Are PXI or PXIe Modules Hot Swappable?

Updated Jan 25, 2022

Reported In

Hardware

  • PXIe-4082
  • PXI Chassis
  • PXI Controller

Issue Details

  • Can I insert or remove (hot-swap) PXI/PXIe modules while my chassis is running?
  • Can I remove my PXI/e DMM or Switch while my chassis is running? 

Solution

No. Hot-swapping is not supported by NI PXI or PXIe chassis. Removing or inserting modules while the chassis is running can result in damage to the swapped module or even other modules in your chassis. Modules should only be removed or inserted while the chassis is fully powered off. If your chassis is being controlled by another PC via a MXI connection, you must also power down the PC connected to the chassis. 

Additional Information

Hot Swapping can lead to electrical arcing from the removal of the card. The card may be able to be reset and work fine, but it will be impossible to determine if the card is damaged until it start malfunctioning.

If the system is too costly to have downtime, NI offers Hardware Services to help quickly replace cards.