Chapter 3
Configuration and Default Settings
VXIpc 770/870B Series User Manual
3-22
ni.com
Front Panel SMB TRGIN/TRGOUT
The VXIpc 870B Series gives programmers full hardware and software
control over the VXI trigger lines. The VXIpc 870B Series has two SMB
trigger I/O connectors on its front panel for routing any of the TTL trigger
lines between the backplane and external devices. The VXI trigger
interface is based on the advanced MANTIS ASIC developed by National
Instruments. The MANTIS provides the complete VXIpc 870B Series VXI
interface to the outer rows of the P2 backplane connector in a single chip.
The VXIpc 870B Series can respond to all VXI-defined protocols on all
P2 TTL and ECL trigger lines at the same time. The MANTIS features an
internal cross-matrix switching system for routing between lines as well
as to and from the front panel and onboard clocks. An internal counter
gives sophisticated counting of events and interrupting on trigger edges and
pulses, as well as generating pulse trains, variable length pulses, and pulse
stretching.
You have the option to terminate the external trigger input SMB with 50
Ω
to ground to match the driving source, if necessary. Use MAX to set this
option.
Watchdog Timer
The Watchdog Timer is an onboard counter/timer. You can use it to
monitor running applications and reset the embedded controller or assert
a signal should the system lock up.
Currently, there is no software support for the Watchdog Timer. If your
application requires the watchdog timer, contact National Instruments
support at
ni.com
for detailed instructions on how to program this device.
