10 | ni.com | NI Digital Waveform Generator/Analyzer Getting Started Guide
Hot Surface During operation, the metal surfaces of PXI/PXI Express modules 
may become hot. Be careful when removing the module from the chassis or when 
moving it to a different peripheral slot. When removing the module, hold it by only 
the ejector handle and front panel.
Installing a PCI Device
To install your PCI device, complete the following steps:
1. Power off and unplug the PC.
2. Remove the PC cover.
3. If the PC has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fans are set to the highest setting.
4. Insert the device into an open PCI slot, as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4.  PCI Installation
NI recommends either leaving the slot adjacent to the fan side of the device empty or using 
lower-profile devices in the slot adjacent to the fan side.
5. Secure the device with the screw provided in the kit.
Caution It is important to completely screw the device into the PCI slot, both for 
mechanical stability and for creating a solid ground connection, which reduces signal 
noise. Some computer manufacturers use a plastic securing lever to secure PCI 
devices; such a lever is unacceptable and must be removed, or you must use a 
different chassis. Improperly secured devices may affect the accuracy of device 
specifications.
1 NI PCI Device 2PCI Slot 3 Personal Computer