Installing a PXI Express System Controller into the PXIe-1081

Follow these steps to install a PXI Express system controller into slot 1 of a PXIe-1081 chassis. For controller-specific instructions and safety information, refer to the user manual of the system controller.

• Do not install any modules before performing a power-on test.
• Power off the chassis.
• Connect the AC power cord to ground the chassis and protect it from electrical damage during installation.

Complete the following steps to install a PXI Express system controller.

1. Insert the system controller into slot 1, identified by red card guides. Place the PCB into the top and bottom card guides at the front of the slot.
2. Slide the system controller toward the rear of the chassis with the ejector handle in the downward position.
3. When you feel resistance, push the ejector handle upward to fully seat the controller into the chassis backplane.
4. Secure the system controller using the front panel mounting screws.
5. Connect essential peripherals to the system controller.
   • Connect a keyboard, mouse, and monitor to the appropriate connectors.
   • Use DisplayPort or HDMI output depending on the system controller model.
   • Connect peripherals directly to the front panel of the system controller or use a KVM switch if available.
6. Power on the chassis and verify that the system controller boots.
   • Confirm that the chassis fans spin up and the Power LED turns solid green.
   • Observe the monitor for BIOS or boot splash screen activity.
   • Confirm that the system controller completes POST (Power-On Self-Test).
   • If the system controller runs a pre-installed OS, verify that the desktop or login screen appears.
   • If the system controller uses PXE boot or a custom image, confirm that the expected boot sequence starts.

If the system controller does not boot or no video signal appears:

• Check monitor input settings and cable connections.
• Verify that the system controller is properly seated and the chassis provides power.
• Refer to the user manual of the system controller for LED status codes or beep patterns.
• Check the AC input and confirm that the power supply LEDs light up.

Note You can place the following module types in other slots, depending on the slot type:

• CompactPCI
• CompactPCI Express
• Hybrid-compatible PXI
• PXI Express

1. System controller front panel mounting screws (4x)
2. PXI Express system controller
3. Ejector handle
4. PXIe-1081 chassis