NI PXI-6251 Data Acquisition (DAQ) Boards

NI PXI-6251 Overview

The NI PXI-6251 is a high-performance, multifunction data acquisition (DAQ) board for PXI or CompactPCI systems, part of the NI-DAQmx family. It offers analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and timing functionalities for a wide range of test, measurement, and control applications.

Product Detailed Description

• Function:

• Analog Input (AI): Acquires analog signals from multiple channels at sampling rates up to 1.25 MS/s.

• Analog Output (AO): Generates analog voltage or current signals on multiple channels.

• Digital I/O (DIO): Provides configurable digital input and output channels.

• Timing and Triggering: Offers precise timing and triggering capabilities for synchronized acquisition and generation.

• NI-STC3 Timing and Synchronization Chip: Provides advanced timing, triggering, and synchronization features.

• NI-DAQmx Driver Software: Offers an easy-to-use API for configuring and controlling the DAQ board.

• Features:

• High sampling rate and resolution analog inputs.

• Multiple analog output channels.

• High-speed digital I/O.

• Precise timing and triggering capabilities.

• Compatible with PXI and CompactPCI systems.

• Powerful NI-DAQmx driver software support.

Product Parameters

• Analog Input:

• Number of Channels: 16 single-ended or 8 differential channels

• Resolution: 16 bits

• Maximum Sample Rate: 1.25 MS/s (single channel), 1 MS/s (multichannel)

• Input Ranges: ±0.1 V to ±10 V

• Input Impedance: > 1 MΩ

• Analog Output:

• Number of Channels: 2

• Resolution: 16 bits

• Maximum Update Rate: 2.86 MS/s (combined)

• Output Ranges: ±10 V

• Output Current: ±5 mA

• Digital I/O:

• Number of Channels: 24

• Direction: Programmable per channel for input or output

• Logic Levels: 5 V TTL/CMOS

• Maximum Data Rate: 10 MHz (hardware-timed)

• Timing and Triggering:

• Counter/Timers: 2 x 32-bit counter/timers

• Digital Triggering: PFI lines, RTSI bus

• Analog Triggering: AI comparators

• Bus Interface:

• PXI/CompactPCI

• Power Requirements:

• +5 V, 1.1 A typical

• Operating Temperature:

• 0 °C to 55 °C

• Form Factor:

• 3U PXI/CompactPCI module

• Connectors:

• 68-pin SCSI connector (analog and digital I/O)

Product Advantages

• High Performance:

• High sampling rate and resolution analog inputs suitable for high-speed signal acquisition.

• Fast analog output update rate for high-bandwidth signal generation.

• High-speed digital I/O for digital control and testing.

• Versatility:

• Integrates analog input, analog output, and digital I/O functionalities.

• Flexible channel configuration and range selection.

• Precise Timing and Synchronization:

• NI-STC3 chip provides advanced timing, triggering, and synchronization features.

• Easy synchronization with other PXI modules.

• Powerful Software Support:

• NI-DAQmx driver software simplifies programming and configuration.

• Supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, MATLAB, and other programming environments.

• Integration with PXI Platform:

• Leverages the high bandwidth and synchronization capabilities of the PXI bus.

• Highly scalable for building complex test and measurement systems.

Precautions

• Correct Installation:

• Install the PXI-6251 board correctly into a PXI or CompactPCI chassis according to NI's installation guide.

• Power Requirements:

• Ensure the PXI chassis provides sufficient power.

• Signal Connections:

• Use appropriate cables and terminal blocks to connect analog and digital signals.

• Follow proper wiring practices to avoid noise and interference.

• Software Configuration:

• Use NI-DAQmx driver software to correctly configure channels, sampling rates, ranges, and triggering.

• ESD Protection:

• Observe electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions when handling the board.

• Temperature Limits:

• Ensure operation within the specified operating temperature range.

• Calibration:

• For highest measurement accuracy, regular calibration of the board is recommended.

Product Applications

The NI PXI-6251 is widely used in various test, measurement, and control fields, including but not limited to:

• Automated Test Equipment (ATE):

• For functional and parametric testing of electronic components, circuit boards, and systems.

• Data Acquisition:

• For acquiring various physical quantities such as voltage, current, temperature, pressure, etc.

• Laboratory Research:

• For data acquisition and signal generation in scientific experiments and research.

• Industrial Control:

• For controlling and monitoring industrial processes.

• Vibration and Acoustics Analysis:

• For acquiring vibration and acoustic signals.

• Transient Recording:

• For capturing rapidly changing signals.

• Servo and Motion Control:

• For generating control signals.