NI SCXI-1338 – High‑density terminal block for clean, reliable SCXI field wiring

The NI SCXI-1338 is a front-mount terminal block designed for National Instruments SCXI switch/relay modules. From my experience, it’s the piece that makes day‑to‑day wiring practical—clean screw-terminal access on the front, robust mechanical retention, and clear channel labeling so technicians don’t spend time chasing pin maps. It’s typically used in high-channel-count switching applications where you want straightforward field terminations and dependable strain relief without reworking harnesses.

You might notice that teams pair SCXI-1338 with high-density SCXI switching modules to bring all channels out to screw terminals for maintenance-friendly access. In many cases, that means faster commissioning, easier loop checks, and fewer wiring errors—especially useful when cabinets are packed or when frequent reconfiguration is part of the job.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Front‑mount screw terminals – Direct, labeled access to channels for quick field wiring and faster troubleshooting.
• Passive, no external power – The SCXI-1338 is a passive terminal block; it follows the ratings of the host SCXI module.
• Strain relief and tidy routing – Helps keep high‑channel‑count cabinets neat; reduces accidental wire pulls during service.
• Optimized for SCXI switching – Typically used with SCXI switch/relay modules where high-density signal access is needed.
• Service-friendly labeling – Channel identification at the point of termination to minimize pin‑map mistakes.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI SCXI-1168 – Solid-state SPST switch module; often chosen for high-cycle-count applications; the SCXI-1338 provides convenient field terminations.
• NI SCXI-1169 – High‑density relay switch module; pairs well when you need many channels terminated at the front panel.
• NI SCXI-1331 / SCXI-1332 – Alternative SCXI terminal blocks tailored to different switch families; channel mapping and form factor vary by module.
• NI SCXI chassis (e.g., SCXI‑1000 series) – Required platform for SCXI modules and terminal blocks.

If your module is a different SCXI variant, we can help verify terminal block compatibility and pin mapping before you place the order—avoids rewiring later. One thing I appreciate is how predictable the wiring becomes once the correct 13xx terminal block is matched to the switch card.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & mounting – Install the SCXI module in a certified SCXI chassis. Ensure 44–50 mm front clearance for terminal block mounting and wire bend radius.
• Ventilation – Provide free airflow around the chassis; in most cases, 25 mm side clearance helps maintain the host module’s thermal envelope.
• Wiring practices – Use properly ferruled or tinned conductors; segregate high‑voltage or inductive loads from low‑level signals; follow the host module’s voltage/current limits.
• Grounding – Maintain a single‑point ground strategy; confirm shield terminations according to your switch topology to minimize crosstalk.
• Safety – De‑energize circuits before servicing. Verify that all wiring meets the host module’s ratings and local electrical codes.
• Routine checks – Retorque screw terminals after thermal cycles, clean dust with dry air, and review labeling when channels are repurposed. Firmware updates apply to the SCXI controller/module, not the terminal block.

A maintenance lead from a semiconductor plant told us the SCXI-1338 “cut our rework time in half,” mainly because the screw terminals and labeling made it easy to mirror wiring between redundant bays.

Quality & Certifications

• Compliance: Typically CE and RoHS for NI SCXI accessories; NI operates under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Manufacturer Warranty: NI commonly provides a limited warranty (often 1 year) on SCXI hardware families.
• Our Coverage: 365‑day warranty and full pre‑shipment testing on request.
• Documentation: We can supply pin maps and wiring guides aligned to your SCXI module part number before shipping.