Chapter 2
Hardware Configuration and Installation
© National Instruments Corporation
2-11
VXI-AT2023/NI-VXI ISC 386/ix Getting Started
Step 3. Install the AT-MXI Hardware
In the space provided here, record the settings of the base I/O address, the DMA channel(s), and the
interrupt level(s) for future reference. You will need this information when you install the software.
AT-MXI
Setting
Base I/O Address
Board Interrupt Level
MXIbus Interrupt Level
Master DMA Channel
Slave DMA Channel
Before attempting to install the AT-MXI, notice that some MXIbus cable connector hoods are
slightly wider than most standard connector hoods and might interfere with other cables installed in
adjacent PC AT slots. Normally, this will be a problem only if the cable connector hoods for the
adjacent slots are also oversized. When choosing a PC AT slot in which to install the AT-MXI,
verify that the MXIbus cable connector will not interfere with cables and connectors in other PC AT
slots. If necessary, reposition the boards in the system to prevent cabling conflicts. It may also help
to install the AT-MXI in one of the end slots so that you will have to contend with the cable
connectors of only one other board.
If you cannot configure the AT-MXI to co-exist in an existing PC AT system by repositioning the
boards, you can use one of the MXIbus cable options with a standard connector hood on the cable
end that attaches to the AT-MXI. The standard connector hood is narrower than the MXIbus dual-
connector arrangement and provides an easier fit for many system configurations. However, this
approach requires that the AT-MXI be the first device in the MXIbus daisy-chain because a cable
with a single connector end cannot accept another MXIbus cable to propagate the bus. Remember
that the first device in the MXIbus daisy-chain must also be configured as the MXIbus System
Controller.
The following instructions are general installation instructions. Consult the user or technical
reference manual of your computer for specific instructions and warnings.
1. Plug in your PC AT computer before installing the AT-MXI. The plug grounds the computer
and protects it from electrical damage while you are setting up.
Warning:
To protect both yourself and the computer from electrical hazards, the computer
should remain off until you are finished installing the board.
2. Remove the top cover or access port to the PC AT I/O bus.
3. Select any available 16-bit full-length PC AT expansion slot. The 16-bit expansion slots have
two card-edge receptacle connectors.
