Product Introduction
Земля NI cRIO-9046 is an 8-slot CompactRIO embedded controller designed for industrial control, data acquisition, machine monitoring, distributed measurement, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and other demanding embedded measurement applications.
The cRIO-9046 combines a 1.30 GHz dual-core processor, 2 ГБ ОЗУ, 4 GB internal storage, a user-programmable Xilinx Kintex-7 70T FPGA, and eight slots for compatible C Series I/O modules in a rugged industrial platform.
It also supports НИ-DAQmx, LabVIEW FPGA, Time Sensitive Networking (TSN), Gigabit Ethernet, serial communication, USB connectivity, and removable SD storage, making the cRIO-9046 a flexible platform for embedded monitoring and deterministic control.
Product Overview
Земля National Instruments cRIO-9046 integrates real-time processing, FPGA-based I/O control, networking, and modular C Series instrumentation into a single embedded controller.
Its basic architecture can be represented as:
Sensors / Actuators → C Series Modules → FPGA → Real-Time Processor → Ethernet / Storage / Host System
The eight-slot chassis provides significantly more I/O capacity than four-slot CompactRIO controllers while retaining the compact, rugged architecture of the CompactRIO platform.
Типичные применения включают:
- Industrial control
- Machine automation
- Мониторинг состояния
- Распределенный сбор данных
- Hardware-in-the-loop testing
- Automotive test
- Энергетические системы
- Structural monitoring
- Встраиваемые тестовые системы
- Research and development
Key Features
8-Slot CompactRIO Architecture
The cRIO-9046 provides eight slots for compatible C Series I/O modules.
This allows engineers to combine multiple measurement and control functions in a single embedded system.
Compatible C Series module categories can include:
- Analog input
- Analog output
- Digital input
- Digital output
- Измерение температуры
- Dynamic signal acquisition
- Измерение деформации и растяжения
- Relay control
- CAN связь
- Последовательная связь
- Specialty industrial I/O
1.30 GHz Dual-Core Processor
The cRIO-9046 uses a 1.30 GHz dual-core embedded processor for running real-time control, logging, networking, data processing, and system-management applications.
Typical processor-level functions include:
- Real-time control loops
- Регистрация данных
- Alarm management
- Сетевая связь
- File management
- Measurement analysis
- User-interface communication
2 GB Processor DRAM
The cRIO-9046 provides 2 GB of processor DRAM.
This memory supports the real-time operating system, embedded applications, data processing, communication tasks, and measurement buffering.
4 GB Internal Storage
The controller includes approximately 4 GB of internal nonvolatile storage.
Internal storage can be used for:
- Operating system files
- Deployed applications
- Configuration files
- Local data logging
- Diagnostic information
SD Card Slot
The cRIO-9046 includes an Слот для SD-карты for removable storage.
This makes the controller especially useful in long-term monitoring and distributed logging applications where additional local storage is required.
Typical uses include:
- Extended data logging
- Field data collection
- Measurement file transfer
- Application backup
- Remote monitoring systems
Xilinx Kintex-7 70T FPGA
The cRIO-9046 includes a user-programmable Xilinx Kintex-7 70T FPGA.
The FPGA can execute deterministic hardware logic independently of the operating system.
Типичные области применения FPGA включают:
- High-speed control loops
- Пользовательские цифровые протоколы
- Hardware triggering
- Обработка кодировщика
- Генерация ШИМ
- Signal preprocessing
- Hardware interlocks
- Real-time event detection
FPGA Resources
The Kintex-7 70T FPGA provides substantial programmable logic resources for embedded control and measurement applications.
FPGA-based execution is particularly useful when precise timing, low latency, or parallel hardware processing is required.
NI Linux Real-Time
The cRIO-9046 operates with NI Linux Real-Time, providing a deterministic embedded operating system for industrial control and measurement.
The real-time environment enables the controller to execute deployed applications independently of a desktop PC.
NI-DAQmx Support
The cRIO-9046 supports НИ-DAQmx with compatible C Series modules.
This allows standard data acquisition applications to be developed without requiring custom FPGA programming in every project.
Depending on the module and application, engineers can select between:
- NI-DAQmx mode
- Real-Time Scan mode
- LabVIEW FPGA mode
LabVIEW FPGA Support
The Kintex-7 FPGA can be programmed with the compatible LabVIEW FPGA development environment.
This allows engineers to create custom hardware logic for:
- Digital protocol communication
- Симуляция с аппаратным входом
- Rapid control prototyping
- Custom triggering
- Высокоскоростная обработка сигналов
- Deterministic machine control
Two Gigabit Ethernet Ports
The cRIO-9046 provides two Ethernet ports, supporting flexible network architectures for distributed monitoring and industrial control.
Ethernet connectivity can be used for:
- Host communication
- Remote monitoring
- Data transfer
- Distributed measurement
- System deployment
- TSN synchronization
Time Sensitive Networking
The cRIO-9046 supports Time Sensitive Networking (TSN).
TSN provides hardware-based time synchronization across compatible Ethernet devices using IEEE 802.1AS.
This is particularly valuable in distributed systems where several controllers or measurement nodes need a common synchronized timebase.
IEEE 802.1AS Synchronization
The cRIO-9046 is compatible with IEEE 802.1AS synchronization through its TSN architecture.
Compatible TSN devices can achieve significantly tighter hardware-level synchronization than conventional software-only Ethernet timing.
Области применения включают:
- Распределенный сбор данных
- Multi-controller test systems
- Structural monitoring
- Синхронизация машины
- Industrial measurement networks
USB 3.1 Connectivity
The cRIO-9046 provides USB 3.1 connectivity.
USB 3.1 can be used with compatible peripherals and local human-machine-interface hardware.
It also provides a convenient interface for system development, deployment, and debugging.
USB 2.0 Connectivity
The controller also includes USB 2.0 connectivity for compatible peripheral and maintenance applications.
RS232 Serial Port
The cRIO-9046 includes RS232 communication.
RS232 is useful for interfacing with legacy industrial instruments, controllers, sensors, and other serial devices.
RS485 Serial Port
The controller also provides RS485 connectivity.
RS485 is widely used in industrial environments because it supports differential serial communication and longer cable distances than conventional RS232.
Extended -40 °C to 70 °C Temperature Range
The cRIO-9046 is designed for industrial environments with an operating temperature range of approximately -40 °C до 70 °C.
This makes it suitable for embedded systems operating in locations where conventional desktop computers or laboratory DAQ hardware may not be appropriate.
Technical Specifications
| Параметр | Спецификация |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Компактный контроллерRIO |
| Модель | NI cRIO-9046 |
| Part Number | 786370-01 |
| Platform | CompactRIO |
| C Series Slots | 8 |
| Процессор | Dual-Core Embedded CPU |
| Частота процессора | 1.30 GHz |
| Processor DRAM | 2 GB |
| Internal Storage | 4 GB |
| Removable Storage | SD Card Slot |
| Операционная система | NI Linux Real-Time |
| ФПГА | Xilinx Kintex-7 70T |
| FPGA Programming | LabVIEW FPGA Supported |
| НИ-DAQmx | Supported |
| Ethernet-порты | 2 |
| Ethernet | Гигабитный Ethernet |
| ТСН | Supported |
| Time Synchronization | IEEE 802.1AS |
| USB | USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 |
| Serial Interfaces | RS232 and RS485 |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C до 70 °C |
| Primary Applications | Industrial Control, Data Acquisition, HIL Test, Condition Monitoring and Distributed Measurement |
What Is CompactRIO?
CompactRIO is a modular embedded measurement and control platform that combines a real-time processor, FPGA, and C Series I/O.
A typical CompactRIO system consists of:
- Embedded controller
- Real-time operating system
- User-programmable FPGA
- Модули ввода-вывода серии C
- Industrial networking
This architecture allows measurement and control applications to run independently in industrial environments.
How Does the cRIO-9046 Work?
Signals from sensors and industrial equipment enter the cRIO-9046 through installed C Series modules.
Depending on the application, the data can be processed using FPGA logic, NI-DAQmx, or real-time software.
A typical data path is:
Sensor → C Series Module → FPGA / DAQmx → Real-Time Processor → Storage / Ethernet / Control Output
This architecture provides flexibility for both conventional DAQ and highly customized deterministic control applications.
cRIO-9046 for Data Acquisition
The eight C Series slots allow the cRIO-9046 to support a broad combination of measurement modules.
Depending on the installed modules, the system can acquire:
- Voltage
- Current
- Temperature
- Thermocouple signals
- RTD signals
- Strain
- Bridge sensors
- Acceleration
- Vibration
- Digital signals
cRIO-9046 for Industrial Control
The combination of real-time software and FPGA hardware makes the cRIO-9046 suitable for deterministic control systems.
Типичные применения включают:
- Управление машиной
- Process control
- Промышленная автоматизация
- Управление испытательным стендом
- Motion-related applications
- Safety monitoring
- Custom embedded control
Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing
The cRIO-9046 can be used in hardware-in-the-loop systems where deterministic I/O and real-time simulation are required.
FPGA and C Series I/O can be used to simulate sensors and acquire actuator or controller signals.
A simplified architecture is:
Real-Time Model → FPGA → C Series I/O → Controller Under Test
Typical HIL applications include automotive controllers, industrial controllers, motor-control systems, and embedded electronics.
Мониторинг состояния
The cRIO-9046 can be paired with compatible dynamic signal acquisition and temperature modules for condition-monitoring systems.
Measurements can include:
- Vibration
- Acceleration
- Temperature
- Rotational speed
- Pressure
- Acoustic signals
The embedded controller can process measurements locally before storing or transmitting results.
Machine Monitoring
Eight C Series slots provide sufficient capacity for combining several sensor types in one monitoring node.
Например:
Vibration Module → Machine Bearing Sensors
Temperature Module → Motor Temperature
Digital Module → Speed / Encoder Signals
Analog Module → Process Signals
All measurements can be coordinated by the cRIO-9046 embedded controller.
Distributed Data Acquisition
The two Ethernet ports and TSN capability make the cRIO-9046 suitable for distributed measurement networks.
Multiple synchronized nodes can be placed close to sensors rather than routing long analog cables back to one central measurement system.
A typical architecture is:
cRIO Node 1 ↔ TSN Network ↔ cRIO Node 2 ↔ Additional Measurement Nodes
TSN vs Conventional Ethernet Timing
| Функция | ТСН | Conventional Ethernet |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware Time Synchronization | Да | Not Inherently |
| IEEE 802.1AS | Supported | Not Required |
| Distributed Measurement | Highly Suitable | Possible with Additional Timing Methods |
| Deterministic Network Timing | Improved | Ограниченный |
Real-Time Processor vs FPGA
| Function | Real-Time Processor | ФПГА |
|---|---|---|
| Execution Type | Software | Hardware Parallel Logic |
| Control Algorithms | Excellent | Possible |
| High-Speed I/O Timing | Good | Excellent |
| Custom Protocols | Software Based | Hardware Based |
| Networking | Primary Resource | Application Dependent |
| Data Logging | Primary Resource | Usually Transfers Data to Processor |
NI-DAQmx vs LabVIEW FPGA
| Функция | НИ-DAQmx | LabVIEW FPGA |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Data Acquisition | Excellent | Supported |
| Programming Complexity | Lower | Higher |
| Custom Hardware Timing | Limited to Supported Functions | Highly Customizable |
| Custom Digital Protocols | Ограниченный | Excellent |
| Deterministic FPGA Processing | No Custom Logic | Да |
C Series Module Compatibility
The cRIO-9046 supports a wide range of compatible C Series modules.
Common categories include:
- C Series Analog Input Modules
- C Series Analog Output Modules
- C Series Temperature Measurement Modules
- C Series Dynamic Signal Modules
- C Series Digital Input Modules
- C Series Digital Output Modules
- C Series Relay Modules
- C Series Communication Modules
- C Series Counter Modules
- C Series Specialty Modules
Compatibility should always be verified for the exact module, driver version, and selected operating mode.
Analog Measurement Applications
Compatible analog input modules allow the cRIO-9046 to acquire industrial and sensor signals.
Typical measurements can include:
- ±10 V signals
- 4–20 mA current loops
- Pressure sensors
- Bridge sensors
- Промышленные передатчики
- Power and energy signals
Temperature Measurement
Compatible thermocouple and RTD modules can be installed for embedded temperature monitoring.
Области применения включают:
- Machine monitoring
- Battery testing
- Экологические испытания
- Industrial process monitoring
- Thermal validation
Vibration and Condition Monitoring
Dynamic signal C Series modules can be used with accelerometers and IEPE sensors for machine-condition monitoring.
The cRIO-9046 can perform local signal processing and only transmit calculated health metrics or relevant waveform data to the supervisory system.
Digital I/O Applications
Compatible C Series digital modules provide industrial digital input and output functionality.
Applications can include:
- Switch monitoring
- Relay control
- Encoder input
- Измерение пульса
- Генерация ШИМ
- Machine status monitoring
- Industrial interlocks
RS232 and RS485 Applications
The built-in serial interfaces allow external equipment to be integrated without necessarily occupying a C Series slot.
Typical devices can include:
- Serial sensors
- Industrial instruments
- Legacy controllers
- Motor drives
- Embedded devices
Standalone Data Logging
The combination of internal storage and an SD card slot allows the cRIO-9046 to operate as a standalone industrial data logger.
A typical architecture is:
Sensors → C Series Modules → cRIO-9046 → Internal / SD Storage
Measurement data can later be transmitted over Ethernet or retrieved locally.
cRIO-9046 vs cRIO-9043
The cRIO-9046 and cRIO-9043 share the same 1.30 GHz dual-core processor class and both support NI Linux Real-Time, NI-DAQmx, FPGA programming, and TSN. However, their I/O capacity and FPGA architecture differ.
| Функция | cRIO-9046 | cRIO-9043 |
|---|---|---|
| C Series Slots | 8 | 4 |
| Процессор | 1.30 GHz Dual-Core | 1.30 GHz Dual-Core |
| Processor DRAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| ФПГА | Кинтекс-7 70Т | Кинтекс-7 160Т |
| Primary Advantage | More C Series I/O Slots | Larger FPGA |
Choose the cRIO-9046 when eight I/O slots are more important, and evaluate the cRIO-9043 when the application requires fewer slots but substantially more FPGA resources.
cRIO-9046 vs cRIO-9048
The cRIO-9046 and cRIO-9048 are both eight-slot CompactRIO controllers using a 1.30 GHz dual-core processor architecture. The cRIO-9048 provides a larger FPGA and additional internal storage.
| Функция | cRIO-9046 | cRIO-9048 |
|---|---|---|
| C Series Slots | 8 | 8 |
| Процессор | 1.30 GHz Dual-Core | 1.30 GHz Dual-Core |
| DRAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Internal Storage | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| ФПГА | Кинтекс-7 70Т | Кинтекс-7 160Т |
| Primary Advantage | Standard FPGA Resource Requirements | Larger FPGA and Storage |
cRIO-9046 vs Traditional PLC
| Функция | cRIO-9046 | Traditional PLC |
|---|---|---|
| Real-Time Processor | Да | Да |
| User-Programmable FPGA | Да | Usually No |
| Measurement I/O | Extensive C Series Options | More Limited in Many Systems |
| Custom Hardware Timing | Excellent | More Limited |
| Industrial Control | Да | Да |
| Advanced Data Acquisition | Strong | Application Dependent |
cRIO-9046 vs PC-Based DAQ
| Функция | cRIO-9046 | PC-Based DAQ |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone Operation | Да | Usually Requires PC |
| Real-Time OS | NI Linux Real-Time | Usually Desktop OS |
| User FPGA | Да | Hardware Dependent |
| Industrial Temperature Range | -40 °C до 70 °C | Hardware Dependent |
| Modular Sensor I/O | C Series | Platform Dependent |
How to Choose a CompactRIO Controller
Before purchasing the cRIO-9046, engineers should evaluate:
- Required number of C Series modules
- Processor performance
- FPGA resource requirements
- Memory requirements
- Internal storage requirements
- Need for removable SD storage
- Ethernet port requirements
- TSN synchronization requirements
- RS232 and RS485 requirements
- USB peripheral requirements
- Operating temperature
- NI-DAQmx requirements
- LabVIEW FPGA requirements
- Exact C Series module compatibility
Software and Programming
The cRIO-9046 can be used with compatible NI software for real-time control, data acquisition, FPGA programming, and embedded system development.
Software options can include:
- ЛабВью
- LabVIEW Real-Time
- LabVIEW FPGA
- НИ-DAQmx
- FlexLogger
- Compatible NI configuration tools
Software version compatibility should always be verified before deploying or upgrading an existing CompactRIO system.
Industries
- Промышленная автоматизация
- Automotive Testing
- Энергетические системы
- Мониторинг состояния
- Machine Control
- Аэрокосмическая и оборонная промышленность
- Transportation
- Structural Testing
- Embedded Systems
- Research and Development
Applications
Industrial Control
The cRIO-9046 combines real-time processing, FPGA control, and modular C Series I/O for deterministic industrial control applications.
Data Acquisition
Eight C Series slots provide a scalable platform for acquiring voltage, current, temperature, strain, vibration, digital, and other sensor signals.
Hardware-in-the-Loop Test
FPGA-based deterministic I/O and real-time processing make the cRIO-9046 suitable for compatible HIL and controller-test applications.
Мониторинг состояния
Dynamic signal, temperature, and digital C Series modules can be combined for embedded machine and asset monitoring.
Distributed Measurement
Two Gigabit Ethernet interfaces and TSN synchronization support distributed data acquisition architectures.
Standalone Data Logging
Internal storage and removable SD storage make the cRIO-9046 suitable for unattended and remote data-logging systems.
Recommended Related Products
| NI cRIO-9046 | 8-slot CompactRIO controller with 1.30 GHz dual-core processor, Kintex-7 70T FPGA, 2 GB DRAM, TSN, and removable SD storage. |
| NI cRIO-9043 | 4-slot CompactRIO controller with a larger Kintex-7 160T FPGA for applications requiring fewer I/O slots and more FPGA resources. |
| NI cRIO-9048 | 8-slot CompactRIO controller with Kintex-7 160T FPGA and 8 GB internal storage for more FPGA-intensive applications. |
| NI C Series Analog Input Modules | Modular analog measurement hardware for voltage, current, sensors, and industrial data acquisition. |
| NI C Series Digital I/O Modules | Digital input and output hardware for machine status, control, encoder, pulse, and industrial automation applications. |
| NI C Series Temperature Modules | Thermocouple and RTD measurement modules for embedded temperature monitoring and validation. |
Why Choose NI cRIO-9046?
- 8 C Series I/O slots
- 1.30 GHz dual-core processor
- 2 GB processor DRAM
- 4 GB internal storage
- Removable SD card support
- Xilinx Kintex-7 70T FPGA
- NI Linux Real-Time
- NI-DAQmx support
- LabVIEW FPGA support
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
- TSN and IEEE 802.1AS synchronization
- USB 3.1 and USB 2.0
- RS232 and RS485 interfaces
- -40 °C to 70 °C operating range
- Suitable for industrial control
- Suitable for distributed measurement
- Suitable for condition monitoring
- Suitable for HIL testing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NI cRIO-9046?
The NI cRIO-9046 is an 8-slot CompactRIO embedded controller with a 1.30 GHz dual-core processor, 2 GB DRAM, 4 GB storage, Kintex-7 70T FPGA, TSN networking, and support for modular C Series I/O.
What is the part number of the cRIO-9046?
The NI ordering part number for the cRIO-9046 is 786370-01.
How many C Series slots does the cRIO-9046 have?
The cRIO-9046 provides eight C Series I/O slots.
What processor does the cRIO-9046 use?
The cRIO-9046 uses a 1.30 GHz dual-core embedded processor.
How much RAM does the cRIO-9046 have?
The controller provides 2 GB of processor DRAM.
How much internal storage does the cRIO-9046 have?
The cRIO-9046 provides approximately 4 GB of internal storage.
Does the cRIO-9046 have an SD card slot?
Yes. The controller includes an SD card slot for removable data storage.
What FPGA does the cRIO-9046 use?
The cRIO-9046 uses a Xilinx Kintex-7 70T FPGA.
Does the cRIO-9046 support LabVIEW FPGA?
Yes. The onboard FPGA can be programmed using compatible LabVIEW FPGA software.
Does the cRIO-9046 support NI-DAQmx?
Yes. The cRIO-9046 supports NI-DAQmx operation with compatible C Series modules.
Does the cRIO-9046 support TSN?
Yes. The cRIO-9046 supports Time Sensitive Networking and IEEE 802.1AS hardware-based network synchronization.
How many Ethernet ports does the cRIO-9046 have?
The cRIO-9046 provides two Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Does the cRIO-9046 have RS232?
Yes. The controller provides built-in RS232 serial connectivity.
Does the cRIO-9046 have RS485?
Yes. The cRIO-9046 also provides built-in RS485 serial communication.
Does the cRIO-9046 support USB 3.1?
Yes. USB 3.1 connectivity is available for compatible peripherals, local HMI applications, development, deployment, and debugging.
Can the cRIO-9046 operate without a PC?
Yes. Once an embedded application is deployed, the cRIO-9046 can operate as a standalone real-time controller without requiring a continuously connected host computer.
Can the cRIO-9046 be used for data logging?
Yes. The combination of internal storage and an SD card slot makes the controller particularly suitable for local and remote data-logging applications.
Can the cRIO-9046 be used for HIL testing?
Yes. The real-time processor, user-programmable FPGA, and modular C Series I/O architecture make it suitable for compatible hardware-in-the-loop and controller-validation systems.
What is the difference between cRIO-9046 and cRIO-9043?
The cRIO-9046 provides eight C Series slots and uses a Kintex-7 70T FPGA, while the cRIO-9043 provides four slots and uses the larger Kintex-7 160T FPGA. The cRIO-9046 is better suited when more I/O slots are required, while the cRIO-9043 provides more FPGA resources.
What is the difference between cRIO-9046 and cRIO-9048?
Both provide eight C Series slots and a 1.30 GHz dual-core processor. The cRIO-9048 uses the larger Kintex-7 160T FPGA and provides 8 GB internal storage, while the cRIO-9046 uses a Kintex-7 70T FPGA and provides 4 GB internal storage.
What is the operating temperature of the cRIO-9046?
The cRIO-9046 is specified for operation from approximately -40 °C до 70 °C, making it suitable for many industrial and embedded environments.
What should I check before purchasing a cRIO-9046?
Before purchasing the cRIO-9046, verify the required C Series slot count, FPGA resources, processor requirements, RAM and storage requirements, SD card needs, Ethernet and TSN requirements, serial communication requirements, operating temperature, C Series module compatibility, software versions, and the exact NI ordering part number.
Заключение
Земля NI cRIO-9046 8-Slot CompactRIO Controller combines a 1.30 GHz dual-core processor, 2 GB DRAM, 4 GB internal storage, removable SD storage, a Kintex-7 70T FPGA, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, TSN synchronization, USB, RS232, RS485, and eight C Series module slots in a rugged real-time embedded platform. These capabilities make the cRIO-9046 particularly suitable for industrial control, condition monitoring, distributed data acquisition, hardware-in-the-loop testing, machine monitoring, remote data logging, and advanced embedded measurement systems.
