Chapter 1
Introduction
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CompactFlash
The PCI-7041 has a CompactFlash module for nonvolatile application and
data storage. You can store LabVIEW VIs on the CompactFlash. These VIs
can optionally be made to execute at startup. You also can log data to the
CompactFlash. Refer to the
LabVIEW RT User Manual
for more
information about configuring startup applications.
Memory
The main memory on the PCI-7041 is a single 144-pin SO-DIMM that is
socketed for easy upgrade. You can replace the SO-DIMM that ships with
the PCI-7041 with up to 128 MB of 10 ns SDRAM. For information about
adding RAM by replacing the SO-DIMM, refer to Appendix A,
Watchdog Timer
The PCI-7041 features a programmable timer known as a watchdog. You
can use the watchdog timer to monitor your LabVIEW application and
trigger an alert if something causes the software to stop running. In such
a case, you may need to alert the operator and shut down equipment to
protect people and machines. The watchdog lights an LED to signal that
a problem has occurred, optionally resets the board, and optionally asserts
the watchdog I/O signal on the accessory board. The I/O signal can be
programmed to be high or low asserted or open collector.
The watchdog works as follows: You initially choose a timeout period
longer than your software loop time. The timer starts counting, and your
software must continually reset the watchdog before the timeout period
elapses. Each time the counter is reset, it starts counting again at the
beginning. If the counter reaches the timeout period, which happens
because the software is hung and cannot reset the counter, the watchdog
expires and takes the actions it was configured to take. For more
information, refer to the
LabVIEW RT User Manual
.
CPU Temperature Monitor
The CPU (Pentium III microprocessor) temperature is monitored in
hardware. If the temperature exceeds the CPU’s rated operating
temperature range, the board goes into reset and remains there until the
power is cycled. An LED also lights to indicate what has happened.
This condition should not occur as long as the board is operated within its
specified operating range, and as long as the CPU fan is running. For more
information, refer to Appendix A,
