Adlink rolls out ExpressCard-to-PXI extension kit

-- Test & Measurement World, 6/17/2008 3:00:00 PM

Expand and control high-speed measurement and automation systems from a laptop computer with Adlink Technology’s ExpressCard-to-PXI extension system. The kit comprises a host card, which plugs into an ExpressCard/34 slot in the laptop, and an extension interface card, which installs in a PXI/CompactPCI chassis that can be located up to 7 meters (23 ft) away.

PXI/Compact PCI devices installed in the extension chassis behave and work as if they are installed in the host system and do not require any additional driver or software installation. Communication is via a shielded twisted copper cable that comes in 1-meter, 3-meter, and 7-meter lengths. The rugged design of the kit enables it to withstand high temperatures and harsh vibrations, while the host computer can remotely control the PXI devices from a safe distance away.

Compliant with ExpressCard Standard Release 1.2 and PCI Express Base Specification Rev. 1.0a, the EC-8560 host card uses one PCI Express x1 lane to deliver data throughput of 250 Mbytes/s. The PXI-8565 extension interface card is compliant with PXI Specifications Rev. 2.2, PCI-to-PCI Bridge Architecture Specifications Rev. 1.2, and PCI Local Bus Specifications Rev. 3.0. It supports a 32-bit, 66-MHz PCI interface. Both the EC-8560 and PXI-8565 operate over a temperature range of 0 to 50°C and require +3.3 V at 210 mA and 720 mA, respectively.

Adlink Technology, www.adlinktech.com.