Description
NI PCI-6040E (PCI-6040) – Multifunction PCI DAQ for fast analog acquisition and reliable mixed I/O
The NI PCI-6040E—often referred to simply as “PCI-6040”—is a classic E Series multifunction DAQ board for desktop PCs. From my experience, it’s a go-to card when you need dependable, mid-to-high-speed analog input alongside basic analog output, digital I/O, and counters in a single PCI slot. Typical applications include production test racks, lab instrumentation, component characterization, motion feedback logging, and process monitoring where timing accuracy and solid driver support matter more than bells and whistles.
One thing I appreciate is how straightforward it is to drop into existing NI-DAQmx projects; in many cases, you can migrate legacy Traditional NI-DAQ code as well. You might notice that this card seems to hit a sweet spot for throughput versus simplicity—ideal for teams who value predictable performance and long lifecycle support.
Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty: 365 days
- Delivery: 1 week for in-stock; no more than one month at the latest
- Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
- Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- Multifunction on one PCI card: Analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and counters—handy for compact test benches.
- Fast analog acquisition: Up to 500 kS/s single‑channel AI (typical for this model), suitable for transient capture and stimulus-response tests.
- Flexible channel topology: Multiplexed AI supporting single‑ended or differential wiring for noise-sensitive setups.
- Integrated analog output: Voltage outputs for stimulus, biasing, or simple control loops without a second card.
- TTL digital I/O: Discrete control/monitoring for relays, indicators, or handshaking with fixtures.
- Precision timing and triggering: Hardware-timed operations with PFI lines and two 24‑bit counters for encoders or frequency tasks.
- NI software ecosystem: Supported by NI‑DAQmx in most cases; broad compatibility with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and common test frameworks.
- Standard 68‑pin connectivity: Works with SCB‑68A, BNC‑2090A, and shielded SH68‑68‑EP cables for clean wiring and quick lab bring-up.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | NI PCI-6040E (PCI-6040) |
| Product Type | Multifunction PCI DAQ Board (E Series) |
| HS Code | 9030.89 (Measuring or checking instruments; other) |
| Bus Interface | 32‑bit, 33 MHz PCI (5 V signaling) |
| Power Requirements | Powered from PCI bus (5 V); typical consumption < 10 W |
| Analog Inputs (AI) | Multiplexed; single‑ended or differential; up to ~500 kS/s single‑channel; 12‑bit A/D (typical for this model) |
| Analog Outputs (AO) | Voltage outputs; 12‑bit resolution (typical); for stimulus/control tasks |
| Digital I/O | TTL/CMOS compatible discrete I/O for simple control/handshaking |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 24‑bit counters (frequency, encoder, pulse tasks) |
| I/O Connector | 68‑pin (0.050‑in half‑pitch) NI DAQ connector |
| Dimensions & Weight | Full‑height, short‑length PCI card; approx. 175 × 107 mm; ~0.2 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C (PC chassis ambient), non‑condensing humidity |
| Communication Interfaces | PCI host interface; cabled I/O via 68‑pin accessories (e.g., SCB‑68A) |
| Installation Method | Installs in a desktop PCI slot; I/O routed to terminal blocks or BNC breakout |
Related or Supporting Products
- NI PCI-6024E: Cost‑efficient E Series alternative; typically lower max AI rate.
- NI PCI-6035E: Similar concept with 16‑bit AI resolution for higher measurement fidelity.
- NI PCI-6071E: Higher channel count and faster AI for demanding throughput needs.
- NI PCIe-6321 (X Series): Modern PCIe replacement with 16‑bit AI and improved timing; ideal when moving to newer PCs.
- SCB‑68A Terminal Block: Shielded 68‑pin screw‑terminal breakout; great for bench wiring and strain relief.
- BNC‑2090A: 19‑inch rack‑mount BNC breakout for quick sensor hook‑ups and shielding.
- SH68‑68‑EP Cable: Shielded 68‑pin cable; reduces noise pickup in electrically busy racks.
- CB‑68LP: Low‑profile 68‑pin terminal block for compact panels.
“We ran a pair of PCI‑6040E boards in an automotive durability rig for years—once a year we dusted the chassis and re‑ran self‑cal, and they just kept logging clean data.” — Test Engineer, Tier‑1 supplier
Installation & Maintenance
- Environment & cabinet: Use a clean, ventilated PC chassis; maintain airflow around adjacent slots. Avoid high EMI near motor drives when possible.
- Mounting: Power down, discharge, and follow ESD precautions. Seat the card fully in a 5 V PCI slot and secure the bracket with the chassis screw.
- Wiring: For low‑level signals, use shielded SH68‑68‑EP cables and route away from AC lines. Choose differential AI for noisy environments.
- Driver setup: Install a compatible NI‑DAQmx version for your OS. In most cases, measurement tasks can be verified with NI MAX before deploying your application.
- Safety: Keep I/O within specified voltage ranges. Tie shields to a single ground point to minimize loops.
- Routine maintenance: Dust the PC quarterly, check connector screws, and re‑run self‑cal. Annual calibration is recommended for tighter accuracy—either factory or accredited lab.
- Firmware/driver updates: Update NI‑DAQmx judiciously; from my experience, pin a known‑good driver version for validated systems to avoid unplanned requalification.
Quality & Certifications
- Certifications: CE, UL, and FCC compliance for typical NI E Series builds.
- RoHS: Many E Series units manufactured after mid‑2006 are RoHS‑compliant; earlier lots may not be—please confirm by serial number if this matters for your project.
- Quality system: Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management.
- Warranty: Our coverage is 365 days. New units from the original manufacturer typically carry a 1‑year limited warranty when purchased new through official channels.
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