NI PXI-6528 – Isolated 24‑Channel Digital Output for Industrial Switching in PXI

The NI PXI-6528 is a practical choice when you need reliable on/off control of field devices—from relays and contactors to lamps and solenoids—directly from a PXI test or control system. It’s a 3U, 1‑slot PXI module with optically isolated, sinking digital outputs designed to handle higher DC voltages, typically up to 60 VDC. From my experience, teams pick the PXI-6528 when they want clean separation between their test instrumentation and plant power rails, without bolting on extra isolation hardware.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• – Warranty: 365 days

• – Delivery time: 1 week if 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

• 24 isolated sinking digital outputs – Each channel is optically isolated to help protect the PXI system from field transients and ground loops.
• High-voltage DC switching (up to 60 VDC) – Suitable for driving industrial loads like relay coils, solenoids, and indicator stacks that commonly run on 24–48 VDC rails.
• Industrial-friendly wiring – Open-collector outputs let you use your own external supply, which in many cases simplifies integration with existing panels.
• Software-timed control with NI‑DAQmx – Straightforward API access in LabVIEW, C/C++, .NET, and Python through NI‑DAQmx, typically no special FPGA or timing card required.
• PXI platform integration – Fits into 3U PXI chassis, so you can consolidate I/O, switching, and measurement in a single, serviceable platform.
• Protective isolation strategy – Helps reduce cross-system noise coupling and improves survivability against wiring mistakes during commissioning.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• NI PXI-6527 – Isolated digital inputs, often paired with PXI‑6528 when you need both DI and DO on separate cards.
• NI PXI-6515 – Mixed industrial DI/DO for 24 V systems; suitable when you want both inputs and outputs on a single module (different channel count and specs).
• NI PXI-6509 – 96‑channel TTL/CMOS digital I/O; a high‑density option if you don’t require isolation or high-voltage switching.
• NI 9476 (cDAQ) – 32‑channel 60 V sinking DO for CompactDAQ; a platform alternative when PXI isn’t required.

A test engineer told me they use the PXI‑6528 to actuate 24 VDC solenoid manifolds in an endurance rig. You might notice that the isolation typically cuts downtime; when a coil fails short, it tends to protect the rest of the PXI system, which is exactly what they wanted.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet and environment – Install in a PXI chassis meeting standard cooling requirements; allow adequate airflow at the front panel. Keep within 0–55 °C and avoid condensation.
• Wiring – Use proper gauge and insulation for the field voltage used. Because outputs are sinking, connect the load between the positive terminal of your external supply and the output channel; tie the supply common to the module’s return as recommended in NI guidelines.
• Inductive loads – For relays, solenoids, and valves, include flyback suppression at the load if not already integrated. This typically improves longevity and reduces EMI.
• Safety – De‑energize field power before wiring. Verify polarity and voltage ratings. Isolation helps, but it doesn’t replace correct fusing and overcurrent protection in the panel.
• Routine care – Periodically check terminal tightness, inspect cables for wear, and clean dust from the chassis filters. Keep NI‑DAQmx and related drivers reasonably up to date after validating with your system image.
• Commissioning tip – Validate each channel with a low‑risk test load first; once channel mapping is confirmed in NI‑DAQmx, move to the actual field devices.

Quality & Certifications

• CE compliant; RoHS compliant
• Designed and manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• Typically meets FCC/EMC requirements for industrial environments (Class A)
• Manufacturer’s standard limited hardware warranty (commonly 1 year); our warranty coverage: 365 days

One thing I appreciate is how predictably the PXI‑6528 drops into existing test racks. In many cases, you can migrate PLC‑driven loads over to PXI with minimal rewiring because the module is built for the same 24–60 VDC world. If you want, I can also recommend the right terminal blocks and shielded cabling once you confirm connector preferences and load current.