Chapter 1
Introduction
©
National Instruments Corporation
1-3
MXI-Express x16 for PXI Express Series User Manual
What You Need to Get Started
To set up and use your MXI-Express x16 boards, you need the following:
❑
One NI PCIe-8388 and one or more NI PXIe-8388/9 modules.
❑
One or more MXI-Express x16 cables.
❑
A supported host PC (such as an NI RMC-83
xx
) with an available x16
PCI Express slot.
Note
For proper functionality, the host PC must have a certain quality and type of
PCI Express clock. Therefore, NI validates and supports only certain hosts. Refer to
KnowledgeBase 5J9C7371 for a list of currently supported host platforms.
❑
An expansion chassis—the PXI Express or CompactPCI Express
chassis to control with MXI-Express x16.
Note
Your NI PXIe-8388/9 module works 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.
Unpacking
Your MXI-Express x16 boards 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.