NI PCI-6036 (PCI-6036E) Multifunction DAQ – Reliable 16‑bit data acquisition on standard PCI

The NI PCI-6036—often listed as PCI‑6036E in the E Series family—is a classic multifunction DAQ board for engineers who need stable, 16‑bit analog measurements on a dependable PCI platform. It’s typically used for bench testing, production data logging, and basic closed-loop control. From my experience, the 603xE boards strike a good balance: straightforward to deploy, accurate enough for most lab and factory tasks, and supported by NI‑DAQmx for long-term maintainability.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: In-stock typically ships within 1 week; no more than 1 month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full balance prior to delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• 16‑bit analog input accuracy – Suitable for precision sensing, typically outperforming older 12‑bit cards in noise and resolution.
• Up to 16 SE / 8 DIFF AI channels – Flexible wiring for single-ended or differential sensors; helps when you need better common‑mode rejection.
• Aggregate sampling up to 200 kS/s – Enough speed for vibration, flow, and process signals in many cases without overcomplicating the setup.
• 2 analog outputs (12‑bit) – Handy for simple control signals, setpoints, or function‑generation at modest update rates.
• 8 lines of TTL digital I/O – Quick on/off control for relays, indicators, or capturing basic status bits.
• Two 24‑bit counters/timers – Frequency/edge counting and timing tasks without extra hardware.
• 68‑pin SCSI‑II style connector – Works with common NI shielded cables and terminal blocks like SCB‑68A or BNC‑2110.
• NI‑DAQmx support – Mature driver stack; integrates with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and commonly supported Windows versions.

One thing I appreciate is how quickly teams can go from unboxing to streaming data in NI MAX and LabVIEW. A test engineer recently told us, “Swapped a PCI‑6036E into a legacy jig and was logging within an hour—no surprises, which saved my week.”

Technical Specifications

Related & Supporting Products

• NI PCI‑6034E – Similar 16‑bit E Series board; good drop‑in alternative when AI channel count and speed needs match.
• NI PCI‑6035E – E Series variant with similar throughput; in many cases chosen for slightly different accuracy specs.
• NI PCI‑6221 (M Series) – Newer generation, higher performance and better timing; a common modernization path from 603xE.
• NI PCIe‑6321 (X Series) – PCIe bus, advanced timing, more robust DIO; ideal when migrating to newer PCs.
• SCB‑68A – 68‑pin shielded terminal block with strain relief; easiest way to wire sensors neatly.
• BNC‑2110 – BNC breakout for quick sensor hookup; great for labs where you swap instruments often.
• SH68‑68‑EP – Shielded 68‑pin cable; recommended to maintain signal integrity on longer runs.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet/PC standards: Use a clean, grounded PC chassis with a free 5 V PCI slot. Allow clearance for the 68‑pin cable bend radius.
• Ventilation: Maintain airflow around adjacent cards; these boards run cool but dust buildup hurts longevity.
• Wiring: For low‑level signals, use shielded cable (e.g., SH68‑68‑EP) and differential connections to reduce noise.
• Safety: Never exceed input ranges; isolate high‑voltage signals with proper conditioning modules before the DAQ.
• Calibration: Perform a functional check and software calibration verification annually in NI MAX; more often in regulated environments.
• Cleaning: Power down and use dry compressed air to remove dust from the PCI edge and components, typically every 6–12 months.
• Software/firmware: Keep NI‑DAQmx current; in most cases, driver updates deliver stability improvements for legacy E Series boards.

Quality & Certifications

• Certifications: CE marking; RoHS/WEEE compliance varies by manufacturing date—many units are compliant, legacy stock may differ.
• Reliability: E Series boards are well‑proven in production and academic labs; parts availability for accessories remains good.
• Warranty: 365‑day warranty coverage as stated above.