PXIe-1085

PXIe-1085 18-Slot 24 GB/s PXI Express Chassis

The NI PXIe-1085 is an 18-slot PXI Express chassis designed for high-performance automated test, data acquisition, RF measurement and electronic validation systems. Its standard 24 GB/s configuration provides one system-controller slot, 16 hybrid peripheral slots and one PXI Express system timing slot.

The high-bandwidth backplane allows several PXI Express instruments to transfer measurement data simultaneously. Its hybrid connector architecture also supports compatible conventional PXI modules, helping engineers combine existing instrumentation with newer high-speed PXI Express devices.

The standard 24 GB/s PXIe-1085 provides up to 775 W of usable backplane power, 38.25 W maximum peripheral-slot dissipation, external 10 MHz reference input and output and a 0°C to 55°C operating-temperature range.

Key Features of the PXIe-1085

• 18-slot 3U PXI Express chassis
• One dedicated system-controller slot
• 16 hybrid peripheral slots
• One PXI Express system timing slot
• Up to 24 GB/s maximum system bandwidth
• 775 W maximum usable power for the 24 GB/s version
• 791 W maximum usable power for the earlier 12 GB/s version
• 38.25 W maximum peripheral-slot dissipation
• 140 W maximum system-controller-slot dissipation
• Three 169 CFM chassis cooling fans
• Auto and High fan-speed modes
• External 10 MHz reference input and output
• PXI star and PXI Express differential star triggering
• Remote inhibit and voltage-monitoring connection
• Front-panel power, fan and temperature indicators
• Universal 100 VAC to 240 VAC input
• Replaceable modular power-supply shuttle
• Compatible with benchtop and rack-mounted installations

PXIe-1085 Technical Specifications

PXIe-1085 Part Number and Accessories

The standard chassis package includes seven single-slot filler panels, one double-slot filler panel, two quadruple-slot filler panels, a Mini-COMBICON connector plug, a 1/2-inch screw and safety documentation.

The model has been supplied in more than one configuration. Use the complete part number when requesting a quotation, especially when replacing an existing 12 GB/s or ITER chassis with the current 24 GB/s version.

18-Slot PXI Express Architecture

The PXIe-1085 provides one system-controller position and 17 peripheral positions. Sixteen peripheral slots use hybrid connectors, while one position is dedicated to PXI Express system timing.

This capacity allows engineers to combine multiple measurement and control functions in one chassis. A configuration can include digitizers, waveform generators, DMMs, programmable power supplies, switching modules, FPGA devices and communication interfaces.

The controller position includes three adjacent system-controller expansion slots. A multi-slot embedded controller reduces the remaining space available for peripheral modules.

Sixteen Hybrid Peripheral Slots

The hybrid connector in each general-purpose peripheral position supports compatible PXI Express instruments and hybrid-compatible conventional PXI modules.

This all-hybrid architecture is useful when upgrading an existing PXI test station. Engineers can retain supported legacy modules while adding newer high-speed instruments where additional bandwidth is needed.

Verify every module’s connector, voltage signaling, driver, operating-system, power and cooling requirements before installation. A conventional PXI module without a hybrid-compatible connector cannot be forced into the chassis.

Dedicated System Timing Slot

The PXIe-1085 includes one dedicated PXI Express system timing slot. Compatible timing and synchronization modules installed in this position can access specialized differential star triggers and reference-clock routing.

This capability supports multichannel digitizers, synchronized signal generation, phase-related measurements and systems requiring coordinated operation across several instruments.

Multi-chassis systems can use compatible timing hardware to share clocks and triggers. Cable delay, module delay and route configuration must be included in the synchronization plan.

24 GB/s High-Bandwidth Backplane

Part number 783588-01 provides up to 24 GB/s of maximum aggregate system bandwidth. This is particularly valuable when several PXI Express instruments transfer large data streams at the same time.

The chassis bandwidth is shared according to the backplane topology, controller links and installed modules. It does not mean that every slot independently supports 24 GB/s.

Actual throughput also depends on the embedded or remote controller, instrument PCI Express interfaces, storage system, DMA settings and software processing.

High-Speed Data Streaming

High-speed digitizers, RF analyzers and FPGA modules can generate substantial volumes of measurement data. The 24 GB/s backplane helps reduce congestion when multiple devices perform sustained acquisition.

Before installation, calculate the payload data rate for every streaming instrument. Include protocol overhead, simultaneous acquisitions, storage write speed and real-time analysis requirements.

Modules with lower command-and-status traffic, such as switching or serial interfaces, usually place less demand on backplane bandwidth.

775 W Usable Power

The standard 24 GB/s PXIe-1085 provides up to 775 W of usable backplane power. Earlier 12 GB/s configurations provide up to 791 W.

The 24 GB/s version supports maximum rail currents of 60 A at +3.3 V, 49 A at +5 V, 62 A at +12 V, 4 A at −12 V and 2 A at +5 V auxiliary.

Power budgeting must consider the requirements of each voltage rail. A configuration can remain below 775 W overall while exceeding an individual rail or slot limit.

38.25 W Peripheral-Slot Limit

Each peripheral position supports a maximum module dissipation of 38.25 W. The controller position supports up to 140 W.

This limit is important when selecting newer PXI Express instruments. Some current high-speed digitizers, RF transceivers and FPGA modules require more than 38 W of cooling.

For modules exceeding this limit, select a high-power chassis such as the PXIe-1095, which supports substantially greater per-slot cooling.

Replaceable Power-Supply Shuttle

The PXIe-1085 uses a removable power-supply shuttle. NI specifies a replacement time of less than five minutes, helping maintenance personnel restore a system without replacing the complete chassis.

The compatible replacement supply is part number 781719-01. Disconnect AC power and follow the official replacement instructions before servicing the supply.

The PXIe-1085 does not provide redundant hardware. Removing or replacing its supply interrupts system operation.

Power-Supply Protection

The chassis outputs include protection against short circuits and overload conditions with automatic recovery. The 3.3 V and 5 V rails also include overvoltage clamping.

Input overcurrent protection is provided by a 15 A push-reset circuit breaker on the rear panel.

Protection features reduce the likelihood of damage but do not replace correct module installation, power budgeting or external circuit protection.

Three-Fan Cooling System

Three 169 CFM fans provide positive-pressure forced-air cooling for installed modules. The fan-speed selector supports Auto and High modes.

Cooling air enters through the lower rear of the chassis, moves upward through the instrument slots and exits through the top and both sides.

The power supply uses two integrated fans with air moving from the right side toward the left side of the chassis.

Maintaining Correct Airflow

Every unused position should be covered with a filler panel. Open slots allow cooling air to bypass active instruments and can create uneven module temperatures.

Do not block the bottom-rear intake, top exhaust or side vents. Rack shelves, cable trays and nearby instruments must be arranged to preserve the intended airflow.

Use High fan mode when the ambient environment, rack configuration or installed module load requires maximum cooling.

Chassis Status Indicators

Front-panel indicators provide information about temperature, cooling-fan operation and power status. These indicators help operators identify problems during installation and maintenance.

A warning should be investigated promptly. Continuing to operate after a fan or temperature fault can reduce hardware reliability or cause an unexpected shutdown.

Preventive maintenance should include inspection of air intakes, filler panels, fan operation and accumulated dust.

External 10 MHz Reference Input

A front-panel SMA input accepts an external 10 MHz reference with a frequency tolerance of ±100 ppm. The supported input amplitude is 200 mVpp to 5 Vpp for a sine or square waveform.

The connector has a 50 Ω nominal input impedance. Use correctly terminated coaxial cabling to reduce reflections and clock-distribution errors.

The system timing slot can also accept a compatible PXI_CLK10_IN signal from an installed timing module.

External 10 MHz Reference Output

The front-panel 10 MHz REF OUT SMA provides the chassis reference to compatible external equipment or another measurement system.

The output supplies approximately 1 Vpp into 50 Ω or 2 Vpp when unloaded, with 50 Ω nominal output impedance.

When distributing the reference to multiple destinations, use suitable clock-distribution hardware rather than unsupported passive loading.

PXI Express Timing Resources

The backplane distributes PXI_CLK10, PXIe_CLK100 and PXIe_SYNC100. PXI_CLK10 provides ±25 ppm accuracy and a maximum slot-to-slot skew of 500 ps.

PXIe_CLK100 also provides ±25 ppm accuracy, with a maximum slot-to-slot skew of 100 ps. PXI star triggering supports 250 ps maximum slot-to-slot skew.

PXI Express differential star resources support a maximum slot-to-slot skew of 150 ps and maximum differential skew of 25 ps.

Remote Inhibit and Voltage Monitoring

A rear-panel eight-pin connector supports remote inhibit, fault indication and voltage-monitoring functions. The inhibit mode selector determines how the chassis responds to the external control signal.

This interface can integrate the PXIe-1085 into a centralized rack power sequence or system safety architecture.

Remote-control wiring must follow the user manual. The AC power cord remains the primary means of completely disconnecting the chassis from power.

Ethernet Chassis Monitoring

A rear-panel Ethernet connection supports compatible chassis monitoring and configuration functions. System administrators can use the applicable NI utilities to review chassis information.

This connection is intended for chassis management rather than serving as the embedded controller’s primary measurement-data network interface.

Embedded and Remote Control

A compatible embedded PXI Express controller can be installed to create a self-contained automated test system. This arrangement keeps processing, storage and instrumentation in one chassis.

A compatible remote-control interface allows an external workstation or server to manage the installed instruments. This provides greater freedom to select computing and storage hardware.

The controller must support the backplane link configuration required to take advantage of the chassis’s maximum bandwidth.

Benchtop and Rack Installation

The chassis measures approximately 177.1 mm high, 464.8 mm wide and 492.3 mm deep. It weighs approximately 18.28 kg before controllers, modules and cables are installed.

Optional front and rear rack-mount kits allow the chassis to be installed in compatible cabinets. Its symmetrical mounting holes support different equipment orientations.

Use appropriate rack support and safe lifting practices. Heavy signal cables should be supported independently instead of placing excessive force on module front panels.

PXIe-1085 Applications

• High-throughput automated test equipment
• High-speed multichannel data acquisition
• RF and wireless-device testing
• Semiconductor characterization
• Mixed-signal electronic validation
• Aerospace and defense testing
• Automotive ECU and HIL validation
• High-speed digitizer systems
• FPGA-based signal processing
• Production functional testing
• Research laboratory automation
• Synchronized stimulus-and-response testing

High-Throughput Automated Testing

The 24 GB/s backplane makes the PXIe-1085 suitable for test systems that must acquire, process and store data from several instruments concurrently.

TestStand, LabVIEW or another supported environment can coordinate measurement, switching, stimulus and result-management operations.

High-Speed Data Acquisition

Multiple digitizers and DAQ modules can share the chassis for synchronized multichannel acquisition. The system timing slot supports compatible clock and trigger-distribution hardware.

Overall performance depends on controller bandwidth, module placement, sample format, processing load and storage speed.

RF and Wireless Testing

Vector signal analyzers, signal generators, RF switches and high-speed digitizers can be combined for automated wireless-device and RF component testing.

The high-bandwidth backplane is useful when RF instruments stream wideband I/Q data to the controller for analysis.

Semiconductor Characterization

Semiconductor systems can combine source measure units, digital instruments, switches, waveform devices and digitizers in one synchronized platform.

The 16 hybrid slots also support selected legacy PXI instruments used in established characterization systems.

Aerospace and Defense Validation

The chassis can host avionics interfaces, digitizers, arbitrary waveform generators, timing modules and switching hardware for aerospace subsystem validation.

External reference-clock connections allow the PXI system to coordinate with compatible laboratory timing equipment.

Automotive and HIL Testing

Real-time controllers, FPGA modules, vehicle communication interfaces, fault-insertion switches and analog I/O can be combined for ECU validation.

Verify the controller’s deterministic processing performance and the 38.25 W per-slot restriction when selecting modules for an HIL system.

Research and Laboratory Automation

The large hybrid backplane provides a reconfigurable platform for research teams using different instrument combinations across several projects.

Modules can be added or replaced as requirements change without discarding the entire test architecture.

PXIe-1085 Installation Workflow

Step 1: Verify the Complete Part Number

Confirm whether the chassis is standard part number 783588-01, an earlier 12 GB/s configuration or special ITER part number 860869-01.

Do not assume every chassis marked PXIe-1085 has identical bandwidth and power specifications.

Step 2: Prepare a Slot Map

List the controller, timing module and peripheral instruments. Record module width, connector type, bandwidth, power consumption and cooling requirement.

Reserve the System Timing Position

Install the compatible timing module in the dedicated PXI Express system timing slot when differential star resources are required.

Account for Controller Width

A multi-slot embedded controller occupies the system slot and adjacent expansion positions, reducing the number of usable peripheral locations.

Step 3: Calculate Power Requirements

Confirm that the 24 GB/s configuration remains within the 775 W total limit and the current capacity of every voltage rail.

Verify that no peripheral module dissipates more than 38.25 W.

Step 4: Prepare the Installation Area

Place the chassis on a stable bench or install it using compatible front and rear rack-mount hardware.

Preserve the bottom-rear intake, top exhaust and side airflow paths. Prevent neighboring instruments from exhausting hot air directly into the chassis.

Step 5: Connect Protective Ground

Connect an approved regional IEC power cord to a properly grounded outlet. Keep the power connector accessible because removing the cord completely disconnects AC power.

Step 6: Power Off Before Installing Modules

Switch off and disconnect the chassis. Follow antistatic precautions when handling the controller, timing module and peripheral instruments.

Step 7: Install the System Controller

Insert the embedded controller or remote-control interface into the system slot. Seat the connectors fully and tighten the retaining screws.

Step 8: Install the Timing Module

Install the timing and synchronization module in the dedicated system timing slot when required by the application.

Step 9: Install Peripheral Modules

Place high-throughput instruments according to the chassis bandwidth topology. Install lower-bandwidth switching and communication modules in the remaining compatible positions.

Step 10: Install Filler Panels

Cover every unused position with the correct filler panel. This maintains electromagnetic compatibility and prevents cooling air from bypassing active modules.

Step 11: Connect Instruments and Fixtures

Connect signal cables, terminal blocks, external timing references and test fixtures. Support heavy cables and maintain the required bend radius.

Step 12: Power On and Check Chassis Status

Turn on the chassis and verify that its power, temperature and fan indicators show normal operation.

Step 13: Detect the Hardware

Use NI Measurement & Automation Explorer to identify the chassis and installed modules. Install compatible drivers and run available self-tests.

Step 14: Validate System Performance

Run representative simultaneous acquisitions and confirm backplane throughput, storage performance, synchronization and thermal stability before production use.

PXIe-1085 Troubleshooting

The PXIe-1085 Does Not Power On

Confirm that the power cord and outlet are functional and within the 90 VAC to 264 VAC operating range. Check the rear push-reset circuit breaker and front-panel power switch.

If remote inhibit is configured, inspect the rear connector and inhibit-mode selection.

The Circuit Breaker Trips Repeatedly

Disconnect the chassis and remove peripheral loads before resetting the breaker. Repeated tripping may indicate an overload, defective module or power-supply fault.

Do not repeatedly reset the circuit breaker without identifying the cause.

An Installed Module Is Not Detected

Power down the chassis and reseat the module. Confirm hybrid connector compatibility and install the correct device driver.

Use NI MAX to rescan the system. Testing the module in another supported slot can help isolate a slot, driver or module problem.

Data Throughput Is Lower Than Expected

Confirm that the chassis is the 24 GB/s part number and that the controller supports the required link configuration.

Check module placement, DMA settings, CPU usage, storage speed and simultaneous transfers. The 24 GB/s figure is the aggregate chassis maximum.

The Chassis Reports a Fan Fault

Inspect the corresponding fan module and check for blocked airflow or foreign material. Replace a defective fan using the approved PXIe-1085 fan service procedure.

Monitor temperature and reduce system load until normal cooling is restored.

The Chassis Reports Excessive Temperature

Check that filler panels cover every unused position and that the bottom-rear intake, top exhaust and side vents remain open.

Inspect fan operation, ambient temperature and rack exhaust. Select High fan mode when additional cooling is required.

External Clock Synchronization Does Not Work

Confirm that the reference source is 10 MHz within ±100 ppm and that its amplitude falls between 200 mVpp and 5 Vpp.

Use 50 Ω cabling and verify connector direction, termination and timing-module configuration.

Remote Power Control Does Not Work

Check the eight-pin rear connector, inhibit-mode switch and signal voltage levels. Verify that the external control circuit shares the required reference.

The Power Supply Has Failed

Turn off the chassis and disconnect AC power before replacing the supply. The PXIe-1085 does not have redundant power supplies and cannot continue operating during replacement.

Use replacement power supply 781719-01 and follow the official service instructions.

The Fans Are Louder Than Expected

High fan mode increases sound pressure to approximately 64.1 dBA. Auto mode is quieter under supported lower-temperature conditions.

Do not reduce fan speed when the ambient environment or module load requires maximum cooling.

A Legacy PXI Module Does Not Fit

Not every conventional PXI module supports hybrid connectors. Check the module documentation and never force an incompatible backplane connector.

PXIe-1085 Comparison

PXIe-1085 vs PXIe-1084

The PXIe-1084 provides more hybrid positions and up to 58 W of cooling per slot, but its standard system bandwidth is lower.

Choose the PXIe-1085 for high-throughput acquisition. Choose the PXIe-1084 when higher per-slot cooling and maximum hybrid-slot capacity are more important than backplane bandwidth.

PXIe-1085 vs PXIe-1086

The PXIe-1086 provides 12 GB/s bandwidth and redundant hot-swappable power and cooling hardware.

The PXIe-1085 offers higher 24 GB/s bandwidth but does not provide redundant hardware. Select between them according to whether throughput or service availability is the primary requirement.

PXIe-1085 vs PXIe-1095

The PXIe-1095 provides the same 24 GB/s headline bandwidth with up to 82 W of power and cooling per slot. It also supports hot-swappable power supplies.

The PXIe-1085 offers 16 hybrid positions, making it better suited to systems containing numerous hybrid-compatible legacy PXI modules. The PXIe-1095 is better suited to newer high-power PXI Express instrumentation.

Selecting the Right PXI Express Chassis

Choose the PXIe-1085 when the system requires 24 GB/s aggregate bandwidth, 16 hybrid peripheral positions and a dedicated system timing slot.

Select a higher-cooling chassis when any module requires more than 38.25 W. Select a redundant chassis when continuous operation must survive a single power-supply or cooling-component failure.

Why Choose the PXIe-1085?

• Provides 24 GB/s aggregate system bandwidth
• Supports 16 hybrid-compatible peripheral modules
• Includes a dedicated PXI Express system timing slot
• Provides 775 W of usable power in the 24 GB/s version
• Supports external 10 MHz reference input and output
• Supports PXI and PXI Express star-trigger resources
• Provides remote inhibit and voltage monitoring
• Uses a serviceable modular power-supply shuttle
• Supports embedded and remote-control architectures
• Operates from 0°C to 55°C

PXIe-1085 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PXIe-1085?

The PXIe-1085 is an 18-slot high-bandwidth PXI Express chassis for automated test, high-speed acquisition, RF measurement and electronic validation.

What is the standard PXIe-1085 part number?

The standard 24 GB/s version is part number 783588-01.

What is part number 860869-01?

Part number 860869-01 is a special ITER configuration. Confirm its backplane specification and project compatibility before using it as a substitute for 783588-01.

How many peripheral slots does it provide?

The chassis provides 17 peripheral positions: 16 hybrid slots and one PXI Express system timing slot.

What is the maximum system bandwidth?

Standard part number 783588-01 provides up to 24 GB/s of aggregate system bandwidth.

What is the maximum available power?

The 24 GB/s version provides up to 775 W of usable backplane power. Earlier 12 GB/s configurations provide up to 791 W.

What is the maximum peripheral-slot power?

The maximum permitted peripheral-slot dissipation is 38.25 W. The controller slot supports up to 140 W.

Does the PXIe-1085 have redundant power supplies?

No. It uses one replaceable power-supply shuttle and does not provide redundant hardware.

What is the replacement power-supply part number?

The compatible replacement power supply is 781719-01.

Can the power supply be replaced while operating?

No. Because the chassis has no redundant supply, it must be shut down and disconnected from AC power before replacement.

Does it include a system timing slot?

Yes. The standard PXIe-1085 includes one dedicated PXI Express system timing slot.

Does it support an external reference clock?

Yes. Front-panel SMA connections provide 10 MHz reference input and output.

Can conventional PXI modules be installed?

Compatible hybrid-connector PXI modules can be installed in the 16 hybrid peripheral slots.

Can the PXIe-1085 be rack mounted?

Yes. Optional front and rear rack-mount kits support compatible instrument cabinets.

What is the current lifecycle status?

NI currently lists standard part number 783588-01 as available, while special part number 860869-01 is shown under Limited Support. Always verify availability using the complete part number.

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Request a Quote for the PXIe-1085

Contact us for current availability, lead time and project pricing for the NI PXIe-1085 18-Slot 24 GB/s PXI Express Chassis. Please provide the required part number, controller, module list and destination country so that we can confirm bandwidth, compatibility, power cords and rack-mounting accessories.