Connect PXIe Systems With Thunderbolt™ Interface Cards

Updated Sep 12, 2024

Reported In

Hardware

  • PXIe-1083

Issue Details

  • My computer does not have a built-in Thunderbolt™ port on the motherboard. Can I use a PCI(e) interface card to connect with my PXIe chassis? 
  • My laptop's user manual states that it comes with a Thunderbolt Add-In card connector. Will this work with a PXIe-8301 Thunderbolt Controller?

Solution

Our Thunderbolt™ controllers were initially designed and tested to work with Thunderbolt™ 3 products and/or ports that are integrated on system motherboards. While third-party PCIe cards that add Thunderbolt™ ports to systems often work, they both add to system complexity and often require additional header connections or BIOS changes to operate. While we cannot officially support these interfaces, we do recommend you test and validate any interfaces you intend to use and contact the card manufacturer or NI support if you need further assistance.