Why Does PXIe-517x Fail Detection and Testing on NI Linux RT System?

Issue Details

My PXIe-517x scope isn’t reliably detected by my NI Linux RT system. In NI-MAX, the device often doesn’t appear unless I power cycle the system multiple times.

When it does show up, LabVIEW throws unknown exceptions, and the Sel-Cal fails. 

What can I do?

Solution

The PXIe-517x is supported on NI Linux Real-Time (RT) systems, provided that the standard scope driver is used. However, it is important to note that the FPGA design libraries required for custom modifications to the 517x are not supported under the Linux RT environment.

In systems utilizing the PXIe-88x2 series controllers, the 517x module must be installed in a chassis slot that is located behind the PCIe switch, rather than in a slot directly connected to the controller’s PCIe root complex. Incorrect slot placement can lead to detection and initialization failures.

For example, in the PXIe-1088 chassis, the recommended slots located behind the PCIe switch are the x1-connected slots: 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9. 
 

For detailed information on the chassis architecture and slot connectivity, please refer to the PCIe bus diagram provided in the chassis specification documentation.

For more details please contact NI Technical Support.