Description
NI CFP – AI – 100 Product Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | CFP – AI – 100 |
| Manufacturer | National Instruments |
| Product category | Compact FieldPoint analog input module |
| Channels | 8 independent channels |
| Resolution | 12 – bit |
| Input types | Voltage and current |
| Voltage input ranges | 0 – 1 V, 0 – 5 V, 0 – 15 V, 0 – 30 V, ±1 V, ±5 V, ±15 V, ±30 V |
| Current input ranges | 0 – 20 mA, 4 – 20 mA, ±20 mA |
| Input impedance | 1.5 MΩ (voltage input); 100 Ω (for current measurement with internal shunt) |
| Signal input bandwidth | 170 Hz (first – order analog filter) |
| Update rate | 360 Hz (all channels) |
| Isolation | 250 VRMS Cat II channel – to – ground continuous isolation |
| On – board features | On – board diagnostics, over – ranging, linearization |
| Status indicators | 2 green LEDs (power and ready status); 1 red LED (out – of – range) |
| Physical dimensions | 4.3 x 4.3 x 3.6 inches (109.22 x 109.22 x 91.44 mm) |
| Weight | 5.1 oz (144.6 g) |
| Operating temperature | – 40 °C to 70 °C |
| Storage temperature | – 55 °C to 85 °C |
| Relative humidity | 10 – 90% non – condensing |
| Operating vibrations (random/sinusoidal) | 5 grms / 5 g (10 Hz – 500 Hz) |
| Compliance standards | Meets relevant industry standards for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility |
NI CFP-AI-100
Product introduction
The National Instruments CFP – AI – 100 is a high – performance 8 – channel analog input module designed for Compact FieldPoint systems. It serves as a crucial interface for measuring and digitizing analog signals from various sources, making it an essential component in industrial monitoring, control, and data acquisition applications.
As part of NI’s Compact FieldPoint family, the CFP – AI – 100 combines ruggedness with flexibility. It can handle both voltage and current inputs, covering a wide range of signal levels from millivolts to high voltages and milliamperes. The module’s 12 – bit resolution ensures accurate conversion of analog signals to digital values, while its on – board linearization and diagnostics features simplify system integration and maintenance. The CFP – AI – 100 is engineered to operate in harsh environments, with a wide temperature range and high vibration tolerance, making it suitable for use in industrial plants, outdoor monitoring stations, and other demanding applications.
Core advantages and technical highlights
Multiple input types and ranges
The NI CFP – AI – 100 offers versatility with its ability to measure both voltage and current signals. With 11 software – configurable input ranges for voltage and 3 for current, it can interface with a diverse array of sensors and transducers. This adaptability eliminates the need for external signal conditioning in many cases, reducing system complexity and cost. For example, it can directly measure low – level signals from thermocouples (using appropriate voltage ranges) or high – current signals from industrial motors (with the correct current range settings).
High – speed data acquisition
Featuring a 360 Hz update rate across all 8 channels, the CFP – AI – 100 enables real – time monitoring of dynamic processes. This high – speed data collection is crucial for applications such as vibration analysis in rotating machinery or transient signal measurement in power electronics. The 12 – bit resolution, combined with the fast update rate, ensures that fine – grained details of the input signals are accurately captured, allowing for precise analysis and control.
On – board signal processing
The module comes equipped with on – board linearization capabilities, which corrects for non – linearities in the input signals. This means that the values sent to the control or monitoring software are already scaled and compensated, reducing the computational load on the host system. Additionally, the on – board diagnostics continuously monitor the module’s health, detecting issues such as over – voltage, over – current, or communication errors. This proactive approach to fault detection minimizes system downtime and simplifies maintenance.
Hot swapping
The CFP – AI – 100 supports hot swapping, allowing for the addition or removal of the module from a powered Compact FieldPoint system without disrupting the operation of other connected devices. This feature is invaluable in industrial settings where system maintenance or expansion may need to occur while the process is still running. For instance, if a channel on the module fails, it can be quickly replaced without shutting down the entire system, ensuring continuous data acquisition and control.
Typical application scenarios
In industrial process control, the NI CFP – AI – 100 is used to monitor a wide range of parameters. It can measure the temperature, pressure, and flow rate in a chemical plant by connecting to appropriate sensors. The module’s ability to handle multiple input types and ranges makes it suitable for interfacing with different sensor technologies, such as thermocouples for temperature, piezoresistive sensors for pressure, and electromagnetic flow meters for flow rate. The real – time data acquired by the CFP – AI – 100 is then used to adjust control valves, pumps, and other actuators to maintain optimal process conditions.
In environmental monitoring, the module is deployed to measure various environmental factors. For example, it can measure the voltage output from a rain gauge to monitor precipitation levels, the current from a solar radiation sensor to measure sunlight intensity, or the voltage from a humidity sensor. The CFP – AI – 100’s wide operating temperature range and high vibration tolerance make it suitable for use in outdoor monitoring stations, where it can withstand harsh weather conditions and mechanical vibrations from wind or passing vehicles.
In energy management systems, the CFP – AI – 100 plays a crucial role in monitoring power consumption and generation. It can measure the current and voltage in electrical distribution systems to calculate power usage. In renewable energy applications, such as solar or wind farms, it can monitor the output of solar panels or wind turbines by measuring the DC current and voltage. The data collected is used to optimize energy production, balance the grid, and detect faults in the energy generation and distribution infrastructure.
NI CFP-AI-100
Related model recommendations
CFP – AO – 100: An 8 – channel analog output module from NI that can be paired with the CFP – AI – 100 to create a complete analog I/O solution. It allows for the generation of analog voltage or current signals, which can be used for control purposes in systems where the CFP – AI – 100 is used for monitoring.
CFP – DI – 100: A digital input module with 16 channels. In applications where both analog and digital signals need to be monitored, this module can work in tandem with the CFP – AI – 100. For example, in a manufacturing process, the CFP – AI – 100 can measure analog sensor data, while the CFP – DI – 100 can monitor digital signals from switches or relays.
Compact FieldPoint Chassis: The appropriate Compact FieldPoint chassis, such as the CFP – 2020, is required to house the CFP – AI – 100 and other compatible modules. The chassis provides power, communication interfaces, and mechanical support for the modules, enabling seamless integration into a complete Compact FieldPoint system.
LabVIEW: NI’s LabVIEW software is a powerful tool for programming and controlling the CFP – AI – 100. It offers a graphical programming environment with pre – built functions for data acquisition, signal processing, and device control. LabVIEW simplifies the development of applications that utilize the CFP – AI – 100, allowing engineers to quickly create custom monitoring and control systems.
NI – DAQmx: This driver software is essential for communicating with the CFP – AI – 100. It provides a standardized interface for configuring the module, acquiring data, and handling errors. NI – DAQmx is compatible with various programming languages, including C, C++, and Python, giving developers flexibility in choosing the programming environment for their applications.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation
Before installing the NI CFP – AI – 100, ensure that the Compact FieldPoint system is powered off. Use an anti – static wristband to handle the module to prevent electrostatic discharge damage. Verify that the Compact FieldPoint chassis has an available slot compatible with the CFP – AI – 100. Connect the appropriate cables to the module’s input terminals, ensuring that the wiring is correct for the type of input (voltage or current) and the selected input range. Mount the module in the chassis and secure it using the provided hardware. After installation, power on the Compact FieldPoint system.
Commissioning
Install the NI – DAQmx driver software on the host computer connected to the Compact FieldPoint system. Use the NI – MAX (Measurement & Automation Explorer) utility to configure the CFP – AI – 100. Set the input ranges for each channel according to the signals to be measured. Calibrate the module using NI’s calibration utility to ensure accurate measurements. Test the module by applying known input signals and verifying that the data acquired by the host system matches the expected values. If using LabVIEW, create a simple data acquisition VI (Virtual Instrument) to start collecting and displaying data from the CFP – AI – 100.
Maintenance suggestions
Regularly inspect the module’s connectors for any signs of corrosion, loose connections, or physical damage. Clean the connectors using a suitable contact cleaner if necessary. Monitor the status LEDs on the module. The green LEDs should indicate normal power and readiness, while the red LED should only light up in case of an out – of – range condition. If the red LED is constantly on or blinking, check the input signals and the module configuration. Calibrate the CFP – AI – 100 periodically, following NI’s recommended calibration intervals, to maintain measurement accuracy. In case of a suspected module failure, use the on – board diagnostics and NI – MAX to troubleshoot the issue. If the problem persists, contact NI’s technical support for further assistance.
Service and guarantee commitment
The NI CFP – AI – 100 is typically backed by a standard warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period (usually 1 – 3 years, depending on the region and purchase terms). NI’s global technical support team is available to provide assistance for installation, configuration, and troubleshooting. They can be reached via phone, email, or online support forums. NI also offers calibration services, either on – site or at their accredited calibration facilities, to ensure that the module continues to meet its specified accuracy requirements. For customers with complex or custom applications, NI’s professional services team can provide consulting, system integration, and software development services to optimize the use of the CFP – AI – 100 in their specific systems.
