PCI-6143 8-Channel 16-Bit Simultaneous-Sampling DAQ Device
The PCI-6143 is an eight-channel S Series multifunction data acquisition device designed for synchronized voltage measurement. It uses a dedicated 16-bit ADC for every differential analog input channel.
All eight channels can acquire simultaneously at up to 250 kS/s per channel. This architecture preserves signal timing and phase relationships, making the board suitable for multiaxis control, ultrasonic testing, sonar, ballistics, transient recording and scientific measurement.
The PCI-6143 also provides eight bidirectional digital I/O lines, two 24-bit counter/timers and digital triggering. It is an acquisition-focused device and does not include analog output channels.
Key Features of the PCI-6143
- Eight simultaneous differential analog inputs
- Dedicated ADC for every input channel
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 250 kS/s maximum rate per channel
- Up to 2 MS/s aggregate acquisition
- ±5 V analog input range
- Eight bidirectional digital I/O lines
- Two 24-bit counter/timers
- Digital triggering support
- Compact VHDCI front connection
- NI-DAQmx compatibility
PCI-6143 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6143 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 778913-01 |
| Product Family | NI S Series Multifunction DAQ |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Analog Input Channels | 8 differential channels |
| Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 250 kS/s per channel |
| Simultaneous Sampling | Yes |
| Analog Input Range | ±5 V |
| Input FIFO | 2,046 samples |
| Analog Outputs | None |
| Digital I/O | 8 bidirectional lines |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 24-bit |
| Triggering | Digital hardware triggering |
| Front Connector | VHDCI |
| Power | PCI bus powered |
| Software Driver | NI-DAQmx |
PCI-6143 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number or Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6143 | 778913-01 | Eight-channel, 16-bit, 250 kS/s/ch simultaneous-sampling PCI DAQ device |
| Shielded DAQ Cable | Compatible VHDCI cable | Connects the device to a terminal accessory or custom fixture |
| Shielded Terminal Block | PCI-6143-compatible accessory | Provides signal termination and fixture wiring access |
| Custom Breakout Assembly | Application dependent | Routes analog, digital, timing and trigger connections |
The PCI-6143 uses a VHDCI connector rather than the larger SCSI-type connector used by several other S Series boards. Confirm cable compatibility before ordering.
Eight-Channel Synchronized Acquisition
Eight dedicated converters allow the PCI-6143 to acquire multiple related signals at the same instant. This is particularly important when measuring multiaxis motion, propagation delay or phase relationships.
The 250 kS/s per-channel rate provides an aggregate maximum of two million samples per second across all eight analog inputs.
16-Bit Resolution
The 16-bit ADC architecture supports measurement of smaller amplitude changes than lower-resolution high-speed boards. Proper shielding, grounding and source impedance remain essential for obtaining useful measurement accuracy.
The fixed ±5 V range should be considered during test-system design. External attenuation or signal conditioning is required for signals that exceed the permitted range.
Transient and Multiaxis Measurements
Simultaneous sampling makes the PCI-6143 useful for events that affect several sensors at approximately the same time. Examples include impact tests, machine movement and acoustic propagation.
Hardware triggering can start acquisition in response to an external event, helping the system capture repeatable portions of a transient waveform.
Digital I/O and Counters
Eight digital lines can control fixtures or monitor external states. The two counters support frequency, period, pulse-width and event measurements as well as pulse generation.
PCI-6143 Applications
- Multiaxis motion and control measurement
- Ultrasonic testing
- Sonar research
- Ballistics measurement
- Transient waveform recording
- High-energy physics
- Machine condition monitoring
- Phase and timing analysis
- Power-system testing
- Automated validation systems
PCI-6143 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Verify Host Compatibility
Confirm that the computer provides an appropriate PCI slot and that the operating system supports a compatible NI-DAQmx release.
Step 2: Install NI-DAQmx
Install the driver before configuring the board or developing the measurement task.
Step 3: Install the PCI-6143
Power down the host, use ESD precautions, install the board and secure the mounting bracket.
Step 4: Connect the VHDCI Cable
Use a compatible cable and terminal accessory. Do not force a similar but incompatible high-density connector.
Step 5: Configure the Input Task
Add all required channels to one hardware-timed task and configure the rate, trigger, record length and buffer.
Step 6: Verify Channel Alignment
Apply a shared reference signal to the channels and confirm that acquired edges and waveforms are aligned.
PCI-6143 Troubleshooting
The cable does not fit the board
Confirm that the cable is designed for the PCI-6143 VHDCI connector. Do not substitute a conventional 68-pin SCSI cable.
The signal exceeds the available range
The PCI-6143 uses a ±5 V input range. Add an appropriate attenuator or signal conditioner rather than applying excessive voltage directly.
Channels contain a common noise signal
Review grounding, shielding and the common-mode relationship between sources. The inputs are simultaneous but not isolated.
Samples are overwritten
Optimize the application read loop, enlarge the host buffer or lower the sample rate. The onboard FIFO is intended as a transfer buffer rather than deep acquisition memory.
PCI-6143 Comparison
| Model | Inputs | Resolution | Rate per Channel | Connector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6143 | 8 | 16-bit | 250 kS/s | VHDCI |
| PCI-6123 | 8 | 16-bit | 500 kS/s | SCSI-type |
| PCI-6133 | 8 | 14-bit | 2.5 MS/s | SCSI-type |
| PCI-6154 | 4 isolated | 16-bit | 250 kS/s | 37-pin D-Sub |
PCI-6143 vs PCI-6154
The PCI-6143 offers eight nonisolated analog inputs and no analog outputs. The PCI-6154 provides four channel-to-channel isolated inputs, four isolated analog outputs and isolated digital functions. Choose based on channel count, isolation and output requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many simultaneous inputs does the PCI-6143 provide?
It provides eight simultaneously sampled differential analog inputs.
What is the maximum sample rate?
The maximum sampling rate is 250 kS/s per channel.
What voltage range does it support?
The PCI-6143 supports a ±5 V analog input range.
Does it include analog outputs?
No. The PCI-6143 is an analog-input-focused device.
What is the PCI-6143 part number?
The standard NI part number is 778913-01.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6123 8-Channel 500 kS/s DAQ
- PCI-6133 8-Channel High-Speed DAQ
- PCI-6154 Isolated Multifunction DAQ
- View More NI Data Acquisition Hardware
Request a Quote for the PCI-6143
Contact us for current availability, condition and pricing for the PCI-6143 8-channel simultaneous-sampling DAQ device. We can also help identify a compatible VHDCI cable, terminal accessory or replacement DAQ product.
