Description
NI PXI-1033
Technical Specifications
- Brand: National Instruments
- Model: PXI-1033
- Chassis Type: 5-slot 3U PXI chassis
- Integrated Controller: Built-in MXI-Express controller
- Module Compatibility: 3U PXI and CompactPCI modules
- Backplane Type: 32-bit PCI PXI backplane with +5 V V(I/O)
- MXI-Express Interface: x1 MXI-Express
- Sustained MXI-Express Throughput: Up to 110 MB/s
- System Reference Clock: Built-in 10 MHz clock
- Clock Accuracy: ±25 ppm over the operating temperature range
- Maximum Clock Skew Between Slots: 250 ps
- AC Input Voltage Range: 100 to 240 VAC
- AC Operating Voltage Range: 90 to 264 VAC
- Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Operating Frequency Range: 47 to 63 Hz
- Power Supply Rating: 400 W universal AC power supply
- Per-Slot Cooling Capacity: 25 W
- Airflow Direction: P1 to P2, bottom-to-top module cooling
- Cooling System: Forced air circulation through a 101.1 CFM fan with High/Auto speed selector
- Acoustic Noise: As low as 38 dBA
- Height: 177 mm / 6.97 in
- Width: 257.1 mm / 10.12 in
- Depth: 212.8 mm to 217.4 mm depending on measurement reference
- Weight: 5 kg / 11.0 lbs
- Backplane Material: UL 94 V-0 recognized
- Backplane Connectors: Compliant with IEC 917 and IEC 1076-4-101
- Rack Mounting: Supported with optional M4 rack-mount kits
Functional Features
- Integrated MXI-Express controller for remote PC control.
- Supports transparent remote connection to a host computer.
- Provides up to 110 MB/s sustained MXI-Express throughput.
- Accepts 3U PXI and CompactPCI modules.
- Provides a 400 W universal AC power supply.
- Includes a built-in 10 MHz system reference clock.
- Supports 8 PXI trigger lines.
- Provides per-slot cooling capacity of 25 W.
- Supports AUTO/HIGH fan speed control.
- Supports optional rack mounting.
- Provides low acoustic noise suitable for desktop and lab use.
- Compatible with NI MXI-Express host cards and cables.
Application Scenarios
- Remote PXI system control
- Portable automated test equipment
- Desktop PXI development platforms
- Automotive electronics testing
- Electronic manufacturing test systems
- Laboratory data acquisition systems
- Multi-chassis PXI expansion
- Educational PXI training systems
Performance Parameters
- 5-slot PXI backplane with 32-bit PCI architecture.
- Integrated MXI-Express controller with up to 110 MB/s sustained throughput.
- 10 MHz reference clock accuracy of ±25 ppm.
- Maximum clock skew between slots of 250 ps.
- Per-slot cooling capacity of 25 W.
- 400 W universal AC power supply.
- Low-noise operation at approximately 38 dBA.
- Universal AC input from 90 to 264 VAC.
Material Composition
- Sheet aluminum chassis structure
- Extruded aluminum components
- Cold rolled steel structural parts
- Nylon internal components
- Clear chromate conversion coating on aluminum
- Electrodeposited nickel plate on cold rolled steel
- Polyester urethane powder paint finish
- UL 94 V-0 recognized backplane material
Structural Features
- Compact 5-slot desktop chassis.
- Integrated MXI-Express controller on the backplane.
- MXI-Express chassis controller connector on the rear panel.
- Bottom fan intake for module cooling.
- Exhaust along the rear, right side, and top.
- Three-position AC power inlet with chassis ground.
- Front-panel power switch.
- Mounting holes for optional rack-mount kits.
- Status LEDs for power, fan, and system operation.
- Symmetrical front and rear M4 rack-mount holes.
Working Principle
The PXI-1033 operates as a remotely controlled PXI chassis. The host PC communicates with the integrated MXI-Express controller through a MXI-Express cable and a compatible host interface card. The chassis power supply converts universal AC input into regulated DC rails for the backplane and installed modules. Modules communicate with the host PC through the MXI-Express link, while the PXI backplane provides PCI data transfer, trigger lines, and a 10 MHz system reference clock. Cooling air enters from the bottom and flows upward through the module slots to maintain safe operating temperatures.
Installation Requirements
- Connect the MXI-Express cable between the chassis and the host PC interface card.
- Use a compatible NI MXI-Express host card in the host PC.
- Install modules into appropriate PXI or CompactPCI slots.
- Connect the AC power cable to a grounded outlet.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around intake and exhaust openings.
- Install filler panels in unused openings if required for cooling.
- Install optional rack-mount kits when mounting in an instrument rack.
- Verify chassis recognition through NI Measurement and Automation Explorer.
- Confirm that the host PC has the required MXI-Express drivers installed.
- Ensure the chassis ground connection is properly established.
Precautions for Use
- Do not exceed the per-slot cooling capacity of 25 W.
- Do not block the bottom air intake or rear and top exhaust openings.
- Use only compatible MXI-Express cables and host interface cards.
- Verify module compatibility with a 32-bit PXI/CompactPCI backplane.
- Do not force modules into slots.
- Disconnect the power cable before moving or servicing the chassis.
- Keep the chassis away from conductive dust, moisture, and corrosive gases.
- Observe electrostatic discharge precautions when handling modules.
- Do not exceed the rated environmental conditions specified in the user manual.
- Refer to the official NI PXI-1033 user manual for detailed slot assignments, MXI configuration, and safety information.




