PCI-6229 32-Channel Multifunction PCI DAQ Device
The NI PCI-6229 is a high-density M Series multifunction data acquisition device designed for automated testing, multichannel voltage measurement, laboratory research and industrial monitoring. It combines analog input, analog output, digital I/O and counter/timer functions on one conventional PCI board.
The PCI-6229 provides 32 single-ended or 16 differential analog inputs with 16-bit resolution and an aggregate sampling rate up to 250 kS/s. Four 16-bit analog outputs can generate test stimulus, control voltages and software-defined waveforms.
The device also includes 48 bidirectional digital I/O lines and two 32-bit counter/timers. Thirty-two digital lines support hardware-timed waveform acquisition and generation, making the PCI-6229 suitable for mixed-signal test systems.
Key Features of the PCI-6229
- 32 single-ended or 16 differential analog inputs
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 250 kS/s maximum aggregate analog input rate
- Four 16-bit analog output channels
- Analog output updates up to 833 kS/s, configuration dependent
- 48 bidirectional digital I/O lines
- 32 hardware-timed digital I/O lines
- Hardware-timed digital rates up to 1 MHz
- Two 32-bit counter/timers
- Analog and digital triggering
- Two 68-pin VHDCI connectors
- Conventional PCI interface
- NI-DAQmx software support
PCI-6229 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6229 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 779068-01 |
| Product Family | NI M Series Multifunction DAQ |
| Bus Interface | Conventional PCI |
| Analog Inputs | 32 single-ended or 16 differential |
| Analog Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum AI Sample Rate | 250 kS/s aggregate |
| Input Ranges | ±0.2 V, ±1 V, ±5 V and ±10 V |
| Analog Outputs | 4 |
| Analog Output Resolution | 16 bits |
| Analog Output Range | ±10 V |
| Maximum AO Update Rate | Up to 833 kS/s, active-channel dependent |
| Digital I/O | 48 bidirectional lines |
| Hardware-Timed DIO | 32 lines, up to 1 MHz |
| Counter/Timers | 2 × 32-bit |
| Triggering | Analog and digital |
| Front Connectors | 2 × 68-pin VHDCI |
| Driver Software | NI-DAQmx |
The PCI-6229 uses a multiplexed analog input architecture. The 250 kS/s rate is shared among all analog input channels included in the acquisition task.
PCI-6229 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6229 | 779068-01 | 32-input, four-output PCI multifunction DAQ device |
| SHC68-68-EPM | 192061-02 | 2 m shielded VHDCI cable |
| SCB-68A | 782536-01 | Shielded 68-pin screw-terminal connector block |
| BNC-2110 | 777643-01 | BNC accessory for analog, digital and counter connections |
| CB-68LP | 777145-01 | General-purpose screw-terminal connector block |
| TBX-68 | 777141-01 | DIN-rail terminal block for panel wiring |
The PCI-6229 has two VHDCI connectors. Accessing all analog and digital channels may require two cables and two terminal accessories. Connector 0 and Connector 1 use different signal assignments, so always follow the PCI-6229 pinout.
32-Channel Analog Input Architecture
The device can be configured for 32 single-ended measurements or 16 differential measurements. Single-ended operation maximizes channel density, while differential operation provides better rejection of common-mode interference.
Four programmable input ranges support low-level and common ±10 V signals. External signal conditioning is required for thermocouples, strain gauges, current signals and voltages outside the permitted input range.
Four Analog Output Channels
Four 16-bit analog outputs allow the PCI-6229 to generate programmable DC levels and dynamic voltage waveforms. These outputs can provide DUT stimulus, reference voltages or low-current control signals.
The maximum update rate depends on the number of simultaneously active outputs. External amplifiers or drivers are required for loads exceeding the voltage or current capability of the DAQ outputs.
48 Digital I/O Lines
The PCI-6229 provides 48 individually configurable digital lines. Thirty-two Port 0 lines support hardware-timed digital waveform acquisition and generation at rates up to 1 MHz.
Digital lines are intended for compatible logic circuits. Use external isolation, relay drivers or transistor interfaces when controlling industrial loads.
Counter and Trigger Functions
Two 32-bit counter/timers support edge counting, pulse-width measurement, frequency and period measurement, quadrature encoders and pulse-train generation.
Analog and digital triggers allow acquisition or generation tasks to respond to external events with repeatable hardware timing.
PCI-6229 Applications
- Automated mixed-signal testing
- Production functional testing
- Multichannel voltage acquisition
- Analog stimulus generation
- Industrial process monitoring
- Digital fixture control
- Hardware-timed digital pattern testing
- Encoder and frequency measurement
- Laboratory automation
- Research and development
Automated Functional Testing
The analog outputs can stimulate a DUT while the analog inputs measure the response. Digital lines can control the fixture, and counters can verify pulse or frequency signals.
Multichannel Data Logging
The 32 analog inputs are suitable for monitoring multiple conditioned sensors or test points. Sampling requirements should be calculated using the 250 kS/s aggregate limit.
PCI-6229 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Confirm PCI Compatibility
Verify that the host computer contains an available conventional PCI slot.
Step 2: Install NI-DAQmx
Confirm that the selected NI-DAQmx version supports the operating system and PCI-6229.
Step 3: Install the Board
Power down the computer, observe ESD precautions and secure the PCI-6229 in the expansion slot.
Step 4: Connect Both VHDCI Interfaces
Connect the required cables and terminal accessories, then verify connector-specific signal assignments.
Step 5: Test in NI MAX
Run a self-test and check representative analog input, analog output, digital and counter channels.
Step 6: Validate the Test System
Confirm grounding, sample-rate allocation, output limits, trigger settings and safe power-on states.
PCI-6229 Troubleshooting
The device is not detected
Check the PCI slot, board seating, BIOS resources and installed NI-DAQmx version.
Connector 1 channels do not work
Verify the second cable, terminal accessory, physical channel name and Connector 1 pinout.
Measurements contain excessive noise
Use differential wiring, shielded cables and proper grounding. Separate analog wiring from motors and switching power circuits.
The analog output waveform is distorted
Check the programmed update rate, output load, voltage range and active output-channel count.
The requested per-channel rate is unavailable
All active analog inputs share the 250 kS/s aggregate sampling rate.
PCI-6229 Comparison
| Model | Analog Inputs | Analog Outputs | AI Rate | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6220 | 16 | 0 | 250 kS/s | General input-only acquisition |
| PCI-6229 | 32 | 4 | 250 kS/s | High-density mixed-signal DAQ |
| PCI-6259 | 32 | 4 | 1.25 MS/s | Higher-speed acquisition |
| PCIe-6323 | 32 | 4 | 250 kS/s | PCI Express replacement systems |
PCI-6229 vs PCI-6259
Both devices provide 32 analog inputs, four analog outputs and 48 digital lines. The PCI-6259 provides a substantially higher analog input sampling rate.
Why Choose the PCI-6229?
Choose the PCI-6229 when a conventional PCI test system requires high channel density, analog stimulus, extensive digital I/O and moderate-speed analog acquisition.
PCI-6229 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCI-6229 part number?
The standard orderable part number is 779068-01.
How many analog inputs are available?
The device provides 32 single-ended or 16 differential analog inputs.
Does it provide analog outputs?
Yes. The PCI-6229 has four 16-bit analog outputs.
What is the analog input sampling rate?
The maximum aggregate analog input rate is 250 kS/s.
Which newer model should be considered?
The PCIe-6323 is a relevant PCI Express replacement option.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6220 Multifunction DAQ Device
- PCI-6259 High-Speed DAQ Device
- PCIe-6323 Multifunction DAQ Device
- View More NI DAQ Products
Request a Quote for the PCI-6229
Contact us for current availability and pricing for the NI PCI-6229 Multifunction DAQ Device. We can also help select compatible VHDCI cables, terminal blocks and PCI Express replacement hardware.
