NI-9260

The NI-9260 is a high-performance C Series analog output module designed for CompactRIO and CompactDAQ systems. It provides 2 simultaneously updated analog output channels with 24-bit resolution, output rates up to 51.2 kS/s per channel, and low-noise dynamic signal generation capability.

Unlike general-purpose voltage output modules such as the NI-9263 or NI-9264, the NI-9260 is optimized for:

• Audio signal generation
• Dynamic waveform output
• Precision excitation signals
• Structural vibration testing
• Consumer electronics testing
• Embedded signal generation
• Acoustic testing systems

Typical applications include:

• Audio component testing
• Dynamic excitation systems
• Structural modal analysis
• Vibration stimulation
• Embedded waveform generation
• Acoustic research
• Hardware-in-the-loop systems
• Industrial simulation platforms

Analog Output Architecture

The NI-9260 provides:

• 2 analog output channels
• 24-bit DAC resolution
• Delta-Sigma DAC architecture
• 51.2 kS/s/ch simultaneous update rate
• Output voltage up to 3 Vrms
• DC-coupled outputs

The module uses a Delta-Sigma DAC architecture optimized for:

• Low distortion
• Low output noise
• High dynamic range
• Audio-frequency waveform generation
• Precision signal synthesis

Compared with conventional industrial analog output modules, the NI-9260 focuses more on signal fidelity and dynamic waveform quality.

High-Fidelity Signal Generation

One of the major advantages of the NI-9260 is its high dynamic signal performance.

Key specifications include:

Additional signal quality features include:

• High stopband rejection
• Linear phase response
• Low harmonic distortion
• High image rejection
• Low channel noise

These characteristics make the NI-9260 especially suitable for:

• Audio waveform synthesis
• Precision analog excitation
• Dynamic signal simulation
• Acoustic testing
• Vibration excitation systems

Simultaneous Output Capability

The NI-9260 supports simultaneous channel updating, which is important for synchronized waveform generation.

This capability is valuable for:

Audio Testing

Generating synchronized stereo or multi-device test signals.

Structural Testing

Driving multiple actuators simultaneously during vibration or modal testing.

Hardware-in-the-Loop Systems

Creating synchronized analog simulation signals for embedded control validation.

Acoustic Research

Generating deterministic excitation waveforms for microphones, speakers, and acoustic chambers.

Compared with multiplexed analog output systems, simultaneous updating preserves waveform timing alignment between channels.

Signal Protection and Reliability

The NI-9260 includes industrial-grade protection features such as:

• ±30 V overvoltage protection
• Short-circuit protection
• 1 Ω output impedance
• Minimum working load of 600 Ω

The module also provides:

• Stable startup behavior
• Controlled waveform initialization
• Precision calibration support
• NIST-traceable calibration compatibility

These features improve long-term reliability in industrial and laboratory environments.

CompactRIO FPGA Integration

When used with CompactRIO systems, the NI-9260 interfaces directly with FPGA resources for deterministic waveform generation.

Engineers can implement:

• FPGA-based waveform synthesis
• Deterministic signal timing
• Embedded signal generation
• Closed-loop simulation
• Real-time excitation control
• Low-latency analog output systems

Because waveform generation occurs through FPGA-controlled hardware timing, the NI-9260 can achieve deterministic output performance that is difficult to obtain with PC-only audio hardware.

This architecture is particularly useful for:

• Embedded simulation systems
• Industrial automation testing
• Real-time control validation
• Dynamic plant simulation

Connectivity Options

The NI-9260 is available in two connector versions:

The BNC version is commonly used in laboratory instrumentation systems, while the Mini-XLR version is better suited for compact embedded deployment and industrial installations.

Supported platforms include:

• CompactRIO
• CompactDAQ
• Single-Board RIO
• EtherCAT systems

Rugged Industrial Design

The NI-9260 is designed for industrial and embedded deployment.

Industrial specifications include:

• Operating temperature: -40 °C to 70 °C
• Storage temperature: -40 °C to 85 °C
• Random vibration: 5 g RMS
• Shock resistance: 50 g
• IP40 protection

The module is suitable for:

• Factory automation
• Embedded machine systems
• Transportation systems
• Industrial research platforms
• Acoustic laboratories
• Remote industrial installations

Application-Oriented Use Cases

Audio Component Testing

The NI-9260 is widely used for generating precision audio test signals for speakers, amplifiers, microphones, and consumer electronics.

Structural and Vibration Testing

The module can generate excitation signals for modal analysis and structural response testing.

Embedded Simulation

Engineers use the NI-9260 in hardware-in-the-loop and embedded simulation platforms.

Dynamic Industrial Control

The module supports deterministic analog waveform generation in industrial automation systems.

Comparison with Similar Modules

Compared with the NI-9263, the NI-9260 provides much higher dynamic range and lower distortion for waveform generation. Compared with the NI-9262, the NI-9260 prioritizes signal quality over maximum voltage range and speed.

Conclusion

The NI-9260 is a high-fidelity 24-bit analog output module designed for CompactRIO and CompactDAQ systems requiring precision dynamic signal generation.

Its combination of:

• 24-bit DAC resolution
• 51.2 kS/s/ch simultaneous outputs
• Low distortion performance
• High dynamic range
• FPGA integration
• Industrial ruggedness

makes it an excellent solution for audio testing, dynamic excitation systems, embedded waveform generation, structural analysis, and high-performance industrial simulation systems.