NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PCI-6220 Series 16 Bit Multifunction DAQ Artisan User Manual
- June 1, 2024
- NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
Table of Contents
- NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PCI-6220 Series 16 Bit Multifunction DAQ Artisan
- Product Information
- Product Usage Instructions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Legal Information
- Getting Started
- DAQ System Overview
- Connector and LED Information
- Analog Input
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PCI-6220 Series 16 Bit Multifunction DAQ Artisan
Product Information
Specifications:
- Model: SCXI-1349
- Product Type: DAQ M Series Multifunction I/O Modules
- Compatible Models: NI 622x, NI 625x, NI 628x
- Publication Date: July 2016
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty for hardware products, 90-day limited warranty for software products
Product Usage Instructions
Installation:
- Ensure that the system is powered off before installing the module.
- Insert the module into the appropriate slot on your DAQ device.
- Secure the module in place and connect any required cables.
- Power on the system and follow the device-specific setup instructions.
Configuration:
- Install the necessary drivers and software provided by National Instruments.
- Open the software interface and configure the input/output channels as needed.
- Set up any triggering or timing parameters based on your application requirements.
- Verify the connection and calibration of the module before proceeding with data acquisition.
Data Acquisition:
- Start the data acquisition software and ensure that the module is recognized.
- Select the desired sampling rate, resolution, and data format for your measurements.
- Initiate data acquisition and monitor the incoming data in real-time or store it for later analysis.
- Perform any necessary signal processing or analysis using the acquired data.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How can I obtain technical support for my SCXI-1349 DAQ M Series module?
- A: You can contact NI’s worldwide technical support team through the website ni.com or by calling the provided support phone numbers. Additionally, you can visit NI’s branch office websites for up-to-date contact information.
- Q: What is covered under the warranty for the SCXI-1349 module?
- A: The SCXI-1349 module is covered by a 1-year limited warranty for hardware defects and a 90-day limited warranty for software performance. Refer to the warranty terms provided in the user manual for detailed information on coverage and exclusions.
SCXI-1349
DAQ M Series
M Series User Manual
NI 622x, NI 625x, and NI 628x Multifunction I/O Modules and Devices
M Series User Manual
July 2016 371022L-01
Support
Worldwide Technical Support and Product Information ni.com
Worldwide Offices Visit ni.com/niglobal to access the branch office websites,
which provide up-to-date contact information, support phone numbers, email
addresses, and current events.
National Instruments Corporate Headquarters 11500 North Mopac Expressway
Austin, Texas 78759-3504 USA Tel: 512 683 0100
For further support information, refer to the NI Services appendix. To comment
on NI documentation, refer to the NI website at ni.com/info and enter the Info
Code feedback.
© 20042016 National Instruments. All rights reserved.
Legal Information
Limited Warranty
This document is provided `as is’ and is subject to being changed, without
notice, in future editions. For the latest version, refer to ni.com/manuals.
NI reviews this document carefully for technical accuracy; however, NI MAKES
NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES AS TO THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY ERRORS.
NI warrants that its hardware products will be free of defects in materials
and workmanship that cause the product to fail to substantially conform to the
applicable NI published specifications for one (1) year from the date of
invoice.
For a period of ninety (90) days from the date of invoice, NI warrants that
(i) its software products will perform substantially in accordance with the
applicable documentation provided with the software and (ii) the software
media will be free from defects in materials and workmanship.
If NI receives notice of a defect or non-conformance during the applicable
warranty period, NI will, in its discretion: (i) repair or replace the
affected product, or (ii) refund the fees paid for the affected product.
Repaired or replaced Hardware will be warranted for the remainder of the
original warranty period or ninety (90) days, whichever is longer. If NI
elects to repair or replace the product, NI may use new or refurbished parts
or products that are equivalent to new in performance and reliability and are
at least functionally equivalent to the original part or product.
You must obtain an RMA number from NI before returning any product to NI. NI
reserves the right to charge a fee for examining and testing Hardware not
covered by the Limited Warranty.
This Limited Warranty does not apply if the defect of the product resulted
from improper or inadequate maintenance, installation, repair, or calibration
(performed by a party other than NI); unauthorized modification; improper
environment; use of an improper hardware or software key; improper use or
operation outside of the specification for the product; improper voltages;
accident, abuse, or neglect; or a hazard such as lightning, flood, or other
act of nature.
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PRODUCTS WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE.
In the event that you and NI have a separate signed written agreement with
warranty terms covering the products, then the warranty terms in the separate
agreement shall control.
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YOU ARE ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING AND VALIDATING THE SUITABILITY
AND RELIABILITY OF THE PRODUCTS WHENEVER THE PRODUCTS ARE INCORPORATED IN YOUR
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PRODUCTS ARE NOT DESIGNED, MANUFACTURED, OR TESTED FOR USE IN LIFE OR SAFETY
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Getting Started
The M Series User Manual contains information about using the National
Instruments M Series multifunction I/O data acquisition (DAQ) devices with NI-
DAQmx 15.5 and later. M Series devices feature up to 80 analog input (AI)
channels, up to four analog output (AO) channels, up to 48 lines of digital
input/output (DIO), and two counters. This chapter provides basic information
you need to get started using your M Series device.
Safety Guidelines
Operate the NI 62xx M Series devices and modules only as described in this
user manual.
Caution NI 62xx devices and modules are not certified for use in hazardous
locations.
Caution Never connect the +5 V power terminals to analog or digital ground or
to any other voltage source on the M Series device or any other device. Doing
so can damage the device and the computer. NI is not liable for damage
resulting from such a connection.
Caution The maximum input voltages rating of AI signals with respect to ground
(and for signal pairs in differential mode with respect to each other) are
listed in the specifications document for your device. Exceeding the maximum
input voltage of AI signals distorts the measurement results. Exceeding the
maximum input voltage rating also can damage the device and the computer. NI
is not liable for any damage resulting from such signal connections.
Caution Exceeding the maximum input voltage ratings, which are listed in the
specifications document for each M Series device, can damage the DAQ device
and the computer. NI is not liable for any damage resulting from such signal
connections.
Caution Damage can result if these lines are driven by the sub-bus. NI is not
liable for any damage resulting from improper signal connections.
© National Instruments | 1-1
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Safety Guidelines for Hazardous Voltages
If hazardous voltages are connected to the device/module, take the following
precautions. A hazardous voltage is a voltage greater than 42.4 Vpk or 60 VDC
to earth ground.
Caution Ensure that hazardous voltage wiring is performed only by qualified
personnel adhering to local electrical standards.
Caution Do not mix hazardous voltage circuits and human-accessible circuits on
the same module.
Caution Make sure that chassis and circuits connected to the module are
properly insulated from human contact.
Caution NI 62xx devices and modules provide no isolation.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines
This product was tested and complies with the regulatory requirements and
limits for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) as stated in the product
specifications. These requirements and limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the product is
operated in its intended operational electromagnetic environment.
This product is intended for use in industrial locations. There is no
guarantee that harmful interference will not occur in a particular
installation, when the product is connected to a test object, or if the
product is used in residential areas. To minimize the potential for the
product to cause interference to radio and television reception or to
experience unacceptable performance degradation, install and use this product
in strict accordance with the instructions in the product documentation.
Furthermore, any changes or modifications to the product not expressly
approved by National Instruments could void your authority to operate it under
your local regulatory rules.
Caution To ensure the specified EMC performance, product installation requires
either special considerations or user-installed, add-on devices. Refer to the
product installation instructions for further information.
Caution For compliance with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements,
this product must be operated with shielded cables and accessories. If
unshielded cables or accessories are used, the EMC specifications are no
longer guaranteed unless all unshielded cables and/or accessories are
installed in a shielded enclosure with properly designed and shielded
input/output ports.
Caution This product may become more sensitive to electromagnetic disturbances
in the operational environment when test leads are attached or when connected
to a test object.
1-2 | ni.com
Hardware Symbol Definitions
M Series User Manual
The following symbols are marked on your device or module.
Caution When this symbol is marked on a product, refer to the Safety Guidelines section for information about precautions to take.
EU Customers At the end of the product life cycle, all products must be sent to
a WEEE recycling center. For more information about WEEE recycling centers,
National Instruments WEEE initiatives, and compliance with WEEE Directive
2002/96/EC on Waste and Electronic Equipment, visit ni.com/environment/
weee.
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Installation
Before installing your multifunction I/O device, you must install the software
you plan to use with the device.
1. Installing application software–Refer to the installation instructions
that accompany your software.
2. Installing NI-DAQmx–The DAQ Getting Started Guide for PXI/PXI Express, DAQ
Getting Started Guide for PCI/PCI Express, or DAQ Getting Started Guide for
Externally Powered USB, packaged with your device or module, and also
available on ni.com/ manuals, contain step-by-step instructions for installing
software and hardware, configuring channels and tasks, and getting started
developing an application.
3. Installing the hardware–Unpack your M Series device as described in the
Unpacking section. Refer to the DAQ Getting Started Guide for PXI/PXI Express,
DAQ Getting Started Guide for PCI/PCI Express, or DAQ Getting Started Guide
for Externally Powered USB for information how to install your software and
device or module. It also describes how to confirm that your device or module
is operating properly, configure your device or module, run test panels, and
take a measurement.
Unpacking
The M Series device ships in an antistatic package to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can damage several components on the device.
Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.
© National Instruments | 1-3
Chapter 1 Getting Started
To avoid ESD damage in handling the device, take the following precautions: ·
Ground yourself with a grounding strap or by touching a grounded object. ·
Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of your computer chassis before
removing the
device from the package.
Remove the device from the package and inspect it for loose components or any
other signs of damage. Notify NI if the device appears damaged in any way. Do
not install a damaged device in your computer or chassis.
Store the device in the antistatic package when the device is not in use.
Device Self-Calibration
NI recommends that you self-calibrate your M Series device after installation
and whenever the ambient temperature changes. Self-calibration should be
performed after the device has warmed up for the recommended time period.
Refer to the device specifications to find your device warm-up time. This
function measures the onboard reference voltage of the device and adjusts the
self-calibration constants to account for any errors caused by short-term
fluctuations in the environment. Disconnect all external signals when you
self-calibrate a device.
Note (NI PCIe-6251/6259 Devices) Connecting or disconnecting the disk drive
power connector on M Series PCI Express devices can affect the analog
performance of your device. To compensate for this, NI recommends that you
self-calibrate after connecting or disconnecting the disk drive power
connector, as described in the Device Self-Calibration section.
You can initiate self-calibration using Measurement & Automation Explorer
(MAX), by completing the following steps. 1. Launch MAX. 2. Select My
System»Devices and Interfaces»your device. 3. Initiate self-calibration using
one of the following methods:
· Click Self-Calibrate in the upper right corner of MAX. · Right-click the
name of the device in the MAX configuration tree and select
Self-Calibrate from the drop-down menu.
Note You can also programmatically self-calibrate your device with NI-DAQmx,
as described in Device Calibration in the NI-DAQmx Help or the LabVIEW Help.
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M Series User Manual
Getting Started with M Series PCI Express Devices and the Disk Drive Power
Connector
(NI PCIe-6251/6259 Devices) The disk drive power connector is a four-pin hard
drive connector on PCI Express devices that, when connected, increases the
current the device can supply on the +5 V terminal.
When to Use the Disk Drive Power Connector
M Series PCI Express devices without the disk drive power connector installed
perform identically to other M Series devices for most applications and with
most accessories. For most applications, it is not necessary to install the
disk drive power connector.
However, you should install the disk drive power connector in either of the
following situations: · You need more power than listed in the device
specifications · You are using an SCC accessory without an external power
supply, such as the SC-2345
Refer to the specifications document for your device for more information
about PCI Express power requirements and power limits.
Disk Drive Power Connector Installation
Before installing the disk drive power connector, you must install and set up
the M Series PCI Express device as described in the DAQ Getting Started Guide
for PCI/PCI Express. Complete the following steps to install the disk drive
power connector. 1. Power off and unplug the computer. 2. Remove the computer
cover. 3. Attach the PC disk drive power connector to the disk drive power
connector on the device,
as shown in Figure 1-1.
Note The power available on the disk drive power connectors in a computer can
vary. For example, consider using a disk drive power connector that is not in
the same power chain as the hard drive.
Figure 1-1. Connecting to the Disk Drive Power Connector
2 1
1 Device Disk Drive Power Connector
2 PC Disk Drive Power Connector © National Instruments | 1-5
Chapter 1 Getting Started
4. Replace the computer cover, and plug in and power on the computer. 5.
Self-calibrate the PCI Express DAQ device in MAX by following the instructions
in the
Device Self-Calibration section. Note Connecting or disconnecting the disk
drive power connector can affect the analog performance of your device. To
compensate for this, NI recommends that you self-calibrate after connecting or
disconnecting the disk drive power connector, as described in the Device Self-
Calibration section.
Getting Started with M Series USB Devices
The following sections contain information about M Series USB device features
and best practices.
Applying the Signal Label to USB Screw Terminal Devices
(USB-622x/625x/628x Screw Terminal Devices) The supplied signal label can be
adhered to the inside cover of the USB-62xx Screw Terminal device with
supplied velcro strips as shown in Figure 1-2.
Figure 1-2. Applying the USB-62xx Screw Terminal Signal Label
USB Device Chassis Ground
(USB-622x/625x/628x Devices) For EMC compliance, the chassis of the USB M
Series device must be connected to earth ground through the chassis ground.
The wire should be AWG 16 or larger solid copper wire with a maximum length of
1.5 m (5 ft). Attach the wire to the earth ground of the facility’s power
system. For more information about earth ground connections, refer to the
KnowledgeBase document, Earth Grounding for Test and Measurement Devices, by
going to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code earthground.
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M Series User Manual
You can attach a wire to the ground lug screw of any USB-62xx device, as shown
in Figure 1-3. Figure 1-3. Grounding a USB-62xx Device through the Ground Lug
Screw
NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
ON
OFF
ACTIVE READY
NI USB-62xx
Multifunction I/O with Correlated Digital I/O for USB
(USB-6225/625x/628x Screw Terminal Devices) You can attach and solder a wire
to the chassis ground lug of certain USB-62xx Screw Terminal devices, as shown
in Figure 1-4. The wire should be as short as possible.
Figure 1-4. Grounding a USB-62xx Screw Terminal Device through the Chassis
Ground Lug
(USB-62xx BNC Devices) You can attach a wire to a CHS GND screw terminal of
any USB-62xx BNC device, as shown in Figure 1-5. Use as short a wire as
possible. In addition, the wires in the shielded cable that extend beyond the
shield should be as short as possible.
Figure 1-5. Grounding a USB-62xx BNC Device through the CHS GND Screw Terminal
© National Instruments | 1-7
Chapter 1 Getting Started
USB Device Panel/Wall Mounting
(USB-622x/625x/628x Devices) The Externally Powered USB M Series Panel
Mounting Kit (part number 780214-01, not included in your USB-62xx kit) is an
accessory you can use to mount the USB-62xx family of products to a panel or
wall.
USB Device LEDs
(USB-622x/625x/628x Devices) Refer to the LED Patterns section of Chapter 3,
Connector and LED Information, for information about the M Series USB device
LEDs.
USB Cable Strain Relief
(USB-622x/625x/628x Screw Terminal and USB-622x/625x/628x Mass Termination
Devices) Use the supplied strain relief hardware to provide strain relief for
your USB cable. Adhere the cable tie mount to the rear panel of the USB-62xx
Screw Terminal or USB-62xx Mass Termination device, as shown in Figure 1-6.
Thread a zip tie through the cable tie mount and tighten around the USB cable.
Figure 1-6. USB Cable Strain Relief on USB-62xx Screw Terminal and USB-62xx
Mass Termination Devices
(USB-622x/625x BNC Devices) Thread a zip tie through two of the strain relief
holes on the end cap to provide strain relief for your USB cable as shown in
Figure 1-7. The strain relief holes can also be used as cable management for
signal wires to/from the screw terminals and BNC connectors.
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M Series User Manual
Figure 1-7. USB Cable Strain Relief on USB-62xx BNC Devices
3
12
1 USB Cable Strain Relief 2 Security Cable Slot
3 Signal Wire Strain Relief
USB Device Fuse Replacement
M Series USB devices have a replaceable T 2A 250V (5 × 20 mm) fuse that
protects the device from overcurrent through the power connector.
(USB-6281/6289 Devices) USB-628x devices also have a replaceable Littelfuse 0453002 (F 2A 250V) fuse that protects the device from overcurrent through the +5 V terminal(s).
(USB-622x/625x/628x Screw Terminal Devices) To replace a broken fuse in the USB-62xx Screw Terminal, complete the following steps. 1. Power down and unplug the device. 2. Remove the USB cable and all signal wires from the device. 3. Loosen the four Phillips screws that attach the back lid to the enclosure and remove the lid. 4. Replace the broken fuse while referring to Figure 1-8 for the fuse locations.
© National Instruments | 1-9
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Figure 1-8. USB-62xx Screw Terminal Fuse Locations
1 2
1 T 2A 250V (5 × 20 mm) Fuse
2 Littelfuse 0453002 Fuse on USB-628x Devices
5. Replace the lid and screws.
(USB-622x/625x BNC Devices) To replace a broken fuse in the USB-62xx BNC,
complete the following steps.
1. Power down and unplug the device.
Note Take proper ESD precautions when handling the device.
2. Remove the USB cable and all BNC cables and signal wires from the device.
1-10 | ni.com
Figure 1-9. USB-62xx BNC Fuse Location
M Series User Manual
1 1 T 2A 250V (5 × 20 mm) Fuse
3. Remove both end pieces by unscrewing the four sockethead cap screws with a
7/64 in. hex wrench. Note The end pieces are attached using self-threading
screws. Repeated screwing and unscrewing of self-threading screws will produce
a compromised connection.
4. With a Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the Phillips 4-40 screw adjacent to
the USB connector.
5. Remove the nut from the power connector. 6. Remove the four Phillips 4-40
screws that attach the top panel to the enclosure and remove
the panel and connector unit. 7. Replace the broken fuse while referring to
Figure 1-9 for the fuse location. 8. Replace the top panel, screws, nut, and
end pieces.
© National Instruments | 1-11
Chapter 1 Getting Started
(USB-622x/625x/628x Mass Termination Devices) To replace a broken fuse in the
USB-62xx Mass Termination, complete the following steps. 1. Power down and
unplug the device. 2. Remove the USB cable and signal cable(s) from the
device. 3. Loosen the four Phillips screws that attach the lid to the
enclosure and remove the lid. 4. Replace the broken fuse while referring to
Figure 1-10 for the fuse locations.
Figure 1-10. USB-62xx Mass Termination Fuse Locations
2
1
1 T 2A 250V (5 × 20 mm) Fuse 2 Littelfuse 0453002 Fuse on USB-628x Devices
5. Replace the lid and screws.
USB Device Security Cable Slot
(USB-622x/625x BNC Devices) The security cable slot, shown in Figure 1-7,
allows you to attach an optional antitheft device to your USB device.
Note The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but may not prevent
the device from being mishandled or stolen. For more information, refer to the
documentation that accompanied the security cable. Note The security cable
slot on the USB-62xx BNC may not be compatible with all antitheft cables.
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M Series User Manual
Installing a Ferrite
(USB-62221/6229 BNC Devices) To ensure EMC compliance, you must install the
ferrite shipped with the USB-6221/6229 BNC.
Loop the power cabling through the ferrite at least five times. Install the
ferrite as close as possible to the end of the power cable, as shown in Figure
1-11.
Figure 1-11. Installing the Ferrite on the Power Cable
3
2 1
1 Power Cable 2 Ferrite
Pinouts
3 NI USB-6221/6229 BNC Device
Refer to Appendix A, Module/Device-Specific Information, for M Series device pinouts.
Specifications
Refer to the device specifications document for your device. M Series device documentation is available on ni.com/manuals.
Accessories and Cables
NI offers a variety of accessories and cables to use with your multifunction I/O DAQ module device. Refer to the Cables and Accessories section of Chapter 2, DAQ System Overview, for more information.
© National Instruments | 1-13
2
DAQ System Overview
Figure 2-1 shows a typical DAQ system, which includes sensors, transducers,
signal conditioning devices, cables that connect the various devices to the
accessories, the M Series device, programming software, and PC. The following
sections cover the components of a typical DAQ system.
Figure 2-1. Components of a Typical DAQ System
Sensors and Transducers
Signal Conditioning
Cables and Accessories
DAQ Hardware
DAQ Software
Personal Computer or
PXI/PXI Express Chassis
DAQ Hardware
DAQ hardware digitizes signals, performs D/A conversions to generate analog
output signals, and measures and controls digital I/O signals. Figure 2-2
features components common to all M Series devices.
Figure 2-2. General M Series Block Diagram
Analog Input
I/O Connector
Analog Output Digital I/O Counters PFI
Digital
Routing and Clock
Bus Interface
Bus
Generation
RTSI
© National Instruments | 2-1
Chapter 2
DAQ System Overview
DAQ-STC2 and DAQ-6202
The DAQ-STC2 and DAQ-6202 implement a high-performance digital engine for M
Series data acquisition hardware. Some key features of this engine include the
following: · Flexible AI and AO sample and convert timing · Many triggering
modes · Independent AI, AO, DI, and DO FIFOs · Generation and routing of RTSI
signals for multi-device synchronization · Generation and routing of internal
and external timing signals · Two flexible 32-bit counter/timer modules with
hardware gating · Digital waveform acquisition and generation · Static DIO
signals · True 5 V high current drive DO · DI change detection · PLL for clock
synchronization · Seamless interface to signal conditioning accessories ·
PCI/PXI interface · Independent scatter-gather DMA controllers for all
acquisition and generation functions
Calibration Circuitry
The M Series analog inputs and outputs have calibration circuitry to correct
gain and offset errors. You can calibrate the device to minimize AI and AO
errors caused by time and temperature drift at run time. No external circuitry
is necessary; an internal reference ensures high accuracy and stability over
time and temperature changes.
Factory-calibration constants are permanently stored in an onboard EEPROM and
cannot be modified. When you self-calibrate the device, as described in the
Device Self-Calibration section of Chapter 1, Getting Started, software stores
new constants in a user-modifiable section of the EEPROM. To return a device
to its initial factory calibration settings, software can copy the factory-
calibration constants to the user-modifiable section of the EEPROM. Refer to
the NI-DAQmx Help or the LabVIEW Help for more information about using
calibration constants. For a detailed calibration procedure for M Series
devices, refer to the B/E/M/S/X Series Calibration Procedure available at
ni.com/manuals.
2-2 | ni.com
Cables and Accessories
M Series User Manual
NI offers a variety of products to use with M Series PCI, PCI Express, PXI,
PXI Express, USB devices, including cables, connector blocks, and other
accessories, as follows:
· Shielded cables and cable assemblies, and unshielded ribbon cables and cable
assemblies
· Screw terminal connector blocks, shielded and unshielded
· RTSI bus cables
· SCXI modules and accessories for isolating, amplifying, exciting, and
multiplexing signals; with SCXI you can condition and acquire up to 3,072
channels
· Low-channel-count signal conditioning modules, devices, and accessories,
including conditioning for strain gauges and RTDs, simultaneous sample and
hold circuitry, and relays
Refer to the appropriate section for your device connector type–68-Pin M
Series Cables and Accessories or 37-Pin M Series Cables and Accessories. For
more specific information about these products, refer to ni.com.
Note For compliance with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements, this product must be operated with shielded cables and accessories. If unshielded cables or accessories are used, the EMC specifications are no longer guaranteed unless all unshielded cables and/or accessories are installed in a shielded enclosure with properly designed and shielded input/output ports.
Refer to the 68-Pin Custom Cabling and Connectivity or 37-Pin Custom Cabling
section of this chapter and the Field Wiring Considerations section of Chapter
4, Analog Input, for information about how to select accessories for your M
Series device.
68-Pin M Series Cables and Accessories
This section describes some cable and accessory options for M Series devices
with one or two 68-pin connectors. Refer to the following sections for
descriptions of these cables and accessories. Refer to ni.com for other
accessory options.
© National Instruments | 2-3
Chapter 2 DAQ System Overview
Table 2-1. 68-Pin M Series Device/Module Cables and Accessories
Cables
Unshielded
Cables and Accessories Type
Shielded Unshielded
Screw Terminal Block
BNC Terminal Block
SCC
Screw Terminal Block
PCI, PCI Express, PXI, PXI Express Devices and Modules
622x/625x/ 628x
Connector 0
6224/6229/ 6254/6259/ 6284/6289 Connector 1
6225/6255 Connector 1
SHC68-68-EPM SHC68-68
RC68-68
RC68-68
SCB-68A SCB-68 TB-2706*
SCB-68A SCB-68
BNC-2110 BNC-2111 BNC-2120 BNC-2090A BNC-2090
BNC-2115
SC-2345
N/A
SC-2350
SCC-68
CB-68LP CB-68LPR TBX-68
CB-68LP CB-68LPR TBX-68
USB Mass Termination Devices
622x/625x/ 628x
Connector 0 6229/6259/
6289 Connector 1
SC68-68-EPM
RC68-68
SCB-68A
SCB-68
6225/6255 Connector 1
SHC68-68
RC68-68
SCB-68A SCB-68
BNC-2110 BNC-2111 BNC-2120 BNC-2090A BNC-2090
SC-2345 SC-2350 SCC-68
CB-68LP CB-68LPR TBX-68
BNC-2115
N/A
CB-68LP CB-68LPR TBX-68
Accessories Shielded
Custom Connectivity CA-1000
CA-1000
CA-1000
CA-1000
- Can only be attached directly to PXI modules front connector only, and does not require a cable.
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M Series User Manual
68-Pin Cables
Cabling options differ between the 68-pin PCI/PCI Express/PXI/PXI Express
devices and modules and USB Mass Termination devices.
PCI/PCI Express/PXI/PXI Express Device/Module 68-Pin Cables You can use the
following cables with PCI, PCI Express, PXI, and PXI Express M Series devices
and modules: · SHC68-68-EPM1–(Recommended) High-performance shielded cable
designed for
M/X Series devices. It has individual bundles separating analog and digital
signals. Each differential analog input channel is routed on an individually
shielded twisted pair of wires. Analog outputs are also individually shielded.
· SHC68-68–(Recommended) Lower-cost shielded cable with 34 twisted pairs of
wire. The cable is recommended for PCI/PXI-6225/6255 Connector 1.
Note You must use the SHC68-68 cable on Connector 1 of PCI/PXI-6225/6255
devices and modules. The SHC68-68-EPM cable can be used on Connector 0 of all
M Series PCI, PCI Express, PXI, and PXI Express devices and modules, and on
Connector 1 of NI PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXI-6224/6229/6254/6259/6284/6289 devices and
modules.
· RC68-68–Highly-flexible unshielded ribbon cable.
USB Mass Termination Device 68-Pin Cables You can use the following cables
with USB devices with mass termination connectors: ·
SH68-68-EPM2–(Recommended) High-performance cable with individual bundles
separating analog and digital signals. Each differential analog input channel
is routed on an individually shielded twisted pair of wires. Analog outputs
are also individually shielded. · SH68-68-S–(Recommended) Shielded cable with
34 twisted pairs of wire. Each differential analog input channel on Connector
1 is routed on a twisted pair on the SH68-68-S cable. The cable is recommended
for USB-6225/6255 Mass Termination Connector 1.
Note You must use the SH68-68-S cable on Connector 1 of USB-6225/6255 Mass
Termination devices. The SH68-68-EPM cable can be used on Connector 0 of all M
Series USB Mass Termination devices, and on Connector 1 of USB-6229/6259/6289
devices and modules.
· R68-68–Highly-flexible unshielded ribbon cable.
1 NI recommends that you use the SHC68-68-EPM cable; however, an SHC68-68-EP
cable works with PCI/PCI Express/PXI/PXI Express devices and modules.
2 NI recommends that you use the SH68-68-EPM cable; however, an SH68-68-EP
cable will work with USB Mass Termination devices.
© National Instruments | 2-5
Chapter 2 DAQ System Overview
68-Pin BNC Accessories
You can use your 68-pin cable to connect your DAQ device to the following BNC
accessories: · BNC-2110–Provides BNC connectivity to all analog signals, some
digital signals, and
spring terminals for other digital signals · BNC-2111–Provides BNC
connectivity to 16 single-ended analog input signals,
two analog output signals, five DIO/PFI signals, and the external reference
voltage for analog output · BNC-2120–Similar to the BNC-2110, and also has a
built-in function generator, quadrature encoder, temperature reference, and
thermocouple connector · BNC-2090A, BNC-2090–Desktop/rack-mountable device
with 22 BNCs for connecting analog, digital, and timing signals · BNC-2115–(NI
6225/6255 Devices) Provides BNC connectivity to 24 of the differential (48
single ended) analog input signals on Connector 1 of NI 6225/6255 devices
68-Pin Screw Terminal Accessories
You can use your 68-pin cable to connect your DAQ device to the following
screw terminal accessories: · SCB-68A, SCB-68–Shielded connector block with
temperature sensor · TB-27061–Front panel mounted terminal block for PXI/PXI
Express M Series devices · SCC-68–I/O connector block with screw terminals,
general breadboard area, bus
terminals, and four expansion slots for SCC signal conditioning modules. ·
TBX-68–DIN rail-mountable connector block · CB-68LP, CB-68LPR–Unshielded
connector blocks
RTSI Cables
Use RTSI bus cables to connect timing and synchronization signals among
PCI/PCI Express devices, such as X Series, E Series, CAN, and other
measurement, vision, and motion devices. Since PXI devices use PXI backplane
signals for timing and synchronization, no cables are required.
SCC Carriers and Accessories
SCC provides portable, modular signal conditioning to your DAQ system. Use
your 68-pin cable to connect your device/module to an SCC module carrier, such
as the following: · SCC-68–68-pin terminal block with SCC expansion slots ·
SC-2345–Shielded carrier for up to 20 SCC modules · SC-2350–Shielded SCC
carrier for TEDS sensors
1 TB-2706 uses Connector 0 of your PXI/PXI Express module, therefore does not
require a cable. After a TB-2706 is installed, Connector 1 cannot be used.
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M Series User Manual
You can use either connector on M Series devices to control an SCC module
carrier.
Note (NI 6225/6255 Devices) SCC is supported only on Connector 0.
Note PCI Express users should consider the power limits on certain SCC modules
without an external power supply. Refer to the device specifications, and the
When to Use the Disk Drive Power Connector section of Chapter 1, Getting
Started, for information about power limits and increasing the current the
device can supply on the +5 V terminal.
SCXI
SCXI is a programmable signal conditioning system designed for measurement and
automation applications. To connect your M Series device or module to an SCXI
chassis, use the SCXI-1349 adapter and your 68-pin cable.
Use Connector 0 of your M Series device to control SCXI in parallel and
multiplexed mode. Use Connector 1 of your M Series device to control SCXI in
parallel mode.
Note (NI 6225/6255 Devices) SCXI is supported only on Connector 0.
Note When using Connector 1 in parallel mode with SCXI modules that support
track and hold, you must programmatically disable track and hold.
You also can use an M Series PXI module to control the SCXI section of a
PXI/SCXI combination chassis, such as the PXI-1010 or PXI-1011. The M Series
device in the rightmost PXI slot controls the SCXI devices. No cables or
adapters are necessary.
Refer to the documentation for your SCXI chassis and modules for detailed
information about using SCXI with a DAQ device.
68-Pin Custom Cabling and Connectivity
The CA-1000 is a configurable enclosure that gives user-defined connectivity
and flexibility through customized panelettes. Visit ni.com for more
information about the CA-1000.
NI offers cables and accessories for many applications. However, if you want
to develop your own cable, adhere to the following guidelines for best
results: · For AI signals, use shielded, twisted-pair wires for each AI pair
of differential inputs.
Connect the shield for each signal pair to the ground reference at the source.
· Route the analog lines separately from the digital lines. · When using a
cable shield, use separate shields for the analog and digital sections of the
cable. To prevent noise when using a cable shield, use separate shields for
the analog and digital sections of the cable.
© National Instruments | 2-7
Chapter 2 DAQ System Overview
For more information on the connectors used for DAQ devices, refer to the NI DAQ Device Custom Cables, Replacement Connectors, and Screws document by going to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code rdspmb.
USB Device Accessories, USB Cable, and Power Supply
USB Screw Terminal and USB Mass Termination devices feature connectivity
directly on the device and do not require an accessory for interfacing to
signals. However, NI offers a variety of products to use with the USB M Series
devices, as shown in Table 2-2.
Table 2-2. USB Device Cabling, Accessories, and Power Supply
Description NI USB DAQ Power Supply Externally Powered USB M Series Panel Mounting Kit USB cable with locking screw, 2 m BNC Male (Plug) to BNC Male (Plug) Cable Not for use with NI USB BNC devices.
Part Number 780046-01 780214-01
780534-01 779697-02
37-Pin M Series Cables and Accessories
This section describes some cable and accessory options for the PCI-6221
(37-pin) device. Refer to the following sections for descriptions of these
cables and accessories. Refer to ni.com for other accessory options.
Table 2-3. PCI-6221 (37-Pin) Cables and Accessories
Cables
Cables and Accessories Type
Shielded
Accessories
Unshielded Unshielded Screw Terminal Block
Custom Connectivity
Supported Models for PCI-6221 (37-Pin) Device
SH37F-37M SH37F-P-4 R37F-37M CB-37F-HVD CB-37FV CB-37FH CB-37F-LP TB-37F-37SC
TB-37F-37CP
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M Series User Manual
37-Pin Cables
In most applications, you can use the following cables: · SH37F-
37M–(Recommended) 37-pin female-to-male shielded I/O cable,
(1 m and 2 m lengths) · SH37F-P-4–37-pin female-to-pigtails shielded I/O cable
· R37F-37M–37-pin female-to-male ribbon I/O cable
37-Pin Screw Terminal Accessories
National Instruments offers several styles of screw terminal connector blocks.
Use your 37-pin cable to connect a PCI-6221 (37-pin) device to one of the
following connector blocks: · CB-37F-HVD–37-pin DIN rail screw terminal block
· CB-37FV–Vertical DIN rail-mountable terminal block with 37 screw terminals ·
CB-37FH–Horizontal DIN rail-mountable connector block with 37 screw terminals
· CB-37F-LP–Low profile connector block with 37 screw terminals
RTSI Cables
Use RTSI bus cables to connect timing and synchronization signals among
PCI/PCI Express devices, such as X Series, E Series, CAN, and other
measurement, vision, and motion devices. Since PXI devices use PXI backplane
signals for timing and synchronization, no cables are required.
37-Pin Custom Cabling
NI offers cables and accessories for many applications. However, if you want
to develop your own cable, the following kits can assist you: · TB-37F-
37SC–37-pin solder cup terminals, shell with strain relief · TB-37F-
37CP–37-pin crimp & poke terminals, shell with strain relief
Adhere to the following guidelines for best results: · For AI signals, use
shielded, twisted-pair wires for each AI pair of differential inputs.
Connect the shield for each signal pair to the ground reference at the source.
· Route the analog lines separately from the digital lines. · When using a
cable shield, use separate shields for the analog and digital sections of the
cable. Failure to do so results in noise coupling into the analog signals from
transient digital signals.
For more information on the connectors used for DAQ devices, refer to the NI
DAQ Device Custom Cables, Replacement Connectors, and Screws document by going
to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code rdspmb.
© National Instruments | 2-9
Chapter 2 DAQ System Overview
Signal Conditioning
Many sensors and transducers require signal conditioning before a measurement
system can effectively and accurately acquire the signal. The front-end signal
conditioning system can include functions such as signal amplification,
attenuation, filtering, electrical isolation, simultaneous sampling, and
multiplexing. In addition, many transducers require excitation currents or
voltages, bridge completion, linearization, or high amplification for proper
and accurate operation. Therefore, most computer-based measurement systems
include some form of signal conditioning in addition to plug-in data
acquisition DAQ devices.
Sensors and Transducers
Sensors can generate electrical signals to measure physical phenomena, such as
temperature, force, sound, or light. Some commonly used sensors are strain
gauges, thermocouples, thermistors, angular encoders, linear encoders, and
resistance temperature detectors (RTDs).
To measure signals from these various transducers, you must convert them into
a form that a DAQ device can accept. For example, the output voltage of most
thermocouples is very small and susceptible to noise. Therefore, you may need
to amplify or filter the thermocouple output before digitizing it. The
manipulation of signals to prepare them for digitizing is called signal
conditioning.
For more information about sensors, refer to the following documents: · For
general information about sensors, visit ni.com/sensors. · If you are using
LabVIEW, refer to the LabVIEW Help by selecting Help»Search the
LabVIEW Help in LabVIEW and then navigate to the Taking Measurements book on
the Contents tab. · If you are using other application software, refer to
Common Sensors in the NI-DAQmx Help or the LabVIEW Help.
Signal Conditioning Options
For more information about SCXI and SCC products, refer to ni.com/
signalconditioning.
SCXI
SCXI is a front-end signal conditioning and switching system for various
measurement devices, including M Series devices. An SCXI system consists of a
rugged chassis that houses shielded signal conditioning modules that amplify,
filter, isolate, and multiplex analog signals from thermocouples or other
transducers. SCXI is designed for large measurement systems or systems
requiring high-speed acquisition.
System features include the following: · Modular architecture–Choose your
measurement technology · Expandability–Expand your system to 3,072 channels
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M Series User Manual
· Integration–Combine analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and switching
into a single, unified platform
· High bandwidth–Acquire signals at high rates · Connectivity–Select from SCXI
modules with thermocouple connectors or terminal
blocks
Note SCXI is not supported on the PCI-6221 (37-pin), USB-622x/625x/628x Screw
Terminal, or USB-622x/625x BNC devices.
SCC
SCC is a front-end signal conditioning system for M Series plug-in data
acquisition devices. An SCC system consists of a shielded carrier that holds
up to 20 single- or dual-channel SCC modules for conditioning thermocouples
and other transducers. SCC is designed for small measurement systems where you
need only a few channels of each signal type, or for portable applications.
SCC systems also offer the most comprehensive and flexible signal connectivity
options.
System features include the following: · Modular architecture–Select your
measurement technology on a per-channel basis · Small-channel
systems–Condition up to 16 analog input and eight digital I/O lines · Low-
profile/portable–Integrates well with other laptop computer measurement
technologies · High bandwidth–Acquire signals at rates up to 1.25 MHz ·
Connectivity–Incorporates panelette technology to offer custom connectivity to
thermocouple, BNC, LEMOTM (B Series), and MIL-Spec connectors
Note PCI Express users should consider the power limits on certain SCC modules
without an external power supply. Refer to the device specifications, and the
When to Use the Disk Drive Power Connector section of Chapter 1, Getting
Started, for information about power limits and increasing the current the
device can supply on the +5 V terminal.
Note SCC is not supported on the PCI-6221 (37-pin), USB-622x/625x/628x Screw
Terminal, or USB-622x/625x BNC devices.
Programming Devices in Software
National Instruments measurement devices are packaged with NI-DAQmx driver
software, an extensive library of functions and VIs you can call from your
application software, such as LabVIEW or LabWindowsTM/CVITM, to program all
the features of your NI measurement devices. Driver software has an
application programming interface (API), which is a library of VIs, functions,
classes, attributes, and properties for creating applications for your device.
© National Instruments | 2-11
Chapter 2 DAQ System Overview
M Series devices use the NI-DAQmx driver. NI-DAQmx includes a collection of programming examples to help you get started developing an application. You can modify example code and save it in an application. You can use examples to develop a new application or add example code to an existing application.
To locate LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, Visual Basic, and ANSI C examples, refer to the KnowledgeBase document, Where Can I Find NI-DAQmx Examples?, by going to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code daqmxexp.
For additional examples, refer to ni.com/examples.
Table 2-4 lists the earliest NI-DAQmx support version for each M Series device.
Table 2-4. M Series NI-DAQmx Software Support
Device NI PCI/PXI-6220/6221/6224/6229 NI PCI-6221 (37-pin) NI USB-6221/6229 Screw Terminal NI USB-6221/6229 BNC NI PCI/PXI-6225 NI USB-6225 Screw Terminal/Mass Termination NI PCI/PXI-6250/6251/6254/6259 NI PCIe-6251/6259 NI PXIe-6251/6259 NI USB-6251/6259 Screw Terminal/Mass Termination NI USB-6251/6259 BNC NI PCI/PXI-6255 NI USB-6255 Screw Terminal/Mass Termination NI PCI/PXI-6280/6281/6284/6289 NI USB-6281/6289 Screw Terminal/Mass Termination
NI-DAQmx Earliest Version Support
NI-DAQmx 7.4 NI-DAQmx 7.5 NI-DAQmx 8.3 NI-DAQmx 8.6.1 NI-DAQmx 7.4 NI-DAQmx
8.6.1 NI-DAQmx 7.4 NI-DAQmx 8.0.1 NI-DAQmx 8.3 NI-DAQmx 8.1 NI-DAQmx 8.6.1 NI-
DAQmx 8.1 NI-DAQmx 8.6.1 NI-DAQmx 7.4 NI-DAQmx 8.7.1
Note NI recommends using the latest version of NI-DAQmx supported for your OS. Refer to the NI-DAQmx download page by going to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code nidaqmxdownloads.
2-12 | ni.com
3
Connector and LED Information
The I/O Connector Signal Descriptions, +5 V Power Source, and USER 1 and USER
2 sections contain information about M Series connector signals, power, and
user-defined terminals. The LED Patterns section contains information about M
Series USB device LEDs.
Note Refer to Appendix A, Module/Device-Specific Information, for device I/O
connector pinouts.
I/O Connector Signal Descriptions
Table 3-1 describes the signals found on the I/O connectors. Not all signals
are available on all devices.
© National Instruments | 3-1
Chapter 3
Connector and LED Information
Signal Name AI GND
AI <0..79>
AI SENSE, AI SENSE 2 AO <0..3> AO GND
Table 3-1. I/O Connector Signals
Reference —
Varies
— AO GND
—
Direction —
Input
Input Output
—
Description
Analog Input Ground–These terminals are the reference point for single-ended
AI measurements in RSE mode and the bias current return point for DIFF
measurements. All three ground references–AI GND, AO GND, and D GND–are
connected on the device. Refer to the Connecting Analog Input Signals section
of Chapter 4,
Analog Input
Analog Input Channels–For single-ended measurements, each signal is an analog
input voltage channel. In RSE mode, AI GND is the reference for these signals.
In NRSE mode, the reference for each AI <0..15> signal is AI SENSE; the
reference for each AI <16..63> and AI <64..79> signal is AI SENSE 2.
For differential measurements, AI 0 and AI 8 are the positive and negative
inputs of differential analog input channel 0. Similarly, the following signal
pairs also form differential input channels: <AI 1, AI 9>, <AI 2, AI 10>, <AI
3, AI 11>, and so on.
Refer to the Connecting Analog Input Signals section of Chapter 4, Analog
Input.
Analog Input Sense–In NRSE mode, the reference for each AI <0..15> signal is
AI SENSE; the reference for each AI <16..63> and AI <64..79> signal is AI
SENSE 2. Refer to the Connecting Analog Input Signals section of Chapter 4,
Analog Input.
Analog Output Channels–These terminals supply the voltage output. Refer to the
Connecting Analog Output Signals section of Chapter 5, Analog Output.
Analog Output Ground–AO GND is the reference for AO <0..3>. All three ground
references–AI GND, AO GND, and D GND–are connected on the device. Refer to the
Connecting Analog Output Signals section of Chapter 5, Analog Output.
3-2 | ni.com
Signal Name D GND
P0.<0..31> APFI <0,1>
+5 V PFI <0..7>/ P1.<0..7>
M Series User Manual
Table 3-1. I/O Connector Signals (Continued)
Reference —
D GND AO GND or AI GND
D GND D GND
Direction —
Input or Output Input
Output Input or Output
Description
Digital Ground–D GND supplies the reference for P0.<0..31>, PFI <0..15>/P1/P2,
and +5 V. All three ground references–AI GND, AO GND, and D GND–are connected
on the device. Refer to the Connecting Digital I/O Signals section of Chapter
6, Digital I/O.
Port 0 Digital I/O Channels–You can individually configure each signal as an
input or output. Refer to the Connecting Digital I/O Signals section of
Chapter 6, Digital I/O.
Analog Programmable Function Interface Channels–Each APFI signal can be used
as AO external reference inputs for AO <0..3>, AO external offset input, or as
an analog trigger input. APFI <0,1> are referenced to AI GND when they are
used as analog trigger inputs. APFI <0,1> are referenced to AO GND when they
are used as AO external offset or reference inputs. These functions are not
available on all devices; refer to the specifications for your device. Refer
to the APFI <0,1> Terminals section of Chapter 11, Triggering.
+5 V Power Source–These terminals provide a fused +5 V power source. Refer to
the +5 V Power Source section for more information.
Programmable Function Interface or Port 1 Digital I/O Channels–Each of these
terminals can be individually configured as a PFI terminal or a digital I/O
terminal.
As an input, each PFI terminal can be used to supply an external source for
AI, AO, DI, and DO timing signals or counter/timer inputs.
As a PFI output, you can route many different internal AI, AO, DI, or DO
timing signals to each PFI terminal. You also can route the counter/timer
outputs to each PFI terminal.
As a Port 1 digital I/O signal, you can individually configure each signal as
an input or output.
Refer to the Connecting Digital I/O Signals section of Chapter 6, Digital I/O,
or to Chapter 8, PFI.
© National Instruments | 3-3
Chapter 3 Connector and LED Information
Table 3-1. I/O Connector Signals (Continued)
Signal Name
Reference Direction
Description
PFI <8..15>/ P2.<0..7>
D GND
Input or Output
Programmable Function Interface or Port 2 Digital I/O Channels–Each of these
terminals can be individually configured as a PFI terminal or
a digital I/O terminal.
As an input, each PFI terminal can be used to supply an external source for AI, AO, DI, and DO timing signals or counter/timer inputs.
As a PFI output, you can route many different internal AI, AO, DI, or DO timing signals to each PFI terminal. You also can route the counter/timer outputs to each PFI terminal.
As a Port 2 digital I/O signal, you can individually configure each signal as an input or output.
Refer to the Connecting Digital I/O Signals section of Chapter 6, Digital I/O,
or to Chapter 8, PFI. Refer to Table 7-6, 68-Pin Device Default NI-DAQmx
Counter/Timer Pins, to find the default NI-DAQmx counter/timer pins for most
M Series devices.
USER <1,2>
—
—
User-Defined Channels–On USB-62xx BNC
devices, the USER <1,2> BNC connectors allow
you to use a BNC connector for a digital or timing
I/O signal of your choice. The USER <1,2> BNC
connectors are internally routed to the USER
<1,2> screw terminals. Refer to the USER 1 and
USER 2 section for more information.
CHS GND
—
—
Chassis Ground–This terminal connects to the
USB-62xx BNC device metal enclosure. You can
connect your cable’s shield wire to CHS GND for
a ground connection. Refer to the USB Device
Chassis Ground section of Chapter 1, Getting
Started.
NC
—
—
No connect–Do not connect signals to these
terminals.
- On NI 6225 devices, the reference for each AI <16..63> signal is AI SENSE 2, and each AI <64..79> signal is AI SENSE in NRSE mode.
USB-62xx Screw Terminal users can connect the shield of a shielded cable to the chassis ground lug for a ground connection. The chassis ground lug is not available on all device versions.
3-4 | ni.com
+5 V Power Source
M Series User Manual
The +5 V terminals on the I/O connector supply +5 V referenced to D GND. Use
these terminals to power external circuitry.
Newer revision M Series devices have a traditional fuse to protect the supply
from overcurrent conditions. This fuse is not customer-replaceable; if the
fuse permanently opens, return the device to NI for repair.
Older revision M Series devices have a self-resetting fuse to protect the
supply from overcurrent conditions. This fuse resets automatically within a
few seconds after the overcurrent condition is removed. For more information
about the self-resetting fuse and precautions to take to avoid improper
connection of +5 V and ground terminals, refer to the KnowledgeBase document,
Self-Resetting Fuse Additional Information, by going to ni.com/info and
entering the Info Code pptc.
(USB-6281/6289 Devices) All USB-628x devices have a user-replaceable socketed
fuse to protect the supply from overcurrent conditions. When an overcurrent
condition occurs, check your cabling to the +5 V terminals and replace the
fuse as described in the USB Device Fuse Replacement section of Chapter 1,
Getting Started.
Caution Never connect the +5 V power terminals to analog or digital ground or to any other voltage source on the M Series device or any other device. Doing so can damage the device and the computer. NI is not liable for damage resulting from such a connection.
The power rating on most devices is +4.75 to +5.25 VDC at 1 A. Refer to the specifications document for your device to obtain the device power rating.
Note (NI PCIe-6251/6259 Devices) M Series PCI Express devices supply less
than 1 A of +5 V power unless you use the disk drive power connector. Refer to
the Getting Started with M Series PCI Express Devices and the Disk Drive Power
Connector section of Chapter 1, Getting Started, for more information.
Note The NI 6221 (37-pin) device does not have a +5 V terminal.
USER 1 and USER 2
(NI USB-622x/625x BNC Devices) The USER connectors allow you to use a BNC connector for a digital or timing I/O signal of your choice. The USER 1 and USER 2 BNC connectors are routed (internal to the USB BNC device) to the USER 1 and USER 2 screw terminals, as shown in Figure 3-1.
© National Instruments | 3-5
Chapter 3 Connector and LED Information
Figure 3-1. USER 1 and USER 2 BNC Connections
USER 1 BNC USER 2 BNC
USER 1 USER 2 D GND
+5 V D GND
P0.0 P0.1 P0.2 P0.3 D GND P0.4 P0.5 P0.6 P0.7 D GND PFI 8/P2.0
D GND
D GND
Internal Connection
Screw Terminal Block
Figure 3-2 shows an example of how to use the USER 1 and USER 2 BNCs. To
access the PFI 8 signal from a BNC, connect USER 1 on the screw terminal block
to PFI 8 with a wire.
Figure 3-2. Connecting PFI 8 to USER 1 BNC
USER 1 BNC
BNC Cable
USER 1
USER 2
D GND
+5 V
D GND
P0.0
P0.1
P0.2
PFI 8
P0.3
Signal D GND
P0.4
P0.5
P0.6
P0.7
D GND
PFI 8/P2.0
Internal D GND Connection
Wire
Screw Terminal Block
The designated space below each USER BNC is for marking or labeling signal
names.
3-6 | ni.com
RTSI Connector Pinout
M Series User Manual
(PCI/PCIe-622x/625x/628x Devices) Refer to the RTSI Connector Pinout section
of Chapter 9, Digital Routing and Clock Generation, for information about the
RTSI connector.
LED Patterns
(USB-622x/625x/628x Devices) All variants of M Series USB devices have LEDs labeled ACTIVE and READY. The ACTIVE LED indicates activity over the bus. The READY LED indicates whether or not the device is configured. Table 3-2 shows the behavior of the LEDs.
Note USB-62xx BNC devices also have a POWER (+5 V) LED on the top panel. The POWER (+5 V) LED indicates device power.
Table 3-2. LED Patterns
POWER (+5 V) LED*
Off
On
ACTIVE LED
Off
Off
READY LED
Off
Off
On
Off
On
On
On
On
On
Blinking
On
- USB-625x/628x BNC devices only.
USB Device State
The device is not powered.
(USB-62xx Screw Terminal/Mass Termination Devices) The device is not powered.
(USB-62xx BNC Devices) The device is powered but not connected to the host
computer.
The device is configured, but there is no activity over the bus.
The device is configured and there is activity over the bus.
© National Instruments | 3-7
4
Analog Input
Figure 4-1 shows the analog input circuitry of M Series devices. Figure 4-1. M Series Analog Input Circuitry
I/O Connector
AI <0..207> Mux
AI SENSE
DIFF, RSE, or NRSE
NI-PGIA
ADC
AI FIFO
AI Data
AI GND
Input Range Selection
AI Terminal Configuration
Selection
The main blocks featured in the M Series analog input circuitry are as
follows:
· I/O Connector–You can connect analog input signals to the M Series device
through the I/O connector. The proper way to connect analog input signals
depends on the analog input ground-reference settings, described in the Analog
Input Ground-Reference Settings section. Also refer to Appendix A, Module
/Device-Specific Information, for device I/O connector pinouts.
· Mux–Each M Series device has one analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The
multiplexers (mux) route one AI channel at a time to the ADC through the NI-
PGIA.
· Ground-Reference Settings–The analog input ground-reference settings
circuitry selects between differential, referenced single-ended, and non-
referenced single-ended input modes. Each AI channel can use a different mode.
· Instrumentation Amplifier (NI-PGIA)–The NI programmable gain instrumentation
amplifier (NI-PGIA) is a measurement and instrument class amplifier that
minimizes settling times for all input ranges. The NI-PGIA can amplify or
attenuate an AI signal to ensure that you use the maximum resolution of the
ADC.
M Series devices use the NI-PGIA to deliver high accuracy even when sampling
multiple channels with small input ranges at fast rates. M Series devices can
sample channels in any order at the maximum conversion rate, and you can
individually program each channel in a sample with a different input range.
© National Instruments | 4-1
Chapter 4
Analog Input
· A/D Converter–The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) digitizes the AI signal
by converting the analog voltage into a digital number.
· AI FIFO–M Series devices can perform both single and multiple A/D
conversions of a fixed or infinite number of samples. A large first-in-first-
out (FIFO) buffer holds data during AI acquisitions to ensure that no data is
lost. M Series devices can handle multiple A/D conversion operations with DMA,
interrupts, or programmed I/O.
Analog Input Range
Input range refers to the set of input voltages that an analog input channel
can digitize with the specified accuracy. The NI-PGIA amplifies or attenuates
the AI signal depending on the input range. You can individually program the
input range of each AI channel on your M Series device. The input range
affects the resolution of the M Series device for an AI channel. Resolution
refers to the voltage of one ADC code. For example, a 16-bit ADC converts
analog inputs into one of 65,536 (= 216) codes–that is, one of 65,536 possible
digital values. These values are spread fairly evenly across the input range.
So, for an input range of -10 V to 10 V, the voltage of each code of a 16-bit
ADC is:
1—0—-V———-(——1—0—V—–) = 305µV 216
M Series devices use a calibration method that requires some codes (typically
about 5% of the codes) to lie outside of the specified range. This calibration
method improves absolute accuracy, but it increases the nominal resolution of
input ranges by about 5% over what the formula shown above would indicate.
Choose an input range that matches the expected input range of your signal. A
large input range can accommodate a large signal variation, but reduces the
voltage resolution. Choosing a smaller input range improves the voltage
resolution, but may result in the input signal going out of range. For more
information about setting ranges, refer to the NI-DAQmx Help or the LabVIEW
Help.
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M Series User Manual
Table 4-1 shows the input ranges and resolutions supported by each M Series device family.
Table 4-1. M Series Input Range and Nominal Resolution
M Series Devices NI 622x NI 625x
NI 628x
Input Range -10 V to 10 V
-5 V to 5 V -1 V to 1 V -200 mV to 200 mV -10 V to 10 V -5 V to 5 V -2 V to 2 V -1 V to 1 V -500 mV to 500 mV -200 mV to 200 mV -100 mV to 100 mV -10 V to 10 V -5 V to 5 V -2 V to 2 V -1 V to 1 V -500 mV to 500 mV -200 mV to 200 mV -100 mV to 100 mV
Nominal Resolution Assuming 5% Over Range 320 µV 160 µV 32 µV 6.4 µV 320 µV 160 µV 64 µV 32 µV 16 µV 6.4 µV 3.2 µV 80.1 µV 40.1 µV 16.0 µV 8.01 µV 4.01 µV 1.60 µV 0.80 µV
Analog Input Lowpass Filter
A lowpass filter attenuates signals with frequencies above the cutoff frequency while passing, with minimal attenuation, signals below the cutoff frequency. The cutoff frequency is defined as the frequency at which the output amplitude has decreased by 3 dB. Lowpass filters attenuate noise and reduce aliasing of signals beyond the Nyquist frequency. For example, if the signal of interest does not have frequency components beyond 40 kHz, then using a filter with a cutoff frequency at 40 kHz attenuates noise beyond the cutoff that is not of interest. The cutoff
© National Instruments | 4-3
Chapter 4 Analog Input
frequency of the lowpass filter is also called the small signal bandwidth. The
specifications document for your DAQ device lists the small signal bandwidth.
On some devices, the filter cutoff is fixed. On other devices, this filter is
programmable and can be enabled for a lower frequency. For example, the NI
628x devices have a programmable filter with a cutoff frequency of 40 kHz that
can be enabled. If the programmable filter is not enabled, the cutoff
frequency is fixed at 750 kHz. If the cutoff is programmable, choose the lower
cutoff to reduce measurement noise. However, a filter with a lower cutoff
frequency increases the settling time of your device, as shown in the
specifications, which reduces its maximum conversion rate. Therefore, you may
have to reduce the rate of your AI Convert and AI Sample Clocks. If that
reduced sample rate is too slow for your application, select the higher cutoff
frequency.
Add additional filters to AI signals using external accessories, as described
in the Programming Devices in Software section of Chapter 2, DAQ System
Overview.
Analog Input Ground-Reference Settings
M Series devices support the analog input ground-reference settings: ·
Differential mode–In DIFF mode, the M Series device measures the difference in
voltage
between two AI signals. · Referenced single-ended mode–In RSE mode, the M
Series device measures the voltage
of an AI signal relative to AI GND. · Non-referenced single-ended mode–In NRSE
mode, the M Series device measures the
voltage of an AI signal relative to one of the AI SENSE or AI SENSE 2 inputs.
The AI ground-reference setting determines how you should connect your AI
signals to the M Series device. Refer to the Connecting Analog Input Signals
section for more information.
Ground-reference settings are programmed on a per-channel basis. For example,
you might configure the device to scan 12 channels–four differentially-
configured channels and eight single-ended channels.
M Series devices implement the different analog input ground-reference
settings by routing different signals to the NI-PGIA. The NI-PGIA is a
differential amplifier. That is, the NI-PGIA amplifies (or attenuates) the
difference in voltage between its two inputs. The NI-PGIA drives the ADC with
this amplified voltage. The amount of amplification (the gain), is determined
by the analog input range, as shown in Figure 4-2.
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M Series User Manual
Figure 4-2. NI-PGIA
Instrumentation Amplifier
Vin+
PGIA
Vin
Vm
Measured Voltage
Vm = [Vin+ Vin] × Gain
Table 4-2 shows how signals are routed to the NI-PGIA.
Table 4-2. Signals Routed to the NI-PGIA
AI Ground-Reference
Settings
RSE
Signals Routed to the Positive Input of the
NI-PGIA (Vin+)
AI <0..79>
Signals Routed to the Negative Input of the
NI-PGIA (Vin-)
AI GND
NRSE
AI <0..15>
AI SENSE
AI <16..79>
AI SENSE 2*
DIFF
AI <0..7>
AI <8..15>
AI <16..23>
AI <24..31>
AI <32..39>
AI <40..47>
AI <48..55>
AI <56..63>
AI <64..71>
AI <72..79>
- On NI 6225 devices, the reference for each AI <16..63> signal is AI SENSE 2, and each AI <64..79> signal is AI SENSE in NRSE mode.
For differential measurements, AI 0 and AI 8 are the positive and negative
inputs of differential analog input channel 0. For a complete list of signal
pairs that form differential input channels, refer to the pinout diagram for
your device in Appendix A, Module/Device-Specific Information.
Caution The maximum input voltages rating of AI signals with respect to ground
(and for signal pairs in differential mode with respect to each other) are
listed in the specifications document for your device. Exceeding the maximum
input voltage of AI signals distorts the measurement results. Exceeding the
maximum input voltage rating also can damage the device and the computer. NI
is not liable for any damage resulting from such signal connections.
© National Instruments | 4-5
Chapter 4 Analog Input
AI ground-reference setting is sometimes referred to as AI terminal
configuration.
Configuring AI Ground-Reference Settings in Software
You can program channels on an M Series device to acquire with different
ground references.
To enable multimode scanning in LabVIEW, use the NI-DAQmx Create Virtual
Channel VI of the NI-DAQmx API. You must use a new VI for each channel or
group of channels configured in a different input mode. In Figure 4-3, channel
0 is configured in differential mode, and channel 1 is configured in
referenced single-ended mode.
Figure 4-3. Enabling Multimode Scanning in LabVIEW
To configure the input mode of your voltage measurement using the DAQ
Assistant, use the Terminal Configuration drop-down list. Refer to the DAQ
Assistant Help for more information about the DAQ Assistant.
To configure the input mode of your voltage measurement using the NI-DAQmx C
API, set the terminalConfig property. Refer to the NI-DAQmx C Reference Help
for more information.
Multichannel Scanning Considerations
M Series devices can scan multiple channels at high rates and digitize the
signals accurately. However, you should consider several issues when designing
your measurement system to ensure the high accuracy of your measurements.
In multichannel scanning applications, accuracy is affected by settling time.
When your M Series device switches from one AI channel to another AI channel,
the device configures the NI-PGIA with the input range of the new channel. The
NI-PGIA then amplifies the input signal with the gain for the new input range.
Settling time refers to the time it takes the NI-PGIA to amplify the input
signal to the desired accuracy before it is sampled by the ADC. The
specifications document for your DAQ device lists its settling time.
M Series devices are designed to have fast settling times. However, several
factors can increase the settling time which decreases the accuracy of your
measurements. To ensure fast settling times, you should do the following (in
order of importance): 1. Use Low Impedance Sources–To ensure fast settling
times, your signal sources should
have an impedance of <1 k. Large source impedances increase the settling time
of the NI-PGIA, and so decrease the accuracy at fast scanning rates.
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M Series User Manual
Settling times increase when scanning high-impedance signals due to a
phenomenon called charge injection. Multiplexers contain switches, usually
made of switched capacitors. When one of the channels, for example channel 0,
is selected in a multiplexer, those capacitors accumulate charge. When the
next channel, for example channel 1, is selected, the accumulated charge leaks
backward through channel 1. If the output impedance of the source connected to
channel 1 is high enough, the resulting reading of channel 1 can be partially
affected by the voltage on channel 0. This effect is referred to as ghosting.
If your source impedance is high, you can decrease the scan rate to allow the
NI-PGIA more time to settle. Another option is to use a voltage follower
circuit external to your DAQ device to decrease the impedance seen by the DAQ
device. Refer to the KnowledgeBase document, Decreasing the Source Impedance
of an Analog Input Signal, by going to ni.com/info and entering the Info Code
rdbbis. 2. Use Short High-Quality Cabling–Using short high-quality cables can
minimize several effects that degrade accuracy including crosstalk,
transmission line effects, and noise. The capacitance of the cable also can
increase the settling time. National Instruments recommends using individually
shielded, twisted-pair wires that are 2 m or less to connect AI signals to the
device. Refer to the Connecting Analog Input Signals section for more
information. 3. Carefully Choose the Channel Scanning Order Avoid Switching
from a Large to a Small Input Range–Switching from a channel
with a large input range to a channel with a small input range can greatly
increase the settling time. Suppose a 4 V signal is connected to channel 0 and
a 1 mV signal is connected to channel 1. The input range for channel 0 is -10
V to 10 V and the input range of channel 1 is -200 mV to 200 mV. When the
multiplexer switches from channel 0 to channel 1, the input to the NI-PGIA
switches from 4 V to 1 mV. The approximately 4 V step from 4 V to 1 mV is
1,000% of the new full-scale range. For a 16-bit device to settle within
0.0015% (15 ppm or 1 LSB) of the ±200 mV full-scale range on channel 1, the
input circuitry must settle to within 0.000031% (0.31 ppm or 1/50 LSB) of the
±10 V range. Some devices can take many microseconds for the circuitry to
settle this much. To avoid this effect, you should arrange your channel
scanning order so that transitions from large to small input ranges are
infrequent. In general, you do not need this extra settling time when the NI-
PGIA is switching from a small input range to a larger input range. Insert
Grounded Channel between Signal Channels–Another technique to improve settling
time is to connect an input channel to ground. Then insert this channel in the
scan list between two of your signal channels. The input range of the grounded
channel should match the input range of the signal after the grounded channel
in the scan list.
© National Instruments | 4-7
Chapter 4 Analog Input
Consider again the example above where a 4 V signal is connected to channel 0
and a 1 mV signal is connected to channel 1. Suppose the input range for
channel 0 is -10 V to 10 V and the input range of channel 1 is -200 mV to 200
mV. You can connect channel 2 to AI GND (or you can use the internal ground;
refer to Internal Channels in the NI-DAQmx Help). Set the input range of
channel 2 to -200 mV to 200 mV to match channel 1. Then scan channels in the
order: 0, 2, 1. Inserting a grounded channel between signal channels improves
settling time because the NI-PGIA adjusts to the new input range setting
faster when the input is grounded. Minimize Voltage Step between Adjacent
Channels–When scanning between channels that have the same input range, the
settling time increases with the voltage step between the channels. If you
know the expected input range of your signals, you can group signals with
similar expected ranges together in your scan list. For example, suppose all
channels in a system use a -5 to 5 V input range. The signals on channels 0,
2, and 4 vary between 4.3 V and 5 V. The signals on channels 1, 3, and 5 vary
between -4 V and 0 V. Scanning channels in the order 0, 2, 4, 1, 3, 5 produces
more accurate results than scanning channels in the order 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. 4.
Avoid Scanning Faster Than Necessary–Designing your system to scan at slower
speeds gives the NI-PGIA more time to settle to a more accurate level. Here
are two examples to consider: Example 1–Averaging many AI samples can
increase the accuracy of the reading by decreasing noise effects. In general,
the more points you average, the more accurate the final result. However, you
may choose to decrease the number of points you average and slow down the
scanning rate. Suppose you want to sample 10 channels over a period of 20 ms
and average the results. You could acquire 500 points from each channel at a
scan rate of 250 kS/s. Another method would be to acquire 1,000 points from
each channel at a scan rate of 500 kS/s. Both methods take the same amount of
time. Doubling the number of samples averaged (from 500 to 1,000) decreases
the effect of noise by a factor of 1.4 (the square root of 2). However,
doubling the number of samples (in this example) decreases the time the NI-
PGIA has to settle from 4 s to 2 s. In some cases, the slower scan rate system
returns more accurate results. Example 2–If the time relationship between
channels is not critical, you can sample from the same channel multiple times
and scan less frequently. For example, suppose an application requires
averaging 100 points from channel 0 and averaging 100 points from channel 1.
You could alternate reading between channels–that is, read one point from
channel 0, then one point from channel 1, and so on. You also could read all
100 points from channel 0 then read 100 points from channel 1. The second
method switches between channels much less often and is affected much less by
settling time.
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M Series User Manual
Analog Input Data Acquisition Methods
When performing analog input measurements, you either can perform software-
timed or hardware-timed acquisitions.
Software-Timed Acquisitions
With a software-timed acquisition, software controls the rate of the
acquisition. Software sends a separate command to the hardware to initiate
each ADC conversion. In NI-DAQmx, software-timed acquisitions are referred to
as having on-demand timing. Software-timed acquisitions are also referred to
as immediate or static acquisitions and are typically used for reading a
single sample of data.
Hardware-Timed Acquisitions
With hardware-timed acquisitions, a digital hardware signal (AI Sample Clock)
controls the rate of the acquisition. This signal can be generated internally
on your device or provided externally.
Hardware-timed acquisitions have several advantages over software-timed
acquisitions: · The time between samples can be much shorter. · The timing
between samples is deterministic. · Hardware-timed acquisitions can use
hardware triggering.
Hardware-timed operations can be buffered or non-buffered. A buffer is a
temporary storage in computer memory for to-be-generated samples. ·
Buffered–In a buffered acquisition, data is moved from the DAQ device’s
onboard FIFO
memory to a PC buffer using DMA or interrupts before it is transferred to
application memory. Buffered acquisitions typically allow for much faster
transfer rates than non-buffered acquisitions because data is moved in large
blocks, rather than one point at a time. One property of buffered I/O
operations is the sample mode. The sample mode can be either finite or
continuous. Finite sample mode acquisition refers to the acquisition of a
specific, predetermined
number of data samples. Once the specified number of samples has been read in,
the acquisition stops. If you use a reference trigger, you must use finite
sample mode. Continuous acquisition refers to the acquisition of an
unspecified number of samples. Instead of acquiring a set number of data
samples and stopping, a continuous acquisition continues until you stop the
operation. Continuous acquisition is also referred to as double-buffered or
circular-buffered acquisition.
© National Instruments | 4-9
Chapter 4 Analog Input
If data cannot be transferred across the bus fast enough, the FIFO becomes
full. New acquisitions overwrite data in the FIFO before it can be transferred
to host memory. The device generates an error in this case. With continuous
operations, if the user program does not read data out of the PC buffer fast
enough to keep up with the data transfer, the buffer could reach an overflow
condition, causing an error to be generated. · Non-buffered–In non-buffered
acquisitions, data is read directly from the FIFO on the device. Typically,
hardware-timed, non-buffered operations are used to read single samples with
known time increments between them. Note (NI USB-62xx Devices) USB M Series
devices do not support non-buffered hardware-timed operations.
Analog Input Triggering
Analog input supports three different triggering actions: · Start trigger ·
Reference trigger · Pause trigger Refer to the AI Start Trigger Signal, AI
Reference Trigger Signal, and AI Pause Trigger Signal sections for information
about these triggers. An analog or digital trigger can initiate these actions.
All M Series devices support digital triggering, but some do not support
analog triggering. To find your device triggering options, refer to the
specifications document for your device.
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M Series User Manual
Connecting Analog Input Signals
Table 4-3 summarizes the recommended input configuration for both types of signal sources.
Table 4-3. Analog Input Configuration
AI Ground-Reference
Setting*
Differential (DIFF)
Floating Signal Sources (Not Connected to Building Ground)
Examples: · Ungrounded thermocouples · Signal conditioning with isolated
outputs · Battery devices
Signal Source
+
DAQ Device AI+
+ AI
Ground-Referenced Signal Sources
Example: · Plug-in instruments with
non-isolated outputs
Signal Source
+
DAQ Device AI+
+ AI
AI GND
AI GND
Non-Referenced Single-Ended (NRSE)
Signal Source
+
DAQ Device AI
- AI SENSE AI GND
Signal Source
+
DAQ Device AI
- AI SENSE AI GND
Referenced Single-Ended (RSE)
Signal Source
+
DAQ Device AI
+
AI GND
NOT RECOMMENDED
Signal Source
DAQ Device
AI +
VA
VB
AI GND
Ground-loop potential (VA VB) are added to measured signal.
- Refer to the Analog Input Ground-Reference Settings section for descriptions of the RSE, NRSE, and DIFF modes and software considerations. Refer to the Connecting Ground-Referenced Signal Sources section for more information.
© National Instruments | 4-11
Chapter 4 Analog Input
Connecting Floating Signal Sources
What Are Floating Signal Sources?
A floating signal source is not connected to the building ground system, but
has an isolated ground-reference point. Some examples of floating signal
sources are outputs of transformers, thermocouples, battery-powered devices,
optical isolators, and isolation amplifiers. An instrument or device that has
an isolated output is a floating signal source.
When to Use Differential Connections with Floating Signal Sources
Use DIFF input connections for any channel that meets any of the following
conditions: · The input signal is low level (less than 1 V). · The leads
connecting the signal to the device are greater than 3 m (10 ft). · The input
signal requires a separate ground-reference point or return signal. · The
signal leads travel through noisy environments. · Two analog input channels,
AI+ and AI-, are available for the signal.
DIFF signal connections reduce noise pickup and increase common-mode noise
rejection. DIFF signal connections also allow input signals to float within
the common-mode limits of the NI-PGIA.
Refer to the Using Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources
section for more information about differential connections.
When to Use Non-Referenced Single-Ended (NRSE) Connections with Floating
Signal Sources
Only use NRSE input connections if the input signal meets the following
conditions: · The input signal is high-level (greater than 1 V). · The leads
connecting the signal to the device are less than 3 m (10 ft).
DIFF input connections are recommended for greater signal integrity for any
input signal that does not meet the preceding conditions.
In the single-ended modes, more electrostatic and magnetic noise couples into
the signal connections than in DIFF configurations. The coupling is the result
of differences in the signal path. Magnetic coupling is proportional to the
area between the two signal conductors. Electrical coupling is a function of
how much the electric field differs between the two conductors.
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M Series User Manual
With this type of connection, the NI-PGIA rejects both the common-mode noise
in the signal and the ground potential difference between the signal source
and the device ground.
Refer to the Using Non-Referenced Single-Ended (NRSE) Connections for Floating
Signal Sources section for more information about NRSE connections.
When to Use Referenced Single-Ended (RSE) Connections with Floating Signal
Sources
Only use RSE input connections if the input signal meets the following
conditions: · The input signal can share a common reference point, AI GND,
with other signals that
use RSE. · The input signal is high-level (greater than 1 V). · The leads
connecting the signal to the device are less than 3 m (10 ft).
DIFF input connections are recommended for greater signal integrity for any
input signal that does not meet the preceding conditions.
In the single-ended modes, more electrostatic and magnetic noise couples into
the signal connections than in DIFF configurations. The coupling is the result
of differences in the signal path. Magnetic coupling is proportional to the
area between the two signal conductors. Electrical coupling is a function of
how much the electric field differs between the two conductors.
With this type of connection, the NI-PGIA rejects both the common-mode noise
in the signal and the ground potential difference between the signal source
and the device ground.
Refer to the Using Referenced Single-Ended (RSE) Connections for Floating
Signal Sources section for more information about RSE connections.
Using Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources
It is important to connect the negative lead of a floating source to AI GND
(either directly or through a bias resistor). Otherwise, the source may float
out of the maximum working voltage range of the NI-PGIA and the DAQ device
returns erroneous data.
The easiest way to reference the source to AI GND is to connect the positive
side of the signal to AI+ and connect the negative side of the signal to AI
GND as well as to AI- without using resistors. This connection works well for
DC-coupled sources with low source impedance (less than 100 ).
Note (NI USB-62xx BNC Devices) To measure a floating signal source on USB BNC
devices, move the switch under the BNC connector to the FS position.
© National Instruments | 4-13
Chapter 4 Analog Input
Figure 4-4. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources without Bias Resistors
Floating +
Signal Source
Vs
Impedance <100
M Series Device AI+
AI AI SENSE AI GND
However, for larger source impedances, this connection leaves the DIFF signal
path significantly off balance. Noise that couples electrostatically onto the
positive line does not couple onto the negative line because it is connected
to ground. This noise appears as a DIFF-mode signal instead of a common-mode
signal, and thus appears in your data. In this case, instead of directly
connecting the negative line to AI GND, connect the negative line to AI GND
through a resistor that is about 100 times the equivalent source impedance.
The resistor puts the signal path nearly in balance, so that about the same
amount of noise couples onto both connections, yielding better rejection of
electrostatically coupled noise. This configuration does not load down the
source (other than the very high input impedance of the NI-PGIA).
Figure 4-5. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources with Single
Bias Resistor
Floating Signal Source
+ Vs
R is about
R
100 times
source
impedance
of sensor
M Series Device AI+
AI AI SENSE AI GND
You can fully balance the signal path by connecting another resistor of the same value between the positive input and AI GND, as shown in Figure 4-6. This fully balanced configuration offers slightly better noise rejection, but has the disadvantage of loading the source down with the series combination (sum) of the two resistors. If, for example, the source impedance is 2 k and each of the two resistors is 100 k, the resistors load down the source with 200 k and produce a -1% gain error.
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M Series User Manual
Figure 4-6. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources with Balanced
Bias Resistors
AI+
Bias
Resistors
Floating
(see text) +
Signal Vs
Source
AI
Bias Current Return Paths
Input Multiplexers AI SENSE
Instrumentation
Amplifier
PGIA
+ Measured
Vm Voltage
AI GND
I/O Connector
M Series Module/Device Configured in Differential Mode
Both inputs of the NI-PGIA require a DC path to ground in order for the NI- PGIA to work. If the source is AC coupled (capacitively coupled), the NI-PGIA needs a resistor between the positive input and AI GND. If the source has low- impedance, choose a resistor that is large enough not to significantly load the source but small enough not to produce significant input offset voltage as a result of input bias current (typically 100 k to 1 M). In this case, connect the negative input directly to AI GND. If the source has high output impedance, balance the signal path as previously described using the same value resistor on both the positive and negative inputs; be aware that there is some gain error from loading down the source, as shown in Figure 4-7.
© National Instruments | 4-15
Chapter 4 Analog Input
Figure 4-7. Differential Connections for AC Coupled Floating Sources with Balanced Bias Resistors
AC Coupled Floating Signal Source
AC Coupling
+ Vs
M Series Device AI+
AI AI SENSE AI GND
Using Non-Referenced Single-Ended (NRSE) Connections for Floating Signal
Sources
It is important to connect the negative lead of a floating signals source to
AI GND (either directly or through a resistor). Otherwise the source may float
out of the valid input range of the NI-PGIA and the DAQ device returns
erroneous data.
Note (NI USB-62xx BNC Devices) To measure a floating signal source on USB BNC devices, move the switch under the BNC connector to the FS position.
Figure 4-8 shows a floating source connected to the DAQ device in NRSE mode. Figure 4-8. NRSE Connections for Floating Signal Sources
Floating Signal Source
+ Vs
R
M Series Device AI
AI SENSE AI GND
All of the bias resistor configurations discussed in the Using Differential
Connections for Floating Signal Sources section apply to the NRSE bias
resistors as well. Replace AI- with AI SENSE in Figures 4-4, 4-5, 4-6, and 4-7
for configurations with zero to two bias resistors. The noise rejection of
NRSE mode is better than RSE mode because the AI SENSE connection is made
remotely near the source. However, the noise rejection of NRSE mode is worse
than DIFF mode because the AI SENSE connection is shared with all channels
rather than being cabled in a twisted pair with the AI+ signal.
Using the DAQ Assistant, you can configure the channels for RSE or NRSE input
modes. Refer to the Configuring AI Ground-Reference Settings in Software
section for more information about the DAQ Assistant.
4-16 | ni.com
M Series User Manual
Using Referenced Single-Ended (RSE) Connections for Floating Signal Sources
Figure 4-9 shows how to connect a floating signal source to the M Series
device configured for RSE mode.
Figure 4-9. RSE Connections for Floating Signal Sources
AI <0..n>
Floating
Signal Vs
Source
I/O Connector
Input Multiplexers AI SENSE
AI GND
Programmable Gain
Instrumentation Amplifier
PGIA
Vm
Measured Voltage
Selected Channel in RSE Configuration
Note (NI USB-62xx BNC Devices) To measure a floating signal source on USB BNC devices, move the switch under the BNC connector to the FS position.
Using the DAQ Assistant, you can configure the channels for RSE or NRSE input
modes. Refer to the Configuring AI Ground-Reference Settings in Software
section for more information about the DAQ Assistant.
Connecting Ground-Referenced Signal Sources
What Are Ground-Referenced Signal Sources?
A ground-referenced signal source is a signal source connected to the building
system ground. It is already connected to a common ground point with respect
to the device, assuming that the computer is plugged into the same power
system as the source. Non-isolated outputs of instruments and devices that
plug into the building power system fall into this category.
The difference in ground potential between two instruments connected to the
same building power system is typically between 1 and 100 mV, but the
difference can be much higher if power distribution circuits are improperly
connected. If a grounded signal source is incorrectly measured, this
difference can appear as measurement error. Follow the connection instructions
for grounded signal sources to eliminate this ground potential difference from
the measured signal.
© National Instruments | 4-17
Chapter 4 Analog Input
When to Use Differential Connections with Ground-Referenced Signal Sources
Use DIFF input connections for any channel that meets any of the following
conditions: · The inp
References
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