The National Instruments 779501-01 PXI Remote Control Module, also known as the PXI-8360, is designed to facilitate seamless control of PXI and CompactPCI systems from a PC utilizing a transparent MXI-Express interface. This module is installed within a PXI chassis and connects to an installed PCI-8360 via a copper x1 MXI-Express cable, facilitated by a PCI Express-to-PCI bridge. This architecture ensures effective communication and control between the host PC and the PXI system.

The 779501-01 module supports control over devices housed in PXI, PXI Express, VXI, or CompactRIO chassis through a PCI Express x1 interface, offering versatile integration with various host controllers including workstations, laptops, and desktop systems equipped with PCI, PCI Express, or ExpressCard ports. The module enhances flexibility in system design by allowing for the physical separation of measurement and automation devices from the host PC, thus enabling diverse configuration options.

By leveraging advanced PCI Express technology, the module incorporates PCI Express switches and PCI Express-to-PCI bridges to establish control over PXI or PXI Express chassis. This bridge architecture is transparent to device drivers, which means that devices compliant with CompactPCI standards do not require additional software support, ensuring improved system compatibility. The compact design of the 779501-01 measures 10.0 x 16.0 cm (3.9 x 6.3 in.) and weighs approximately 0.17 kg (0.37 lb), making it lightweight and easy to integrate. It is fully compliant with the PXI-5 Express Hardware Specification, Revision 1.0, and occupies a single PXI Express system slot with a maximum cable length support of 7 meters, allowing for considerable flexibility in system configurations. The module operates within a temperature range of 0 to 55 °C and maintains functionality in relative humidity conditions of 10 to 90% non-condensing, as verified by extensive testing.