The following items are necessary to set up and use your FlexRIO system:

  • The FlexRIO hardware device, comprised of the following items:
    • PXIe-7971
    • FlexRIO adapter module
Note You can use the FlexRIO FPGA module without an adapter module for coprocessing or peer-to-peer streaming. The adapter module installation instructions in this document do not apply to these circumstances.

The following figure shows the combined module.

Figure 2. Combining Your Adapter Module and FPGA Module


  • The following software packages:
    • LabVIEW
    • LabVIEW FPGA Module
    • FlexRIO Support
      Note The most recent version of FlexRIO Support is available at ni.com/downloads. Search for flexrio to download the latest version of FlexRIO Support.
    • FlexRIO Adapter Module Support[1]1 The NI 1483 adapter module requires the NI-IMAQ instrument driver instead of FlexRIO Adapter Module Support.
      Note The most recent version of FlexRIO Adapter Module Support is available at ni.com/downloads. Search for flexrio adapter module support to download the latest version of FlexRIO Adapter Module Support. You do not need this software if you are not using an adapter module.
    • (Optional) LabVIEW Real-Time Module.
  • One of the following chassis:
    • PXI/CompactPCI chassis
    • PXI Express/CompactPCI Express chassis
  • One of the following controllers:
    • PXI/CompactPCI embedded controller
    • PXI Express/CompactPCI Express embedded controller
    • MXI kit and a PC
  • One of the following operating systems:
    • WIndows 10
    • Windows 8.1
  • At least one cable for connecting signals to the FlexRIO device. Refer to your adapter module documentation for a list of applicable cables and accessories for your FlexRIO system.

1 The NI 1483 adapter module requires the NI-IMAQ instrument driver instead of FlexRIO Adapter Module Support.