Description
The PXI Embedded Controller with part number 186699A-021 is a highly sophisticated device, designed to meet the needs of complex automated systems. This model, namely the PXI-8156, distinguishes itself with a unique configuration, being offered as PXI-8156/233, Core Only, which notably lacks both hard and floppy drives as part of its design to allow for customization based on user requirements.
Despite the absence of built-in storage drives, the controller supports a 3.5 in. 1.44 MB floppy drive and a 2 GB hard drive that is expandable, offering flexibility for users to enhance storage according to their specific needs. The display feature of this model is a Super VGA, ensuring clear and sharp visuals for user interfaces. Additionally, the device is equipped with 2 RS-232 serial ports and 1 USB port, enhancing its connectivity capabilities.
Inputs for both a keyboard and a mouse are facilitated through 1 PS/2-style port each, allowing for straightforward user interactions. Network connections are supported via 1 10BaseT Ethernet port, and for local printer connections, it includes 1 ECP parallel port. A GPIB port with a 24-pin standard connector is also available for instrumentation communication, further broadening its application range.
The front panel of the PXI-8156 features LEDs that provide immediate feedback on the device power and drive status, as well as the Ethernet port status (TX/RX & LINK LEDs), ensuring users can monitor the system’s operational status at a glance. For peripheral expansion, it supports both ISA bus and PCI local bus, offering considerable flexibility in system configuration.
Software support is robust, with the inclusion of NI-488.2M and NI-VISA programming API, facilitating ease of integration and programming for various applications. Despite its obsolete status, as announced by National Instruments, this device remains available for purchase and repairs through Apex Waves, ensuring long-term usability and support for
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 186699A-021 |
| Category | PXI Embedded Controllers |
| Model | PXI-8156 |
| Description | PXI-8156/233, Core Only (No hard or floppy drives) |
| Floppy Drive | 3.5 in. 1.44 MB |
| Hard Drive | 2 GB (expandable) |
| Display | Super VGA |
| Serial Ports | 2 RS-232 |
| USB Ports | 1 |
| Keyboard Port | 1 PS/2-style |
| Mouse Port | 1 PS/2-style |
| Ethernet Port | 1 10BaseT |
| Parallel Port | 1 ECP |
| GPIB Port | 1 (24-pin standard connector) |
| Front Panel LEDs | Device power and drive status; Ethernet port status (TX/RX & LINK LEDs) |
| Peripheral Expansion | ISA bus and PCI local bus |
| Software | NI-488.2M, NI-VISA programming API |
| Obsolete Status | Announced by National Instruments, available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves |
Question 1: What is the part number for the PXI-8156?
Answer 1: 186699A-021
Question 2: Does the PXI-8156 include a hard or floppy drive?
Answer 2: No, it lacks both but supports expansion.
Question 3: What display feature does the PXI-8156 have?
Answer 3: Super VGA
Question 4: How many RS-232 serial ports does the PXI-8156 have?
Answer 4: 2 RS-232 serial ports
Question 5: Is software support like NI-488.2M included with PXI-8156?
Answer 5: Yes, includes NI-488.2M and NI-VISA


