NI PXI-8145RT – Real-Time PXI System Controller for Deterministic Test & Control

The NI PXI-8145RT is a real-time embedded controller for PXI systems, built for deterministic measurement, control, and data logging. From my experience, it’s a dependable choice when you need a headless LabVIEW Real-Time target in the system slot of a PXI chassis, especially in legacy benches that still demand tight timing and predictable loop rates. You might notice that it shines in applications like production test, condition monitoring, and hardware-in-the-loop where jitter and OS overhead have to stay out of your way.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

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

Key Features

• Real-Time Operation (LabVIEW RT) – Runs a deterministic RTOS so time-critical loops stay consistent, typically far more predictable than general-purpose OS targets.
• PXI System Controller Form Factor – Installs in the system slot (Slot 1) of a 3U PXI chassis, providing tight integration with the PXI backplane for low-latency control of modules.
• Headless Deployment – Configure from a development PC and deploy for 24/7 operation; ideal for unattended test stations and data loggers.
• Deterministic Triggering & Timing Access – Direct access to the PXI backplane resources helps coordinate DAQ, DIO, and timing modules with minimal software jitter.
• Industrial Connectivity – Typically provides Ethernet and serial connectivity for integration with factory networks, PLCs, and supervisory systems.
• Proven in Legacy Benches – Often used to keep established test assets running; seems to be a safe drop-in when you need to maintain validated sequences and drivers.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI PXI-8156RT / PXI-8176RT / PXI-8186RT – Later-generation RT PXI controllers with faster CPUs and larger RAM. In many cases these are drop-in upgrades when you want more headroom without rewriting your test code.
• NI PXI-8106 RT – Higher-performance controller (Core architecture) for heavier processing or mixed Windows/RT fleets; often chosen when data throughput grows.
• NI PXI-1042 or PXI-1045 Chassis – Common 8‑slot and 18‑slot PXI chassis that pair well with the 8145RT for multi-module DAQ and DIO systems.
• NI PXI-6653 Timing & Synchronization – Adds disciplined clocks and advanced triggering if you’re coordinating multiple DAQ cards deterministically.
• DAQ & DIO Modules (e.g., NI PXI-6259, PXI-6515) – Typical companions for mixed analog/digital acquisition and control.

One thing I appreciate is how the PXI-8145RT plays nicely with established NI driver stacks. A maintenance engineer recently told us they swapped an 8145RT into a PXI-1042 with legacy DAQ and were back online quickly—no drama, just a straightforward image deploy and network handshake.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & Ventilation – Mount the PXI chassis in a 19-inch rack or bench with free airflow. Keep intake/exhaust clear; typically 50 mm clearance helps. Ambient 0–50 °C is a practical target.
• Wiring & Safety – Power down the chassis before inserting or removing the controller. Ground the rack; use shielded Ethernet where noise is high. Avoid hot-swapping the system controller.
• Network Setup – Assign a static IP for deterministic test cells. Keep host development PC and controller on the same subnet during commissioning.
• Firmware & Software – Match LabVIEW RT, drivers, and module firmware. In most cases, locking versions stabilizes long-running benches.
• Routine Care – Clean dust filters and fans periodically. Check event logs for thermal throttling. Replace the CMOS battery if BIOS settings don’t persist.
• Storage Health – If your unit uses a HDD or CompactFlash, back up the RT image and monitor health; preemptive replacement reduces unplanned downtime.

Quality & Certifications

• Typically CE and UL marked; manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• RoHS compliance may vary by production date; many legacy units predate current RoHS revisions—confirmation available on request.
• Manufacturer’s original quality standards, backed by a 365-day warranty from us on the delivered unit.

If you’re refreshing an existing PXI rack or stabilizing a time-critical test stand, the NI PXI-8145RT is a practical, low-risk controller. It keeps legacy sequences running while preserving real-time determinism—usually without requalifying the entire bench.