Chapter 1 Introduction; About The Er-8/16; What You Need To Get Started - National Instruments ER-8 User Manual

Chapter 1
Introduction
This chapter describes the ER-8/16; lists what you need to get started and optional equipment;
describes software support; and explains how to unpack the ER-8/16.

About the ER-8/16

Thank you for buying the National Instruments ER-8/16. The ER-8 consists of eight isolated
single-pole double-throw (SPDT) or form C relay channels. The ER-16 consists of 16 isolated
SPDT or form C relay channels. The ER-8/16 can serve as a controller or switcher in laboratory
testing, production testing, and industrial-process monitoring and control applications. The
ER-8/16 operates with full functionality with most National Instruments digital I/O products. It
also interfaces with the Lab and MIO boards using the SC-205X Series cable adapters. The
ER-8/16 has onboard screw terminals for easy wire attachment. You can also build a 32-channel
ER system by daisy-chaining two ER-16s.
Detailed ER-8/16 specifications are in Appendix A, Specifications.

What You Need to Get Started

To set up and use your ER-8/16, you will need the following:
ER-8 or ER-16
ER-8/16 User Manual
Your DIO-24, DIO-32, Lab, E Series, MIO, DAQCard, or 1200 Series device and
documentation
SC-205X Series cable adapter if you are using a Lab or MIO board
Interface cable (different for DIO-24 and DIO-32 devices, DAQCards, and SC-205X Series
adapters)
Your computer
© National Instruments Corporation 1-1 ER-8/16 User Manual