National Instruments Extends PXI for High-Channel-Count Data Logging; New Multiplexer Module Expands Capability of More Than 1,000 Existing PXI Products

AUSTIN, Texas--Dec. 7, 2004--Automated test engineers now can use the National Instruments PXI platform to create high-density data-logging and channel-scanning applications. The new NI high-density PXI switch module can multiplex more than 3,000 channels to a single digital multimeter in one 3U PXI chassis, making it ideal for data-logging applications in automotive, aerospace and consumer electronics test.

The NI PXI-2575 high-density multiplexer switch module features 196 one-wire channels or 98 two-wire channels. It is capable of routing hundreds of signals to measurement devices or from source units. Each channel uses electromechanical relays and is capable of switching up to 100 VDC/100 VAC or 1 A. With a scanning speed of up to 140 cycles/s, the PXI-2575 switch is an ideal frontend for high-channel-count data logging and automated test applications. The switch module integrates seamlessly with the NI PXI-407x series of FlexDMMs for high-channel voltage, resistance, capacitance and inductance capability.

The PXI-2575 module builds on the highly successful, multivendor PXI standard that already includes several hundred switch modules for high-density, high-power and high-frequency applications. PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation (PXI) is an open specification governed by the PXI Systems Alliance (www.pxisa.org) that defines a rugged, CompactPCI-based platform optimized for test, measurement and control. PXI is supported by more than 60 member companies and more than 1,000 products for data acquisition, switching and instrumentation. PXI offers features specifically for measurement and automation applications such as environmental specifications, standardized software and built-in timing and synchronization.

High-performance driver software gives engineers the maximum flexibility for system programming with the new module. Engineers can manage and maintain the system with NI Switch Executive and NI TestStand from validation to manufacturing test. The new module works with the entire suite of NI modular instruments, and engineers can use NI LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI and other common development environments to control the module for data-logging or other automated test applications.

About NI Modular Instruments

NI offers essential technologies for test, which combines high-performance hardware, flexible software and innovative timing and synchronization technology for test and design applications. NI modular instruments offer accurate, high-throughput measurements from DC to 2.7 GHz. The product family includes:

-- High-resolution digitizers (up to 14 bits, up to 200 MS/s)

-- Signal generators (up to 16 bits, 200 MS/s)

-- Digital waveform generator/analyzers (up to 200 MHz)

-- Digital multimeters (up to 6 1/2 digits)

-- RF vector signal generators and analyzers (up to 2.7 GHz)

-- Dynamic signal analyzers (up to 24 bits, 204.8 kS/s)

-- Switching (multiplexers, matrices and general purpose)

About National Instruments

National Instruments (www.ni.com) is a technology pioneer and leader in virtual instrumentation -- a revolutionary concept that has changed the way engineers and scientists in industry, government and academia approach measurement and automation. Leveraging the PC and its related technologies, virtual instrumentation increases productivity and lowers costs through easy-to-integrate software, such as the NI LabVIEW graphical development environment, and modular hardware, such as PXI modules for data acquisition, instrument control and machine vision. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, NI has more than 3,100 employees and direct operations in 41 countries. In 2003, the company sold products to more than 25,000 companies in 90 countries. For the past five years, FORTUNE magazine named NI one of the 100 best companies to work for in America. Readers may obtain investment information from the company's investor relations department by calling 512-683-5090, by sending e-mail to nati@ni.com or by visiting www.ni.com/nati.

Pricing and Contact Information

NI PXI-2575 multiplexer switch

Priced from $1,695

Web: www.ni.com/switches

11500 N. Mopac Expwy., Austin, Texas 78759-3504

Tel: 800-258-7022, Fax: 512-683-9300

E-mail: info@ni.com

CVI, FlexDMM, LabVIEW, National Instruments, NI TestStand, NI and ni.com are trademarks of National Instruments. Other product and company names listed are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies.