Installing PXI Slot Blockers

PXI slot blockers improve system cooling in PXI chassis by rerouting airflow from empty slots to slots containing PXI modules.

NI recommends using PXI slot blockers, together with standard filler panels or EMC filler panels, to improve cooling performance for certain PXI chassis. The location of the cooling fans in the chassis influences the strength of the recommendation.

Chassis fan location PXI chassis Recommendation
Rear
  • PXI-104x series
  • PXIe-106x series
  • PXIe-1075
  • PXIe-108x series, excluding PXIe-1083 and PXIe-1088
  • PXIe-109x series, excluding PXIe-1090
 Highly recommended
Below card cage
  • PXI-103x series
  • PXIe-107x series, excluding PXIe-1075
  • PXIe-1083 and PXIe-1088
  • PXIe-1090
 Recommended

You can order PXI slot blockers on ni.com under NI part number 199198-01.

Complete the following steps to install PXI slot blockers in your PXI chassis.

  1. Install a PXI slot blocker in each empty slot of your PXI chassis.
    Figure 3. Slot Blocker Installation

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  2. Install PXI filler panels over each slot containing a PXI slot blocker.
    1. Remove the captive screw covers, if present, from the filler panel.
    2. Secure the captive mounting screws to the chassis; for EMC filler panels, ensure that the EMC gasket is on the right side.
      Note Filler panels must be installed over all chassis slots to ensure adequate cooling of modules. Do not overtighten the screws (2.5 in. · lb maximum).
    Figure 4. Standard Filler Panel Installation

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    Figure 5. EMC Filler Panel Installation

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    1. Captive screw covers
    2. Captive mounting screws
    3. EMC gasket

    For more information about standard and EMC filler panels, visit ni.com/info and enter the info code emcpanels.