NI SH68-8DB9 Meter SCSI-68 8-PORT DB-9 RS-232

( Brand: Ni ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SH68-8DB9 ), ( Part Type: Meter ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Item Length: 12 )

Review NI Scsi-68 To 8-port Db-9 Rs-232 Meter

The **NI SH-68-8DB9** is a high-performance, industrial-grade Serial GPIB-to-RS-232 converter designed specifically for seamless integration with National Instruments SCXI (Signal Conditioning eXtensions for Instrumentation) systems, particularly the **NI SCXI-68xx** chassis. This versatile 8-port module bridges the gap between traditional RS-232 instrumentation and modern SCXI-based data acquisition and control systems, enabling users to interface legacy serial devices such as multimeters, function generators, or industrial sensors with high-speed, deterministic SCXI signal conditioning and digitization hardware. Built to withstand the rigors of laboratory, manufacturing, or field environments, the **SH-68-8DB9** features robust construction with a **DB-9 male** connector on each of its eight ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of RS-232-compatible meters, oscilloscopes, and other serial instruments. Its **SCSI-68** interface adheres to National Instruments SCXI standards, allowing for low-latency, high-throughput data transfer while maintaining synchronization with other SCXI modules for precise timing and coordination in multi-channel applications. Whether used for automated test systems, process monitoring, or research instrumentation, this converter excels in environments where reliability, scalability, and seamless integration with SCXI-based architectures are paramount. Its modular design allows for easy expansion, making it an ideal solution for upgrading legacy instrumentation setups without compromising performance or flexibility.

The **NI SH-68-8DB9** is a ScalableSCSI-68 (SCSI-68) 8-port DB-9 adapter designed for connecting RS-232 devices (such as meters, instruments, or legacy equipment) to a National Instruments (NI) platform, typically via a PXI or other NI hardware system. Below is a detailed analysis of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the NI SH-68-8DB9**

1. **High-Port Density for RS-232 Devices**

The adapter provides **8 serial (RS-232) ports** in a single unit, which is ideal for applications requiring simultaneous communication with multiple meters, sensors, or instruments. This reduces the need for multiple dongles or adapters, simplifying wiring and cable management.

2. **Compatibility with NI Platforms**

The SH-68-8DB9 is designed for **NI hardware (e.g., PXI, CompactRIO, or other NI chassis)** and integrates seamlessly with **LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or other NI software**. This ensures reliable data acquisition, control, and communication with RS-232 devices without additional drivers or complex setups.

3. **ScalableSCSI-68 Backplane Compatibility**

The ScalableSCSI-68 bus allows for **modular expansion** within an NI chassis. You can mix and match different NI modules (e.g., analog I/O, digital I/O, or other serial interfaces) on the same backplane, making it a flexible solution for complex test systems.

4. **Reliable and Industrial-Grade Construction**

NI hardware is known for its **durability and robustness**, making the SH-68-8DB9 suitable for **industrial, automotive, or harsh-environment applications**. It is designed to handle continuous use in automated testing or data logging scenarios.

5. **Standardized RS-232 Interface**

The **DB-9 connectors** are widely used and compatible with most legacy RS-232 instruments. This avoids the need for proprietary adapters or custom solutions, ensuring broad compatibility.

6. **Support for High-Speed Serial Communication**

While RS-232 is limited to **115.2 kbps** (or lower), the SH-68-8DB9 can handle this speed reliably, making it suitable for applications where moderate data throughput is sufficient (e.g., meter readings, simple sensor data).

7. **Ease of Integration with NI Software**

NI provides **built-in VIs (Virtual Instruments)** for serial communication in LabVIEW, reducing the need for third-party libraries. This accelerates development and ensures consistency in communication protocols.

8. **Hot-Swappable (in Some NI Chassis)**

Depending on the host system (e.g., PXI), the module may support **hot-swapping**, allowing for easier maintenance or upgrades without downtime.

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### **Cons of the NI SH-68-8DB9**

1. **Limited to RS-232 (No USB, Ethernet, or Modern Protocols)**

The SH-68-8DB9 **only supports RS-232**, which is an older standard. If your instruments use **USB, Ethernet (LXI), or newer serial protocols (e.g., USBTMC, GPIB)**, this adapter will not work. This can be a significant limitation if you need to future-proof your system.

2. **No Built-in Termination or Signal Conditioning**

RS-232 signals require proper **termination (120 resistors)** and may suffer from **noise or crosstalk** over long cables. The SH-68-8DB9 does not include built-in signal conditioning, so you may need external solutions (e.g., opto-isolators, line drivers) for noisy environments.

3. **Physical Size and Space Constraints**

As a **PXI module**, the SH-68-8DB9 occupies a **single slot** in an NI chassis. If space is limited, this may not be ideal compared to standalone USB or Ethernet-based solutions, which can be more compact.

4. **Cost Relative to Alternatives**

The SH-68-8DB9 is **expensive** compared to **USB-to-serial adapters** or **Ethernet-based LXI instruments**. For simple applications, a **cheaper USB-serial dongle (e.g., FTDI, Prolific)** may suffice, especially if you only need a few ports.

5. **Dependence on NI Hardware**

The module is **tied to NI s ecosystem**. If you are not already using NI hardware (e.g., PXI, CompactDAQ), purchasing this adapter may not be cost-effective. You would need to invest in an NI chassis, which adds significant expense.

6. **No Support for Advanced Serial Features**

RS-232 lacks features like **handshaking (RTS/CTS)**, which may be required for some instruments. While the SH-68-8DB9 supports basic handshaking, complex protocols (e.g., those requiring flow control) may require additional configuration.

7. **Potential Latency in High-Speed Applications**

While RS-232 is fast enough for many applications, if you need **sub-millisecond response times** (e.g., in high-speed data logging), other interfaces (e.g., **USB 3.0, Ethernet, or PCIe**) may offer better performance.

8. **Limited Availability and Obsolescence Risk**

NI occasionally discontinues or phases out older modules. While the SH-68-8DB9 is still available, there is a risk that **support or firmware updates** may be discontinued in the future, leaving you dependent on legacy documentation.

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### **Conclusion**

- You are already using **NI hardware (PXI, CompactRIO, etc.)** and need a **high-port-count RS-232 solution**.

- Your instruments **exclusively use RS-232** and require **simultaneous, reliable communication**.

- You prioritize **integration with LabVIEW/LabWindows/CVI** and need a **scalable, modular solution**.

- Your application does not require **high-speed or modern interfaces** (e.g., USB, Ethernet).

- You need **USB, Ethernet, or LXI compatibility**.

- Your budget is tight, as **USB-serial adapters or standalone serial cards** may be more cost-effective.

- You are working in a **noisy environment** without proper signal conditioning.

- You plan to **future-proof** your system, as RS-232 is an aging standard.

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### **Recommendation**

The **NI SH-68-8DB9 is the best choice** due to its reliability, integration with NI software, and high port density. Ensure your instruments support RS-232 and that your environment does not require advanced signal conditioning.

Consider a **USB-to-serial adapter (e.g., FTDI FT232R or Prolific PL2303)**. These are **cheaper, more flexible, and widely compatible** with most operating systems and programming environments (Python, C , LabVIEW via NI-VISA).

Replace RS-232 devices with **USBTMC or LXI-compatible instruments** and use a **USB or Ethernet-based data acquisition system** (e.g., NI USB-600x series, Advantech USB-232, or a standalone Ethernet switch).

Evaluate **PCIe-based serial cards** (e.g., NI PCI-6509) or **Ethernet-based solutions** (e.g., NI PXIe-8880 for LXI) if your application demands lower latency or higher throughput.

Supplement the SH-68-8DB9 with **external RS-232 line drivers/isolators** (e.g., MAX485/MAX232-based modules) to improve signal integrity.

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### **Final Verdict**

The **NI SH-68-8DB9 is a solid, high-performance RS-232 solution for NI-based systems** but may not be the most cost-effective or future-proof option for all applications. Assess your specific requirements **port count, compatibility, budget, and long-term needs** before making a decision. If RS-232 is non-negotiable and NI hardware is already in use, proceed with confidence. Otherwise, explore alternatives for better flexibility and cost efficiency.

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