Model Nomenclature

• PXI: 3U PXI modular instrumentation bus

• 8517: NI FlexRay interface series

• /2: 2‑port configuration (only variant, P/N 780689‑02)NI

Technical Specifications

• Form factor: 3U, single‑slot PXI

• Ports: 2 × FlexRay 2.1 (dual‑channel, fault‑tolerant)

• Transceiver: NXP TJA1080 (per port)NI

• Baud rate: 1 Mbps to 10 Mbps (software configurable)

• Connectors:

  • 2 × DB‑9 male (FlexRay bus)

  • 2 × SMB (front‑panel sync for multi‑module alignment)

• Isolation: 500 Vrms port‑to‑chassis (prevents ground loops)NI

• DMA: Onboard DMA engine, zero CPU interrupt for frame transfer

• Latency: Typical <50 µs

• Timestamping: 1 µs precision

• Bus voltage: FlexRay ±2.5 V differential (common‑mode –2 V to +7 V)

• Power: +5 VDC (~210 mA) from PXI backplane

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

• Software: NI‑XNET, LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, C/C++, Python, VeriStand

• OS: Windows 7/10/11, LabVIEW Real‑TimeNI

Interface and Communication Configuration

• Front‑panel DB‑9 male connectors for FlexRay differential buses; SMB sync connectors for multi‑module synchronization

• Each port supports dual‑channel (A/B) fault‑tolerant communication

• Supports listen‑only mode for passive bus monitoring

• RTSI/PXI trigger bus integration (7 in/out trigger lines, 1 in/out clock line) for precise multi‑device syncNI

• Termination: Requires external 100 Ω differential termination at bus ends

• Configuration via NI‑MAX or NI‑XNET API; supports FIBEX database importNI

Core Features

• Dual‑port FlexRay: Two independent FlexRay interfaces for redundant or multi‑network testing

• 10 Mbps high speed: Deterministic bandwidth for safety‑critical automotive systems

• 500 Vrms isolation: Protects PXI chassis from voltage transients and ground loopsNI

• NI‑XNET DMA: Offloads FlexRay frame processing from CPU, ensuring low latency

• Cold‑start capable: Each port can act as a cold‑start node for standalone ECU testingNI

Application Scenarios

• Automotive HIL simulation: Testing ADAS, powertrain, and chassis ECUs on FlexRay buses

• Safety‑critical ECU validation: Fault‑tolerant communication testing for autonomous driving systems

• Multi‑network vehicle testing: Coexistence with CAN/LIN in modern automotive architectures

• Rapid control prototyping: Validating FlexRay communication for new ECU designs

• Bus monitoring and diagnostics: Logging high‑speed FlexRay traffic for R&D and productionNI

Usage and Maintenance Instructions

Installation and Configuration

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

2. Connect FlexRay differential cables to DB‑9 ports; use SMB sync cables for multi‑module setups.

3. Add 100 Ω differential termination at both ends of the FlexRay bus.

4. Power on the chassis; Windows automatically detects the hardware.

5. Install the NI‑XNET driver and configure baud rate/channel mode in NI‑MAX.

6. Develop applications using LabVIEW or C/C++ with the NI‑XNET API; import FIBEX files for signal‑level access.

Daily Maintenance

• Inspect DB‑9/SMB connectors and cables for damage or loose pins.

• Verify proper 100 Ω differential termination to avoid signal reflection.

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

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

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

Safety Notice

• Do not exceed the 500 Vrms isolation rating or ±2.5 V differential bus voltage limitsNI。

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