Standard or EMC Filler Panels for My PXI(e) Chassis

Issue Details

• I have a couple of unpopulated slots in my PXI(e) Chassis – Do I need to use filler panels for unused slots?
• Why does NI sell electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filler panels for PXI(e) chassis?
• What is the difference between a standard filler panel and an EMC filler panel?

Solution

Standard Filler Panels are required to guarantee the cooling performance of PXI(e) systems.

EMC Filler Panels work as regular filler panels, but also contain gaskets to control EMC emissions from the chassis.

Image 1. EMC Filler Panels for PXI(e) Chassis.

If you are concerned with temperature regulation, consider using PXI Slot Blockers in empty slots, in addition to filler panels, to enhance the uneven airflow distribution caused by unpopulated slots.

Image 2. PXI Slot Blockers for unpopulated slots.

Additional Information

NI PXI EMC Filler Panels are designed to be installable in every slot of PXI(e) Chassis with minimal internal interference build-up due to the use of an EMC gasket. This increases shielding across the front of the chassis, especially when all panels installed in the chassis are EMC filler panels, making the PXI(e) System comply with IEEE Specification 1101.10.

NI PXI(e) Chassis are shipped with a couple of regular filler panels (the exact number varies depending on chassis slot count). However, you can buy additional kits using the following part numbers:

• Standard Filler Panel Kits: 
  • PXI Filler Panel Kit for 18-Slot Chassis (778646-01): Contains seven single-slot, one double-slot, and two quadruple-slot filler panels.
  • PXI Filler Panel Kit for 4- and 6-Slot Chassis (778933-01): Contains two single-slot filler panels.
  • PXI Filler Panel Kit (778679-01): Contains three single-slot and three double-slot filler panels.
• EMC Filler Panel Kits:
  • PXI EMC Filler Panel Kit (778700-01): Contains six single-slot PXI EMC filler panels.