PCI-6120 4-Channel 16-Bit Simultaneous-Sampling DAQ Device
Земля PCI-6120 is an S Series multifunction PCI data acquisition device designed for applications that require high resolution and precise channel alignment. It provides four simultaneously sampled analog inputs with dedicated 16-bit ADCs.
Every channel can acquire at up to 800 kS/s. The independent-converter architecture eliminates the channel-to-channel sampling delay associated with multiplexed DAQ devices.
The board also includes two 16-bit analog outputs, eight bidirectional digital I/O lines and two 24-bit counter/timers, supporting integrated measurement, generation, control and timing.
Key Features of the PCI-6120
- Four simultaneously sampled analog inputs
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 800 kS/s maximum sampling rate per channel
- Dedicated ADC for every input channel
- 32 MS analog input FIFO memory
- Two 16-bit analog outputs
- Up to 4 MS/s analog output updates
- Eight bidirectional digital I/O lines
- Two 24-bit counter/timers
- Selectable ranges extending to ±42 V
- Digital hardware triggering
- NI-DAQmx compatibility
PCI-6120 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6120 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 778397-01 |
| Product Family | NI S Series Multifunction DAQ |
| Шинный интерфейс | PCI |
| Analog Inputs | 4 differential channels |
| Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 800 kS/s per channel |
| Simultaneous Sampling | Да |
| Input FIFO | 32 MS |
| Input Range | Selectable bipolar ranges up to ±42 V |
| Analog Outputs | 2 |
| AO Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum AO Rate | 4 MS/s |
| Цифровой ввод-вывод | 8 bidirectional lines |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 24-bit |
| Front Connector | 68-pin SCSI-type |
| Software Driver | НИ-DAQmx |
PCI-6120 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number or Type | Описание |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6120 | 778397-01 | Four-channel, 16-bit, 800 kS/s/ch PCI DAQ device |
| Shielded DAQ Cable | Compatible 68-pin cable | Connects the board to a terminal or BNC accessory |
| SCB-68 Series | Shielded screw-terminal block | Supports custom sensor and fixture wiring |
| BNC-2110 | BNC connection accessory | Provides laboratory-friendly signal access |
16-Bit Measurement Resolution
The 16-bit ADCs provide finer voltage resolution than the 12-bit PCI-6110 and PCI-6115. This is valuable when small waveform variations must be resolved while maintaining simultaneous sampling.
Measurement quality still depends on the selected range, noise, grounding, source impedance and signal-conditioning design.
32 MS Acquisition Buffer
The 32 MS input FIFO supports high-speed finite acquisitions and helps accommodate temporary limitations in PCI-bus or host-software transfer performance.
For long continuous measurements, the host application must still read data fast enough to prevent buffer overflow.
16-Bit Analog Output
Two 16-bit DACs provide stimulus and control voltages. The outputs can be coordinated with input acquisition for transfer-function testing, response characterization and automated verification.
Output loads must stay within the specified current and capacitance limits. Use external signal conditioning when driving demanding loads.
PCI-6120 Applications
- Precision simultaneous waveform measurement
- Automotive electronics validation
- Radar, sonar and ultrasound testing
- Control-system response analysis
- Phase and timing comparison
- Power-quality waveform acquisition
- Stimulus-response testing
- Scientific data acquisition
- Automated production testing
PCI-6120 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Confirm System Compatibility
Verify that the PC has a full-length conventional PCI slot and an operating system supported by the required NI-DAQmx version.
Step 2: Install NI-DAQmx
Install the driver and configuration utilities before configuring the measurement application.
Step 3: Install the Device
Shut down the host, follow ESD precautions and secure the PCI-6120 in the selected slot.
Step 4: Wire the Signals
Use the correct shielded cable and accessory. Confirm differential input polarity, analog ground and trigger connections.
Step 5: Test and Scale
Run a self-test, acquire a known signal and configure any required custom scaling before connecting production hardware.
PCI-6120 Troubleshooting
Measurements show unexpected offset
Check source referencing, ground loops, cable resistance and warm-up time. Verify calibration status when accuracy is important.
Resolution appears lower than expected
Select the smallest suitable input range and reduce environmental noise. A 16-bit converter cannot compensate for poor grounding or excessive external interference.
The input buffer overflows
Increase the host buffer, optimize the read loop or reduce the sampling rate. Avoid performing slow file or display operations in the acquisition loop.
Analog output is unstable
Check the output load, cable capacitance, grounding and update configuration.
PCI-6120 Comparison
| Модель | Каналы | Разрешение | Rate per Channel | Analog Output |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6120 | 4 | 16-битный | 800 kS/s | 2 × 16-bit |
| PCI-6110 | 4 | 12-bit | 5 MS/s | 2 |
| PCI-6115 | 4 | 12-bit | 10 MS/s | 2 |
| PCI-6123 | 8 | 16-битный | 500 kS/s | Ничего |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCI-6120 sampling rate?
It can simultaneously acquire four channels at up to 800 kS/s per channel.
Does the PCI-6120 have analog outputs?
Yes. It provides two 16-bit analog outputs with update rates up to 4 MS/s.
How much input memory is available?
The device provides a 32 MS analog input FIFO.
Should I choose the PCI-6120 or PCI-6115?
Choose the PCI-6120 when 16-bit amplitude resolution is more important. Choose the PCI-6115 when its 10 MS/s/ch acquisition speed is required.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6110 12-Bit Simultaneous DAQ
- PCI-6115 High-Speed DAQ
- PCI-6123 8-Channel 16-Bit DAQ
- PCI-6143 Simultaneous-Sampling DAQ
Request a Quote for the PCI-6120
Contact us for availability and pricing for the PCI-6120 four-channel 16-bit simultaneous-sampling DAQ board. We can also help identify compatible accessories and replacement hardware.


