Introducing the GRT Velocity PXIe Card: A High-Performance ARINC 818 Frame Grabber and Video Converter
- David Cox
- Apr 2
- 2 min read

Great River Technology has developed the Velocity ARINC 818 PXIe Card, an ARINC 818 frame grabber and video converter designed for integration into PXIe-based test and development environments. This instrument supports both receiving (Rx) and transmitting (Tx) of ARINC 818 video streams, making it a valuable tool for testing, validation, and integration in avionics applications.
Available Versions
· Single-Channel Version – Equipped with dual receivers (A/B selectable) and two mirrored Tx outputs.
· Dual-Channel Version – Provides two independent Rx-only channels, utilizing the same ICD for both.
Key Capabilities
With the XI Configuration Tool, users can load any ARINC 818 ICD onto the card in under a minute. This enables quick implementation of new video formats, ensuring adaptability in evolving avionics environments. Once configured, the instrument functions as a single-format ARINC 818 solution, simplifying development and testing workflows.
Integration & Customization
Designed in the PXIe form factor, the Velocity PXIe Card integrates with modular PXIe test systems, facilitating automated testing. SDKs for Windows and LabVIEW (sold separately) provide further customization options and can be used with NI TestStand for automated test execution.
Features at a Glance
Implement a new video format in minutes
Create a library of video formats
ARINC 818 transmits or receives
Full-featured test application
ARINC 818 to/from HDMI conversion
Error injection for robustness testing
CRC Errors
Beginning Running Disparity
8b/10b Errors
ARINC 818 Packet Errors
Applications
The Velocity PXIe Card supports a range of avionics and high-speed video applications, including:
· Avionics Video – Supporting cockpit and mission-critical video processing.
· ATP for Production Displays – Automating test procedures for display production.
· Display Development – Assisting in the design and validation of avionics displays.
· Sensor Arrays – Facilitating the integration and testing of multi-sensor video systems.
· Cockpit Simulation – Enabling high-fidelity video simulation for training and development.
· Video Generation – Providing real-time ARINC 818 video output for various test scenarios.
· Data Only – Supporting high-speed data transfer applications.
· High-Speed Video Recording – Capturing and analyzing high-speed video streams.
· Dual-Channel LAD Systems – Supporting dual-link ARINC 818 display architectures.
The Velocity PXIe Card provides a streamlined solution for ARINC 818 video testing and integration. Its flexibility and performance make it well-suited for both development and production environments, addressing the needs of modern avionics systems.