PXI Express quad-core controller

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23 June 2010 Computer/Embedded Technology

National Instruments has released the NI PXIe-8133, a high-performance embedded controller which features the quad-core Intel Core i7-820QM processor.

The processor offers a 1,73 GHz base clock frequency and uses Intel Turbo Boost Technology to automatically increase the clock frequency based on the application type. For example, when running applications that generate only a single processing thread, the CPU places the three unused cores into an idle state and increases the active core’s clock frequency from 1,73 to 3,06 GHz. This feature removes the requirement that software applications need to be multithreaded to use the latest CPU developments. As a result, engineers and scientists can use the new NI controller to reduce test times for applications that require intensive data processing, such as RF protocol testing and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.

The PXIe-8133 uses the advancements of PCI Express technology to offer four x4 Gen 2 PCI Express links for interfacing to the PXI chassis backplane. Using the controller with a PXI Express chassis, such as the PXIe-1082, doubles the total system data throughput from 4 GBps to 8 GBps. With this feature, engineers can simultaneously stream a larger set of I/O channels, giving them the ability to create larger and more complex data record-and-playback applications.

The controller comes standard with 2 GB of DDR3-1333 MHz RAM and the option of Windows XP or Windows 7 32-bit OSs. For memory intensive applications, engineers can upgrade to 8 GB of system RAM and the Windows 7 64-bit OS. The controller is also available with an extended temperature option and solid-state hard drives for harsh environments.

The PXIe-8133 provides support for the LabVIEW graphical development environment and the LabVIEW Real-Time Module. With the new controller, engineers can use LabVIEW to allocate multiple CPU cores for running time-critical test sections while delegating noncritical services to the remaining cores. By doing so, they can build sophisticated real-time and deterministic systems that take advantage of the increased performance and throughput of the new controller. The controller also supports the use of LabWindows/CVI software, C/C++ and Microsoft Visual Studio .NET for test, measurement and control applications.

For more information contact National Instruments, 0800 203 199, [email protected], www.ni.com/southafrica

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PXI Express quad-core controller

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