Product Core Brief
- Model: PXIe-8861
- Brand: National Instruments (NI)
- Series: PXI Express Embedded Controllers
- Core Function: Provides high-performance computing and system control for processor-intensive RF, modular instrumentation, and data acquisition applications.
- Product Type: PXI Express Embedded Controller
- Key Specs: 2.8 GHz Quad-Core Xeon | 512 GB NVMe SSD | 32 GB Max RAM | Thunderbolt 3
- Condition: New Original (New Surplus)
Product Introduction
NI PXIe-8861 is a high-performance embedded controller designed for PXI Express systems. Driven by a 2.8 GHz Intel Xeon E3-1515M v5 quad-core processor, this module delivers exceptional computational power for demanding test and measurement tasks.
Unlike standard controllers, the PXIe-8861 features a robust I/O ecosystem, including dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, dual DisplayPort video outputs, and dual Gigabit Ethernet ports (one with IEEE 1588 support). It supports up to 32 GB of DDR4 RAM and utilizes an internal M.2 NVMe solid-state drive for rapid data logging. Pre-installed with Windows 10 IoT Enterprise or NI Linux Real-Time, it ensures seamless integration with LabVIEW and TestStand environments.
NI PXIe-8861
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Xeon E3-1515M v5 (2.8 GHz, Quad-Core) |
| Max System RAM | 32 GB (Quad-Channel DDR4-2133) |
| Internal Storage | 512 GB (or greater) M.2 NVMe SSD |
| High-Speed I/O | 2x Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C), 2x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0 |
| Network Interfaces | 2x Gigabit Ethernet (1x IEEE 1588 enabled) |
| Video Outputs | 1x DisplayPort 1.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.2 |
| Legacy I/O | 1x Mini-GPIB, 1x RS-232 Serial (DB-9) |
| System Bandwidth | 16 GB/s |
| Form Factor | Four-wide 3U PXI Express Module |
| Operating System | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise / NI Linux Real-Time |
Quality Control Process (Engineer’s Perspective)
- Incoming Verification: We trace source serial numbers against factory records. Visual inspection checks for PXI Express backplane connector pin damage or PCB scratches.
- Live Functional Test: Power-on self-check runs first. We verify backplane communication, boot sequence, and run continuous CPU/memory load tests >24 hrs with temp logging.
- Electrical Parameter Test: Insulation resistance gets tested at 500 V Megger (>10 MΩ required). Ground continuity and power rail stability are mandatory.
- Storage & I/O Verification: Read and record NVMe SMART data and health status. Verify Thunderbolt 3, USB, and Ethernet link negotiation.
- Final QC & Packaging: Seal in anti-static bag. Apply QC Passed label with test date and engineer initials.
Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ OS/Software Mismatch: Ensure your application is compatible with the pre-installed OS (Windows 10 IoT vs. NI Linux Real-Time). Verify LabVIEW and driver versions match the target environment.
❗ TPM Region Lock: Be aware of Trusted Platform Module (TPM) restrictions. Certain part numbers (e.g., non-TPM variants) are restricted to specific markets like China. Verify your exact part number suffix.
❗ Chassis Slot Requirements: This is a four-wide (4-slot) module. Ensure your PXI Express chassis has one system slot plus three contiguous controller expansion slots available.
❗ Power Budget Exceeded: Calculate total PXI chassis power draw. The controller draws significant current across +3.3 V, +5 V, and +12 V rails. Maintain adequate headroom on your PXI power supply.
❗ ESD Damage: Use anti-static mat and wrist strap. Dry environments increase failure risk during handling.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
- PXIe-8861 → PXIe-8880 : Needs Adaptation — Upgraded 8-core Xeon, verify chassis power and thermal limits
- PXIe-8861 → PXIe-8840 : Needs Adaptation — Lower-tier dual/quad-core, check bandwidth and I/O differences
- PXIe-8861 → PXIe-8862 : Direct — Verify removable hard drive variant and OS differences
Benchmarks:
- Boot Time: < 60 seconds (NVMe SSD)
- Comms Throughput: 16 GB/s (PXI Express Backplane)
