PCI-6123 8-Channel 16-Bit Simultaneous-Sampling DAQ Device
The PCI-6123 is an eight-channel S Series data acquisition device for synchronized analog measurements. It provides one 16-bit ADC for each input channel and can acquire all eight channels simultaneously at up to 500 kS/s per channel.
The dedicated-converter design preserves the phase and time relationship among multiple signals. It is suitable for IF digitization, transient recording, telecommunications testing, ultrasound, sonar and scientific measurement.
The PCI-6123 also provides eight bidirectional digital I/O lines and two 24-bit counter/timers. Unlike the PCI-6120, it does not include analog output channels.
Key Features of the PCI-6123
- Eight simultaneous analog input channels
- Dedicated 16-bit ADC per channel
- 500 kS/s maximum rate per channel
- 4 MS/s aggregate analog input throughput
- Pseudodifferential input architecture
- Four selectable bipolar input ranges
- Eight bidirectional digital I/O lines
- Two general-purpose 24-bit counters
- Digital hardware triggering
- Standard-memory and 32 MS memory variants
- NI-DAQmx software support
PCI-6123 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6123 |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 779409-01 / 779408-01 |
| Product Family | NI S Series Multifunction DAQ |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Analog Inputs | 8 pseudodifferential channels |
| ADC Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 500 kS/s per channel |
| Simultaneous Sampling | Yes |
| Input Ranges | ±10 V, ±5 V, ±2.5 V and ±1.25 V |
| Input FIFO | 2,046 samples or 32 MS, depending on version |
| Analog Outputs | None |
| Digital I/O | 8 bidirectional lines |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 24-bit |
| Front Connection | 68-pin SCSI-type connector |
| Power | PCI bus powered |
| Software Driver | NI-DAQmx |
| Form Factor | Full-length PCI board |
PCI-6123 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number or Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6123 | 779409-01 | Standard-buffer PCI-6123 simultaneous-sampling DAQ device |
| PCI-6123 | 779408-01 | PCI-6123 configuration with 32 MS onboard input memory |
| Shielded DAQ Cable | Compatible 68-pin cable | Connects the board to the selected terminal accessory |
| SCB-68 Series | Shielded terminal block | Provides screw-terminal access for custom wiring |
| BNC-2110 | BNC accessory | Supports convenient laboratory signal connection |
Confirm the exact part number when onboard memory is important. A data recorder designed around the 32 MS version may behave differently if replaced by the standard-buffer version.
Eight Dedicated Analog-to-Digital Converters
The PCI-6123 samples all eight inputs on the same clock edge. This allows engineers to compare timing, amplitude and phase across a larger group of signals without correcting for multiplexing delay.
At the maximum rate, the board produces an aggregate of four million 16-bit samples per second. Host throughput and storage requirements should be calculated before configuring long continuous acquisitions.
Pseudodifferential Inputs
Pseudodifferential connections provide a separate return path for each signal and can improve rejection of common-mode interference compared with simple ground-referenced single-ended wiring.
The inputs are not channel-to-channel isolated. All sources must remain within the permitted common-mode relationship to the board ground.
Input Range Selection
The four bipolar input ranges allow the acquisition system to be matched to different signal levels. Selecting the narrowest range that safely accommodates the full waveform improves effective voltage resolution.
Allow sufficient headroom for offset, overshoot and transient peaks. Clipping cannot be corrected after acquisition.
Digital I/O and Counter Resources
Eight digital lines support fixture control, state monitoring and hardware synchronization. Two 24-bit counters can measure frequency, period and pulse width or generate timed pulses.
These timing resources make the PCI-6123 useful in mixed-signal systems even though it does not provide analog outputs.
PCI-6123 Applications
- Intermediate-frequency digitization
- Multichannel transient recording
- ISDN, ADSL and POTS production testing
- Ultrasound and sonar testing
- High-energy physics experiments
- Multichannel phase analysis
- Power-system waveform monitoring
- Machine and process diagnostics
- Automated electronic validation
- Scientific data acquisition
PCI-6123 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Identify the Memory Version
Check whether the board is the standard-buffer model or the 32 MS version and verify that it matches the application.
Step 2: Check the Computer
Confirm that the host provides a full-length PCI slot, adequate airflow and a supported software environment.
Step 3: Install NI-DAQmx
Install the driver version required for the legacy PCI-6123 and the operating system.
Step 4: Install and Connect the Board
Power off the computer, fit the board securely and connect the appropriate 68-pin cable and terminal accessory.
Step 5: Configure a Synchronized Task
Create one analog input task containing all required channels so that they share the same clock and trigger.
Step 6: Validate the Measurement
Run a self-test and acquire a known signal on each channel. Confirm polarity, range, scaling and channel alignment.
PCI-6123 Troubleshooting
Only some channels acquire data
Check the task’s physical-channel list, wiring and terminal configuration. Confirm that every channel uses a valid pseudodifferential connection.
The channels show common noise
Review grounding, shield termination and the common-mode relationship among signal sources. The channels are simultaneous but not isolated.
The acquisition stops with a buffer error
Increase the host buffer, optimize the read loop or lower the sampling rate. Verify that the application is not performing slow display or disk operations in the acquisition thread.
A replacement board records shorter waveforms
Compare part numbers and onboard memory. The standard-buffer and 32 MS variants support different local record depths.
No analog output channel appears
This is expected. The PCI-6123 is an acquisition-focused device and does not include analog outputs.
PCI-6123 Comparison
| Model | Analog Inputs | Resolution | Rate per Channel | Analog Outputs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6123 | 8 | 16-bit | 500 kS/s | 0 |
| PCI-6120 | 4 | 16-bit | 800 kS/s | 2 |
| PCI-6122 | 4 | 16-bit | 500 kS/s | 0 |
| PCI-6133 | 8 | 14-bit | 3 MS/s | 0 |
| PCI-6143 | 8 | 16-bit | 250 kS/s | 0 |
Selecting Between the PCI-6123 and PCI-6120
Choose the PCI-6123 when eight simultaneous inputs are required and analog generation is not needed. Choose the PCI-6120 when four inputs, a higher 800 kS/s/ch rate and two analog output channels better match the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many channels can the PCI-6123 sample simultaneously?
It can sample all eight analog input channels simultaneously.
What is the maximum sampling rate?
The maximum rate is 500 kS/s on each of the eight channels.
Does the PCI-6123 include analog outputs?
No. It provides analog input, digital I/O and counter/timer functionality but no analog output channels.
What is the difference between 779409-01 and 779408-01?
They represent different PCI-6123 memory configurations. Part number 779408-01 is identified with a 32 MS input FIFO, while 779409-01 is the standard-buffer configuration.
Can the PCI-6123 measure isolated sources?
The inputs are pseudodifferential, not isolated. External isolation may be required for sources with hazardous or incompatible ground potentials.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6120 4-Channel 16-Bit DAQ
- PCI-6122 Simultaneous-Sampling DAQ
- PCI-6132 High-Speed DAQ
- PCI-6133 8-Channel High-Speed DAQ
- PCI-6143 8-Channel 16-Bit DAQ
- View More NI DAQ Hardware
Request a Quote for the PCI-6123
Contact us for current availability, onboard-memory configuration and pricing for the PCI-6123 eight-channel simultaneous-sampling DAQ device. We can also help select compatible cables, connector blocks and replacement NI hardware.
