The PXI-1042 is a chassis. The modules you plug into it do the work. I suppose you may have something like the PXI-8430/8 module in the chassis.
The data rates you are using should not be a problem. My guess is that your program architecture causes the program to slow down or one part of the program may be blocking other parts from running.
With multiple instruments communicating simultaneously but asynchronously, you need to be careful in the design of the program to make sure that all communications ahre handled promptly.
Since this is a school project, it is important for you to learn how to do these things for yourself.
I presumed that you are using LabVIEW for the programming, but you did not say that. Is this correct?
Handling multiple instruments is not a trivial task. Prepare a design specification (if you have not already done so) which clearly indicates what communications tasks are required for each instrument. It must also specify what data (including commands) are sent to each instrument and the source of that data. Similarly specify the data received from each instrument and where it goes and what will be done with it. What inputs does the user provide? What information is displayed to the user? What information goes to files? When you have these specifications, then you can begin to select appropriate architectures for your program.
Anything which will be done multiple times or places in your program (such as serial port communications) should be made into subVIs. Make sure there is no data dependency between any subVIs which may need to run in parallel.
Lynn
