
The terms CompactPCI Express and CPCIe are interchangeable in this  
manual.  
italic  
Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, a cross-reference, or an introduction  
to a key concept. Italic text also denotes text that is a placeholder for a word  
or value that you must supply.  
monospace  
Text in this font denotes text or characters that you should enter from the  
keyboard, sections of code, programming examples, and syntax examples.  
This font is also used for the proper names of disk drives, paths, directories,  
programs, subprograms, subroutines, device names, functions, operations,  
variables, filenames, and extensions.  
MXI-Express card  
NI PCIe-8360  
MXI-Express card refers to any of the following cards, unless otherwise  
noted: NI PCIe-8362/8361 and NI PXIe-8360.  
The name NI PCIe-8360 may be used in this manual when the material  
would refer to either the NI PCIe-8361 or NI PCIe-8362.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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About This Manual  
PCI Express/PCIe  
The terms PCI Express and PCIe are interchangeable in this manual.  
PXI Express chassis  
In this manual, whenever a PXI Express chassis is referenced, a  
CompactPCI Express chassis could be used instead.  
PXI Express/PXIe  
The terms PXI Express and PXIe are interchangeable in this manual.  
Related Documentation  
The following documents contain information that you might find helpful  
as you read this manual:  
Set Up Your MXI-Express System  
Your computer or chassis documentation  
PXI Express Hardware Specification, Revision 1.0  
PXI-2 PXI Software Specification, Revision 2.1  
PXI-6 PXI Express Software Specification  
PCI Specification, Revision 2.3  
PCI-PCI Bridge Architecture Specification, Revision 1.1  
PICMG CompactPCI Express EXP.0 R1.0 Specification  
PCI Express Specification, Revision 1.0a  
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1
Introduction  
This chapter describes the MXI-Express x1 series of products, lists what  
you need to get started, and explains how to unpack and set up your  
hardware.  
The two products in this series are the NI PCIe-8361/8362 and the  
NI PXIe-8360. For the remainder of this manual the term MXI-Express  
card refers to any product in the MXI-Express x1 series.  
MXI-Express cards must always be installed as a PCI Express card and a  
PXI Express card.  
Note If you are using the NI ExpressCard MXI interface for PXI or PXI Express, refer to  
the NI ExpressCard MXI Series User Manual posted at ni.com/manuals.  
About the MXI-Express Series  
Description and Features  
MXI-Express uses PCI Express signals over a cable of up to 7 m with  
a PCI Express-to-PCI Express switch. You can do the following with  
MXI-Express:  
Control a PXI Express or CompactPCI Express backplane with a  
PCI Express-based PC  
Physically separate the measurement or automation system from  
a host PC  
Combine PCI Express, CompactPCI, PXI, CPCIe, and PXIe devices in  
the same system  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 1  
Introduction  
Basic MXI-Express System  
The simplest MXI-Express system consists of an NI PCIe-8361/8362 in a  
PC connected to an NI PXIe-8360 in the controller slot of a PXI Express or  
CompactPCI Express chassis, as shown in Figure 1-1.  
PC to PXI Express/CompactPCI Express  
Figure 1-1. Basic MXI-Express Configuration  
Larger MXI-Express Systems  
The NI PCIe-8362 has two MXI-Express connectors, allowing one  
NI PCIe-8362 to host two different NI PXIe-8360 cards in separate  
PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis. If multiple PCI Express slots  
are available in the host PC, additional PXI Express chassis can be  
connected by installing an additional NI PCIe-8361/8362 in any available  
PCI Express slot.  
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Chapter 1  
Introduction  
Figure 1-2 shows how you can use MXI-Express cards to connect multiple  
CPCIe or PXIe expansion chassis to a PC in a star topology. The star  
topology is the only supported topology due to the point-to-point nature of  
PCI Express.  
Figure 1-2. Star Topology MXI-Express Configuration  
What You Need to Get Started  
To set up and use your MXI-Express cards, you need the following:  
One NI PCIe-8361/8362 and one NI PXIe-8360  
A MXI-Express cable  
A host PC with an available x1 (or wider) PCI Express slot  
An expansion chassis—the PXI Express or CompactPCI Express  
chassis that you control with MXI-Express  
Note Your PXI Express MXI-Express card will work in any standard  
CompactPCI Express chassis adhering to the PICMG CompactPCI Express EXP.0 R1.0  
Specification, or in a PXI Express chassis compatible with the PXI Express Hardware  
Specification, Revision 1.0 or later. Your PCI Express MXI-Express card will work in  
systems compliant with the PCI Express Specification, Revision 1.0a or later.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 1  
Introduction  
Unpacking  
Your MXI-Express cards are shipped in antistatic packages to prevent  
electrostatic damage (ESD) to the devices. ESD can damage several  
components on the device.  
Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors. Doing so may damage the device.  
To avoid such damage in handling the device, take the following  
precautions:  
Ground yourself using a grounding strap or by holding a grounded  
object.  
Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis  
before removing the device from the package.  
Remove the device from the package and inspect the device for loose  
components or any sign of damage. Notify NI if the device appears  
damaged in any way. Do not install a damaged device into the computer or  
into a PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis.  
Store the device in the antistatic envelope when not in use.  
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2
Hardware Installation  
This chapter explains how to install the MXI-Express hardware.  
Hardware Installation  
The following are general instructions for installing the MXI-Express  
cards. Consult your computer user manual or technical reference manual  
for specific instructions and warnings.  
Note The PXI Platform Services software on the PXI Platform Services CD or driver CD  
included with your PXI Express MXI-Express hardware is required to provide chassis and  
controller identification for PXI features such as trigger routing and slot detection. The PXI  
Platform Services software is also included with the NI-DAQmx and NI-VISA drivers. For  
more information, refer to KnowledgeBase 3TJDONDS at ni.com.  
Installing an NI PCIe-8361/8362  
1. Power off your computer, but leave it plugged in while installing the  
NI PCIe-8361/8362. The power cord grounds the computer and  
protects it from electrical damage while you install the card.  
Caution To protect both yourself and the computer from electrical hazards, your computer  
should remain off until you finish installing the NI PCIe-8361/8362.  
2. Remove the top cover or access port to the PCI Express bus.  
3. Select any available PCI Express expansion slot (x1 or wider).  
Note The BIOS or motherboard may not support the NI PCIe-8361/8362 in a slot intended  
for a graphics card.  
4. Locate the metal bracket that covers the cut-out in the back panel of the  
computer for the slot you have selected. Remove and save the  
bracket-retaining screw and the bracket cover.  
5. Touch the metal part of the power supply case inside the computer to  
discharge any static electricity that might be on your clothes or body.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 2  
Hardware Installation  
6. Line up the NI PCIe-8361/8362 with the slot on the back panel. Slowly  
push down on the top of the NI PCIe-8361/8362 until its card-edge  
connector is resting on the expansion slot receptacle. Using slow,  
evenly distributed pressure, press the NI PCIe-8361/8362 straight  
down until it seats in the expansion slot.  
7. Reinstall the bracket-retaining screw to secure the NI PCIe-8361/8362  
to the back panel rail.  
8. Replace the computer cover.  
3
2
1
1
2
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
PCI Express x1 Card-Edge Connector  
3
PCI Express Slot  
Figure 2-1. Installing the NI PCIe-8361/8362  
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Chapter 2  
Hardware Installation  
Installing an NI PXIe-8360  
Complete the following steps to install the NI PXIe-8360 in your  
PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis.  
1. Power off your PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis, but leave  
it plugged in while installing the NI PXIe-8360. The power cord  
grounds the chassis and protects it from electrical damage while you  
install the module.  
2. Locate the System Controller slot of the chassis. The NI PXIe-8360  
must be installed in the controller slot (slot 1 in a PXI Express chassis).  
Caution To protect both yourself and the chassis from electrical hazards, leave the chassis  
off until you finish installing the NI PXIe-8360.  
3. Remove or open any doors or covers blocking access to the slot in  
which you intend to install the NI PXIe-8360.  
4. Touch the metal part of the case to discharge any static electricity that  
might be on your clothes or body.  
5. Make sure the injector/ejector handle is in its downward position.  
Be sure to remove all connector packaging and protective caps from  
retaining screws on the module. Align the NI PXIe-8360 with the card  
guides on the top and bottom of the system controller slot.  
Caution Do not raise the injector/ejector handle as you insert the NI PXIe-8360. It will not  
insert properly unless the handle is in its downward position so that it does not interfere  
with the injector/ejector rail on the chassis, as shown in Figure 2-2.  
6. Hold the handle as you slowly slide the module into the chassis until  
the handle catches on the injector/ejector rail.  
7. Raise the injector/ejector handle until the module firmly seats into the  
backplane receptacle connectors. The front panel of the NI PXIe-8360  
should be even with the front panel of the chassis.  
8. Tighten the bracket-retaining screws on the top and bottom of the front  
panel to secure the NI PXIe-8360 to the chassis.  
9. Replace or close any doors or covers to the chassis.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 2  
Hardware Installation  
Figure 2-2 shows an NI PXIe-8360 just before installation in the system  
controller slot of a National Instruments PXI Express chassis.  
1
NI PXIe-1062  
2
4
3
1
2
PXI Express/CompactPCI Express Chassis  
NI PXIe-8360  
3
4
Ejector Handle in Down Position  
PXI Express/CompactPCI Express Slot 1  
Figure 2-2. NI PXIe-8360 Card Before Installation  
Cabling  
Connect the MXI-Express cable to both MXI-Express cards. The cables  
have no polarity, so either end may be connected to either card.  
Caution Do not remove the cable after the system is powered on. Doing so can hang  
or cause errors in applications communicating with devices behind MXI-Express. If a  
cable becomes unplugged, plug it back into the system.  
Note For more information about cables, refer to the MXI-Express Cable Options section  
of Chapter 3, Hardware Overview.  
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Chapter 2  
Hardware Installation  
Powering Up the MXI-Express System  
1. Power-on all of the expansion chassis in any order you choose.  
2. Power-on the host.  
Typical PCI-PCI bridges and switches are used to add PCI devices to a PCI  
hierarchy in which all the bridges and devices are contained within a single  
chassis. Because of this, BIOSes and operating systems make the  
assumption that all PCI devices in the entire hierarchy will be available as  
soon as code execution begins at power-up. This assumption means that all  
of the expansion chassis must be turned on before the host PC for the BIOS  
and OS to correctly configure a MXI-Express system.  
Note There are no requirements on how MXI-Express expansion chassis are powered up  
relative to each other, as long as they are all on before the computer is powered on.  
Powering Down the MXI-Express System  
Because operating systems and drivers commonly make the assumption  
that PCI devices will be present in the system from power-up to  
power-down, it is important to not power off the expansion chassis until  
after the host PC is powered off. Powering off the expansion chassis while  
the host is still on can cause crashes or hangs. The order in which expansion  
chassis are powered off, relative to each other, is not important.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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3
Hardware Overview  
This chapter presents an overview of MXI-Express hardware functionality  
and explains the operation of each functional unit.  
Functional Overview  
MXI-Express is based on PCI Express technology. A MXI-Express kit  
uses PCI Express switches to enable control of a PXI Express or  
CompactPCI Express chassis from a PC with an available PCI Express slot.  
The PCI Express switch architecture is transparent to device drivers, so no  
additional software is needed to support using PXI Express and  
CompactPCI Express devices in a chassis connected using MXI-Express.  
Note The PXI Platform Services software on the PXI Platform Services CD or driver CD  
included with your PXI Express MXI-Express hardware is required to provide chassis and  
controller identification for PXI features such as trigger routing and slot detection. The PXI  
Platform Services software is also included with the NI-DAQmx and NI-VISA drivers. For  
more information, refer to KnowledgeBase 3TJDONDS at ni.com.  
The link between the PC and the chassis is a x1 PCI Express link. This link  
is a dual-simplex communication channel comprised of a low-voltage,  
differentially driven signal pair. The link can transmit at a rate of 2.5 Gbps  
in each direction simultaneously. This connector is not compatible with the  
cabled PCI Express specification under development by the PCI-SIG.  
Figure 3-1 shows the basic architecture of MXI-Express. The  
NI PCIe-8361/8362 consists of a PCI Express x1 card edge connector, a  
PCI Express switch, and one or two cabled MXI Express connectors. The  
NI PXIe-8360 consists of one cabled MXI Express connector, a  
PCI Express switch, and PXI Express connectors.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 3  
Hardware Overview  
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
PXIe-8360  
Cabled  
MXI Express  
Connector  
Cabled  
MXI  
Express  
Connector  
PCI  
Express  
Switch  
PCI  
Express  
Switch  
4 x4 PCIe links or  
2 x8 PCIe links  
(NI PCIe-8362 only)  
Cabled  
MXI Express  
Connector  
PCI Express  
SMBus  
Master  
to  
PCI Bridge  
Figure 3-1. MXI-Express Block Diagram  
Functional Unit Descriptions  
PCI Express x1 Card Edge Connector  
The card edge connector allows you to use the NI PCIe-8361/8362 in a x1  
or wider PCI Express slot in a PC. The PCI Express Card  
Electromechanical Specification defines this connector.  
PCI Express Switch  
The PCI Express Base Specification defines a PCI Express switch as a  
logical collection of PCI Express-to-PCI Express bridge devices. On the  
NI PCIe-8361/8362, the upstream port of the switch is connected to the  
PCI Express x1 card edge connector, and the two downstream ports are  
connected to the two cabled MXI Express connectors.  
On the NI PXIe-8360, the upstream part of the switch is connected to the  
cable. One downstream port is connected to the SMBus Master, and either  
4 x4 ports or 2 x8 ports are connected to the backplane, depending on the  
chassis backplane configuration.  
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Chapter 3  
Hardware Overview  
Cabled MXI Express Connector  
The cabled MXI Express connector provides all necessary signals to  
connect an NI PCIe-8361/8362 and an NI PXIe-8360. These signals  
include the PCI Express transmit and receive pair, the system clock,  
presence detect signals, reset, and a wake-up signal. This connector is not  
compatible with the cabled PCI Express specification being defined by the  
PCI-SIG.  
PCI Express-to-PCI Bridge  
The PCI Express Base Specification defines a PCI Express-to-PCI bridge  
as a device that connects a PCI Express fabric and a PCI hierarchy. On the  
NI PXIe-8360, the PCI Express-to-PCI bridge connects the x1 PCI Express  
link and an SMBus Master on the card.  
SMBus Master  
The SMBus is a low-speed bus for reading and configuring devices outside  
the normal PCI Express mechanism. The PXI Express specification  
requires controllers to supply an SMBus for reading chassis configuration  
information from an EPROM. It may also be used for fan control, power  
monitors, or other system devices. In addition, devices on plug-in boards  
may connect to the SMBus for purposes specific to those devices.  
LED Indicators  
The LEDs on MXI-Express give status information about power supplies  
and link state. The NI PCIe-8362 has two tri-color LEDs, one for each port  
on the panel. The NI PXIe-8360 has two LEDs, one for power supply status  
and one for link state.  
The LEDs on the NI PCIe-8362 indicate the following:  
Table 3-1. NI PCIe-8362 Status LED Messages  
Color  
Off  
Meaning  
Power is off  
Red  
Power is out of spec  
Amber  
Green  
Power is within spec; link established  
© National Instruments Corporation  
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Chapter 3  
Hardware Overview  
The front-panel LEDs on the NI PXIe-8360 indicate the following:  
Table 3-2. NI PXIe-8360 Status LED Messages  
LED  
Color  
Off  
Meaning  
No power  
PWR  
Red  
Power is out of spec  
Power is within spec  
Link not established  
Link established  
Green  
Off  
LINK  
Green  
The NI PXIe-8360 has some additional LEDs on the back side of the board  
near the front-panel connector. These LEDs give additional information  
about the link status of the PCI Express lanes on the module to the  
backplane. For more information, refer to KnowledgeBase 3U7CDCD8  
at ni.com.  
MXI-Express Cable Options  
MXI-Express is available with cables of various lengths. Table 3-3 shows  
the cables available from National Instruments.  
Table 3-3. National Instruments MXI-Express Cables  
Cable Length (Meters)  
Description  
3 m  
MXI-Express copper cable  
(part number 779500-03)  
7 m  
MXI-Express copper cable  
(part number 779500-07)  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
3-4  
ni.com  
 
       
A
Specifications  
This appendix lists the system specifications for NI PCIe-8361/8362 and  
NI PXIe-8360 cards. These specifications are typical at 25 °C, unless  
otherwise stated.  
Physical  
Dimensions  
NI PXIe-8360.................................. 10.0 × 16.0 cm (3.9 × 6.3 in.)  
NI PCIe-8361/8362......................... 10.7 × 17.5 cm (4.4 × 6.9 in.)  
Maximum cable length........................... 7 m  
Slot requirements  
NI PXIe-8360.................................. One system slot (PXI Express or  
CompactPCI Express)  
NI PCIe-8361/8362......................... One slot (PCI Express)  
Compatibility ......................................... Fully compatible with the PXI  
Express Hardware Specification,  
Revision 1.0 and the PICMG  
CompactPCI Express EXP.0 R1.0  
Specification  
Weight  
NI PXIe-8360.................................. 0.17 Kg (0.37 lb) typical  
NI PCIe-8361/8362......................... 0.19 Kg (0.42 lb) typical  
Power requirements  
NI PXIe-8360  
Power Rail  
+3.3 V  
+5 V  
Typical Current  
2.5 A  
Maximum Current  
3 A  
0 mA  
© National Instruments Corporation  
A-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
     
Appendix A  
Specifications  
Power Rail  
+12 V  
Typical Current  
0 mA  
Maximum Current  
0 mA  
0.4 A  
+5 Vaux  
0.3 A  
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
Power Rail  
+3.3 V  
Typical Current  
Maximum Current  
1.800 A  
0 A  
2.000 A  
0 A  
+3.3 Vaux  
+12 V  
0 A  
0 A  
Environment  
NI PXIe-8360  
Maximum altitude...................................2,000 m (at 25 °C ambient  
temperature)  
Pollution Degree.....................................2  
Indoor use only.  
Operating Environment  
Ambient temperature range ....................0 to 55 °C (Tested in accordance  
with IEC-60068-2-1 and  
IEC-60068-2-2)  
Relative humidity range..........................10 to 90%, noncondensing  
(Tested in accordance with  
IEC-60068-2-56)  
Storage Environment  
Ambient temperature range ....................–40 to 70 °C (Tested in  
accordance with IEC-60068-2-1  
and IEC-60068-2-2)  
Relative humidity range..........................5 to 95%, noncondensing  
(Tested in accordance with  
IEC-60068-2-56)  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
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Appendix A  
Specifications  
Shock and Vibration  
Operational shock .................................. 30 g peak, half-sine, 11 ms pulse  
(Tested in accordance with  
IEC-60068-2-27. Test profile  
developed in accordance with  
MIL-PRF-28800F.)  
Random Vibration  
Operating................................................ 5 to 500 Hz, 0.3 grms  
Nonoperating.......................................... 5 to 500 Hz, 2.4 grms  
(Tested in accordance  
with IEC-60068-2-64.  
Nonoperating test profile  
exceeds the requirements of  
MIL-PRF-28800F, Class 3.)  
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
Maximum altitude.................................. 2,000 m (at 25 °C ambient  
temperature)  
Pollution Degree .................................... 2  
Indoor use only  
Operating Environment  
Ambient temperature range.................... 0 to 40 °C (Tested in accordance  
with IEC-60068-2-1 and  
IEC-60068-2-2)  
Relative humidity range......................... 10 to 90%, noncondensing  
(Tested in accordance with  
IEC-60068-2-56)  
Storage Environment  
Ambient temperature range.................... –20 to 70 °C (Tested in  
accordance with IEC-60068-2-1  
and IEC-60068-2-2)  
Relative humidity range......................... 5 to 95%, noncondensing  
(Tested in accordance with  
IEC-60068-2-56)  
© National Instruments Corporation  
A-3  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
         
Appendix A  
Specifications  
Caution Clean the NI PXIe-8360 and NI PCIe-8361/8362 with a soft nonmetallic brush.  
Make sure that the device is completely dry and free from contaminants before returning it  
to service.  
Note For EMC compliance, operate this device with shielded cabling. In addition, all  
covers and filler panels must be installed. Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)  
for this product for any additional regulatory compliance information. To obtain the DoC  
for this product, visit ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line,  
and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.  
Safety  
This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following  
standards of safety for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and  
laboratory use:  
EN 61010-1, IEC 61010-1  
UL 61010-1, CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1  
Note For UL and other safety certifications, refer to the product label, or visit  
ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line, and click the  
appropriate link in the Certification column.  
Electromagnetic Compatibility  
This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following  
standards of EMC for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and  
laboratory use:  
EN 61326 EMC requirements; Minimum Immunity  
EN 55011 Emissions; Group 1, Class A  
CE, C-Tick, ICES, and FCC Part 15 Emissions; Class A  
Note For EMC compliance, operate this device according to printed documentation.  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
A-4  
ni.com  
 
     
Appendix A  
Specifications  
CE Compliance  
This product meets the essential requirements of applicable European  
Directives, as amended for CE marking, as follows:  
73/23/EEC; Low-Voltage Directive (safety)  
89/336/EEC; Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC)  
Note Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this product for any additional  
regulatory compliance information. To obtain the DoC for this product, visit  
ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line, and click the  
appropriate link in the Certification column.  
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)  
Note At the end of their life cycle, all products must be sent to a WEEE recycling center.  
For more information about WEEE recycling centers and National Instruments WEEE  
initiatives, visit ni.com/environment/weee.htm.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
A-5  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
   
B
Common Questions  
This appendix lists common questions related to the use of the  
MXI-Express controllers.  
General Hardware  
What are the board names of the MXI-Express remote controllers?  
NI PCIe-8361/8362: PCI Express MXI-Express interface  
NI PXIe-8360: PXI Express MXI-Express interface  
How many PXI bus segments can I connect together with  
MXI-Express?  
The PCI specification allows up to 255 bus segments. MXI-Express does  
not limit this number, but the maximum number of bus segments allowed  
can be BIOS or operating system dependent. Also, a computer may already  
have several PCI bus segments internally, and the MXI-Express link also  
has multiple PCI buses internally. Every PCI Express device has at least  
1 bus segment, though it will have more if it includes a bridge or switch.  
What host PCs are compatible with MXI-Express for PXI Express?  
Refer to KnowledgeBase 3U7CI4D8 at ni.com.  
Note Due to the point-to-point nature of PCI Express, MXI-Express supports only the star  
configuration. You must use traditional MXI for the daisy chain configuration.  
General Cabling  
What is the maximum length of a MXI-Express copper cable?  
The maximum length for a MXI-Express copper cable is 7 m. National  
Instruments offers 3 m and 7 m copper cables.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
B-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
       
Appendix B  
Common Questions  
General Software  
Under which operating systems will MXI-Express work?  
MXI-Express will be recognized as a collection of PCI-to-PCI bridges to  
the majority of operating systems. It should automatically work with most  
systems like Windows, Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Solaris, but only  
Windows XP has been verified in the initial release of MXI-Express.  
What software is required to use my MXI-Express kit?  
For Windows and LabVIEW RT, the required software is included as part  
of the latest version of NI-VISA included with your kit. The software for  
your MXI-Express controller enhances the product, allowing you to  
view information about the organization of your PXI system and  
programmatically retrieve data about the chassis and modules you have  
installed.  
If the MXI-Express software does not support your operating system,  
you can still use MXI-Express and the operating system will provide a  
mechanism for you to ignore the SMBus master that is built into the  
MXI-Express hardware.  
MXI-3 required optimization software. Does MXI-Express require  
the same?  
No. The necessary optimization is now done automatically by the  
MXI-Express hardware.  
How does my MXI-Express board show up in the Windows Device  
Manager?  
MXI-Express boards contain two types of PCI devices onboard and will  
have several listings in the Windows Device Manager (WDM). The first  
devices show up in the WDM listed under System devices as PCI standard  
PCI-to-PCI bridges. The second device type shows up in the WDM as an  
NI PXIe-8360 SMBus Controller when the correct MXI-Express driver is  
installed. This second device provides configuration information about the  
chassis. The NI PCIe-8361 includes two PCI standard PCI-to-PCI bridges.  
The NI PCIe-8362 includes three PCI standard PCI-to-PCI bridges. The  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
B-2  
ni.com  
 
 
Appendix B  
Common Questions  
NI PXIe-8360 includes five to seven bridges and one  
NI PXIe-8360 SMBus Controller device.  
If the MXI-Express software is not installed, the PCI-to-PCI function will  
still be detected and work correctly, but the SMBus master will be detected  
as an unknown device.  
MXI-3 and MXI-4 to MXI-Express Upgrade Questions  
What are some of the improvements from MXI-3 and MXI-4 to  
MXI-Express?  
MXI-Express incorporates the latest technology to include:  
Support for PCI Express slots.  
Support for PXI Express and CompactPCI Express chassis.  
Improved error correction and handling for noisy or harsh  
environments.  
Improved mechanical connectivity.  
Improved performance.  
Support for two chassis from a single card in the host PC.  
Can a MXI-3, MXI-4, and MXI-Express board be used together  
directly?  
No. MXI-3, MXI-4, and MXI-Express boards use different cable  
connectors and cannot be connected together. Additionally, the  
board-to-board communication protocols differ.  
Can I use a MXI-3, MXI-4, and MXI-Express kit in the same  
multichassis PXI system?  
Yes. Different MXI kits can be intermixed to connect multiple PXI and  
PXI Express chassis together. As mentioned previously, an individual  
MXI-3 or MXI-4 board will not cable directly to a MXI-Express board.  
MXI-3 and MXI-4 systems required the use of a specific boot ordering.  
Is this a requirement with MXI-Express?  
Yes. The requirements of the PCI bus still mandate that you must power-on  
secondary PXI chassis before powering on the host PC when using  
MXI-Express.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
B-3  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
 
Appendix B  
Common Questions  
With MXI-3 and several chassis connected in series (daisy chain  
configuration), you were required to power-on the chassis in order starting  
with the chassis at the end of the chain and move towards the host  
controller. Now with MXI-Express, multiple chassis are connected in  
parallel and can be powered on in any order, except that you need to ensure  
that the last component powered on is the host PC.  
For more details, refer to the Powering Up the MXI-Express System section  
of Chapter 2, Hardware Installation.  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
B-4  
ni.com  
 
C
Technical Support and  
Professional Services  
Visit the following sections of the National Instruments Web site at  
ni.com for technical support and professional services:  
Support—Online technical support resources at ni.com/support  
include the following:  
Self-Help Resources—For answers and solutions, visit the  
award-winning National Instruments Web site for software drivers  
and updates, a searchable KnowledgeBase, product manuals,  
step-by-step troubleshooting wizards, thousands of example  
programs, tutorials, application notes, instrument drivers, and  
so on.  
Free Technical Support—All registered users receive free Basic  
Service, which includes access to hundreds of Application  
Engineers worldwide in the NI Developer Exchange at  
ni.com/exchange. National Instruments Application Engineers  
make sure every question receives an answer.  
For information about other technical support options in your  
area, visit ni.com/services or contact your local office at  
ni.com/contact.  
Training and Certification—Visit ni.com/training for  
self-paced training, eLearning virtual classrooms, interactive CDs,  
and Certification program information. You also can register for  
instructor-led, hands-on courses at locations around the world.  
System Integration—If you have time constraints, limited in-house  
technical resources, or other project challenges, National Instruments  
Alliance Partner members can help. To learn more, call your local  
NI office or visit ni.com/alliance.  
Declaration of Conformity (DoC)—A DoC is our claim of  
compliance with the Council of the European Communities using  
the manufacturer’s declaration of conformity. This system affords  
the user protection for electronic compatibility (EMC) and product  
safety. You can obtain the DoC for your product by visiting  
ni.com/certification.  
© National Instruments Corporation  
C-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
                     
Appendix C  
Technical Support and Professional Services  
Calibration Certificate—If your product supports calibration,  
you can obtain the calibration certificate for your product at  
ni.com/calibration.  
If you searched ni.com and could not find the answers you need, contact  
your local office or NI corporate headquarters. Phone numbers for our  
worldwide offices are listed at the front of this manual. You also can visit  
the Worldwide Offices section of ni.com/niglobal to access the branch  
office Web sites, which provide up-to-date contact information, support  
phone numbers, email addresses, and current events.  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
C-2  
ni.com  
 
 
Glossary  
Symbol  
Prefix  
nano  
micro  
milli  
kilo  
Value  
10–9  
10– 6  
10–3  
103  
n
μ
m
k
M
mega  
106  
Symbols  
°
Degrees  
%
Equal or greater than  
Equal or less than  
Percent  
B
bus  
the group of conductors that interconnect individual circuitry in a computer.  
Typically, a bus is the expansion vehicle to which I/O or other devices are  
connected. Examples of PC buses are the PCI, PCI Express, AT bus,  
NuBus, Micro Channel, and EISA bus.  
bus master  
a type of a plug-in board or controller with the ability to read and write  
devices on the computer bus  
C
C
Celsius  
clock  
hardware component that controls timing for reading from or writing to  
groups  
counter/timer  
a circuit that counts external pulses or clock pulses (timing)  
© National Instruments Corporation  
G-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
 
Glossary  
D
device  
a plug-in instrument card or pad that can contain multiple channels and  
conversion devices. Plug-in boards and PCMCIA cards are examples of  
devices.  
digital trigger  
DMA  
a TTL level signal having two discrete levels—a high and a low level  
Direct Memory Access—a method by which data can be transferred  
to/from computer memory from/to a device or memory on the bus while the  
processor does something else. DMA is the fastest method of transferring  
data to/from computer memory.  
F
FPGA  
Field Programmable Gate Array—a logic device that has its functionality  
defined after it is manufactured.  
I
IEEE  
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers  
P
PCI  
Peripheral Component Interconnect—a high-performance expansion bus  
architecture originally developed by Intel to replace ISA and EISA. It is  
achieving widespread acceptance as a standard for PCs and workstations;  
it offers a theoretical maximum transfer rate of 132 Mbytes/s.  
PCI Express  
a scalable full-simplex serial bus standard that operates at 2.5 Gbps and  
offers both asynchronous and isochronous data transfers  
PCI-PCI bridge  
a device that transparently expands the PCI bus on a computer motherboard  
to another bus segment in the same machine. The bridge expands the  
number of PCI expansion slots, but remains transparent to the end user.  
PXI  
PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation. PXI is an open specification  
that builds off the CompactPCI specification by adding  
instrumentation-specific features.  
X
x1  
a link or port with one physical lane  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
G-2  
ni.com  
 
Index  
A
(figure), 1-3  
electromagnetic compatibility, A-4  
environmental specifications,  
NI PXIe-8360, A-2  
examples (NI resources), C-1  
B
C
functional unit descriptions, 3-2  
cable options (table), 3-4  
cabled MXI Express connector, 3-3  
cabling common questions, B-1  
calibration certificate (NI resources), C-2  
card edge connector, 3-2  
CE compliance specifications, A-5  
cleaning, A-4  
getting started, 1-3  
common questions,  
general cabling, B-1  
general hardware, B-1  
general software, B-2  
MXI-3 to MXI-Express, B-3  
configuration, additional  
I
installation  
conventions used in the manual, vii  
of an NI PCIe-8361/8362, 2-1  
of an NI PXIe-8360, 2-3  
powering down the MXI-Express  
D
Declaration of Conformity (NI resources), C-1  
diagnostic tools (NI resources), C-1  
documentation  
powering up the MXI-Express system, 2-5  
instrument drivers (NI resources), C-1  
conventions used in manual, vii  
NI resources, C-1  
related documentation, viii  
K
KnowledgeBase, C-1  
© National Instruments Corporation  
I-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 
 
Index  
L
P
LED indicators, 3-3  
PCI Express x1 card edge connector, 3-2  
M
questions, B-3  
MXI-Express  
basic system, 1-2  
NI PXIe-8360, A-3  
block diagram (figure), 3-2  
cable options (table), 3-4  
hardware overview, 3-1  
larger systems, 1-2  
specifications, A-1  
MXI-Express system  
description, 1-1  
S
safety specifications, A-4  
shock and vibration specifications  
NI PXIe-8360, A-3  
getting started, 1-3  
SMBus Master, 3-3  
software  
common questions, B-2  
NI resources, C-1  
specifications, A-1  
N
services, C-1  
NI PCIe-8361/8362  
installation, 2-1  
CE compliance, A-5  
cleaning, A-4  
figure, 2-2  
NI PXIe-8360  
electromagnetic compatibility, A-4  
installation, 2-3  
NI PCIe-8361/8362, A-3  
safety, A-4  
A-5  
storage environment specifications  
NI PCIe-8361/8362, A-3  
NI PXIe-8360, A-2  
O
operating environment specifications  
NI PCIe-8361/8362, A-3  
NI PXIe-8360, A-2  
overview  
support, technical, C-1  
switch, PCI Express, 3-2  
functional unit descriptions, 3-2  
hardware, 3-1  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
I-2  
ni.com  
 
Index  
T
training and certification (NI resources), C-1  
troubleshooting (NI resources), C-1  
U
unpacking, 1-4  
W
waste electrical and electronic equipment  
specifications, A-5  
Web resources, C-1  
© National Instruments Corporation  
I-3  
MXI-Express (x1) for PXI Express Series User Manual  
 

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