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Summary of Contents for NI cDAQ-9170
- Page 1 9173/9177 User Manual Ihr Ansprechpartner / Your Partner: dataTec AG E-Mail: info@datatec.eu >>> www.datatec.eu 2025-02-20...
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Page 2: Table Of Contents
Components of a cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 System ........ - Page 3 User Manual Mounting the cDAQ Chassis on a Desktop ........48 Dimensions .
- Page 4 Digital Input/Output Configuration for NI-9401 ........86...
- Page 5 User Manual Counter n Gate Signal ........... 126 Counter n Aux Signal .
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Page 6: Welcome To The User Manual
User Manual User Manual The cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 User Manual provides detailed descriptions of the product functionality and the step by step processes for use. Looking for Something Else? For information not found in the User Manual for your product, such as specifications and API reference, browse Related Information . -
Page 7: System Health Monitoring
Overview Overview The one-slot NI cDAQ-9170, four-slot NI cDAQ-9173, and eight-slot NI cDAQ-9177 USB chassis are designed for use with C Series modules. The cDAQ chassis are capable of measuring a broad range of analog and digital I/O signals using a USB-C interface. For module specifications, refer to the documentation included with your C Series module (s) or go to ni.com/docs. - Page 8 The accuracy of this translation depends on the relationship between these times and can reduce the relative accuracy of time triggers and timestamps across multiple devices. For maximum accuracy, use an NI Linux Real-Time controller as the host in a supported topology. However, NI-DAQmx guarantees that two tasks configured to start at the same host time always start at the same I/O Device Time in all scenarios, preserving precise synchronization between chassis in this common use case.
- Page 9 Overview Firmware Firmware can be updated through the Hardware Configuration Utility, NI MAX, or the web interface to the chassis. For cDAQ firmware information and updates, visit ni.com/ info and enter the Info Code cdaqfw. © National Instruments...
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Page 10: Driver Support
Driver Support Determine the earliest driver version supported for your product. To optimize product performance, update to the most recent driver version. Table 1. Earliest Driver Version Support Driver Name Earliest Version Support NI-DAQmx cDAQ-9173/77 2025 Q1, cDAQ-9170 2025 Q2 ni.com... -
Page 11: Components Of A Cdaq-9170/9173/9177 System
Components of a cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 System System cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 is designed for use in a system that might require hardware, drivers, and software to optimize cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 for your application. Use the minimum required cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 system components as a starting point for building your system. - Page 12 C Series modules. Note For optimal performance, use the most current version of NI-DAQmx with the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177. You can find the NI- DAQmx driver requirements in the NI-DAQmx Release Notes . NI Applications NI-DCPower offers driver support for the following applications: •...
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Page 13: Part Numbers For Recommended Cables And Accessories
Part Numbers for Recommended Cables and Part Numbers for Recommended Cables and Accessories Accessories Use part numbers to purchase the cables and the accessories for optimizing the performance of cDAQ-9170/9173/9177. Table 3. Part numbers for Recommended Power Connector Accessories Accessory Description Part number... - Page 14 158534-02 Accessory cRIO-905x/906x/907x, NI-914x, and cDAQ-917x Carrying handle for C Series Carrying Handle 786744-01 CompactDAQ and Compact RIO Note Refer to CompactDAQ System Accessory Compatibility Guide on ni.com for more information about supported cables and accessories for your instrument. ni.com...
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Page 15: Related Information
Part Numbers for Recommended Cables and Accessories Related tasks: • Mounting the cDAQ Chassis on a Panel with a Panel Mounting Kit Related information: • CompactDAQ System Accessory Compatibility Guide © National Instruments... -
Page 16: Theory Of Operation
Theory of Operation Theory of Operation The cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 USB-C chassis are designed for use with C Series modules. The cDAQ chassis are capable of measuring a broad range of analog and digital I/O signals and sensors. The cDAQ system consists of three parts—C Series module(s), the cDAQ module interface, and the NI ASIC—as shown in Figure 2. - Page 17 For more information about digital C Series modules, refer to Using the Digital Input/Output . cDAQ Module Interface cDAQ Module Interface The cDAQ module interface manages data transfers between the NI ASIC and the C Series modules. The interface also handles autodetection, signal routing, and © National Instruments...
- Page 18 DIO. • AI, AO, and DIO Sample Timing—The NI ASIC contains advanced AI, AO, and DIO timing engines. A wide range of timing and synchronization signals are available through the PFI lines. Refer to the related topic links below for more information about the configuration of these signals.
- Page 19 Theory of Operation programmable debouncing filter on each PFI signal that, when enabled, samples the input on each rising edge of a filter clock. PFI signals are available through parallel digital input and output modules installed in up to two chassis slots and through the two PFI terminals provided on the cDAQ-9177 chassis.
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Page 20: Examples
Use these examples to learn about the product or accelerate your own application development. To locate NI software examples, go to ni.com/info and enter the Info Code daqmxexp. For additional examples, refer to ni.com/examples. To run examples without the device installed, use an NI-DAQmx simulated device. - Page 21 Examples installed in LabVIEW and LabWindows/CVI are available from the Windows Start menu or from the NI Example Finder . The NI Example Finder is a utility that organizes examples into categories. The NI Example Finder allows you to browse and to search installed examples.
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Page 22: Front Panel
Front Panel cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Front Panel Front Panel Refer to the front panel diagram to understand the connectors, LEDs, and other features of the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177. Figure 3. cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Front Panel POWER STATUS ACTIVE cDAQ-9183 CompactDAQ ni.com/91xx-setup DO NOT SEPARATE... -
Page 23: Usb-C Port
USB connection is not established/suspend USB-C Port USB-C Port The cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 chassis have a USB-C port. You can use a strain relieved USB-C cable to network your chassis to a computer host or a NI Linux Real-Time controller. Related information: © National Instruments... -
Page 24: Usb Cabling
The power supply included in the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 kit is intended only for desktop use. For all other applications use the included 2-position power connector plug and a power supply rated for your application power requirements. -
Page 25: Chassis Grounding Screw
Front Panel Note Only the 8 slot cDAQ-9177 has PFI slots. Chassis Grounding Screw Chassis Grounding Screw Notice To ensure the specified EMC performance, the cDAQ chassis must be connected to the grounding electrode system of your facility using the chassis ground terminal. -
Page 26: Kit Contents
Kit Contents Kit Contents Kit Contents Items in your cDAQ chassis kit: • cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 chassis • Documentation • Power supply • USB-C Cable • Screwdriver ni.com... -
Page 27: Safety Guidelines
Safety Guidelines Safety Guidelines Caution Do not operate the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 in a manner not specified in this user manual. Product misuse can result in a hazard. You can compromise the safety protection built into the product if the product is damaged in any way. -
Page 28: Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines
DC MAINS supply or to any supply requiring a connecting cable longer than 3 m (10 ft). A DC MAINS supply is a local DC electricity supply network in the infrastructure of a site or building. ni.com... -
Page 29: Setting Up The Cdaq-9170/9173/9177
Remove the chassis 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 chassis. - Page 30 8. External Power Supply (if using the power connector instead of the included power supply) Note Check the NI-DAQmx driver and application software release notes for specific version compatibility with your host computer. Note When operating the cDAQ chassis in hazardous locations, you must use the power connector with an external power supply rated for hazardous locations.
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Page 31: Installing The Cdaq Chassis
Complete the following steps to install the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177. The cDAQ chassis and C Series module(s) are packaged separately. Refer to the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 front panel diagram while completing the following assembly steps. 1. Install the application software (if applicable), as described in the installation instructions that accompany your software. - Page 32 Setting up the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Note If you use shielded cabling to connect to a C Series module with a plastic connector, you must attach the cable shield to the chassis grounding terminal using 1.31 mm (16 AWG) or larger wire. Use shorter wire for better EMC performance.
- Page 33 When operating the cDAQ-9170 in hazardous locations, you must use the power connector with an external power supply rated for hazardous locations. The power supply included in the cDAQ-9170 kit is intended only for desktop use. For all other applications use the included 2-position power connector plug and a power supply rated for your application power requirements.
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Page 34: Wiring External Power To The Cdaq Chassis
The cDAQ chassis requires an external power source as described in the Power Requirements section of the specifications document for your chassis. Some suggested NI power supplies are listed in Part Numbers for Recommended Cables and Accessories . The cDAQ chassis filters and regulates the supplied power and provides power to all of the modules. -
Page 35: Verifying Installation In Hwcu/Max
1. Open Hardware Configuration Utility. The cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 appears in the system pane automatically. If the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 is not shown in the system pane, click the + (Add Hardware) button, select the chassis from the Discovered devices, and click Add. © National Instruments... -
Page 36: Verifying The Installation With Max
The cDAQ chassis and C Series module(s) are packaged separately. Refer to the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 while completing the following assembly steps. 1. To add the chassis to your software configuration, open NI MAX on your Windows host computer. Expand Devices and Interfaces » Network Devices. - Page 37 ◦ Check the box that corresponds to your chassis in the Hostname column. ◦ If you know the chassis IP address, such as 192.168.0.2, enter it into the Add Device Manually field of the Find Network NI-DAQmx Devices window, and click the + button.
- Page 38 6. Run a Test Panel in MAX by expanding Devices and Interfaces » » NI cDAQ-<model number>, right-clicking your C Series module, and selecting Test Panels to open a test panel for the selected module. Click Start to verify measurement functionality.
- Page 39 Troubleshooting Chassis Connectivity in MAX If your cDAQ chassis is not discovered or becomes disconnected from the network, try the following suggestions. If the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 is not listed under Device and Interfaces » Network Device, complete the following steps. 1. Power off the system.
- Page 40 Setting up the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Connected Directly to Your Computer is Not Discovered in For the initial configuration, the host computer must be set to obtain an IP address automatically since the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 relies on Link-Local addressing to communicate with the host computer. The procedure for configuring your computer to obtain an IP address automatically varies depending on your operating system.
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Page 41: Removing Modules From The Cdaq-9170/9173/9177
Removing Modules from the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Removing Modules from the Removing Modules from the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Complete the following steps to remove a C Series module from the cDAQ chassis. 1. Make sure that no I/O-side power is connected to the module. If the system is in a nonhazardous location, the chassis power can be on when you remove modules. -
Page 42: Mounting The Cdaq-9170/9173/9177
Mounting the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Mounting the Mounting the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 To ensure proper functionality during use at the maximum ambient temperature of 70 °C, you must mount the cDAQ chassis in the reference mounting configuration shown in the following image. Mounting the cDAQ chassis in the reference mounting configuration ensures that your system will operate correctly across the full operating temperature range and provide optimal C Series module accuracy. -
Page 43: Mounting Requirements
1.6 mm (0.062 in.) thick and extends a minimum of 101.6 mm (4 in.) beyond all edges of the device. • Use the NI-9904 Panel Mounting Kit to mount the cDAQ chassis to a metallic surface that is at least 1.6 mm (0.062 in.) thick and extends a minimum of 101.6 mm (4 in.) beyond all edges of the device. -
Page 44: Mounting The Cdaq Chassis Directly On A Flat Surface
Mounting the cDAQ Chassis Directly on a Flat Surface Mounting the cDAQ Chassis Directly on a Flat Surface For environments with high shock and vibration, NI recommends mounting the cDAQ chassis directly on a flat, rigid surface using the mounting holes in the cDAQ chassis. -
Page 45: Mounting The Cdaq Chassis On A Panel With A Panel Mounting Kit
You can use a panel mounting kit to mount the cDAQ-chassis on a panel. Complete the following steps to mount the cDAQ chassis on a panel. This mounting technique requires a Phillips #2 screwdriver and a NI-9904 panel mounting kit. 1. Align the cDAQ chassis and the panel mount plate. -
Page 46: Alternate Mounting Configurations
Contact NI for further details regarding the impact of common alternate mounting configurations on maximum operating temperature and module accuracy. ni.com... -
Page 47: Mounting The Cdaq Chassis On A Din Rail
Mounting the cDAQ Chassis on a DIN Rail Mounting the cDAQ Chassis on a DIN Rail You can use the NI DIN rail mounting kit to mount the cDAQ chassis on a standard 35-mm DIN rail. This mounting technique requires a Phillips #2 screwdriver and a panel mounting kit (NI 9912 DIN rail mounting kit, NI part number 779019-01). -
Page 48: Mounting The Chassis On A Rack
Mounting the Chassis on a Rack Mounting the Chassis on a Rack NI offers the following rack-mount kits that you can use to mount the cDAQ chassis and other DIN rail-mountable equipment on a standard 482.6 mm (19 in.) rack: •... -
Page 49: Dimensions
Mounting the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 chassis. The following figures show the desktop mounting kit dimensions. Figure 21. Desktop Mounting Front Dimensions (cDAQ-9189 Shown) Figure 22. Desktop Mounting Side Dimensions cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Dimensions Dimensions The following figures show the front and side dimensions of the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177. - Page 50 Mounting the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Figure 23. cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Dimensions ni.com...
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Page 51: Performing Analog Input Measurements
Performing Analog Input Measurements Performing Analog Input Measurements Performing Analog Input Measurements To perform analog input measurements, install a supported analog input C Series module into any slot on the cDAQ chassis. The measurement specifications, such as number of channels, channel configuration, sample rate, and gain, are determined by the type of C Series module used. -
Page 52: Analog Input Timing Signals
AI Start Trigger Signal • AI Reference Trigger Signal • AI Pause Trigger Signal • PFI Filters AI AI Sample Clock Signal Sample Clock Signal A sample consists of one reading from each channel in the AI task. Sample Clock ni.com... -
Page 53: Routing The Sample Clock To An Output Terminal
Performing Analog Input Measurements signals the start of a sample of all analog input channels in the task. Sample Clock can be generated from external or internal sources as shown in the following figure. Figure 24. AI Sample Clock Timing Options Routing the Sample Clock to an Output Terminal You can route Sample Clock to any output PFI terminal on an installed C Series module. - Page 54 NI-DAQmx selects a conversion rate that spaces the AI Convert Clock pulses evenly throughout the sample. NI-DAQmx uses the same amount of padding for all the modules in the task. To explicitly specify the conversion rate, use the ActiveDevs and AI Convert Clock Rate properties using the DAQmx Timing property node or functions.
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Page 55: Slow Sample Rate Modules
Performing Analog Input Measurements modules also provide the signal used as the AI Sample Clock. This signal is used to cause A/D conversion for other modules in the system, just as the AI Sample Clock does when a delta-sigma module is not being used. When delta-sigma modules are in an AI task, the chassis automatically issues a synchronization pulse to each delta-sigma modules that resets their ADCs at the same time. -
Page 56: Using A Digital Source
• Any PFI terminal on an installed C Series module • Counter n Internal Output The source also can be one of several other internal signals on your cDAQ chassis. Refer to the Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. ni.com... -
Page 57: Using An Analog Source
Using a Time Source To use the Start Trigger signal with a time source, specify a specific time in NI-DAQmx. Refer to Timing and Triggering in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information on accessing time-based features in the NI-DAQmx API. -
Page 58: Routing The Reference Trigger Signal To An Output Terminal
NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. In NI-DAQmx, this is called the Analog Comparison Event. When you use an analog trigger source, the acquisition stops on the first rising or falling edge of the Analog Comparison Event signal, depending on the trigger properties. -
Page 59: Ai Pause Trigger Signal
Manual for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. In NI-DAQmx, this is called the Analog Comparison Event. When you use an analog trigger source, the internal sample clock pauses when the Analog Comparison Event signal is low and resumes when the signal goes high (or vice versa). -
Page 60: Getting Started With Ai Applications In Software
Performing Analog Input Measurements and Triggering in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information on accessing time-based features in the NI-DAQmx API. Note To accurately synchronize delta-sigma devices in two or more separate tasks, you must specify the same sync pulse. Otherwise, a sync pulse is initiated by software implicitly, even if time start triggers are specified for the tasks. -
Page 61: Generating Analog Output
With a software-timed generation, software controls the rate at which data is generated. Software sends a separate command to the hardware to initiate each DAC conversion. In NI-DAQmx, software-timed generations are referred to as on-demand timing. Software-timed generations are also referred to as immediate or static operations. -
Page 62: Hardware-Timed Generations
These modes are regeneration, onboard regeneration, and non- regeneration: ◦ In regeneration mode, you define a buffer in host memory. The data from the buffer is continually downloaded to the FIFO to be written out. New data can ni.com... -
Page 63: Analog Output Triggering Signals
Generating Analog Output be written to the host buffer at any time without disrupting the output. There is no limitation on the number of waveform channels supported by regeneration mode. ◦ With onboard regeneration, the entire buffer is downloaded to the FIFO and regenerated from there. -
Page 64: Analog Output Timing Signals
AO Sample Clock Signal AO Sample Clock Signal The AO sample clock (ao/SampleClock) signals when all the analog output channels in the task update. AO Sample Clock can be generated from external or internal sources as shown in the following figure. ni.com... -
Page 65: Ao Sample Clock Timebase Signal
If you are using an internal sample clock, you can specify a delay from the start trigger to the first sample. For more information, refer to the NI-DAQmx User Manual . © National Instruments... - Page 66 Using a Time Source To use AO Start Trigger signal with a time source, specify a specific time in NI-DAQmx. Refer to Timing and Triggering in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information on accessing time-based features in the NI-DAQmx API.
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Page 67: Routing Ao Start Trigger Signal To An Output Terminal
Generating Analog Output Routing AO Start Trigger Signal to an Output Terminal You can route AO Start Trigger to any output PFI terminal on an installed C Series module. The output is an active high pulse. AO Pause Trigger Signal AO Pause Trigger Signal Use the AO Pause Trigger signal (ao/PauseTrigger) to mask off samples in a DAQ sequence. -
Page 68: Analog Output Sync Pulse
Generating Analog Output logic high or low level. Refer to the Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI- DAQmx User Manual for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. In NI-DAQmx, this is called the Analog Comparison Event, depending on the trigger properties. -
Page 69: Getting Started With Ao Applications In Software
You can use the cDAQ chassis in the following analog output applications: • Single-point (on-demand) generation • Finite generation • Continuous generation • Waveform generation For more information about programming analog output applications and triggers in software, refer to the NI-DAQmx User Manual . © National Instruments... -
Page 70: Using The Digital Input/Output
• You can only do hardware timing in one direction at a time on a serial bidirectional module. To determine the capability of digital modules supported by the cDAQ controller, refer to the C Series Support in NI-DAQmx document by going to ni.com/r/rdcdaq. ni.com... -
Page 71: Static Dio
Using the Digital Input/Output Static DIO Static DIO Each of the DIO lines can be used as a static DI or DO line. You can use static DIO lines to monitor or control digital signals on some C Series modules. Each DIO line can be individually configured as a digital input (DI) or digital output (DO), if the C Series module being used allows such configuration. -
Page 72: Digital Input Timing Signals
Figure 30. DI Sample Clock Timing Options Routing DI Sample Clock to an Output Terminal You can route DI Sample Clock to any output PFI terminal on an installed C Series module. ni.com... -
Page 73: Di Sample Clock Timebase Signal
• DI Change Detection Output Several other internal signals can be routed to DI Sample Clock. Refer to the Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI-DAQmx Help for more information. Using an External Source You can route the following signals as DI Sample Clock: •... -
Page 74: Di Start Trigger Signal
• Counter n Internal Output The source also can be one of several other internal signals on the cDAQ chassis. Refer to the Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI-DAQmx Help or the LabVIEW Help for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. -
Page 75: Di Reference Trigger Signal
Depending on the C Series module capabilities, you may need two modules to utilize analog triggering. Using a Time Source To use the Start Trigger signal with a time source, specify a specific time in NI-DAQmx. Refer to the Timestamps and Time Triggering topics in the NI-DAQmx Help for more information on accessing time-based features in the NI-DAQmx API. -
Page 76: Di Pause Trigger Signal
NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. In NI-DAQmx, this is called the Analog Comparison Event. When you use an analog trigger source, the acquisition stops on the first rising or falling edge of the Analog Comparison Event signal, depending on the trigger properties. -
Page 77: Digital Input Filters
To use DI Pause Trigger, specify a source and a polarity. The source can be either from PFI on an installed C Series module or one of several other internal signals on your cDAQ chassis. Refer to Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. -
Page 78: Getting Started With Di Applications In Software
• Finite acquisition • Continuous acquisition For more information about programming digital input applications and triggers in software, refer to the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. Change Detection Event Change Detection Event The Change Detection Event is the signal generated when a change on the rising or falling edge lines is detected by the change detection task. -
Page 79: Change Detection Acquisition
Using the Digital Input/Output Change Detection Acquisition You can configure lines on parallel digital modules to detect rising or falling edges. When one or more of these lines sees the edge specified for that line, the cDAQ chassis samples all the lines in the task. The rising and falling edge lines do not necessarily have to be in the task. -
Page 80: Digital Output Data Generation Methods
With a software-timed generation, software controls the rate at which data is generated. Software sends a separate command to the hardware to initiate each digital generation. In NI-DAQmx, software-timed generations are referred to as on-demand timing. Software-timed generations are also referred to as immediate or static operations. -
Page 81: Digital Output Triggering Signals
Using the Digital Input/Output One property of buffered I/O operations is sample mode. The sample mode can be either finite or continuous: • Finite—Finite sample mode generation refers to the generation of a specific, predetermined number of data samples. After the specified number of samples is written out, the generation stops. -
Page 82: Digital Output Timing Signals
The DO Sample Clock (do/SampleClock) signals when all the digital output channels in the task update. DO Sample Clock can be generated from external or internal sources as shown in the following figure. Figure 33. Digital Output Timing Options ni.com... -
Page 83: Do Sample Clock Timebase Signal
You also can specify whether the waveform generation begins on the rising edge or falling edge of DO Start Trigger. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. In NI-DAQmx, © National Instruments... -
Page 84: Do Pause Trigger Signal
Depending on the C Series module capabilities, you may need two modules to utilize analog triggering. Using a Time Source To use the Start Trigger signal with a time source, specify a specific time in NI-DAQmx. Refer to the Timing and Triggering in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information on accessing time-based features in the NI-DAQmx API. -
Page 85: Getting Started With Do Applications In Software
You also can specify whether the samples are paused when DO Pause Trigger is at a logic h igh or low level. Refer to Device Routing in MAX in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. Using an Analog Source Some C Series modules can generate a trigger based on an analog signal. -
Page 86: Digital Input/Output Configuration For Ni-9401
Digital Input/Output Configuration for NI-9401 NI-9401 When you change the configuration of lines on a NI-9401 digital module between input and output, NI-DAQmx temporarily reserves all of the lines on the module for communication to send the module a line configuration command. For this reason, you must reserve the task in advance through the DAQmx Control Task before any task has started. -
Page 87: Using Pfi
Using PFI Using PFI Using PFI You can configure channels of a parallel digital module as Programmable Function Interface (PFI) terminals. Up to two digital modules can be used to access PFI terminals in a single chassis. You can configure each module PFI individually as the following: •... - Page 88 On power up, the filters are disabled. The following figure shows an example of a low- to-high transition on an input that has a custom filter set to N = 5. Figure 36. PFI Filter Example ni.com...
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Page 89: Using Counters
Using Counters Using Counters Using Counters The cDAQ chassis has four general-purpose 32-bit counter/timers and one frequency generator. The general-purpose counter/timers can be used for many measurement and pulse generation applications. The following figure shows the cDAQ chassis Counter 0 and the frequency generator. - Page 90 The following table shows the different options for the different measurements. Table 14. Counter Timing Measurements Sample Clocked Timing Measurement Implicit Timing Support Support Buffered Edge Count Buffered Pulse Width Buffered Pulse Buffered Semi-Period Buffered Frequency Buffered Period Buffered Position ni.com...
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Page 91: Counter Triggering
Using Counters Sample Clocked Timing Measurement Implicit Timing Support Support Buffered Two-Signal Edge Separation Counter Triggering Counter Triggering Counters support three different triggering actions: • Arm Start Trigger—To begin any counter input or output function, you must first enable, or arm, the counter. Software can arm a counter or configure counters to be armed on a hardware signal or a specific time. -
Page 92: Counter Input Applications
Controlling the Direction of Counting section. The counter values can be read on demand or with a sample clock. Refer to the following sections for more information about edge counting options. • Single Point (On-Demand) Edge Counting • Buffered (Sample Clock) Edge Counting ni.com... -
Page 93: Single Point (On-Demand) Edge Counting
FIFO. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. The count values returned are the cumulative counts since the counter armed event. -
Page 94: Controlling The Direction Of Counting
A pulse-width measurement will be accurate even if the counter is armed while a pulse train is in progress. If a counter is armed while the pulse is in the active state, it will ni.com... -
Page 95: Single Pulse-Width Measurement
The counter counts the number of edges on the Source input while the Gate input remains active. On each trailing edge of the Gate signal, the counter stores the count in the counter FIFO. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. -
Page 96: Pulse Measurement
The counter counts the number of edges on the Source input while the Gate input remains active. On each sample clock edge, the counter stores the count in the FIFO of the last pulse width to complete. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. -
Page 97: Single Pulse Measurement
Implicit Buffered Pulse Measurement In an implicit buffered pulse measurement, on each edge of the Gate signal, the counter stores the count in the FIFO. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. -
Page 98: Sample Clocked Buffered Pulse Measurement
FIFO of the last pulse to complete. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. The following figure shows an example of a sample clocked buffered pulse measurement. -
Page 99: Single Semi-Period Measurement
Implicit Buffered Semi-Period Measurement In implicit buffered semi-period measurements, on each edge of the Gate signal, the counter stores the count in the FIFO. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. The counter begins counting when it is armed. The arm usually occurs between edges on the Gate input. -
Page 100: Frequency Measurement
You can use the counters to measure frequency in several different ways. Refer to the following sections for information about cDAQ chassis frequency measurement options. • Low Frequency with One Counter • High Frequency with Two Counters • Large Range of Frequencies with Two Counters • Sample Clocked Buffered Frequency Measurement ni.com... -
Page 101: Low Frequency With One Counter
Using Counters Low Frequency with One Counter For low frequency measurements with one counter, you measure one period of your signal using a known timebase. You can route the signal to measure ( fx ) to the Gate of a counter. You can route a known timebase ( fk ) to the Source of the counter. - Page 102 You can route the signal to measure to the Source input of Counter 0, as shown in the following figure. Assume this signal to measure has frequency fx . NI-DAQmx automatically configures Counter 0 to generate a single pulse that is the width of N periods of the source input signal.
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Page 103: Sample Clocked Buffered Frequency Measurement
Using Counters Figure 50. Large Range of Frequencies with Two Counters Next, route the Counter 0 Internal Output signal to the Gate input of Counter 1. You can route a signal of known frequency ( fk ) to the Counter 1 Source input. Configure Counter 1 to perform a single pulse-width measurement. -
Page 104: Choosing A Method For Measuring Frequency
For all frequency measurement methods, assume the following: fx is the frequency to be measured if no error fk is the known source or gate frequency measurement time ( T ) is the time it takes to measure a single sample ni.com... - Page 105 Using Counters Divide down ( N ) is the integer to divide down measured frequency, only used in large range two counters fs is the sample clock rate, only used in sample clocked frequency measurements Here is how these variables apply to each method, summarized in the following table. •...
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Page 106: Which Method Is Best
Note: Accuracy equations do not take clock stability into account. Refer to the cDAQ-9170/9173/9177 Specifications for information about clock stability. Which Method Is Best? This depends on the frequency to be measured, the rate at which you want to monitor the frequency and the accuracy you desire. - Page 107 Using Counters another example, the following table shows the results for 5 MHz. Table 17. 5 MHz Frequency Measurement Methods Two Counters Variable Sample Clocked One Counter High Frequency Large Range 80 M 80 M 1,000 80 M Measurement .0002 time (ms) —...
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Page 108: Period Measurement
Gate input signal. You can route an internal or external periodic clock signal (with a known period) to the Source input of the counter. The counter counts the number of rising (or falling) edges ni.com... -
Page 109: Position Measurement
Using Counters occurring on the Source input between the two active edges of the Gate signal. You can calculate the period of the Gate input by multiplying the period of the Source signal by the number of edges returned by the counter. Period measurements return the inverse results of frequency measurements. -
Page 110: Channel Z Behavior
The reload occurs when this phase is true and channel Z is high. Incrementing and decrementing takes priority over reloading. Thus, when the channel B goes low to enter the reload phase, the increment occurs first. The reload occurs within one ni.com... -
Page 111: Measurements Using Two Pulse Encoders
The value of the counter is sampled on each active edge of a sample clock. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. The count values returned are the cumulative counts since the counter armed event;... -
Page 112: Two-Signal Edge-Separation Measurement
(or falling) edges on the Source input occurring between an active edge of the Gate signal and an active edge of the Aux signal. The counter then stores the count in the FIFO and ignores other edges on its inputs. Software then reads the stored count. ni.com... -
Page 113: Implicit Buffered Two-Signal Edge-Separation Measurement
Gate signal and an active edge of the Aux signal. The counter then stores the count in the FIFO. On the next active edge of the Gate signal, the counter begins another measurement. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. -
Page 114: Counter Output Applications
FIFO on a sample clock edge. On the next active edge of the Gate signal, the counter begins another measurement. The NI ASIC transfers the sampled values to host memory using a high-speed data stream. -
Page 115: Single Pulse Generation With Start Trigger
Using Counters Single Pulse Generation The counter can output a single pulse. The pulse appears on the Counter n Internal Output signal of the counter. You can specify a delay from when the counter is armed to the beginning of the pulse. The delay is measured in terms of a number of active edges of the Source input. -
Page 116: Pulse Train Generation
T he delay and pulse width are measured in terms of a number of active edges of the Source i nput. The initial delay can be applied to only the first trigger or to all triggers using the CO.EnableInitalDelayOnRetrigger property. The default for a ni.com... -
Page 117: Continuous Pulse Train Generation
Using Counters single pulse is True, while t he default for finite pulse trains is False. The counter ignores the Gate input while a pulse generation is in progress. After the pulse generation is finished, the counter waits for another Start Trigger signal to begin another pulse generation. -
Page 118: Buffered Pulse Train Generation
With sample clocked timing, each sample you write updates the idle time and active time of your generation on each sample clock edge. Idle time and active time can also be defined in terms of frequency and duty cycle or idle ticks and active ticks. ni.com... -
Page 119: Finite Implicit Buffered Pulse Train Generation
Using Counters Note On buffered implicit pulse trains, the pulse specifications in the DAQmx Create Counter Output Channel are ignored so that you generate the number of pulses defined in the multipoint write. On buffered sample clock pulse trains, the pulse specifications in the DAQmx Create Counter Output Channel are generated after the counters starts and before the first sample clock so that you generate the number of updates defined in the multipoint write. -
Page 120: Finite Buffered Sample Clocked Pulse Train Generation
Regeneration is the repetition of the data that is already in the buffer. Standard regeneration is when data from the PC buffer is continually downloaded to the FIFO to be written out. New data can be written to the PC buffer at any time ni.com... -
Page 121: Continuous Buffered Sample Clocked Pulse Train Generation
Using Counters without disrupting the output. With FIFO regeneration, the entire buffer is downloaded to the FIFO and regenerated from there. Once the data is downloaded, new data cannot be written to the FIFO. To use FIFO regeneration, the entire buffer must fit within the FIFO size. - Page 122 In software, program the frequency generator as you would program one of the counters for pulse train generation. For information about connecting counter signals, refer to Default Counter/Timer Routing . Related concepts: • Frequency Generation • Default Counter/Timer Routing ni.com...
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Page 123: Frequency Division
Using Counters Frequency Division Frequency Division The counters can generate a signal with a frequency that is a fraction of an input signal. This function is equivalent to continuous pulse train generation. Refer to the section for detailed information. For information about connecting counter signals, refer to the section. Pulse Generation for ETS Pulse Generation for ETS In the equivalent time sampling (ETS) application, the counter produces a pulse on the... -
Page 124: Counter Timing Signals
Counter n Source Signal Source Signal The selected edge of the Counter n Source signal increments and decrements the counter value depending on the application the counter is performing. The following table lists how this terminal is used in various applications. ni.com... -
Page 125: Routing Counter N Source To An Output Terminal
In addition, TC or Gate from a counter can be routed to a different counter source. Some of these options may not be available in some driver software. Refer to the Device Routing in MAX topic in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information about available routing options. -
Page 126: Counter N Gate Signal
In addition, a counter’s Internal Output or Source can be routed to a different counter’s gate. Some of these options may not be available in some driver software. Refer to Device Routing in MAX in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information about available routing options. Routing Counter n Gate to an Output Terminal You can route Counter n Gate out to any PFI terminal on an installed C Series module. - Page 127 Aux. A counter’s own gate can also be routed to its Aux input. Some of these options may not be available in some driver software. Refer to Device Routing in MAX in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information about available routing options.
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Page 128: Counter N Up_Down Signal
A counter’s Internal Output can be routed to a different counter’s HW Arm. Some of these options may not be available in some driver software. Refer to Device Routing in MAX in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information about available routing options. -
Page 129: Routing Counter N Sample Clock To An Output Terminal
• AO Sample Clock • DI Change Detection output Several other internal signals can be routed to Counter n Sample Clock through internal routes. Refer to Device Routing in MAX in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for more information. Using an External Source You can route any of the following signals as Counter n Sample Clock: •... -
Page 130: Counter N Internal Output And Counter N Tc Signals
Counter/timer signals are available to parallel digital I/O C Series modules. To determine the signal routing options for modules installed in your system, refer to the Device Routes tab i n MAX. You can use these defaults or select other sources and destinations for the counter/ ni.com... -
Page 131: Cascading Counters
Using Counters timer s ignals in NI-DAQmx. Refer to Connecting Counter Signals in the NI- DAQmx User Manual for more information about how to connect your signals for common counter measurements and generations. Refer to Physical Channels in the NI-DAQmx User Manual for a list of default PFI lines for counter functions. -
Page 132: Synchronization Modes
Source signal by delaying the Source signal by several nanoseconds. The chassis synchronizes signals on the rising edge of the delayed Source signal, and counts on the following rising edge of the source, as shown in the following figure. Figure 75. External or Internal Source Less than 20 MHz ni.com... -
Page 133: Digital Routing
Digital Routing Digital Routing Digital Routing The digital routing circuitry has the following functions: • Manages the flow of data between the bus interface and the acquisition/ generation sub-systems (analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and the counters). The digital routing circuitry uses FIFOs (if present) in each sub-system to ensure efficient data movement. -
Page 134: Clock Routing
They can function as the Source input to the 32-bit general-purpose counter/timers. The 20 MHz and 100 kHz Timebases are generated by dividing down the 80 MHz Timebase, as shown in the Clock Routing topic. ni.com... -
Page 135: Maintenance
Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance If you need to clean the chassis, wipe it with a dry towel. © National Instruments © 2025 National Instruments Corporation.
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