PCI-6517 32-Channel Industrial Digital Output Device
The PCI-6517 is an industrial PCI digital output device providing 32 bank-isolated sinking output channels. It is designed to control external relays, indicators, valves and other industrial loads operating from an external supply of up to 30 VDC.
Each channel can sink as much as 125 mA, subject to device derating and total-current restrictions. Programmable power-up states and digital watchdogs help place connected equipment into defined states during startup or application failure.
Key Features of the PCI-6517
- 32 digital output-only channels
- Sinking output configuration
- 0 V to 30 V external output supply range
- 24 V industrial logic applications
- Up to 125 mA current per channel
- Bank-isolated output architecture
- Programmable power-up states
- Digital I/O watchdog timer
- Configurable watchdog safe states
- 37-pin D-Sub front connector
- PCI computer interface
- NI-DAQmx compatibility
PCI-6517 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6517 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 779083-01 |
| Product Type | Industrial digital output device |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Digital Outputs | 32 |
| Digital Inputs | None |
| Output Type | Sinking |
| Output Voltage Range | 0 V to 30 VDC |
| Maximum Channel Current | 125 mA, subject to derating |
| Nominal Industrial Logic | 24 V |
| Isolation | 30 VDC bank isolation |
| Power-Up States | Programmable |
| Watchdog | Programmable digital watchdog |
| Operating Temperature | 0°CC to 55°C |
| Front Connector | 37-pin D-Sub |
| Software Driver | NI-DAQmx |
PCI-6517 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6517 | 779083-01 | 32-channel, bank-isolated sinking digital output device |
| SH37F-37M Cable | 778621-01 | 1 m shielded 37-pin female-to-male cable |
| SH37F-37M Cable | 778621-02 | 2 m shielded 37-pin female-to-male cable |
| SH37F-P-4 | 778620-04 | 4 m shielded 37-pin-to-pigtail cable |
| TB-37F-37CP | 779185-01 | 37-pin crimp-and-poke terminal accessory |
Sinking Output Operation
A sinking output completes the current path from the connected load toward the circuit return. The load is normally connected between the positive external supply and the PCI-6517 output terminal.
The device requires an appropriate external field supply. Verify the load polarity and common connection before enabling any output.
125 mA Channel Capability
The PCI-6517 can control many industrial relay coils, indicators and low-current solenoids. However, allowable current can depend on the number of simultaneously active channels, duty cycle and ambient temperature.
For larger loads, use an external interposing relay, transistor driver or properly rated solid-state switching device.
Programmable Startup States
Power-up states allow the initial output pattern to be defined before normal application control begins. This helps prevent valves, relays or fixture mechanisms from activating unexpectedly when the computer starts.
Watchdog Fault Recovery
If the test application stops updating the device, a watchdog timeout can force the outputs into predefined safe states. Appropriate states should be selected based on the actual function of each load.
A watchdog is useful for equipment protection, but personnel-safety functions must use certified independent safety hardware.
PCI-6517 Applications
- Industrial relay and contactor control
- Production fixture automation
- Solenoid-valve control
- Indicator and alarm control
- Manufacturing test equipment
- PLC-style computer control
- Packaging and assembly machinery
- Process-control output interfacing
- Burn-in and reliability systems
- Automated laboratory equipment
Relay and Solenoid Control
The sinking outputs can energize compatible DC relay coils and solenoids. Install flyback suppression across inductive loads to limit the voltage transient produced when current is switched off.
Production Test Fixtures
The PCI-6517 can control fixture clamps, status lamps, power relays and routing hardware. Programmable safe states help ensure that the fixture remains in a predictable condition during computer startup or software faults.
PCI-6517 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Review the Loads
Confirm load voltage, steady current, inrush current, polarity and inductive characteristics.
Step 2: Install the Device
Power off the host computer and install the PCI-6517 using ESD-safe procedures.
Step 3: Connect the Field Supply
Wire the external supply, common connection and loads according to the sinking-output diagram.
Step 4: Add Load Protection
Install flyback diodes or other suppression across relay coils, valves and inductive loads.
Step 5: Configure Safe States
Program the required power-up and watchdog states before operating machinery.
Step 6: Test One Channel at a Time
Verify polarity and current on each output before enabling several loads simultaneously.
PCI-6517 Troubleshooting
The output does not energize the load
Check the external field supply, common connection, output wiring and load polarity.
The output works without a load but fails under load
Measure the load current and confirm it remains within the per-channel and total-device limits.
The computer resets when a relay switches
Add suppression to the relay coil and improve field-side grounding and cable separation.
Outputs briefly activate during startup
Review programmed power-up states and external pull resistors. Confirm the settings are stored for the correct device.
The watchdog does not change the outputs
Verify that the watchdog is enabled, the timeout has elapsed and expiration states have been configured.
PCI-6517 Comparison
| Model | Channel Type | Output Direction | Maximum Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6510 | 32 inputs | Sink/source input | ±30 VDC |
| PCI-6517 | 32 outputs | Sinking | 30 VDC |
| PCI-6521 | 8 inputs and 8 relay outputs | Relay output | 150 V output |
| PCI-6528 | 24 inputs and 24 outputs | Sink/source | 60 V |
Choose the PCI-6517 for 32 sinking outputs. Select a sourcing-output model when the load requires current to be supplied from the digital output instead.
PCI-6517 Frequently Asked Questions
What type of outputs does the PCI-6517 provide?
It provides 32 sinking industrial digital outputs.
Does it supply power to the loads?
No. The field loads require a suitable external DC power supply.
What is the maximum output voltage?
The supported output range is 0 V to 30 VDC.
Can it control relay coils?
Yes, when voltage and current are within specification. Inductive suppression should be installed.
What is the PCI-6517 part number?
The standard part number is 779083-01.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6510 Industrial Digital Input Device
- PCI-6514 Sourcing Digital Output Device
- PCI-6528 Isolated Digital I/O Device
- PCI-6521 Relay Digital I/O Device
Request a Quote for the PCI-6517
Contact us for availability, lead time and pricing for the PCI-6517 32-channel sinking digital output device. We can also provide compatible cables and industrial connectivity recommendations.
