PXIe-8821

PXIe-8821 2.6 GHz Dual-Core PXI Embedded Controller

Земля NI PXIe-8821 is a four-slot PXI Express embedded controller designed for automated test, measurement, data acquisition and industrial control systems. It combines an Intel Core i3 dual-core processor, integrated storage, standard computer interfaces and direct access to the PXI Express backplane in a compact modular platform.

The controller uses a 2.6 GHz Intel Core i3-4110E processor and supports maximum controller-to-chassis bandwidth of 2 GB/s. Depending on the part number, the PXIe-8821 is available without an operating system, with Windows 10 64-bit, with LabVIEW Real-Time based on Phar Lap or with NI Linux Real-Time.

Integrated interfaces include Gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, an RS-232 serial port, DisplayPort video output and PXI trigger-bus connectivity. These interfaces allow the PXIe-8821 to operate as the central computer for a self-contained PXI Express test system.

Key Features of the PXIe-8821

• 2.6 GHz Intel Core i3-4110E dual-core processor
• 3 MB on-die last-level cache
• 2 GB standard DDR3L memory
• 8 GB maximum supported memory
• Single-channel 1600 MHz DDR3L architecture
• 2 GB/s maximum controller bandwidth
• 320 GB minimum integrated SATA hard drive
• One 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet port
• Two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports
• Two USB 2.0 Hi-Speed ports
• One RS-232 serial interface
• DisplayPort 1.2 video output
• Multiple-monitor daisy-chain support
• PXI trigger-bus input and output
• Windows and LabVIEW Real-Time configurations
• Four-wide 3U PXI Express module
• Suitable for compact and portable PXI systems

PXIe-8821 Technical Specifications

Configuration-dependent characteristics must be verified against the exact part number. Extended-temperature versions may use an 80 GB minimum SATA solid-state drive rather than the standard 320 GB hard drive.

PXIe-8821 Part Number and Accessories

NI lists multiple PXIe-8821 configurations with different operating systems and support classifications. Because the controller is no longer available for direct purchase from NI, availability through the secondary market, repair eligibility and software compatibility should be confirmed before ordering.

Recommended Software

Compatible PXI Express Chassis

The PXIe-8821 must be installed in the system-controller position of a compatible PXI Express chassis. Suitable chassis selection depends on the required number of instrument slots, cooling capacity, backplane bandwidth and operating environment.

Common system options include the PXIe-1085 PXI Express chassis, PXIe-1092 chassis и PXIe-1095 chassis. Confirm that the chassis provides one system slot and three adjacent controller expansion slots.

Peripheral and Network Accessories

A complete PXIe-8821 installation may require a compatible DisplayPort monitor, USB keyboard and mouse, Ethernet cable, serial cable and external USB storage. These peripherals are normally selected separately according to the application.

The controller does not include an integrated optional GPIB interface. Applications requiring GPIB instrument control can use a separate compatible PXI, USB or Ethernet GPIB interface.

Intel Core i3-4110E Processor

The PXIe-8821 uses an Intel Core i3-4110E processor operating at 2.6 GHz. Its two processing cores allow the controller to execute the operating system, instrument drivers, test software and data-processing routines within the PXI chassis.

The processor includes 3 MB of on-die last-level cache. This helps reduce memory-access delays when repeatedly executing test sequences, communicating with instruments or processing acquired data.

The dual-core architecture is appropriate for many conventional automated test systems. Applications involving intensive multicore processing, large RF data streams or several simultaneous high-speed digitizers may benefit from a newer controller with additional processor cores and higher backplane bandwidth.

2 GB/s Controller Bandwidth

The PXIe-8821 supports a maximum controller bandwidth of 2 GB/s between the embedded controller and the PXI Express chassis backplane. This bandwidth supports automated measurement systems containing data acquisition, switching, digital I/O and moderate-throughput instrumentation.

The actual throughput of a complete system depends on the chassis link configuration, installed modules, data-transfer direction, driver implementation, operating system and application software.

When several instruments transfer data simultaneously, calculate the combined sustained data rate rather than comparing only the peak rate of an individual module with the controller specification.

DDR3L System Memory

The controller includes 2 GB of single-channel 1600 MHz DDR3L memory as standard and supports up to 8 GB. Increasing the installed memory may improve performance when running larger LabVIEW applications, managing extensive user interfaces or buffering acquired data.

Memory requirements should be evaluated together with operating-system overhead, instrument drivers, analysis libraries and other applications running on the controller. Use memory modules approved for the controller’s electrical and mechanical requirements.

320 GB Integrated SATA Storage

Standard configurations provide a minimum 320 GB internal Serial ATA hard drive for the operating system, application files, instrument drivers and test results. The drive is integrated into the controller and is not classified as removable storage.

For continuous data logging, monitor both available capacity and sustained write performance. High-rate acquisition applications may require network streaming, external storage or a newer controller with faster solid-state storage.

Extended-temperature and 24/7 configurations may use an 80 GB minimum SATA solid-state drive. Verify the actual drive type and capacity from the unit configuration before purchase.

Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity

The PXIe-8821 includes one 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet port. It can connect the controller to a laboratory network, production database, remote engineering workstation or real-time development host.

Ethernet connectivity supports software deployment, remote monitoring, file transfer and communication with compatible network instruments. Network configuration should follow the organization’s cybersecurity and equipment-isolation requirements.

For LabVIEW Real-Time systems, the Ethernet interface is commonly used to configure the controller, deploy applications and communicate with the real-time target.

USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 Ports

Two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports and two USB 2.0 Hi-Speed ports provide connections for keyboards, mice, storage devices, license dongles and compatible USB instruments.

High-throughput storage devices should normally be connected to USB 3.0. Lower-bandwidth peripherals can use the USB 2.0 ports, leaving the faster interfaces available for devices that benefit from additional transfer performance.

USB devices draw power from the controller. The total load of connected peripherals should remain within the supported USB and chassis power limits.

DisplayPort 1.2 Video Output

The controller includes one DisplayPort 1.2 connection for a local monitor. This allows the PXIe-8821 to operate as a self-contained computer with a conventional graphical desktop and locally connected input devices.

The DisplayPort interface supports daisy-chain connection of multiple compatible monitors. Multi-monitor operation also depends on the displays, cabling, adapters and operating-system configuration.

RS-232 Serial Communication

An integrated RS-232 serial port allows the PXIe-8821 to communicate with legacy instruments, environmental chambers, programmable supplies, motion controllers and other serial devices.

Confirm the required baud rate, flow-control method, cable pinout and null-modem arrangement before connecting equipment. RS-232 should not be confused with electrically different standards such as RS-422 or RS-485.

PXI Trigger-Bus Connectivity

The PXIe-8821 supports PXI trigger-bus input and output. Trigger routing helps coordinate the controller and installed instruments during synchronized acquisition, waveform generation and switching operations.

Precise timing performance depends on the chassis, instrument capabilities and trigger-route configuration. Applications requiring advanced clock synchronization should also evaluate the timing resources provided by the chassis and any dedicated PXI timing module.

Windows 10 Configuration

Part number 785545-01 includes Windows 10 64-bit in a multiple-language configuration. This version is suitable for general-purpose automated test applications requiring a desktop operating system, interactive instrument software and conventional Windows development tools.

Before installing current NI software on an older controller, verify that the selected software and driver versions support both Windows 10 and the PXIe-8821 hardware.

LabVIEW Real-Time Configurations

Real-time versions of the PXIe-8821 are intended for control and test systems that require predictable application execution. NI lists both a Phar Lap-based LabVIEW Real-Time configuration and an NI Linux Real-Time configuration.

These operating systems are not interchangeable solely because the controller model is the same. Confirm application compatibility, driver support and required deployment tools for the exact part number.

Real-Time Configuration Switches

The PXIe-8821 provides configuration switches for booting LabVIEW Real-Time, entering safe mode, disabling a startup VI and resetting network settings. The controller reads these switch positions after a system reset.

Safe mode can be used when software or network settings prevent normal access to the controller. The startup-VI switch helps recover a target that becomes inaccessible after automatically launching an application.

Front-Panel Status Indicators

A DRIVE LED indicates access to the internal storage device. The PWR OK/FAULT LED reports normal power, power-regulation problems, boot power-rail faults and thermal shutdown conditions.

The controller also provides two user-programmable, bi-color indicators identified as USER1 and USER2. LabVIEW applications can use these indicators to show application state, connection status, test progress or custom warnings.

Four-Slot Embedded Controller Design

The PXIe-8821 is a four-wide 3U PXI Express module. It occupies the chassis system-controller slot and three adjacent controller expansion slots.

This integrated design places the computer directly inside the measurement chassis. It removes the need for an external desktop computer and remote-control link, producing a compact and transportable system.

The four-slot requirement must be included when calculating available instrument capacity. For example, an 18-slot chassis will not provide 17 usable peripheral slots after installing this controller.

Operating Environment

Standard configurations are specified for ambient temperatures from 5°C to 50°C. Applicable extended-temperature versions support operation from 0°C to 55°C.

The operating temperature limit of the controller still applies when it is installed in a chassis rated for a wider range. Maintain unobstructed airflow and follow the chassis fan-profile requirements.

The controller is intended for indoor use at altitudes up to 2,000 m and in noncondensing humidity. Operating vibration specifications involving the internal storage system can depend on whether a mechanical hard drive or solid-state drive is installed.

Software and Driver Integration

The PXIe-8821 can host LabVIEW, TestStand, InstrumentStudio and the drivers required by installed PXI instruments. The exact software environment depends on the controller’s operating system and the age of the measurement hardware.

When rebuilding an existing system, record the operating-system image, BIOS settings, driver versions, application dependencies and activation information before replacing or reformatting the storage device.

For legacy systems, upgrading every software component to the newest release may not be practical. A validated version set can be more important than using the latest individual driver.

PXIe-8821 Applications

• Automated functional test systems
• Production-line test equipment
• Data acquisition and data logging
• Industrial monitoring and control
• Hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Электронное проектирование верификация
• Research laboratory automation
• Environmental and reliability testing
• Portable PXI measurement systems
• Machine and process monitoring
• Instrument control and signal routing
• Legacy PXI system maintenance

Automated Test Equipment

The PXIe-8821 can execute automated test software, configure installed PXI instruments and collect results without an external computer. A system can combine the controller with oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, waveform generators, switch modules and programmable power instruments.

TestStand or a custom LabVIEW application can manage device identification, measurement sequences, limit checking, database communication and report generation.

Производственное тестирование

Production systems can use the controller to run repeatable test sequences and communicate with factory networks. Its integrated Ethernet, serial and USB connections support barcode readers, external instruments and production-data transfer.

Before deploying a discontinued controller in a new production line, consider spare-unit availability, operating-system support and the expected service life of the test station.

Data Acquisition and Logging

The PXIe-8821 can control PXI data acquisition modules and save measurement data to its internal drive or transfer results over Gigabit Ethernet. Typical applications include temperature monitoring, voltage acquisition, strain measurement and long-term system characterization.

For continuous acquisition, calculate the aggregate data rate and daily storage requirement. The 2 GB/s backplane rating does not mean that the mechanical hard drive can continuously store data at the same rate.

Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing

LabVIEW Real-Time configurations can serve as the execution controller in hardware-in-the-loop and real-time validation systems. The PXIe-8821 can coordinate I/O modules, communication interfaces and fault-insertion hardware from the PXI chassis.

Real-time suitability depends on model complexity, loop rate, I/O latency and processing requirements. Newer multicore controllers may be preferable for computationally intensive simulation models.

Industrial Control

The embedded design is suitable for supervisory control, machine monitoring and industrial test installations where the computer must be integrated directly into the instrumentation chassis.

When installed in an industrial cabinet, provide adequate airflow, protect connectors from mechanical strain and maintain the specified temperature and humidity conditions.

Portable Measurement Systems

Because the controller is installed directly in the chassis, the PXIe-8821 supports compact and transportable measurement systems. A monitor, keyboard and mouse can be connected for local operation, or the system can be managed remotely through Ethernet.

Transport procedures should protect the chassis and mechanical hard drive against shock. Shut down the operating system correctly before removing chassis power.

PXIe-8821 Installation Workflow

Step 1: Verify the Controller Configuration

Check the complete model, part number, installed operating system, memory capacity and internal drive type. Confirm that the configuration supports the required software and PXI instruments.

Step 2: Confirm Chassis Compatibility

Verify that the PXI Express chassis has a compatible system-controller slot and three adjacent expansion slots. Review chassis cooling capacity, backplane architecture and power requirements.

Step 3: Power Down the Chassis

Shut down the existing operating system and disconnect chassis power before installing or removing the controller. Follow appropriate electrostatic-discharge handling procedures.

Step 4: Install the PXIe-8821

Align the controller with the system slot and guide rails. Insert it evenly, engage the injector/ejector handles and tighten the retaining screws without forcing the backplane connectors.

Step 5: Connect the Required Peripherals

Connect a DisplayPort monitor, USB keyboard and mouse, Ethernet cable and any required RS-232 equipment. Inspect every cable and connector before applying power.

Step 6: Start the PXI System

Power on the chassis and observe the PWR OK/FAULT indicator. A steady green indication shows that the PXI and onboard power rails are operating within their normal limits.

Step 7: Configure BIOS and Boot Settings

Enter the BIOS when necessary to check the boot device, time, peripheral settings and operating-system configuration. Avoid changing validated BIOS settings without recording the original values.

Step 8: Configure the Operating System

Complete Windows setup or connect to the real-time target using the appropriate NI configuration environment. Assign the required hostname, IP address and network settings.

Step 9: Install Instrument Drivers

Install driver versions compatible with the controller operating system and installed PXI modules. Restart the system when requested and confirm that every instrument is detected correctly.

Step 10: Validate the Complete System

Run a functional test covering instrument discovery, trigger routing, network communication, storage access and representative data transfers. Save the validated configuration for maintenance and recovery.

PXIe-8821 Troubleshooting

The Controller Does Not Power On

Confirm that the chassis is connected to power and switched on. Reseat the controller after powering down the chassis and verify that it is installed in the system-controller slot.

The PWR OK/FAULT LED Is Blinking Green

A blinking green indication can mean that an onboard supply or the chassis power supply is outside its normal regulation limits. Disconnect unnecessary USB devices and inspect the chassis power and cooling condition.

The PWR OK/FAULT LED Is Blinking Red

A blinking red indication means that the controller detected a power-rail fault during startup. Power down the system, remove peripheral loads and inspect the module and backplane connections.

The PWR OK/FAULT LED Is Solid Red

A solid red indication identifies a thermal fault that caused the controller to shut down for protection. Allow the system to cool and check chassis fans, air filters, slot blockers, ambient temperature and airflow obstructions.

The PXIe-8821 Does Not Boot

Disconnect nonessential USB devices and verify the BIOS boot order. Check whether the internal drive is detected and confirm that the correct operating-system image is installed.

The Internal Hard Drive Is Not Detected

Review the storage information in the BIOS. If the drive is absent, shut down the chassis and have the controller inspected according to the applicable service procedure. Protect any recoverable test data before attempting operating-system restoration.

The Controller Is Not Visible on the Network

Check the Ethernet cable, switch port and link indicators. Confirm the IP address, subnet mask, gateway and DHCP configuration. A LabVIEW Real-Time target without a DHCP connection may use a link-local 169.254.x.x address.

A Real-Time Controller Cannot Be Reached

Use the real-time safe-mode and network-reset switches when appropriate. The switches are read after reset, and they should be returned to their normal positions after recovery.

A Startup VI Makes the Controller Inaccessible

Use the Disable Startup VI configuration switch and restart the controller. Correct or remove the problematic application before returning the switch to its normal position.

A USB Device Is Not Recognized

Try another USB port and confirm that the device is compatible with the installed operating system. Check whether the peripheral requires a separate driver or draws more current than the port can supply.

A Second Monitor Does Not Work

Confirm that the monitors and cables support DisplayPort 1.2 daisy chaining. Enable the required multi-stream display settings and verify the operating-system display configuration.

PXI Instruments Are Missing

Power down the chassis and verify that each module is seated correctly. Check the relevant instrument drivers, chassis identification and device status in the NI configuration software.

Data Transfer Is Slower Than Expected

Review the controller’s 2 GB/s maximum bandwidth, individual PXI link allocation and simultaneous instrument traffic. Also evaluate memory use, disk write speed, driver configuration and application processing.

The Controller Frequently Overheats

Verify that the ambient temperature remains within specification and that chassis airflow is unobstructed. Clean accessible vents using dry, low-velocity air and a soft nonmetallic brush where appropriate.

PXIe-8821 Comparison

PXIe-8821 vs PXIe-8822

Земля PXIe-8822 is the more modern general-purpose controller. It provides four processor cores, more standard memory, faster NVMe storage, a faster network interface and twice the maximum controller bandwidth of the PXIe-8821.

The PXIe-8821 remains relevant when maintaining a validated legacy system, preserving a compatible software image or replacing an identical controller without redesigning the test station.

PXIe-8821 vs Remote PXI Control

The PXIe-8821 installs directly in the chassis and creates a self-contained PXI computer. A remote-control module instead connects the chassis to an external desktop computer or workstation.

An embedded controller reduces external hardware and cabling. Remote control can provide greater computing flexibility and may allow the computer to be upgraded independently of the PXI chassis.

Selecting the Right PXI Controller

Choose the PXIe-8821 primarily for compatibility with an existing system that already uses this controller, its operating-system image or its validated software configuration.

For a new test system, compare the PXIe-8821 against newer controllers based on processor performance, memory capacity, storage technology, operating-system support, backplane bandwidth and expected service life.

Product Lifecycle Considerations

The PXIe-8821 part numbers are no longer available for direct purchase from NI. NI currently assigns Standard Support to the Windows 10 configuration and Limited Support to the other listed configurations.

When purchasing a replacement unit, verify the exact part number, BIOS revision, RAM, storage device, operating system, license status and physical condition. Two PXIe-8821 units may not have identical software or storage configurations.

Why Choose the PXIe-8821?

• Provides an embedded computer directly inside a PXI Express chassis
• Supports existing PXIe-8821-based test systems
• Includes a 2.6 GHz dual-core Intel processor
• Provides up to 2 GB/s controller bandwidth
• Includes integrated SATA storage
• Supports Gigabit Ethernet networking
• Provides USB 3.0, USB 2.0 and RS-232 connectivity
• Supports DisplayPort 1.2 monitors
• Offers Windows and LabVIEW Real-Time configurations
• Supports PXI trigger-bus input and output
• Fits compact, portable and rack-mounted PXI systems

PXIe-8821 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PXIe-8821?

The PXIe-8821 is a four-slot PXI Express embedded controller that provides the computing, storage, networking and peripheral interfaces required to operate a PXI measurement or automation system.

Which processor does the PXIe-8821 use?

It uses a 2.6 GHz Intel Core i3-4110E dual-core processor with 3 MB of last-level cache.

What is the maximum controller bandwidth?

The PXIe-8821 supports maximum data-transfer bandwidth of 2 GB/s between the controller and the PXI Express chassis backplane.

How much memory does the PXIe-8821 support?

The controller includes 2 GB of 1600 MHz DDR3L memory as standard and supports a maximum of 8 GB.

How much storage does it provide?

Standard configurations provide a minimum 320 GB internal SATA hard drive. Applicable extended-temperature 24/7 configurations may provide an 80 GB minimum SATA solid-state drive.

Is the PXIe-8821 hard drive removable?

No. NI classifies the integrated hard drive as non-removable.

Which operating systems are available?

Listed configurations include no operating system, Windows 10 64-bit, LabVIEW Real-Time based on Phar Lap and LabVIEW Real-Time based on NI Linux Real-Time.

Does the PXIe-8821 support LabVIEW Real-Time?

Yes. Dedicated PXIe-8821 part numbers are available with Phar Lap or NI Linux Real-Time. Verify software and driver compatibility with the exact configuration.

How many Ethernet ports does it provide?

The PXIe-8821 provides one 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet port.

How many USB ports are available?

The controller provides two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports and two USB 2.0 Hi-Speed ports.

Does the PXIe-8821 have a serial port?

Yes. It includes one RS-232 serial port for compatible instruments and peripheral equipment.

Does it include GPIB?

No. Integrated optional GPIB is not available for the PXIe-8821. A separate compatible interface is required for GPIB instruments.

Can the PXIe-8821 operate two monitors?

Yes. Its DisplayPort 1.2 connection supports daisy-chained monitors when the displays, cabling and operating-system configuration support the required DisplayPort features.

How many chassis slots does it occupy?

The PXIe-8821 occupies four slots: the system-controller slot and three adjacent controller expansion slots.

What is the normal operating temperature?

Standard configurations operate from 5°C to 50°C. Applicable extended-temperature configurations support operation from 0°C to 55°C.

Is the PXIe-8821 still available from NI?

No. NI lists the PXIe-8821 configurations as no longer available for direct purchase. Support classification depends on the individual part number.

What should be checked when purchasing a used PXIe-8821?

Check the part number, operating system, drive type, storage capacity, memory, BIOS access, Ethernet operation, USB ports, video output, physical condition and lifecycle support status.

Can the PXIe-8821 replace the PXIe-8822?

Not automatically. The controllers differ in performance, memory, storage, networking and supported software environments. Verify the chassis, operating system, application and driver requirements before substitution.

Recommended Related Products

• PXIe-8822 Quad-Core PXI Embedded Controller
• PXIe-8842 High-Performance PXI Embedded Controller
• PXIe-1085 PXI Express Chassis
• PXIe-1092 PXI Express Chassis
• PXIe-1095 PXI Express Chassis
• PXIe-8383 Remote Control Module
• View More NI PXI Systems

Request a Quote for the PXIe-8821

Contact us for current availability, condition, operating-system configuration and project pricing for the NI PXIe-8821 2.6 GHz dual-core PXI embedded controller. We can also help identify compatible PXI Express chassis, memory, storage configurations and replacement controllers for existing automated test systems.