Description
NI PXI-6255 – High‑Channel‑Count Multifunction DAQ for dense PXI measurement systems
The NI PXI-6255 is a high-density M Series data acquisition module purpose-built for large channel-count voltage measurements in PXI test benches. From my experience, it’s a practical choice when you need to monitor dozens of points in parallel—production test racks, battery module monitoring, or multi-sensor R&D rigs—without stacking multiple smaller DAQs. You might notice that it balances channel density and sampling speed well for most mixed-signal test needs.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
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- – Warranty: 365 days (replacement or repair during the period)
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- – Lead time: typically 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
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- – Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
- – Shipping: FedEx, UPS, or DHL express; export documents provided on request
Key Features
- High-channel-count analog input – Typically up to 80 SE (or 40 DIFF) channels, ideal for dense sensor farms and multi-point voltage monitoring.
- 16-bit resolution, multiplexed ADC – A good balance of precision and speed for most lab and production test profiles.
- Sampling performance up to ~1.25 MS/s (single-channel) – Aggregate rate scales across channels; suitable for slow-to-mid bandwidth signals.
- Standard ±10 V input ranges – Works cleanly with common voltage output sensors and conditioned signals.
- PXI synchronization – Tight timing with PXI trigger lines and reference clocks for multi-module systems.
- Digital I/O and counters – In many cases, 24 bidirectional DIO lines and two 32-bit counters cover handshaking, timestamping, or simple encoder tasks.
- Flexible connectivity – High-density front connectors support shielded breakout accessories to keep wiring clean.
- Driver support – NI-DAQmx typically offers stable API access for LabVIEW, C/C++, Python, and .NET.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | NI (National Instruments) PXI-6255 |
| Product Type | M Series Multifunction DAQ (PXI) |
| HS Code | 9030.89 (Measuring/checking electrical quantities – Other) |
| Analog Inputs | Up to 80 SE / 40 DIFF, 16-bit, multiplexed; common ranges include ±10 V |
| Max Sampling Rate (AI) | Typically up to 1.25 MS/s single-channel (aggregate rate shared across channels) |
| Digital I/O | Up to 24 bidirectional lines (5 V TTL/CMOS), timing support via NI-DAQmx |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 32-bit counters, typical 80 MHz timebase support |
| Communication Interfaces | PXI backplane (PCI), PXI Trigger Bus, PXI Star Trigger; PFI lines on front I/O |
| Power Requirements | Powered via PXI backplane (no external supply required) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to 55 °C (typical for PXI M Series) |
| Dimensions & Weight | 3U PXI module, 1-slot |
| Installation Method | PXI chassis slot install; front-panel high-density connectors for I/O and PFI |
Related or Supporting Products
- NI PXI-6225 – Similar high-channel-count design at lower aggregate AI rates; a cost-effective option when bandwidth is modest.
- NI PXI-6259 – Fewer AI channels than PXI-6255 but higher per-channel versatility; good when you need more DIO and AO alongside AI.
- NI PXIe-6368 (X Series) – PXIe alternative with higher throughput and advanced timing; useful for future-proofing on PXIe chassis.
- SCB-68A / CB-68LP – 68-pin terminal blocks for convenient field wiring and sensor breakout.
- SHC68-68-EPM – Shielded 68-pin cable; from my experience it helps reduce crosstalk in dense racks.
- BNC-2110 / BNC-2120 – Breakout with BNC connectors if you prefer quick sensor swaps and clean coax terminations.
Installation & Maintenance
- Chassis & environment – Install in a 3U PXI chassis with adequate airflow; keep intake/exhaust paths clear. Typical ambient 0–55 °C.
- Wiring – Use shielded 68‑pin cables and grounded breakout accessories; route analog and digital bundles separately to minimize coupling.
- Grounding – Reference sensors correctly (SE vs DIFF). You might notice stability improvements with differential wiring in noisy plants.
- Triggering & sync – Leverage PXI trigger lines for multi-module starts; share reference clocks where tight phase alignment matters.
- Maintenance – Dust the chassis filters periodically; verify connectors are firmly latched. Calibration interval is typically 1 year for reliable accuracy.
- Software – Keep NI-DAQmx drivers current; firmware updates via NI MAX when available.
- Safety – Stay within specified voltage ranges; de-energize wiring before re-terminating. Use proper strain relief to protect the front connectors.
Quality & Certifications
- CE and RoHS compliant (typical for NI PXI M Series)
- UL/CSA safety assessed as applicable to the series and components
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
- 365-day warranty coverage from shipment







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