PXI (PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation) is a modular instrumentation platform based on the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus standard. Developed by the PXI Systems Alliance (PXISA), PXI combines the ruggedness and expandability of the PCI bus with the flexibility of modular instrumentation, making it an optimal solution for test, measurement, and automation applications.
PXI offers a standardized approach for integrating various instruments and modules into a single chassis, enabling easy interchangeability and scalability of components. It utilizes the high-speed PCI bus architecture, providing rapid data transfer rates and low-latency communication between the modules. Moreover, PXI is designed to function in harsh and demanding environments by incorporating features like increased shock and vibration resistance.
A typical PXI system consists of a PXI chassis, which houses multiple PXI modules, including controllers, analog and digital I/O devices, communication interfaces, signal generators, and specialized measurement modules. These modules can be easily added or removed to meet specific application requirements, offering significant flexibility and adaptability.
Due to its open and modular nature, PXI supports a wide range of hardware and software solutions from various vendors, ensuring compatibility and interoperability. Additionally, the ecosystem around PXI includes software drivers, development environments, and programming interfaces that facilitate easy integration and control of the system.
Overall, PXI serves as a versatile platform for building measurement and automation systems, providing users with a reliable and scalable solution for their testing and instrumentation needs.
