Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | NI PCI-6052E |
| Manufacturer | National Instruments (NI) |
| Product category | Legacy High-Performance Multifunction Data Acquisition (DAQ) Card (PCI Interface) |
| Electrical performance | Analog Input: 16 single-ended / 8 differential channels; Resolution: 12-bit; Sampling rate: Up to 1.25 MS/s (single-channel), 500 kS/s (multichannel); Input range: ±0.1 V, ±0.2 V, ±0.5 V, ±1 V, ±2.5 V, ±5 V, ±10 V (7 software-selectable ranges)Analog Output: 2 channels; Resolution: 12-bit; Output range: 0–5 V, 0–10 V, ±5 V (selectable); Update rate: 100 kS/s per channelDigital I/O: 24 lines (16 input/8 output, configurable); Counter/Timer: 2 × 24-bit up/down counters; PWM output: Supported via counter/timer (up to 1 MHz) |
| Physical size | Dimensions (L×W×H): 175 mm × 106 mm × 20 mm (standard PCI form factor); Weight: Approximately 200 g |
| Interface type | PCI 2.2 compliant (32-bit, 33 MHz); Dual 68-pin SCSI-II connectors for analog/digital signals; 10-pin header for counter/timer signals; RTSI bus connector (8-line) for multi-device synchronization |
| Communication protocol | PCI bus for data transfer; Compatible with NI-DAQmx and legacy Traditional NI-DAQ drivers; Supports register-level programming and SCPI; Supports DMA (Direct Memory Access) |
| Environmental requirements | Operating temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C; Storage temperature: -20 °C to 70 °C; Relative humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing); Operating altitude: Up to 2000 m; Vibration resistance: 2 g (10 Hz to 500 Hz); Shock resistance: 50 g (11 ms half-sine) |
| Installation method | Standard PCI slot mounting (compatible with PCI 2.1/2.2 chassis); Suitable for various industrial and research applications that require reliable data acquisition |
| Performance indicators | Analog input accuracy: ±0.02% full scale (FS) at 25 °C; Analog output accuracy: ±0.15% FS; Digital I/O voltage levels: 5 V TTL/CMOS; Counter frequency: Up to 100 MHz; FIFO buffer: 32 kB for analog input, 4 kB for analog output; Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): > 70 dB (analog input); Channel crosstalk: < -80 dB (at 1 kHz) |
| Power requirements | Powered by PCI bus (no external power supply needed); Typical power consumption: 6 W; Peak power consumption: 8 W (during high-speed sampling) |
| Compatibility | Works with Windows XP/Vista/7/10 (32-bit/64-bit); Compatible with NI LabVIEW (v8.0+), LabWindows/CVI, C/C++, Visual Basic 6.0; Supports Traditional NI-DAQ for legacy projects; Has some compatibility with newer .NET/Python via NI-DAQmx bridge |
| Special features | Multiple analog input ranges for flexible signal measurement; Hardware-triggered analog input for precise data acquisition; DMA for efficient data transfer; RTSI bus for multi-device synchronization |
NI PCI-6052E
Product introduction
The NI PCI-6052E is a legacy high-performance multifunction DAQ card from National Instruments (NI). It was designed to meet the data acquisition needs of a wide range of applications, offering a balance between performance and cost. With its 12-bit resolution and multiple analog input ranges, it can accurately measure a variety of signals. The card’s ability to handle high sampling rates, up to 1.25 MS/s in single-channel mode, makes it suitable for applications that require rapid data capture.
The NI PCI-6052E is a popular choice for engineers and researchers in industries such as industrial automation, test and measurement, and academic research. It provides a reliable and flexible solution for integrating data acquisition capabilities into legacy systems. The card’s compatibility with both NI-DAQmx and Traditional NI-DAQ drivers allows for seamless integration with existing software environments, whether they are modern or have been in use for many years.
Core advantages and technical highlights
High Sampling Rates
The NI PCI-6052E can achieve a high sampling rate of up to 1.25 MS/s in single-channel mode, which is crucial for applications that need to capture rapidly changing signals. In an industrial vibration monitoring system, for example, the card can sample vibration sensor signals at a high rate to accurately detect any sudden changes in vibration patterns. This high sampling rate enables the early detection of potential machine failures, allowing for preventive maintenance and reducing downtime.
Multiple Analog Input Ranges
With 7 software-selectable analog input ranges, the NI PCI-6052E can handle a wide variety of signal levels. In a power quality monitoring application, the card can use the appropriate input range to measure voltage and current signals accurately. The ability to select different ranges ensures that the card can measure both small and large signals without sacrificing accuracy.
DMA for Efficient Data Transfer
The card’s support for DMA (Direct Memory Access) significantly improves data transfer efficiency. In a data logging application where large amounts of data need to be transferred from the card to the computer’s memory, DMA reduces the CPU load. The CPU can focus on other tasks while the DMA controller handles the data transfer, resulting in a more efficient overall system operation.
RTSI Bus for Multi-device Synchronization
The RTSI (Real-Time System Integration) bus on the NI PCI-6052E enables precise synchronization between multiple devices. In a multi-channel test setup where multiple DAQ cards are used to measure different parameters simultaneously, the RTSI bus ensures that all the cards start and stop data acquisition at the same time. This is essential for applications such as automotive engine testing, where accurate synchronization of different sensors is required to obtain meaningful data.
Typical application scenarios
Industrial Automation
In industrial automation, the NI PCI-6052E is used to monitor and control various processes. In a manufacturing plant, the card can be used to measure temperature, pressure, and flow rate sensors in a production line. The data acquired by the card can be used to control valves, pumps, and other actuators to ensure smooth operation of the production process. The card’s reliability and compatibility with industrial control systems make it a suitable choice for such applications.
Test and Measurement
For test and measurement applications, the NI PCI-6052E can be used in a variety of scenarios. In an electronics testing laboratory, the card can be used to measure electrical parameters of components and circuits. It can accurately measure voltage, current, and resistance values, providing valuable data for quality control and product development. The card’s high sampling rate and multiple input ranges make it versatile for different types of test and measurement tasks.
Academic Research
In academic research, the NI PCI-6052E is often used in experiments that require data acquisition. In a physics experiment to study the behavior of materials under different conditions, the card can be used to measure physical quantities such as strain, stress, and temperature. The card’s compatibility with research software and its ability to handle multiple channels make it a useful tool for researchers in various fields.
NI PCI-6052E
Related model recommendations
NI PCI-6033E
This is a high-precision variant with 16-bit resolution compared to the 12-bit of the NI PCI-6052E. It offers higher analog input accuracy, making it suitable for applications where extreme precision is required, such as aerospace component testing and semiconductor metrology. However, it may be more expensive and have a lower sampling rate in some configurations.
NI PCI-6251
A modern high-performance upgrade that offers 16-bit resolution, a higher sampling rate of 1 MS/s, and additional features like USB compatibility via adapter. It is a good choice for users looking to migrate from legacy PCI systems to more modern workflows while maintaining or improving performance. But it may require more complex software integration for legacy projects.
NI TB-2707
A terminal block that can be used with the NI PCI-6052E to connect sensors and other devices. It provides a convenient way to interface with different types of signals, ensuring reliable connections and signal integrity.
NI PCI-4060
A legacy precision DMM card that can be paired with the NI PCI-6052E in calibration systems. It provides accurate voltage and current calibration references, allowing for precise calibration of the DAQ card’s measurements. This combination is useful in applications where calibrated measurements are critical, such as in calibration labs.
NI LabVIEW 2010
A widely used software for data acquisition and analysis that is fully compatible with the NI PCI-6052E. It offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of functions for controlling the card, processing data, and generating reports. For legacy projects, it can be used to maximize the card’s capabilities.
NI USB-6281
A USB-powered DAQ module that can complement the NI PCI-6052E for field applications. It is portable and can be used with laptops, making it convenient for on-site data acquisition. It shares some performance characteristics with the PCI-6052E, such as 16-bit resolution in some models, ensuring consistent data quality between different setups.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation
Before installing the NI PCI-6052E, power off the computer and ensure it has an available PCI 2.1/2.2 slot. Wear an ESD wristband and work on a grounded surface to prevent electrostatic damage to the card. Insert the card firmly into the slot and secure it with the appropriate screw.
Connect sensors to the dual 68-pin SCSI-II terminal blocks using suitable cables. For example, use shielded cables to reduce noise interference. Download and install the appropriate NI-DAQmx or Traditional NI-DAQ drivers from NI’s official website. Make sure to select the drivers that are compatible with the operating system and the specific model of the card.
Commissioning steps
After installing the drivers, open the NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX). The software should detect the NI PCI-6052E automatically. In MAX, configure the card’s settings, such as the input ranges, sampling rates, and digital I/O configurations according to the requirements of the application. Run a simple test to verify that the card is functioning properly. For example, use a signal generator to input a known signal to the card and check if the acquired data matches the expected values.
Maintenance suggestions
To maintain the performance of the NI PCI-6052E, regularly check the connections of the terminal blocks for any signs of looseness or corrosion. Clean the connectors with a suitable contact cleaner if necessary. Periodically calibrate the card using a precision calibration source to ensure accurate measurements. If the card is used in a harsh environment, consider installing additional cooling or shielding to protect it from excessive heat or electromagnetic interference.
Service and guarantee commitment
Although the standard warranty for the NI PCI-6052E may have expired, National Instruments offers support options. NI provides access to its legacy driver archive, ensuring that users can find the appropriate software for their systems. There is also a user community where engineers can share experiences and solutions related to the card.
For users who require more in-depth support, NI may offer paid services such as custom calibration and technical consultation. These services can help users optimize the performance of the NI PCI-6052E in their specific applications and ensure continued reliable operation.
