Abstract: This invention relates generally to modular instrument chassis and more particularly to benchtop and rack mount modular instrument chassis that employ the PXI and PXIe standards. The present invention combines the benefits of the PXI/PXIe systems without the drawbacks that preclude PXI/PXIe systems from being used effectively in a deployable environment. Embodiments of the present invention enable PXI/PXIe systems to be deployed in a benchtop or rack mount deployable environment and enable front-to-back cooling, flexible I/O (front and back I/O panels), consistent I/O on front and back panels for reproducible and repeatable connections to external devices and for calibration requirements associated with such environments while maintaining the modularity benefits of PXI/PXIe and without sacrificing PXI/PXIe slots.