PCI-6733 8-Channel 16-Bit Analog Output Device
The PCI-6733 is a high-performance PCI analog output device featuring eight independently programmable 16-bit voltage outputs. With update rates up to 1 MS/s and simultaneous multichannel operation, it is designed for precision waveform generation, control and electronic simulation.
The board combines high-resolution analog outputs with eight digital I/O lines, two 24-bit counter/timers, digital triggering and external clocking. This combination supports tightly coordinated stimulus, control and timing functions within automated test systems.
Key Features of the PCI-6733
- Eight independent analog outputs
- 16-bit output resolution
- Up to 1 MS/s update rate
- Simultaneous multichannel waveform generation
- Dedicated DAC architecture
- ±10 V voltage-output range
- Eight 5 V TTL/CMOS digital I/O lines
- Two 24-bit, 20 MHz counter/timers
- External clocking and digital triggers
- 68-pin SCSI-type connector
- NI-DAQmx software support
- Suitable for precise sensor and signal simulation
PCI-6733 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6733 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 778510-01 |
| Product Type | High-speed analog output device |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Analog Output Channels | 8 voltage outputs |
| Output Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Update Rate | Up to 1 MS/s |
| Output Range | ±10 V |
| Multichannel Operation | Hardware-timed simultaneous updates |
| Digital I/O | 8 bidirectional 5 V TTL/CMOS lines |
| Counter/Timers | 2 × 24-bit, 20 MHz |
| Clocking | Internal and external clock support |
| Triggering | Digital hardware triggering |
| Front Connector | 68-pin male SCSI-II type |
| Software | NI-DAQmx, LabVIEW and compatible environments |
PCI-6733 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6733 | 778510-01 | Eight-channel, 16-bit, 1 MS/s analog output device |
| SH68-68-EPM | 199006 series | Recommended shielded cable for the 68-pin connection |
| SCB-68A | 782536-01 | Shielded screw-terminal block for custom signal wiring |
| BNC-2110 | 777643-01 | BNC terminal accessory for laboratory connections |
| TBX-68 | 777141-01 | DIN-rail-mount screw-terminal block |
Use the official 67xx compatibility guide to verify the complete cable and terminal-block combination. Accessory compatibility should not be determined from pin count alone.
High-Resolution Eight-Channel Generation
The PCI-6733 combines eight-channel capacity with 16-bit resolution. Compared with a 12-bit output, its finer DAC resolution provides more programmable voltage levels across the same nominal range.
This makes the board useful for precision control signals, sensor emulation and waveform profiles containing small amplitude changes.
Synchronized and Phase-Coherent Outputs
All required analog channels can be configured in a common hardware-timed task. The outputs can begin from the same digital trigger and update from the same sample clock, preserving the intended time relationship between waveforms.
This capability is important for three-phase simulation, quadrature excitation, multi-axis command generation and coordinated DUT stimulation.
Digital Triggering and External Clocking
Digital triggering allows waveform output to begin in response to an external event. External sample-clock support makes it possible to derive analog output timing from another instrument or system timing source.
Before sharing triggers, verify logic levels, signal direction, grounding and edge selection. Long or poorly terminated timing cables can degrade trigger reliability.
Software-Defined Waveforms
NI-DAQmx applications can define standard or arbitrary waveforms on each channel. Engineers can generate sine waves, ramps, steps, pulse-like voltage profiles and recorded sensor patterns.
For uninterrupted continuous generation, the application should manage buffers and data transfers so that new samples are available before previously queued data is exhausted.
PCI-6733 Applications
- Precision arbitrary waveform generation
- Eight-channel sensor simulation
- Three-phase and multiphase signal generation
- Hardware-in-the-loop controller testing
- Power-supply and amplifier control
- Audio-frequency stimulus generation
- Closed-loop research systems
- Automated stimulus-response testing
- Production device validation
- Scientific experiment control
Three-Phase Simulation
Three or more output channels can generate phase-related voltage signals for testing controller and monitoring inputs. The outputs provide signal-level voltages and require external amplification for power-level applications.
Sensor and Transducer Emulation
The PCI-6733 can generate up to eight independently changing sensor-equivalent signals. This allows an automated test system to evaluate a controller without requiring all physical sensors or operating conditions to be present.
Automated Production Testing
In production systems, the device can apply repeatable voltage stimulus to multiple DUT inputs. Digital lines can control fixture functions, while triggers synchronize the analog outputs with measurements made by other instruments.
PCI-6733 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Confirm System Requirements
Verify that the computer has a compatible PCI slot and supports an NI-DAQmx version that includes the PCI-6733.
Step 2: Install the Board
Power down the computer, follow ESD handling procedures and secure the card in the PCI slot.
Step 3: Verify Recognition
Open NI MAX, confirm the device name and run the available self-test.
Step 4: Connect the Terminal Hardware
Attach the SH68-68-EPM cable and compatible terminal block. Review all pin assignments before applying signals.
Step 5: Configure NI-DAQmx
Create an analog output voltage task, select the channels and configure voltage range, sample clock, trigger and buffer.
Step 6: Validate the System
Test each output with a high-impedance measuring instrument before connecting the DUT or external amplifier.
PCI-6733 Troubleshooting
The PCI-6733 is missing from NI MAX
Check the PCI connection, NI-DAQmx installation and operating-system compatibility. Reseat the board with the computer powered off.
The analog output is inaccurate
Check calibration status, warm-up time, output loading, cable connections and ground references.
Continuous generation stops unexpectedly
Review NI-DAQmx error information for buffer underflow. Increase the output buffer or optimize the rate at which the application writes waveform data.
The waveform contains glitches
Inspect grounding, shielding and load characteristics. Avoid connecting capacitive loads directly when they prevent the output from settling within the required time.
The trigger is not detected
Confirm the selected trigger terminal, signal edge, TTL voltage level and ground connection. Verify the signal with an oscilloscope when necessary.
One channel affects another
Check shared return wiring, terminal-block connections and external circuit coupling. Keep sensitive signal paths separated from switching and high-current wiring.
PCI-6733 Comparison
| Model | AO Channels | Resolution | Maximum Update Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6711 | 4 | 12 bits | 1 MS/s |
| PCI-6713 | 8 | 12 bits | 1 MS/s |
| PCI-6722 | 8 | 13 bits | 800 kS/s |
| PCI-6731 | 4 | 16 bits | 1 MS/s |
| PCI-6733 | 8 | 16 bits | 1 MS/s |
The PCI-6733 provides the strongest combination of resolution and channel count among these legacy PCI models. The PCI-6731 offers the same resolution with four channels, while the PCI-6713 provides eight channels at 12-bit resolution.
PCI-6733 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCI-6733?
It is an eight-channel, 16-bit PCI analog output device for synchronized waveform generation and control.
What is its maximum update rate?
The PCI-6733 supports analog output updates at up to 1 MS/s.
Can it generate different waveforms on every channel?
Yes. Each channel can use independent sample data while sharing hardware timing with the other channels.
Does the PCI-6733 include digital I/O?
Yes. It provides eight 5 V TTL/CMOS-compatible digital I/O lines.
Does it include counters?
Yes. It has two 24-bit, 20 MHz counter/timers.
What is the PCI-6733 part number?
The standard part number is 778510-01.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6731 4-Channel 16-Bit Analog Output Device
- PCI-6713 8-Channel 12-Bit Analog Output Device
- PCI-6722 13-Bit Analog Output Device
- PCIe-6738 32-Channel Analog Output Device
- PXIe-6739 High-Density Analog Output Module
Request a Quote for the PCI-6733
Contact us for current availability, lead time and pricing for the PCI-6733 eight-channel 16-bit analog output device. We can also help identify compatible cables, terminal accessories and PCI Express replacement options.
