National Instruments 779723-01 Device for PXI Remote Control

The 779723-01, an identifying part number for the PCIe‑8371 model, is an MXI‑Express remote controller from National Instruments designed for managing PXI Express and CompactPCI Express systems. This device uses an x4 PCI Express link over a copper wire to the PXIe-8370 remote control module, enabling smooth operation of PXI modules as if they were PCI devices placed directly in a computer. With this configuration, there is no need for further programming because the connection is transparent to drivers and software programs.

When coupled to a single PXI Express chassis, the x4 PCI Express link included with the 779723-01 provides a sustained throughput of up to 798 MB/s. Through this interface, any desktop or server PC with a PCI Express slot that is x4 or above can control PXI Express and CompactPCI Express systems.

The 779723-01 makes use of PCI Express-to-PCI Express switches to leverage PCI Express signals over a cable as long as seven meters. By doing so, users can physically isolate the measurement or automation system from the host PC, manage a PXI Express or CompactPCI Express backplane with a PCI Express-based PC, and operate numerous PXI Express or CompactPCI Express chassis from a single PCI Express-based PC or PXI Express embedded controller.

Because of its transparent switch architecture to device drivers and PCI Express technological foundation, the device's architecture eliminates the need for further software to support CompactPCI Express. Four low-voltage, differentially driven signal pairs that may simultaneously transmit at a rate of 10 Gbps in each direction make up the x4 cabled PCI Express link that connects the PC to the chassis.

The 779723-01's bus interface is compatible with x4, x8, and x16 PCI Express slots in addition to fitting x4 PCI Express slots. The board dimensions are 10.7 by 17.5 cm (4.4 by 6.9 in.), and it requires one PCI Express x4 slot. The maximum cable length supported is 7 meters, and the device is fully compliant with the PCI Express Specification 1.0a.