Chapter 1
Introduction
©
National Instruments Corporation
1-3
VXI-1394 Interface for Windows NT/98
The VXI-1394 transparently translates between the IEEE 1394 and VXI
protocols.
A computer equipped with the VXI-1394/G can operate simultaneously
as a GPIB Talker/Listener/Controller. The VXI-1394/G contains a
TNT4882C single-chip IEEE 488.2 interface, which also implements the
HS488 high-speed protocol, increasing the maximum GPIB data transfer
rate up to 8 MB/s (depending on the system).
The software included with the kits is for x86/Pentium-based computers.
Hardware Description
The VXI-1394 module is a VXIbus device with optional VXIbus Slot 0
capability so that it can reside in any slot in a C-size or D-size chassis.
If you enable this capability, the VXI-1394 can automatically determine
whether it is located in VXI Slot 0.
Note
D-size VXI mainframes have connections for a P3 connector. The VXI-1394,
however, does not have this connector and, if configured as a Slot 0 controller, cannot
provide the necessary control for VXI devices that need P3 support.
Caution
An improper Slot 0 setting may damage the VXI-1394 module and/or the VXI
chassis.
The VXI-1394 links the computer to the VXIbus and converts 1394 data
transfers into VXIbus data transfers and vice versa. The VXI-1394 includes
additional 1394 ports you can use to connect other 1394 devices.
The VXI-1394/G version includes a front-panel GPIB port you can use
to integrate GPIB devices into your VXI-based instrumentation system
without the need of a GPIB adapter in the host computer. The standard
VXI-1394 and VXI-1394/G are otherwise functionally equivalent.
The GPIB port on the VXI-1394/G cannot be used to control the VXIbus;
it is intended for controlling only GPIB instruments through either
NI-488.2 or NI-VISA. With the VXI-1394/G, you can control both GPIB
and VXI instruments using a single 1394 cable from your host computer.
The PCI-1394 is an industry-standard 1394 host adapter on a PCI board,
which gives your computer the capability to control 1394 devices. The
PCI-1394 also supplies power to the IEEE 1394 bus, which is required by
some devices.
