PCI-4462 4-Channel Sound and Vibration Measurement Device
The NI PCI-4462 is a four-channel dynamic signal acquisition device designed for sound, vibration, acoustics and high-dynamic-range measurements. Each channel uses a 24-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter.
All four differential input channels can sample simultaneously at rates up to 204.8 kS/s per channel. This simultaneous architecture preserves the phase relationship between channels for vibration, modal and acoustic analysis.
The PCI-4462 provides AC or DC input coupling, software-selectable input attenuation and integrated analog and digital anti-aliasing filters. Its BNC connections simplify integration with microphones, accelerometers and laboratory signal sources.
Key Features of the PCI-4462
- Four differential analog input channels
- 24-bit delta-sigma ADCs
- 204.8 kS/s maximum sample rate per channel
- Simultaneous sampling on all four channels
- Approximately 118 dB dynamic range
- AC or DC input coupling
- Software-selectable 0 dB or 20 dB input attenuation
- Six selectable input ranges
- Input ranges from approximately ±316 mV to ±42.4 V
- Analog and digital anti-aliasing filters
- Integrated IEPE sensor excitation
- Four female BNC analog inputs
- SMB digital trigger connector
- Conventional PCI interface
- NI-DAQmx software support
PCI-4462 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-4462 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 779309-01 |
| Product Type | Sound and vibration input device |
| Bus Interface | Conventional PCI, 3.3 V or 5 V signaling |
| Analog Inputs | 4 differential channels |
| ADC Resolution | 24 bits |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 204.8 kS/s per channel |
| Sampling Architecture | Simultaneous delta-sigma conversion |
| Dynamic Range | Approximately 118 dB |
| Input Coupling | AC or DC, software selectable |
| Input Attenuation | 0 dB or 20 dB |
| Input Ranges | Six ranges from approximately ±0.316 V to ±42.4 V |
| Anti-Aliasing | Analog and digital filters |
| Analog Input Connectors | 4 × female BNC |
| Trigger Connector | SMB |
| Analog Input FIFO | 2,047 samples |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 50°C |
| Recommended Calibration Interval | 1 year |
| Driver Software | NI-DAQmx |
PCI-4462 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-4462 | 779309-01 | Four-channel, 24-bit sound and vibration input device |
| BNC Coaxial Cable | Application dependent | Connects voltage sources or conditioned sensors to the analog inputs |
| IEPE Accelerometer Cable | Sensor dependent | Low-noise cable compatible with the selected sensor connector |
| Microphone Preamplifier | Application dependent | Required for microphones not providing an IEPE-compatible output |
| SMB Trigger Cable | Length dependent | Connects the external digital trigger signal |
The PCI-4462 provides direct BNC analog connections, so a separate mass-termination cable is not normally required. Confirm sensor connector, cable type, IEPE requirements and input-voltage range before connection.
Four Simultaneously Sampled Inputs
Each input has a dedicated 24-bit converter. All four channels are sampled together, preserving interchannel timing and phase relationships.
This architecture is important for modal analysis, microphone-array measurements, transfer-function testing and multi-axis vibration acquisition.
24-Bit Delta-Sigma Conversion
Delta-sigma converters provide high dynamic range and excellent low-frequency measurement performance. Oversampling and digital filtering help reject quantization noise and unwanted out-of-band components.
Users must account for the filter delay when synchronizing the PCI-4462 with other device families that use different converter architectures.
AC and DC Coupling
AC coupling blocks the DC component and is useful for measuring vibration and acoustic signals superimposed on a DC bias. DC coupling preserves both the static and dynamic portions of the input signal.
Anti-Aliasing Filters
Integrated analog and digital anti-aliasing filters attenuate frequency components that could otherwise fold into the measurement band. Filter cutoff automatically tracks the configured sample rate.
IEPE Sensor Measurements
Integrated constant-current excitation supports compatible IEPE accelerometers and microphones. Verify sensor current requirements and cable configuration before enabling excitation.
IEPE excitation should be disabled when measuring ordinary voltage sources or sensors powered by separate conditioning hardware.
Software-Selectable Attenuation
Selectable attenuation extends the supported input range for larger signals. Choose the smallest range that accommodates the expected peak value without overload.
NI-DAQmx and Analysis Software
NI-DAQmx provides configuration and acquisition functions. Captured data can be analyzed in LabVIEW or compatible sound and vibration software for FFT, order, octave, spectrum and frequency-response measurements.
PCI-4462 Applications
- Sound and vibration measurement
- Accelerometer data acquisition
- Microphone measurement
- Noise, vibration and harshness testing
- Modal analysis
- Machine-condition monitoring
- Acoustic testing
- Frequency-response measurement
- Rotating machinery analysis
- Structural vibration testing
Machine-Condition Monitoring
IEPE accelerometers can measure bearing, gearbox, motor and pump vibration. Spectral analysis can identify imbalance, misalignment and mechanical defects.
Acoustic Testing
Compatible microphones can measure sound pressure and frequency content. Microphone sensitivity and calibration information must be applied to convert voltage into engineering units.
Modal and Structural Testing
Simultaneous channels preserve phase relationships between response sensors, making the PCI-4462 suitable for transfer-function and structural-response measurements.
PCI-4462 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Verify the PCI Slot
Confirm that the computer provides a compatible conventional PCI slot.
Step 2: Install NI-DAQmx
Verify driver and operating-system compatibility before installing the legacy board.
Step 3: Install the PCI-4462
Power down the computer, observe ESD precautions and secure the board.
Step 4: Connect the Sensors
Use suitable low-noise BNC cables and confirm sensor grounding and excitation requirements.
Step 5: Configure Coupling and IEPE
Select AC or DC coupling and enable IEPE excitation only for compatible sensors.
Step 6: Run a Measurement Test
Acquire a known reference signal and verify range, sample rate, calibration and channel phase.
PCI-4462 Troubleshooting
An IEPE sensor produces no signal
Verify that IEPE excitation is enabled and that the sensor and cable are compatible.
The input reports an overload
Select a wider range or enable the appropriate attenuation setting.
The spectrum contains unexpected frequencies
Check grounding, sensor mounting, cable movement and nearby electrical interference.
Channels appear delayed relative to another device
Delta-sigma filters introduce group delay. Account for filter delay when synchronizing different device families.
The device is not detected
Check PCI slot compatibility, board seating and NI-DAQmx support.
PCI-4462 Comparison
| Model | Inputs | Outputs | Resolution | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-4462 | 4 | 0 | 24-bit | Four-channel dynamic signal acquisition |
| PCI-4461 | 2 | 2 | 24-bit | Stimulus-and-response measurements |
| PXI-4462 | 4 | 0 | 24-bit | PXI sound and vibration systems |
| PXIe-4499 | 16 | 0 | 24-bit | High-channel-count acoustic testing |
PCI-4462 vs PCI-4461
The PCI-4462 provides four input channels and no analog outputs. The PCI-4461 provides two inputs and two outputs for stimulus-and-response applications.
Why Choose the PCI-4462?
Choose the PCI-4462 when an existing PCI measurement system requires four simultaneous high-dynamic-range inputs with direct BNC connectivity.
PCI-4462 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCI-4462 part number?
The standard orderable part number is 779309-01.
What is the maximum sample rate?
All four channels can sample at rates up to 204.8 kS/s per channel.
Does the PCI-4462 sample simultaneously?
Yes. Each input channel has a dedicated delta-sigma ADC.
Does it support IEPE sensors?
Yes. It provides integrated excitation for compatible IEPE accelerometers and microphones.
Does it provide analog outputs?
No. Consider the PCI-4461 when dynamic analog outputs are required.
Which connectors are used?
The four analog inputs use female BNC connectors, and the digital trigger uses an SMB connector.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-4461 Dynamic Signal Acquisition Device
- PXI-4462 Sound and Vibration Module
- PXIe-4499 Dynamic Signal Acquisition Module
- View More NI Data Acquisition Products
Request a Quote for the PCI-4462
Contact us for current availability and pricing for the NI PCI-4462 Sound and Vibration Device. We can also help select compatible sensor cables, accelerometers and replacement dynamic signal hardware.
