LXI

LXI, or LAN eXtensions for Instrumentation, is an open standard for connecting modular laboratory and measurement instruments over Ethernet. It was developed to enable scalable, interoperable automated test systems by defining how instruments communicate, synchronize, and integrate on a local area network.

Core concepts and features of LXI include an Ethernet-based transport, standard software interfaces for instrument control (commonly SCPI commands sent over TCP/IP), and a web-based user interface built into many LXI devices for configuration and status monitoring. LXI devices are designed for plug-and-play operation within a network, supporting automatic discovery, straightforward interconnection of multiple instruments, and coordinated triggering and timing across devices to enable synchronized measurements.

Architecture and scope: The LXI specification outlines minimum requirements for compliant devices and class specifications that describe capabilities, aiming to ensure interoperability between instruments from different vendors within a single test system. The standard encourages the use of common network protocols and driver models to simplify integration with test software.

Impact and usage: LXI has become widely adopted in automated test equipment, electronics manufacturing, research laboratories, and industries requiring modular, scalable measurement setups. By leveraging standard Ethernet and software interfaces, LXI enables flexible configurations, remote instrument control, and easier maintenance compared with proprietary bus architectures.

History and governance: The LXI standard originated from a consortium of instrument manufacturers and has evolved under the broader umbrella of organizations involved in instrument-interface ecosystems. It remains associated with efforts to promote open, interoperable instrumentation across vendors and applications.

See also: SCPI, IVI Foundation, Ethernet, automated test equipment.