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Common Questions
This section lists common questions related to the use of the MXI-Express x4 controllers.
General Hardware
How does the PCIe-8371 (part number 194591x-02) differ from the PCIe-8371 (part
number 199994x-01)?
Besides the physical weight and size reduction, there is now a front panel LED that indicates
link status, as shown in the LED Status Descriptions of MXI-Express x4 Products table. The
smaller size allows the PCIe-8371 to fit in systems requiring a low-profile card when used
with the low-profile front bracket included with the card.
You may see a small performance increase and/or reduced latency in most applications, but
otherwise there is no functional difference.
What connectors do the NI MXI-Express x4 copper cables use?
The NI MXI-Express x4 copper cables use x4 PCI Express connectors. For more information
about these connectors, visit Molex at
How many PXI bus segments can I connect together with MXI-Express x4?
The PCI specification allows up to 255 bus segments. MXI-Express x4 does not limit this
number, but the maximum number of bus segments allowed can be BIOS or operating system
dependent. Also, a computer may already have several PCI bus segments internally, and the
MXI-Express x4 link also has multiple PCI buses internally. Every PCI Express device has at
least one bus segment, though it has more if it includes a bridge or switch.
Will my PC work with MXI-Express x4 products?
It depends on the robustness of your PC BIOS. In most cases, the BIOS can enumerate the
bridge resources that the MXI products require for operation, especially for smaller MXI
system configurations. For more information, refer to the NI Developer Zone article Tips to
Help You Successfully Use NI MXI-Express Controllers at
What is the maximum MXI-Express x4 copper cable length?
The maximum length for a MXI-Express x4 copper cable is 7 m. National Instruments offers
3 m and 7 m copper cables. Refer to the Cabling section for more information.
MXI-3 and MXI-4 to MXI-Express x4 Upgrade
What are some improvements from MXI-3 and MXI-4 to MXI-Express x4?
MXI-Express x4 incorporates the latest technology to include:
•
Support for PCI Express slots.
•
Support for PXI Express and CompactPCI Express chassis.
•
Improved error correction and handling for noisy or harsh environments.
•
Improved mechanical connectivity and performance.
•
Support for two chassis from a single card in the host PC.
and search for x4 PCIe iPass.
www.molex.com
PCIe-8371 User Manual | © National Instruments | 13
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ni.com/zone
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