National Instruments PCI-6251 Multifunction DAQ Board

National Instruments created the PCI-6251 (Part Number: 779070-01), a high-speed multifunction M Series data acquisition (DAQ) board, for applications that need high accuracy and quick sample rates. With 16-bit resolution analog input (AI) channels, the device provides flexibility by allowing 8 differential or 16 single-ended channel possibilities.

While the inbuilt NI-PGIA 2 amplifier allows for quick settling periods at high scanning rates and maintains 16-bit precision even at maximum speeds, the ADC resolution guarantees accurate measurements. With a multichannel aggregate rate of 1.00 MS/s and a maximum single-channel sample rate of 1.25 MS/s, the PCI-6251 performs exceptionally well in applications requiring quick data collecting. Its accuracy within 50 ppm of the sample rate and timing resolution of 50 ns guarantee exact synchronization and timing control.

The device can handle a wide variety of input levels with minimal crosstalk (-95 dB for non-adjacent channels and -75 dB for neighboring channels) and high CMRR (100 dB). It can support input ranges of ±0.1 V to ±10 V. Furthermore, the PCI-6251 supports several trigger functions, including start, reference, and pause triggers, and offers analog triggering capabilities with a precision of 10 bits. The two 16-bit resolution channels in the analog output (AO) portion provide a maximum update rate of 2.86 MS/s for single-channel operation.

For improved signal integrity and device safety, the AO section has features including DNL correction and overdrive protection. Efficient data handling is ensured by the device's capability for many data transfer techniques, such as interrupts, DMA, and programmable I/O. It is appropriate for a variety of applications, such as laboratory automation, research, design verification/testing, and industrial test procedures, thanks to its sturdy construction and small form.

In addition, the PCI-6251's easy integration with SCC or SCXI signal conditioning modules allows it to do high-voltage and sensor measurements. Performance and accuracy are improved by its inbuilt features, which include the NI-MCal calibration technology and the NI-STC 2 system controller.