The NI-9264 is a high-density C Series analog output module designed for CompactRIO and CompactDAQ systems. It provides 16 analog voltage output channels, ±10 V output range, 16-bit resolution, and 25 kS/s per channel simultaneous update performance, making it suitable for industrial control, multi-channel signal generation, test automation, and embedded control systems.
Compared with lower-channel modules such as the NI-9263, the NI-9264 is designed for applications that require more analog outputs while conserving chassis slots. It is especially useful when engineers need many voltage control channels in a compact CompactRIO or CompactDAQ system.
Typical applications include:
- Industrial analog control
- Multi-channel actuator control
- Automated test systems
- Hardware-in-the-loop systems
- Process simulation
- Embedded machine control
- Distributed automation
- Sensor and signal simulation
Analog Output Architecture
The NI-9264 provides:
- 16 analog output channels
- ±10 V output range
- 16-bit DAC resolution
- 25 kS/s/ch update rate
- String DAC architecture
- Simultaneous output operation
Each channel has its own digital-to-analog converter, allowing all channels to update without multiplexing delay. This makes the NI-9264 well suited for systems where multiple analog signals must change together in a controlled and repeatable way.
Key specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Channels | 16 analog outputs |
| Output range | ±10 V |
| Resolution | 16-bit |
| Update rate | 25 kS/s/ch |
| DAC type | String DAC |
| Connector options | DSUB / Spring terminal |
High-Density Analog Output Capability
The main engineering value of the NI-9264 is channel density. With 16 analog outputs in one C Series module, it helps reduce the number of modules required in a CompactRIO or CompactDAQ chassis.
This is useful for:
Multi-Channel Actuator Control
The NI-9264 can drive multiple analog command signals for valves, amplifiers, actuators, and analog-controlled industrial devices.
Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation
Engineers can generate many analog simulation signals for ECU testing, embedded controller validation, and plant simulation.
Process Control Systems
The module can output multiple setpoints for industrial process systems, including pressure, flow, temperature, and position control loops.
Signal Simulation
The NI-9264 can simulate multiple sensor or control signals in automated test environments.
CompactRIO FPGA Integration
When used in CompactRIO systems, the NI-9264 can work with FPGA-based timing and deterministic control workflows.
Engineers can implement:
- FPGA-controlled analog output timing
- Deterministic waveform generation
- Multi-channel signal sequencing
- Embedded control loops
- Low-latency output updates
- Custom trigger logic
For engineering systems, this is important because analog output timing can be tied directly to CompactRIO FPGA logic instead of relying only on host software.
Connectivity and Module Versions
The NI-9264 is available in multiple connector versions, including DSUB and spring-terminal configurations. The DSUB version is suitable for high-density cable integration, while the spring-terminal version is convenient for field wiring and industrial cabinet installation.
Typical versions include:
| Version | Connector Type | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| DSUB | 37-pin DSUB | High-density cable wiring |
| Spring Terminal | Spring terminal connector | Industrial field wiring |
| Conformal Coated | Coated PCB version | Harsher industrial environments |
Rugged Industrial Design
The NI-9264 is designed for industrial environments and embedded deployment.
Industrial characteristics include:
- -40 °C to 70 °C operating temperature
- Compact C Series form factor
- Rugged module housing
- Support for CompactRIO and CompactDAQ systems
- Suitable for industrial cabinets and distributed systems
This makes the NI-9264 suitable for factory automation, transportation systems, industrial test benches, embedded machines, and distributed control systems.
Application-Oriented Use Cases
Industrial Automation
The NI-9264 is suitable for systems that require many analog voltage command outputs in one compact module.
HIL and Simulation
The module can generate multiple analog test signals for controller validation and real-time simulation.
Machine Control
Engineers can use the NI-9264 to drive analog-controlled actuators, servo command inputs, valves, or amplifier references.
Automated Test Systems
The high channel count makes it useful for production test fixtures and multi-device signal simulation systems.
Comparison with Similar Modules
| Model | Main Difference | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| NI-9262 | 6 channels, 1 MS/s/ch | High-speed waveform generation |
| NI-9263 | 4 channels, 100 kS/s/ch | General industrial analog control |
| NI-9264 | 16 channels, 25 kS/s/ch | High-density analog output |
| NI-9269 | Isolated high-voltage AO | Higher-voltage industrial output |
| NI-9260 | 24-bit dynamic output | Audio and precision waveform generation |
Compared with the NI-9263, the NI-9264 provides four times the channel count, but at a lower per-channel update rate. Compared with the NI-9262, the NI-9264 is not focused on high-speed waveform generation; it is better for systems that need many synchronized analog control outputs.
Conclusion
The NI-9264 is a high-density 16-channel C Series analog output module for CompactRIO and CompactDAQ systems requiring multiple ±10 V control or simulation outputs.
Its combination of:
- 16 analog output channels
- ±10 V output range
- 16-bit resolution
- 25 kS/s/ch update rate
- Simultaneous output architecture
- CompactRIO and CompactDAQ compatibility
- Rugged industrial design
makes it an excellent solution for industrial automation, multi-channel actuator control, HIL simulation, automated test systems, and distributed embedded control applications.
