PXIe-7847 FPGA-Based Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module
The PXIe-7847, also documented as the PXIe-7847R, is a PXI Express multifunction reconfigurable I/O module featuring a user-programmable Kintex-7 160T FPGA. It combines analog input, analog output and bidirectional digital I/O with onboard FPGA processing for deterministic measurement and control applications.
The module provides 8 analog input channels, 8 analog output channels and 48 bidirectional digital I/O channels. Each analog input has a dedicated ADC, enabling simultaneous sampling, independent channel timing, multirate acquisition and channel-specific triggering.
Key Features of the PXIe-7847
- Kintex-7 160T user-programmable FPGA
- 8 simultaneously sampled analog input channels
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 500 kS/s maximum sampling rate per analog input channel
- Selectable ±1 V, ±2 V, ±5 V and ±10 V input ranges
- 8 analog output channels with a ±10 V output range
- Up to 1 MS/s analog output update rate
- 48 individually configurable digital I/O channels
- Up to 80 MHz digital I/O operation
- Selectable 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V logic levels
- 512 MB onboard DRAM
- Peer-to-peer data streaming support
- PXI Express interface
PXIe-7847 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PXIe-7847 / PXIe-7847R |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 784144-01 |
| Product Type | PXI Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module |
| FPGA | Kintex-7 160T |
| Onboard DRAM | 512 MB |
| Analog Input Channels | 8 |
| Analog Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Analog Input Rate | 500 kS/s per channel |
| Analog Input Ranges | ±1 V, ±2 V, ±5 V and ±10 V |
| Analog Input Coupling | DC |
| Analog Output Channels | 8 |
| Analog Output Range | ±10 V |
| Maximum Analog Output Rate | 1 MS/s |
| Bidirectional Digital Channels | 48 |
| Maximum Digital Clock Rate | 80 MHz |
| Digital Logic Levels | 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V |
| Bus Interface | PXI Express |
| Peer-to-Peer Streaming | Supported |
Part Number and Configuration
| Part Number | FPGA | Analog I/O | Digital I/O | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 784144-01 | Kintex-7 160T | 8 AI and 8 AO | 48 bidirectional channels | 512 MB DRAM |
Simultaneous Analog Input Acquisition
Each of the eight analog input channels has a dedicated 16-bit analog-to-digital converter. All channels can therefore acquire signals simultaneously at rates up to 500 kS/s per channel without relying on a shared multiplexed ADC.
This architecture supports independent channel timing and triggering. Engineers can implement multirate sampling, channel-specific acquisition conditions and custom preprocessing directly inside the FPGA.
Programmable Analog Output
The PXIe-7847 includes eight analog output channels for generating control voltages, simulated sensor signals and custom waveforms. The outputs support a ±10 V range and update rates up to 1 MS/s.
Because the outputs are controlled through the FPGA, applications can implement deterministic response logic between acquired inputs and generated outputs. This is particularly useful for hardware-in-the-loop simulation, power electronics control and closed-loop testing.
High-Speed Digital I/O
The module provides 48 digital lines that can be configured individually as inputs or outputs. Connector 0 includes 16 digital channels operating at signal frequencies up to 10 MHz, while Connector 1 provides 32 high-speed channels operating at up to 80 MHz.
Logic levels are selectable by connector and include 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V and 3.3 V. This flexibility allows the module to interface with various embedded devices, digital buses and custom electronic systems.
User-Programmable Kintex-7 FPGA
The onboard Kintex-7 160T FPGA provides direct, hardware-level access to the module’s analog and digital I/O. Engineers can develop custom timing engines, triggers, control algorithms, communication protocols and signal-processing functions using the LabVIEW FPGA Module.
Unlike software loops running on a host computer, FPGA logic operates deterministically and in parallel. This makes the PXIe-7847 suitable for applications requiring precise timing, low latency and rapid responses to external events.
Onboard DRAM and Peer-to-Peer Streaming
The PXIe-7847 includes 512 MB of onboard DRAM for waveform storage, data buffering and FPGA-based processing. The additional memory is useful when an application must capture data before transferring it to the host or generate long custom output sequences.
Peer-to-peer streaming allows the module to transfer data directly to compatible PXI Express instruments without routing every transfer through the host controller. This can reduce CPU involvement and improve throughput in complex automated test systems.
Typical PXIe-7847 Applications
- Hardware-in-the-loop simulation
- Closed-loop control systems
- Power electronics testing
- Custom digital protocol implementation
- Sensor and actuator simulation
- Multirate data acquisition
- Electronic control unit validation
- Semiconductor device testing
- High-speed machine control
- Automated production testing
- FPGA-based signal processing
- Research and laboratory measurement systems
Software Requirements
The PXIe-7847 is programmed using NI LabVIEW and the LabVIEW FPGA Module. NI-RIO drivers provide communication between the FPGA target, real-time controller and host application.
NI VeriStand can also be used for real-time testing and hardware-in-the-loop applications when the required FPGA personality and supporting software components are configured. Verify software version compatibility before integrating the module into an existing system.
Cables and Connection Accessories
The PXIe-7847 uses separate multifunction and high-speed digital connectors. Common connection accessories include:
- NI SCB-68A shielded connector block for multifunction I/O
- NI SHC68-68-RMIO shielded multifunction I/O cable
- NI SCB-68 HSDIO connector block for high-speed digital signals
- NI SHC68-C68-RDIO2 high-speed digital cable
Select cables and terminal blocks according to the required analog channels, digital signal rates, shielding and wiring arrangement. Cables and connection accessories are typically ordered separately.
PXI Chassis and System Integration
The PXIe-7847 requires a compatible PXI Express chassis and controller. It can be installed in systems using chassis such as the PXIe-1092, PXIe-1085 or other PXI Express chassis with suitable slot, cooling and power capacity.
A PXI embedded controller or remote-control interface is also required to run the host application, download the FPGA bitfile and exchange data with the module.
Installation and Troubleshooting
Module Is Not Detected
Confirm that the PXIe-7847 is installed in a compatible PXI Express slot. Verify the chassis connection, controller operation and NI-RIO driver installation before checking the module in NI Measurement & Automation Explorer.
FPGA VI Cannot Be Downloaded
Confirm that the FPGA VI was compiled for the PXIe-7847 target. A bitfile compiled for another R Series module cannot normally be used because FPGA resources and I/O mappings can differ between devices.
Analog Input Values Are Incorrect
Check the selected input range, terminal configuration, grounding and signal wiring. Confirm whether the source is connected as differential, referenced single-ended or non-referenced single-ended and ensure that the common-mode voltage remains within the permitted range.
Digital Signals Are Unstable
Verify that the configured digital logic level matches the connected device. Use a suitable high-speed cable and terminal block for the 80 MHz digital connector, and reduce cable length or signal rate if signal-integrity problems occur.
Analog Output Does Not Reach the Programmed Voltage
Check the connected load and required output current. A low-impedance load can exceed the output drive capability and prevent the channel from reaching the programmed voltage.
PXIe-7847 Comparison with Similar R Series Modules
| Model | Analog I/O | Digital I/O | Recommended Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| PXIe-7847 | 8 AI and 8 AO, 500 kS/s AI | 48 DIO, up to 80 MHz | Multifunction FPGA I/O with 512 MB DRAM |
| PXIe-7846 | Multifunction analog I/O | 48 bidirectional DIO | Applications that do not require onboard DRAM |
| PXIe-7857 | Higher-speed multifunction analog I/O | 48 bidirectional DIO | Applications requiring faster analog acquisition |
| PXIe-7858 | Higher-speed multifunction analog I/O | 48 bidirectional DIO | More demanding FPGA processing and control systems |
| PXIe-7820 | No analog I/O | High-channel-count digital I/O | FPGA applications requiring digital I/O only |
Recommended Related Products
- PXIe-7846 Multifunction R Series Module – a related FPGA-based analog and digital I/O module
- PXIe-7857 Multifunction R Series Module – suitable for applications requiring faster analog acquisition
- PXIe-7858 Multifunction R Series Module – provides additional FPGA resources for advanced control systems
- PXIe-7820 Digital R Series Module – designed for FPGA-based digital interface applications
- PXIe-1092 PXI Express Chassis – provides a platform for modular FPGA test and measurement systems
Additional compatible hardware is available in our NI PXI modules category.
How to Select the PXIe-7847
Choose the PXIe-7847 when an application requires simultaneous analog acquisition, analog generation, high-speed digital I/O and custom FPGA processing in one PXI Express module. Its onboard DRAM makes it especially suitable for buffered data acquisition and waveform generation.
Before purchasing, confirm the required sampling rate, voltage ranges, digital logic levels, FPGA capacity, software version, chassis compatibility and connection accessories.
Why Choose the PXIe-7847?
The PXIe-7847 combines multifunction data acquisition with user-programmable FPGA technology. Its independent ADCs, deterministic I/O control, configurable digital interfaces and onboard memory provide a flexible platform for test systems that cannot be implemented effectively with conventional fixed-function DAQ hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many analog input channels does the PXIe-7847 provide?
The PXIe-7847 provides eight simultaneously sampled, 16-bit analog input channels with a maximum sampling rate of 500 kS/s per channel.
Does the PXIe-7847 include analog outputs?
Yes. It includes eight analog output channels supporting a ±10 V output range and update rates up to 1 MS/s.
How many digital I/O channels are available?
The module provides 48 bidirectional digital I/O channels. Sixteen channels support signal frequencies up to 10 MHz, while 32 high-speed channels support frequencies up to 80 MHz.
Which FPGA does the PXIe-7847 use?
The PXIe-7847 uses a Xilinx Kintex-7 160T FPGA that can be programmed with the LabVIEW FPGA Module.
Does the PXIe-7847 include onboard memory?
Yes. The module includes 512 MB of onboard DRAM for data buffering, waveform storage and FPGA processing.
What is the part number for the PXIe-7847?
The standard NI part number for the PXIe-7847 is 784144-01.
Can the PXIe-7847 operate without an FPGA program?
The module requires a compatible FPGA bitfile to define its acquisition, generation and control behavior. The FPGA application is normally developed and compiled using LabVIEW FPGA.
Request a Quote for the PXIe-7847
Contact us for current availability, lead time and project pricing for the PXIe-7847 Multifunction Reconfigurable I/O Module. We can also help identify compatible PXI chassis, controllers, cables, terminal blocks and software for your FPGA-based test system.
