NI PCI-6602

Description

Detailed parameter table

NI PCI-6602

Product introduction

The NI PCI-6602 is a cost-effective counter/timer card developed by National Instruments (NI), belonging to NI’s Timing and Synchronization product series—engineered to deliver core timing, counting, and synchronization capabilities for small-scale industrial automation, laboratory testing, and budget-constrained projects. As a scaled-down variant of the high-channel NI PCI-6601, the NI PCI-6602 retains critical performance metrics (80 MHz input frequency, 12.5 ns time resolution) but reduces the counter count to 4—striking a balance between functionality and cost for users who don’t require 8 independent counters.

In practical applications, the NI PCI-6602 acts as a “compact timing hub” for targeted tasks. For example, in a small-scale 3D printer, it uses 2 counters to track X/Y-axis encoder pulses (ensuring precise nozzle positioning) and 2 counters to generate triggers for extruder motor control—all while maintaining 80 MHz counting speed to avoid pulse loss during high-speed printing. Unlike generic counter cards, the NI PCI-6602 integrates seamlessly with NI’s software ecosystem, eliminating the need for custom driver development and reducing project deployment time by 30%.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Balanced Functionality & Cost Efficiency: The NI PCI-6602 offers 4 independent counters—ideal for applications that don’t require the 8 counters of the NI PCI-6601—at a 25% lower price point. This makes it a cost-effective choice for small-scale systems: for instance, a university lab using 2 counters to measure sensor pulse intervals and 2 counters to generate test triggers doesn’t need extra unused channels, avoiding unnecessary expenditure. Despite the reduced count, each counter retains 80 MHz input frequency and 12.5 ns time resolution—matching the NI PCI-6601’s performance for individual tasks.

Consistent Precision for Critical Measurements: With 12.5 ns time resolution and ±1 LSB count accuracy, the NI PCI-6602 delivers the same precision as the NI PCI-6601—critical for applications where accuracy can’t be compromised. For example, in a portable power meter, it measures the period of 50 Hz AC signals with 0.001 Hz accuracy, enabling precise power calculation. Its DMA event logging (1 MS/s) also ensures no data loss when tracking fast transient events (e.g., 1 µs pulse bursts from a photodiode sensor), making it suitable for both static and dynamic measurement scenarios.

Seamless Synchronization & Software Integration: Like the NI PCI-6601, the NI PCI-6602 includes an 8-line RTSI bus connector for sub-10 ns synchronization with other NI devices. In a small DAQ system, it can trigger a NI PCI-6259 DAQ card to sample analog data (e.g., temperature) in phase with digital event counting—ensuring time-aligned data for analysis. It also supports NI-DAQmx driver and LabVIEW, letting users reuse code developed for the NI PCI-6601 (e.g., counter configuration VIs) without modification—simplifying system upgrades or scaling.

Typical application scenarios

In small-batch manufacturing, the NI PCI-6602 is used for automated assembly line quality control. For a USB connector assembly station, it connects to 2 sensors: a laser encoder (to count connector insertion depth pulses) and a proximity sensor (to detect component presence). The NI PCI-6602 uses 1 counter to track encoder pulses (80 MHz frequency ensures no loss at 1 m/s assembly speed) and 1 counter to measure the time between sensor triggers—verifying that connectors are inserted to the correct depth (±0.1 mm tolerance). The remaining 2 counters generate triggers for reject mechanisms, activating them within 100 µs if a defective part is detected—reducing defect rates by 20% compared to manual inspection.

In academic research, the NI PCI-6602 supports undergraduate physics experiments. For a pendulum oscillation study, it uses 1 counter to count infrared sensor pulses (each pulse corresponds to one pendulum swing) and 1 counter to measure the time between pulses—calculating oscillation period with 12.5 ns resolution. Students can use LabVIEW to build a real-time dashboard, visualizing period vs. swing amplitude and validating harmonic motion theory. The NI PCI-6602’s low cost and ease of use make it suitable for classroom settings, where multiple cards can be deployed without exceeding budget limits.

NI PCI-6602

Related model recommendations

NI PCI-6601: The parent model of the NI PCI-6602, with 8 counters (double the NI PCI-6602) and identical 80 MHz frequency. It is recommended for users scaling up from the NI PCI-6602 (e.g., expanding an assembly line to 8 stations) who need more counter resources.

NI PCI-6561: A high-speed digital waveform card that pairs with the NI PCI-6602. The NI PCI-6602 provides timing triggers, while the NI PCI-6561 generates/analyzes high-speed digital signals—ideal for mixed-signal test systems (e.g., small-scale semiconductor chip testing).

NI PXIe-6612: A PXI Express upgrade of the NI PCI-6602, offering 4 counters, 100 MHz frequency, and PCIe x1 transfer. It is suitable for modular test racks (e.g., portable ATE systems) where space and speed are priorities.

NI USB-6289: A USB-powered DAQ card complementary to the NI PCI-6602. The NI USB-6289 collects analog data (e.g., pressure), while the NI PCI-6602 counts digital events—enabling field-deployable monitoring systems (e.g., portable environmental sensors).

NI PCI-6259: A multifunction DAQ card that works with the NI PCI-6602 in industrial monitoring. The NI PCI-6602 counts encoder pulses to track conveyor speed, while the NI PCI-6259 measures analog parameters (e.g., motor temperature)—providing comprehensive system visibility.

NI LabVIEW 2024: Essential software for the NI PCI-6602, offering pre-built VIs for counter configuration (e.g., pulse counting, frequency measurement). It lets users build custom applications quickly, reusing code from NI PCI-6601 projects.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the NI PCI-6602, power off the industrial PC or lab workstation and confirm an empty PCI 2.1/2.2/2.3 slot is available. Wear an ESD wristband (rated ±15 kV) and use a grounded workbench to protect the card’s precision timing circuits. Insert the NI PCI-6602 into the PCI slot until fully seated, then secure it with a chassis screw to prevent movement. Connect counter signals (e.g., encoder pulses, sensor triggers) to the 20-pin D-sub connector using shielded twisted-pair cables—this minimizes EMI interference from nearby motors or power lines. For RTSI synchronization with other NI devices (e.g., a NI PCI-6259), connect an 8-line RTSI cable. Download and install the latest NI-DAQmx driver from NI’s website, then use NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) to detect the NI PCI-6602 and run a self-test (verifying counter accuracy and trigger functionality).

Maintenance suggestions: Inspect the NI PCI-6602’s connectors every 3 months—clean the 20-pin D-sub and RTSI contacts with isopropyl alcohol (99.9% purity) and a lint-free cloth to remove dust or oxidation. Calibrate the card annually using NI’s calibration kit (e.g., NI 9172 precision frequency reference) to maintain 12.5 ns time resolution and ±1 LSB count accuracy. If the NI PCI-6602 fails to count pulses, check the input signal level (ensure it meets TTL standards: 0–5 V) and verify cable continuity with a multimeter. Avoid exposing the NI PCI-6602 to temperatures above 55 °C or humidity above 90%—extreme conditions can degrade its internal clock oscillator. Replace the card’s internal configuration battery every 5 years to prevent loss of calibration settings during power outages.

Service and guarantee commitment

National Instruments (NI) provides a 2-year standard warranty for the NI PCI-6602, covering defects in materials and workmanship—consistent with industry standards for precision timing equipment. For extended protection, customers can purchase the ServicePlus Premium plan, which extends coverage to 5 years and includes annual factory calibration (traceable to NIST standards), priority technical support (4-hour response time for critical issues), and expedited repairs (turnaround time < 3 business days).

NI’s global technical team (specialized in timing and synchronization) is available 24/7 via email, online chat, and phone to assist with the NI PCI-6602’s configuration, troubleshooting (e.g., resolving pulse loss or synchronization issues), and software integration. Customers also have free access to exclusive resources: application notes on small-scale encoder tracking, LabVIEW example code for the NI PCI-6602, and a user community where engineers share best practices for cost-effective timing solutions. For out-of-warranty repairs, NI offers a flat-rate service that restores the NI PCI-6602 to factory specifications—including replacing aged clock components and verifying 80 MHz counting performance. This commitment reflects NI’s confidence in the NI PCI-6602’s durability and its dedication to supporting customers’ small-scale timing needs.