Product Brochure

PXI Express Embedded
Controllers
ni.comContents
PXIe Embedded Controllers
Detailed View

Key Features
SoftwareSupporting Documentation
Configure a Custom NI System
What Is PXI?
PXI Instrumentation
NI Hardware Services

ni.comPXIe Embedded Controllers
PXIe-8881, PXIe-8880, PXIe-8862, PXIe-8861, PXIe-8842, PXIe-8840, PXIe-8822, and PXIe-8821

FIGURE 1
PXIe-8821, PXIe-8880, PXIe-8881 Controllers

Latest high-performance Intel® processors with up to 18
cores available
OSs: Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 7, Linux Desktop(RHEL, OpenSUSE, Ubuntu), NI Linux Real-Time
Processor frequencies up to 4.1 GHz (Base) and 4.6 GHz(Max Turbo)
System bandwidth up to 24 GB/s

Memory and storage up to 64 GB and 512 GB, respectively
Solid-state drives, Thunderbolt™ 3, USB 3.0, Gigabit
Ethernet, and other peripheral ports
Ready-to-use with factory installed OS, hardware drivers,
and applications

Controllers for Automated Test and Measurement
Our highest performance PXI Express embedded controllers provide class-leading performance in a compact embedded form factor foryour PXI-based test, measurement, and control systems. Besides offering high CPU performance, these controllers provide high I/Othroughput coupled with a rich set of peripheral I/O ports and up to 64 GB of RAM. They are available with the latest processor options in arugged form factor designed to operate in a wide temperature range from 0 ºC to 55 ºC in high shock and vibration environments.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

01Table 1. PXI Express Embedded Controller Specifications by Model
PXIe-8881¹

PXIe-8880

PXIe-8862

PXIe-8861

PXIe-8842

PXIe-8840

PXIe-8822

PXIe-8821

Processor

Intel
Xeon
W-2225Intel
Xeon
W-2245Intel
Xeon
W-2295

Intel Xeon
E5-2618L
v3

Intel Corei7-11850HE

Intel Xeon
E31515MV5Intel i511500HE

Intel Corei5-4400E

Intel corei3-11100HEIntel Core
i3-4110E

Processor
Cores

4

8

18

8

8

4

6

2

4

2

Processor
Frequency
(GHz)

4.1
4.6,
Turbo

3.9
4.5,
Turbo

3
4.6,
Turbo

2.3
3.4, Turbo

2.6
4.7, Turbo

2.8
3.7, Turbo

2.6
4.5, Turbo

2.7
3.3, Turbo

2.4
4.4, Turbo

2.6

Standard
Memory (GB)

16

32

64

8

2x8

8

8

4

8

2

Maximum
Memory (GB)64

24

2 x 16

32

16

8

16

8

SystemBandwidth(GB/s)

24

24

16

16

8

2

4

2

Standard
Storage

512, SSD

240, SSD

512, SSD

512, SSD

512, SSD

250, SSD

512, SSD

320, HDD

TPM Version

2.0

1.2

2.0

2.0

2.0

-

2.0

-

Ethernet
(GbE)

1

2

2.5

2

2.5

2

2.5

1

USB Ports

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.2 Gen 1

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

4 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

2 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

2 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0

Thunderbolt 3
Ports

2

-

2

2

1

-

-

-

¹The PXIe-8881 is a high power controller and is only supported by chassis having 82 W slot cooling capacity, such as the PXIe-1092 or PXIe1095 chassis.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

02

Detailed View
High bandwidth streaming
PCI Express Gen 3
Up to 64 GB DDR4 RAM (16 GB
standard)
1 GPIB port
4 USB 2.0
2 Gigabit Ethernet ports

1 Display Port v1.2
2 USB 3.0
External SMB watchdog/trigger

Secured with TPM v2.0
Latest Intel Xeon processor (upto 18 cores)

FIGURE 2
Detailed View of a PXIe Controller

Key Features
High Performance
As the founding member of the PXI Alliance, NI has been at the forefront of technology, delivering to market new PXI embedded controllers
that continually feature the latest processors. NI has close partnerships with key processor manufacturers, including Intel and Advanced
Micro Devices (AMD), so NI controllers feature the latest processors such as the Intel Atom, Core i7, and Xeon. This highlights NI’scommitment to providing the test and measurement industry with the best technology available in a PXI embedded controller. Figure 3 shows
the progression of processing power in NI controllers over time.
In addition to computing performance, I/O bandwidth plays a critical role in designing instrumentation systems. As modern test andmeasurement systems become more complex, the instruments and system controller need to exchange increasingly more data. The PXIe8881 uses the advancements of PCI Express technology to offer both one x16 and one x8 Gen 3 PCI Express link for interfacing to the PXI
chassis backplane. Using the PXIe-8881 with a Gen 3 PXI Express chassis, such as the PXIe-1095, provides total system data throughput up
to 24 GB/s. With this high bandwidth, you can now implement computationally intensive applications that demand high-throughput rates suchas next- generation wireless communication design and prototyping, RF record and playback, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
development, and noise mapping.

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03

FIGURE 3
The Evolution of Processing Power in PXI Controllers

Differentiated I/OPXI Express embedded controllers from NI feature a variety of I/O connectivity to interface to stand-alone instruments or peripheral devices.
I/O offerings include up to two Thunderbolt 3 ports; two USB 3.0 and four USB 2.0 ports; dual Gigabit Ethernet, GPIB, and serial ports; twodisplay ports for dual-monitor support; and parallel ports. The variety of included ports increases the versatility of the controller and leads tocost savings because you do not need supplementary PXI modules to add those functionalities. Instead, you can use more slots in a PXI
chassis for additional measurement modules.

2 Thunderbolt 3 ports
1 GPIB port
2 Gigabit Ethernet ports
1 serial port (RS 232)

4 USB 2.0 ports
1 Display Port v1.2
External SMB watchdog/trigger
2 USB 3.0 ports

FIGURE 4
The PXIe-8881 features rich I/O options for peripheral device connections.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

04Durability
We offer PXI controllers with Solid-State Drives (SSDs) so you can test under a wide range of conditions. Our controllers with SSDs aredesigned to operate in extreme shock, high altitude, and random vibration environments. SSDs also provide lower read and write seek times
compared to standard rotating medium hard drives. This means higher sequential and random data read and write rates. Applications using
SSDs offer faster application load times and overall test-time savings due to faster file I/O.
NI engineers apply advanced design simulation and create custom heat sinks to ensure reliability in the embedded controllers, from concept
to completion. The controllers also undergo extensive thermal, mechanical, and electrical testing to ensure that the CPU doesn’t throttle its
processor performance in harsh conditions. Using its expertise in developing and testing embedded controllers, NI provides rugged andreliable controllers engineers count on to deploy in the field or in the laboratory.

Real-Time OS
NI offers PXI embedded controllers that run a real-time OS and LabVIEW Real-Time Module software instead of a standard Windows OS. A
real-time OS can handle multiple processes at once and perform repeated tasks within a tight time boundary. Systems running Windows oranother general-purpose OS cannot guarantee the completion of a certain task in a specified time because the OS shares the processor withother system processes running in parallel.
With a real-time OS, you can run a single program with precise timing and, more specifically:• Perform tasks within a guaranteed worst-case timeframe• Carefully prioritize different sections of your program• Run loops with nearly the same timing each iteration (typically within microseconds)• Detect if a loop missed its timing goal
View “What is a Real-Time OS?” and “Do I Need a Real-Time System?” for more information.

Data Security
The Trusted Platform Module (TPM), a secure cryptoprocessor, is a component on select embedded controllers specifically designed toelevate platform security above the capabilities of today’s software by providing a protected space for key operations and other securitycritical tasks. Using both hardware and software, the TPM protects encryption and signature keys at their most vulnerable stages—
operations when the keys are being used unencrypted in plain-text form. The TPM is specifically designed to shield unencrypted keys andplatform authentication information from software-based attacks. The PXIe-8881 and PXIe-8862/42/22 models are all equipped with thelatest version of TPM, 2.0. To learn more about other TPM-supported NI hardware, view the NI white paper on “TPM Support for NI
Controllers.”
Additionally, the PXIe-8861 and PXIe-8862 feature removeable hard drives for use in even the most security-sensitive locations. The hard
drive retains all user and system information even after powering down due to its nonvolatile memory. A removeable hard drive makes thedeclassification process straightforward when the setup is deployed in a classified area. When you have finished testing, simply remove thehard drive and store it in a secure environment.

FIGURE 5
The PXIe-8861 offers a removeable hard disk drive.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

05

Software
OS Compatibility
Use NI’s online OS Compatibility Checker to see which OS is compatible with your embedded controller and other NI hardware. Some
controller models are supported by multiple drivers. OS compatibility may vary depending on the driver.

Drivers
All PXI embedded controllers are delivered with PXI Platform Services installed. With this NI driver, you can monitor the health of your PXI
controller. Figure 6 shows the system attributes you can view such as temperature, CPU load, memory, and disk capacity, among others, in NI
Measurement and Automation Explorer (NI-MAX). You can use this driver software to configure your controller and other NI hardware
devices through the intuitive user interface.
Use NI-MAX to execute system diagnostics, run test panels, view all connected devices and software, and more. Check out “What is NIMAX?” for information on additional capabilities.

FIGURE 6
View PXI system attributes through NI-MAX.

Supported Development Environments
Supported development environments include LabVIEW, C/C++, and Python. NI understands that creating a flexible, high-performing
system requires using the best aspects of many tools. With LabVIEW, you can integrate languages such as C/C++ and Python, to build aversatile test system quickly. NI offers online resources on topics such as integrating languages with LabVIEW and using Python with NI
hardware and software to get you started.

LabVIEW Real-Time Module
The LabVIEW Real-Time Module is a software add-on for LabVIEW that you can use to create and deploy reliable, stand-alone applications
that execute on embedded hardware devices. The module fully supports the NI Linux Real-Time OS, which is a new Linux distribution withindustrial grade, real-time capabilities that offers real-time performance with the approachability and usability of a desktop OS. Use NI Linux
Real-Time to ensure reliability and precise timing in system applications for test, monitoring, and control.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

06

NI Software-The Right Tool for the Job
NI has a variety of software for engineers working on research, validation, and production test applications. Learn about our software thathelps engineers perform quick ad-hoc tests, build an automated test system, automate data analysis and reporting, develop test sequences,and more.

LabVIEW

DIAdemTestStand

Graphical programming environment thatengineers use to develop automatedresearch, validation, and production test
systems.

Data analytics software for measurement
data search, inspection, analysis, andautomated reporting.

Test executive software that accelerates
system development for engineers invalidation and production.

Acquire data from NI and third-party
hardware and communicate using
industry protocols
Use configurable, interactive display
elements
Take advantage of available analysis
functions

Display data in multiple 2D-axis
systems
Perform calculations with a simple
point-and-click interface
Automate your measurement data
analysis workflow, from import toanalysisCall and execute tests in LabVIEW,
Python, C/C++, or .NET
Conduct complex tasks, such asparallel testing
Create customer operator interfaces
and robust tools for deployment anddebugging

G Web

FlexLogger™

InstrumentStudio™

Development software that helps
engineers create web-based userinterfaces wihtout the need for traditional
web development skills.

No-code data acquisition software
engineers use to build validation andverification test applications.

Application software that simplifies setup
and configuration of NI PXI hardware

Data transfer APIs for connecting tosystems written in LabVIEW, Python,or C#
Pre-built objects for data display anduser input
Included hosting on SystemLink™
Cloud

ni.comInteractive visualization tools formonitoring tests with drag-and-drop
charts, graphs, and controls
Ability to set alarms that monitor
single channels or groups forunexpected behavior

Customizable layouts for monitoring
multiple instruments at once
Interactively debug in tandem with
code
TDMS file export containing
instrument settings, measurements,
and raw dataPXI Express Embedded Controllers

07Supporting Documentation
Table 2. PXIe Embedded Controller Documentation
Document TypeModel

Getting Started Guide

8881, 8880, 8862/42/22, 8861, 8840, 8821

Specifications

8881, 8880, 8862/42/22, 8861, 8840, 8821

Configure a Custom NI System
NI’s online system advisors help you create a custom system based on your specific requirements. Use the advisor to choose compatible
hardware, software, accessories, and services and then save your selections as configurations for easy quoting and purchasing later. Visitni.com/advisor to learn more.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

08What Is PXI?
A Platform Approach to Test and Measurement
Powered by software, PXI is a rugged PC-based platform for measurement and automation systems. PXI combines PCI electrical-bus
features with the modular, Eurocard packaging of CompactPCI and then adds specialized synchronization buses and key software features.
PXI is both a high-performance and low-cost deployment platform for applications such as manufacturing test, military and aerospace,machine monitoring, automotive, and industrial test. Developed in 1997 and launched in 1998, PXI is an open industry standard governed by
the PXI Systems Alliance (PXISA), a group of more than 70 companies chartered to promote the PXI standard, ensure interoperability, andmaintain the PXI specification.

Software

Timing and Synchronization

Test Management and Code Development
Code sequencing, database reporting, user
management, operator interface, parallel
execution, signal processing. LabVIEW,
C/C++, .NET, Python

PXI Chassis
PCI Express Gen 3 throughput up to 24 GB/s
sub-nanosecond latency, P2P streaming,
integrated triggering

Computer

InstrumentationPXI Embedded Controller
Windows and Real-Time OS options, Intel
Xeon processing, peripheral ports, display
output, integrated hard drive

PXI Modules
DC to mmWave, oscilloscope, programmablepower supply, switch/MUX, DMM, VSA, VSG,
VST, AWG, SMU, DAQ

Integrated with the Latest Commercial Technology
By leveraging the latest commercial technology for our products, we can continually deliver high performance and high-quality products toour users at a competitive price. The latest PCI Express Gen 3 switches deliver higher data throughput, the latest Intel multicore processors
facilitate faster and more efficient parallel (multisite) testing, the latest FPGAs from Xilinx help to push signal processing algorithms to theedge to accelerate measurements, and the latest data converters from TI and ADI continually increase the measurement range andperformance of our instrumentation.

ni.comPXI Express Embedded Controllers

09

PXI Instrumentation
NI offers more than 600 different PXI modules ranging from DC to mmWave. Because PXI is an open industry standard, nearly 1,500
products are available from more than 70 different instrument vendors. With standard processing and control functions designated to acontroller, PXI instruments need to contain only the actual instrumentation circuitry, which provides effective performance in a small
footprint. Combined with a chassis and controller, PXI systems feature high-throughput data movement using PCI Express bus interfaces andsub-nanosecond synchronization with integrated timing and triggering.

ni.comOscilloscopes
Sample at speeds up to 12.5 GS/s with 5 GHz of
analog bandwidth, featuring numerous triggeringmodes and deep onboard memory

Digital Multimeters
Perform voltage (up to 1000 V), current (up to3A), resistance, inductance, capacitance, andfrequency/period measurements, as well as
diode tests

Digital Instruments
Perform characterization and production test of
semiconductor devices with timing sets and perchannel pin parametric measurement unit
(PPMU)

Waveform Generators
Generate standard functions including sine,
square, triangle, and ramp as well as userdefined, arbitrary waveforms

Frequency Counters
Perform counter timer tasks such as event
counting and encoder position, period, pulse,
and frequency measurements

Source Measure Units
Combine high-precision source and measurecapability with high channel density,
deterministic hardware sequencing, andSourceAdapt transient optimization

Power Supplies & Loads
Supply programmable DC power, with somemodules including isolated channels, output
disconnect functionality, and remote sense

FlexRIO Custom Instruments & Processing
Provide high-performance I/O and powerful
FPGAs for applications that require more thanstandard instruments can offer

Switches (Matrix & MUX)
Feature a variety of relay types and row/column
configurations to simplify wiring in automatedtest systems

Vector Signal Transceivers
Combine a vector signal generator and vector
signal analyzer with FPGA-based, real-time
signal processing and control

GPIB, Serial, & Ethernet
Integrate non-PXI instruments into a PXI systemthrough various instrument control interfaces

Data Acquisition Modules
Provide a mix of analog I/O, digital I/O,
counter/timer, and trigger functionality formeasuring electrical or physical phenomena

PXI Express Embedded Controllers

10

NI Hardware Services
All NI hardware includes a one-year warranty for basic repair coverage and calibration in adherence
to NI specifications prior to shipment. PXI systems also include basic assembly and a functional test.
NI offers additional entitlements to improve uptime and lower maintenance costs with service
programs for hardware. Learn more at ni.com/services/hardware.
HardwareStandard

Premium

Description

Duration at Point ofSale

1 year;included

3 years;
optional

3 years;
optional

NI enhances warranty coverage with additional service benefits
provided with a hardware service program.

Maximum Duration
with Renewal< 3 years withserviceprogram< 3 years< 3 years

NI maintains the high performance and availability of yourhardware for up to three years with a hardware service program.

Extended Repair
Coverage•••

NI restores your device’s functionality and includes firmware
updates and factory calibration; < 10 working days⁴ + standard
shipping.

••

NI technicians assemble, install software in, and test your system
per your custom configuration prior to shipment.

Advanced
Replacement ²•

NI stocks replacement hardware that can be shipped
immediately if a repair is needed.

System Return
Material Authorization(RMA)¹•

NI accepts the delivery of fully assembled systems when
performing repair services.

••

NI provides access to support resources for your hardware.

Standard

Expedited³

NI performs the requested level of calibration at the specified
calibration interval for the duration of the service program.

System Configuration,
Assembly, and Test¹

Technical Support•

Calibration Plan
(Optional)

1 This option is only available for PXI, CompactRIO, and CompactDAQ systems.
2 This option is not available for all products in all countries. Contact your local NI sales engineer to confirm availability.
3 Expedited calibration is only available for the Traceable calibration level.
4 This applies to non-RF products only. Standard extended repair coverage for RF products is <15 working days + standard shipping.

PremiumPlus Service Program
NI can customize the offerings listed above or offer additional entitlements such as on-site calibration, custom sparing, and lifecycle services
through a PremiumPlus Service Program. Contact your NI sales representative to learn more.

Technical Support
NI hardware service programs and warranty include access to technical support provided by NI support agents during local business hours.
Service requests can be managed online. Additionally, take advantage of NI’s award-winning online resources and communities.
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owner of the mark on a worldwide basis.
Thunderbolt is a trademark of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the US and/or other countries.
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