Model Nomenclature

• PXI: 3U PXI modular instrumentation bus

• 8461: NI high‑speed CAN interface series

• Key variant: PXI‑8461/D (DeviceNet‑enabled, includes master/slave protocol support)

Technical Specifications

• Form factor: 3U, single‑slot PXI

• Ports: 2 × high‑speed CAN 2.0A/B (ISO 11898‑2)

• Connectors: 2 × DB‑9 male (or Combicon screw terminals)

• Baud rate: Up to 1 Mb/s; standard CAN rates supported

• Isolation: 500 V optical isolation (port‑to‑chassis)

• Controller: Intel 82527 CAN controller

• Buffers: 8 kB transmit / 8 kB receive per port

• Operating modes: CAN 2.0A, CAN 2.0B active, listen‑only, self‑reception (echo), advanced filtering

• Physical layer power: Internal (from module) or external (from bus) via jumper per port

• Power supply: +5 VDC from PXI backplane

• Operating temperature: 0–55 °C; storage: –20–70 °C

• Software: NI‑CAN driver, LabVIEW, Measurement Studio; Windows and LabVIEW Real‑Time compatible

Interface and Communication Configuration

• Front‑panel DB‑9 connectors connect to standard CAN cables and devices

• Plug‑and‑play PXI interface, compatible with 3.3 V/5 V PCI signaling

• Each port independently configurable for baud rate, filtering, and operating mode

• Supports RTSI/PXI trigger bus for multi‑module synchronization

• NI‑MAX or device manager used for port configuration and diagnostics

Core Features

• 500 V optical isolation: Eliminates ground loops and protects against voltage transients

• 1 Mb/s high‑speed CAN: Meets automotive and industrial CAN throughput demands

• Advanced filtering: Precise message filtering reduces CPU load

• Listen‑only mode: Safe bus monitoring without interfering with live traffic

• Real‑time synchronization: RTSI/PXI trigger support for coordinated multi‑module systems

• Robust industrial design: Wide temperature range and EMI resistance for harsh environments

Application Scenarios

• Automotive ECU development and testing (CAN bus communication)

• Industrial automation: Connecting PXI systems to CAN‑based PLCs, sensors, and actuators

• DeviceNet systems (PXI‑8461/D): Industrial networking with master/slave functionality

• Aerospace and defense: CAN‑based vehicle and avionics system testing

• Real‑time monitoring and control: Deterministic CAN communication for embedded systems

Usage and Maintenance Instructions

Installation and Configuration

1. Insert the module into a 3U PXI slot and secure the front panel.

2. Connect CAN cables to the DB‑9 ports and external CAN devices.

3. Power on the chassis; the system automatically detects the hardware.

4. Install the NI‑CAN driver and configure ports in NI‑MAX or device manager.

5. Develop and run CAN communication applications using LabVIEW or other supported software.

Daily Maintenance

• Inspect DB‑9 cables and connectors regularly for damage or loose connections.

• Operate within 0–55 °C; keep the chassis clean and dry.

• Avoid hot‑swapping the module or cables during operation.

• Store unused modules in anti‑static bags in a cool, dry environment.

Safety Notice

• Do not exceed the 500 V isolation rating or specified environmental limits.

• Follow local regulations for disposal at end‑of‑life.