Description
| Product model | PXIe-8840/QC |
| Manufacturer | National Instruments (NI) |
| Product category | PXI Express Embedded Controller |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-4790TE, Quad-core, 2.5 GHz (Turbo up to 3.6 GHz) |
| CPU architecture | 4th Generation Intel Core (Haswell) |
| Number of cores | 4 cores, 8 threads (Hyper-Threading) |
| Cache | 8 MB Smart Cache |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB DDR3-1600 ECC SDRAM (soldered, non-upgradable) |
| Storage | 120 GB SSD (SATA III, 6 Gb/s, M.2 2280 form factor) |
| Operating systems | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise (64-bit), NI Linux Real-Time (dual-boot capable) |
| Real-time performance | Sub-microsecond loop jitter (with NI Linux Real-Time) |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4600 |
| Video outputs | Dual DVI-I (supports analog VGA, DVI-D, DVI-A) |
| USB ports | 4 x USB 3.0 (front), 2 x USB 2.0 (rear) |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps), RJ-45 |
| Audio | HD Audio (line-in, line-out, mic-in) via rear panel |
| PXI Express interface | PXIe System Timing Slot (Slot 1), supports PXIe Gen 2 (5 GT/s) |
| Backplane compatibility | PXIe Chassis (3U or 6U) with PXIe-1, PXIe-3, or PXIe-5 slot |
| Expansion options | One x4 PCI Express Gen 2 link routed to front panel (via mini-SAS connector) |
| Synchronization | PXIe chassis clock, Reference Clock (10 MHz), Trigger lines, Star Trigger |
| TPM | Trusted Platform Module (TPM 1.2) for security |
| Cooling | Active cooling with fan, designed for convection-cooled chassis |
| Power consumption | ~ 60 W (typical), up to 90 W (peak) |
| Operating temperature | 0°C to 50°C (commercial), derated for higher temps |
| Storage temperature | -20°C to 70°C |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, UL, CSA, IEC 61010-1 |
| Warranty | 1 year (standard, when purchased new) |
Product introduction
The NI PXIe-8840/QC is a high-performance embedded controller from National Instruments (NI), designed as the central processing unit for PXI Express (PXIe) systems. Built around the 4th generation Intel Core i7-4790TE quad-core processor, this 3U PXIe controller delivers robust computing power for demanding applications such as automated test systems, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation, and industrial control.
Featuring a 2.5 GHz base frequency (up to 3.6 GHz with Turbo Boost), 4 cores and 8 threads, and 16 GB of soldered DDR3 ECC memory, the PXIe-8840/QC provides excellent multi-threaded performance and data throughput for real-time signal processing and complex test sequencing.
It comes equipped with a 120 GB solid-state drive (SSD) for fast boot times and reliable data storage, even in high-vibration environments. The controller supports dual-boot operation with Windows 10 IoT Enterprise for application development and user interface, and NI Linux Real-Time for deterministic, low-jitter real-time execution—ideal for closed-loop control and high-speed data acquisition.
The PXIe-8840/QC includes dual DVI-I video outputs, enabling connection to two external monitors for enhanced system monitoring and debugging. It offers 6 USB ports (4x USB 3.0 front, 2x USB 2.0 rear), Gigabit Ethernet, HD audio, and a front-panel mini-SAS connector that routes a PCIe x4 Gen 2 link to external devices such as high-speed data recorders or GPUs.
As a Slot 1 PXIe controller, it occupies the system timing slot, providing clocking, triggering, and synchronization for the entire chassis. It is compatible with both 3U and 6U PXIe chassis and supports PXIe Gen 2 bandwidth (5 GT/s).
Fully integrated with NI software tools like LabVIEW, TestStand, and VeriStand, the PXIe-8840/QC enables rapid development of automated test and control applications.
NI PXIe-8840
Core advantages and technical highlights
A key advantage of the PXIe-8840/QC is its combination of high CPU performance and real-time capability in a rugged PXIe form factor, making it suitable for both development and deployment in industrial environments.
The quad-core i7 processor with Hyper-Threading allows for parallel execution of test sequences, data analysis, and user interface tasks, improving overall system efficiency.
Its dual-boot capability (Windows + NI Linux Real-Time) provides the best of both worlds: rich application ecosystem and deterministic real-time performance.
The 16 GB ECC memory enhances system stability by detecting and correcting memory errors, crucial for long-duration tests and mission-critical applications.
The front-accessible USB 3.0 ports and SSD simplify data transfer and system maintenance without disassembling the chassis.
The routed PCIe x4 link enables high-bandwidth expansion, such as connecting to external storage arrays or FPGA accelerators.
Designed for reliability, the controller includes a TPM 1.2 chip for secure boot and data protection, and is built to withstand industrial operating conditions.
Typical application scenarios
The PXIe-8840/QC is widely used in automated test systems (ATS) for aerospace, automotive, and electronics manufacturing, where it controls PXI modules for data acquisition, switching, and stimulus generation.
In hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation, it runs real-time models of engines, motors, or power electronics using VeriStand, providing ultra-low latency feedback control.
For research and development, it serves as a central controller for multi-instrument test benches, enabling synchronized data collection and analysis.
It is also used in field-deployable systems requiring rugged, compact computing with PXI modularity.
Due to its LabVIEW and TestStand integration, it is ideal for high-volume production testing with custom user interfaces and reporting.
Related model recommendations
- NI PXIe-8867: Latest embedded controller with6th/8th Gen Intel Core i7, higher performance and security.
- NI PXIe-8880: High-end controller withXeon processors, up to 64 GB RAM.
- NI PXIe-8845/QC: Similar to 8840 but withi7-6700TE (6th Gen), slightly better performance.
- NI PXIe-8821: Lower-cost controller withdual-core i7, suitable for less demanding apps.
- NI cRIO-9039: CompactRIO controller withreal-time OS, for distributed I/O.
- ADLINK PXIe-8861: Alternative PXIe embedded controller.
- Kontron CP301-886: Rugged embedded controller for industrial use.
- Siemens SIMATIC IPC: Industrial PCs for automation.
- Advantech UNO-2484G: Industrial gateway with similar capabilities.
- Beckhoff CX2000 series: Embedded PC for automation.
NI PXIe-8840
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Install the PXIe-8840/QC into Slot 1 of a PXIe chassis (e.g., PXIe-1073, PXIe-1085) and secure it with screws. Connect power, keyboard, mouse, and dual monitors to the rear panel.
Power on the chassis and press F12 during boot to select Windows or NI Linux Real-Time from the boot menu. Install the desired OS using NI-provided images.
Install NI Device Drivers (DAQmx, RIO, etc.) and application software (LabVIEW, TestStand). Configure network settings, user accounts, and security policies.
For real-time applications, deploy LabVIEW Real-Time VIs or VeriStand projects to the controller. Use the mini-SAS port for external PCIe expansion if needed.
Ensure proper chassis cooling and avoid blocking airflow. Monitor CPU temperature via BIOS or software.
Replace the SSD or BIOS battery only by qualified personnel. Keep firmware updated.
