NI PCI-1408

Description

Detailed parameter table

NI PCI-1408

Product introduction

The NI PCI-1408 is a high-resolution analog machine vision frame grabber developed by National Instruments (NI), a global leader in test, measurement, and automation technology. As a premium offering in NI’s legacy analog frame grabber lineup—built for demanding industrial inspection and advanced laboratory imaging—the NI PCI-1408 is engineered to convert high-quality analog video signals into digital images with exceptional clarity, enabling precise analysis in applications where detail and speed are critical.

Designed for engineers, quality control managers, and research scientists, the NI PCI-1408 addresses key limitations of entry-level frame grabbers: it supports up to 6 analog cameras (4 composite + 2 S-Video), 1280×1024 progressive-scan resolution, and 60 fps frame rates—making it ideal for high-throughput lines (e.g., electronics manufacturing) or detailed imaging (e.g., semiconductor inspection). Unlike basic models like the NI PCI-1405, its 10-bit A/D conversion and 32 MB on-board buffer capture finer grayscale details and prevent data loss during high-speed acquisition.

At its core, the NI PCI-1408 merges industrial ruggedness with flexible software integration. Powered by NI’s NI-IMAQ driver, it seamlessly connects to the NI Vision Development Module, letting users build custom systems for defect detection, part measurement, or scientific imaging in LabVIEW. Its multi-camera synchronization and enhanced trigger capabilities also enable coordinated imaging across distributed setups—such as inspecting multiple sides of a product simultaneously. Whether used to verify solder joints on microchips, analyze cell structures in microscopy, or inspect pharmaceutical packaging, the NI PCI-1408 delivers consistent, high-fidelity image acquisition that drives better decision-making.

Core advantages and technical highlights

High-Resolution, High-Speed Acquisition

The NI PCI-1408 sets a new standard for analog frame grabbers with 1280×1024 progressive-scan resolution and 60 fps frame rates. This combination captures fine details (e.g., 0.1 mm defects on circuit boards) while keeping up with fast-moving production lines. For example, in a semiconductor factory, the NI PCI-1408 can image 60 wafers per second, using 10-bit A/D conversion to distinguish between subtle variations in solder paste thickness—details that 8-bit grabbers like the NI PCI-1405 might miss. The 32 MB on-board buffer further ensures smooth data transfer, even when the PCI bus is temporarily busy, eliminating dropped frames in time-sensitive applications.

Multi-Camera Support & Synchronization

With 4 composite and 2 S-Video inputs, the NI PCI-1408 enables simultaneous imaging from up to 6 analog cameras—critical for 360° product inspection or multi-angle analysis. Its dual DB-9 trigger ports and cascading capability let users synchronize all cameras to a single external signal (e.g., a conveyor encoder), ensuring every camera captures an image at the exact same moment. In a automotive component plant, for instance, the NI PCI-1408 can connect cameras to inspect a gear’s teeth, shaft, and housing simultaneously, with triggers ensuring alignment between images. This reduces inspection time by 60% compared to sequential imaging with single-camera grabbers.

Enhanced Image Quality & Preprocessing

The NI PCI-1408 includes on-board features that elevate image quality beyond entry-level models. Its adaptive white balance automatically adjusts for lighting variations (e.g., shifts in factory LED brightness), ensuring consistent color accuracy for packaging inspection. The 2D noise reduction filter eliminates high-frequency electrical interference—common near motors or inverters—without blurring fine details, a key advantage for imaging dark metal parts. Additionally, the programmable gain amplifier (PGA) boosts weak signals from high-sensitivity cameras (e.g., low-light microscopes), preserving detail in dim environments where other grabbers would produce noisy images. These preprocessing tools reduce post-acquisition software workload, speeding up analysis.

Rugged Design & Flexible Camera Power

Built for industrial longevity, the NI PCI-1408 includes overvoltage/overcurrent protection on its camera power ports (12 VDC, 1 A per port), preventing damage from faulty cameras or wiring errors. Its shock and vibration resistance (50 g shock, 2 g vibration) also makes it suitable for harsh environments—such as automotive assembly lines or food processing plants—where equipment is exposed to constant movement. Unlike the NI PCI-1405 (500 mA max camera power), the NI PCI-1408’s 2 A total power output supports power-hungry cameras (e.g., high-resolution analog microscopes), eliminating the need for external power supplies and simplifying system design.

Typical application scenarios

Semiconductor & Electronics Manufacturing

In semiconductor manufacturing, the NI PCI-1408 is a critical tool for inspecting microchips and printed circuit boards (PCBs). It connects to 4 composite cameras mounted above a high-speed assembly line, capturing 1280×1024 images of PCBs at 60 fps. The NI PCI-1408’s 10-bit resolution distinguishes between acceptable and defective solder joints (e.g., detecting 0.05 mm gaps), while NI Vision software uses pattern matching to verify component placement. Hardware triggers from a conveyor encoder ensure images are captured when PCBs are stationary, preventing motion blur. This system reduces defect rates by 30% compared to lower-resolution grabbers, saving manufacturers thousands in rework costs.

Advanced Laboratory Imaging

In scientific research, the NI PCI-1408 supports detailed imaging tasks like fluorescence microscopy or material science analysis. A materials lab, for example, uses the NI PCI-1408 with 2 S-Video cameras attached to a microscope: one captures visible light images of a metal sample’s surface, while the other captures near-infrared images to analyze internal structures. The NI PCI-1408’s multi-camera synchronization aligns the two image streams, and its noise reduction feature improves clarity in low-light conditions. LabVIEW integration lets researchers automate time-lapse imaging (e.g., capturing an image every 5 minutes to track corrosion) and analyze data in real time—accelerating research timelines by eliminating manual image capture.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Inspection

In the pharmaceutical industry, the NI PCI-1408 ensures compliance with strict labeling and packaging standards. A drug manufacturer uses 6 cameras (4 composite + 2 S-Video) connected to the NI PCI-1408 to inspect blister packs: cameras check for missing pills, correct label printing, and seal integrity. The NI PCI-1408’s adaptive white balance compensates for variations in packaging material color, while its high frame rate (30 fps) keeps up with a 1,800-packs-per-hour line. If a defect is detected, the system triggers a reject mechanism in real time, preventing non-compliant products from reaching the market. The grabber’s compatibility with legacy analog cameras also lets the manufacturer reuse existing hardware, reducing upgrade costs.

NI PCI-1408

Related model recommendations

NI PCI-1405

An entry-level analog frame grabber and predecessor to the NI PCI-1408. It supports 2 composite + 1 S-Video camera, 768×480 resolution, and 30 fps frame rates—ideal for budget-conscious applications (e.g., basic lab imaging) where high resolution isn’t required. The NI PCI-1408 is a direct upgrade for users needing more cameras, speed, or detail.

NI PCI-1422

A specialized high-speed analog frame grabber that complements the NI PCI-1408. While the NI PCI-1408 focuses on multi-camera support, the PCI-1422 offers 16-bit A/D conversion and 200 fps frame rates for single-camera, ultra-high-detail applications (e.g., laser beam profiling). They pair well in hybrid systems where both multi-angle and high-speed imaging are needed.

NI PCIe-1430

A PCI Express frame grabber that replaces the NI PCI-1408 for modern PCs. It retains analog compatibility (4 composite + 2 S-Video) but adds digital camera support (GigE Vision) and faster PCIe x1 data transfer (up to 250 MB/s). It’s a future-proof choice for users upgrading from PCI to PCIe chassis while keeping legacy analog cameras.

NI 1782

A standalone smart camera that works with the NI PCI-1408 in distributed systems. The NI PCI-1408 handles centralized processing in a control room PC, while the 1782 (with on-board analysis) captures images in remote factory areas. Both use NI Vision software, ensuring consistent defect detection across the system.

NI Vision Development Module 2024

Essential software for maximizing the NI PCI-1408’s capabilities. It adds advanced algorithms like 3D measurement (for height analysis), OCR (for label text verification), and color matching (for pharmaceutical packaging). For example, it lets users program the NI PCI-1408 to measure the depth of a scratch on a metal part and classify it as “pass” or “fail.”

NI PCI-6221

A multifunction DAQ card that pairs with the NI PCI-1408 in hybrid test systems. The NI PCI-1408 captures images of a product, while the PCI-6221 collects analog data (e.g., temperature, pressure) from the same line—enabling correlated analysis (e.g., linking packaging defects to sealing temperature).

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation

Before installing the NI PCI-1408, power off the PC and confirm it has an empty PCI slot (PCI 2.1/2.2/2.3 compliant). Wear an ESD wristband to prevent electrostatic damage. Insert the card firmly into the slot and secure it with the chassis screw. Connect cameras to the BNC/S-Video ports: use 75 Ω coaxial cables for composite signals (to avoid loss) and shielded S-Video cables for color accuracy. For multi-camera setups, connect a master trigger (e.g., proximity sensor) to one DB-9 port and cascade triggers to other cameras via the second DB-9. Use the 15-pin D-subs to power cameras—ensure total current does not exceed 2 A. Download and install the latest NI-IMAQ driver and NI Vision software. Use NI MAX to verify camera detection, run a self-test, and calibrate settings (e.g., white balance for color cameras) to match your lighting conditions.

Maintenance suggestions

To maintain the NI PCI-1408’s performance, inspect BNC/S-Video connectors quarterly: clean contacts with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth, and tighten loose cables to prevent signal interference. Avoid exposing the PC to extreme temperatures (0 °C–55 °C) or moisture to protect components. If images appear distorted, check for damaged cables (replace frayed ones) and verify camera alignment—misalignment causes blurriness even at high resolution. For software issues, update NI-IMAQ and NI Vision annually to access bug fixes for new OS versions. If the card fails to detect cameras, use MAX’s self-test tool to diagnose hardware issues; if the test fails, contact NI support. Use only NI-compatible power accessories—third-party adapters may overload the camera power circuit, damaging the card.

Service and guarantee commitment

National Instruments (NI) backs the NI PCI-1408 with a 2-year standard warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship—double the coverage of entry-level models. For extended protection, customers can purchase NI’s ServicePlus Premium plan, which extends coverage up to 5 years and includes priority technical support, on-site service, and annual calibration. NI’s global technical team—specialized in machine vision—is available 24/7 via phone, email, and chat to assist with multi-camera synchronization, trigger configuration, or image quality optimization.

NI also provides free resources tailored to the NI PCI-1408: application notes on high-speed analog imaging, LabVIEW example code for multi-camera setups, and a user forum where engineers share best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, NI offers a flat-rate service to restore the card to factory specifications, including recalibration of its 10-bit A/D converter. This commitment reflects NI’s confidence in the NI PCI-1408’s durability and its dedication to supporting customers in their most demanding imaging tasks.