NI CFP-AO-200

Description

Detailed parameter table

NI CFP-AO-200

Product introduction

The NI CFP-AO-200 is a legacy Compact FieldPoint (CFP) analog output module developed by National Instruments (NI), engineered exclusively for use with CFP embedded controllers like the NI CFP-1804. Unlike generic analog output modules or PXIe-based alternatives (e.g., NI PXIe-6733), the NI CFP-AO-200 is built for rugged industrial use—matching the NI CFP-1804’s -40 °C to 70 °C operating range and 100 g shock resistance to deliver reliable voltage outputs for controlling actuators, valves, and process equipment in harsh environments.

In CFP-based automation systems, the NI CFP-AO-200 acts as a “precision control interface” for analog devices. For example, paired with a NI CFP-1804 in a chemical processing plant, it uses its 4 channels to output ±10 V control signals—adjusting the speed of 2 pumps (via variable frequency drives) and the position of 2 control valves (via analog actuators). The module’s 12-bit resolution and ±0.1% FS accuracy ensure precise control of flow rates and pressures, while its 250 Vrms isolation protects the NI CFP-1804 from voltage transients in industrial wiring. Unlike PXIe modules (which require a chassis), the NI CFP-AO-200 slots directly into the NI CFP-1804, reducing system size and complexity for field deployment.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Rugged Design for Harsh Industrial Environments: The NI CFP-AO-200 shares the NI CFP-1804’s extreme ruggedness—operating from -40 °C to 70 °C, withstanding 100 g shock, and maintaining performance in 5% to 95% humidity (with dewing). This makes it far more durable than lab-focused analog output modules (e.g., NI PXIe-6733, limited to 0 °C to 55 °C). In an oil refinery, for instance, the NI CFP-AO-200 controls fuel flow valves in a -35 °C cold snap and 65 °C summer heat—without the signal drift or component failure that would occur with non-rugged modules. Its IP30 rating (when installed in the NI CFP-1804) also protects against dust ingress, critical for factory floor or remote pipeline applications.

Precise 12-Bit Output for Critical Process Control: With 12-bit resolution (4096 discrete levels) and ±0.1% FS accuracy, the NI CFP-AO-200 delivers the precision required for safety-critical industrial processes. For example, in a water treatment plant, it outputs a 0–10 V signal to a chemical dosing pump—adjusting the dose in 2.44 mV increments (10 V / 4096) to maintain pH levels within ±0.1 units, a tolerance required by environmental regulations. This precision surpasses 8-bit analog output modules (which would only offer 39 mV increments) and even some lower-cost 12-bit modules with ±0.5% FS accuracy, ensuring consistent process performance.

250 Vrms Isolation for System Protection: The NI CFP-AO-200 includes 250 Vrms isolation between its output channels and the CFP backplane—protecting the connected NI CFP-1804 controller and other CFP modules from high-voltage transients (e.g., motor startup spikes, wiring faults). In a manufacturing plant, for example, a 240 VAC short circuit in a valve actuator’s wiring would be isolated from the NI CFP-1804 by the NI CFP-AO-200, preventing damage to the controller’s processor or communication ports. Non-isolated modules would pass this voltage to the controller, causing costly downtime and repairs.

Seamless Integration with CFP Ecosystem: Designed specifically for CFP controllers like the NI CFP-1804, the NI CFP-AO-200 requires no additional wiring or adapters—it slots directly into the controller’s CFP module slots and draws power from the backplane. This integration ensures synchronized, deterministic output updates: the NI CFP-1804’s VxWorks RTOS sends output commands to the NI CFP-AO-200 with < 10 µs latency, critical for closed-loop control (e.g., PID-based temperature regulation). Users can also configure the module via NI-DAQmx (through the NI CFP-1804), reusing existing LabVIEW code for CFP systems and avoiding the learning curve of new hardware.

Typical application scenarios

In automotive assembly, the NI CFP-AO-200 controls robotic paint sprayers when paired with the NI CFP-1804. The NI CFP-1804 calculates optimal paint flow rates based on part size and speed, then sends 0–10 V signals to the NI CFP-AO-200’s 4 channels—adjusting the flow of 2 paint nozzles and the pressure of 2 atomizing air valves. The module’s 12-bit resolution ensures paint thickness varies by less than 5 microns (critical for quality control), while its -40 °C to 70 °C operating range withstands the paint booth’s high temperatures and chemical fumes. Without the NI CFP-AO-200, the NI CFP-1804 would lack the analog output capability to control the sprayers, requiring costly external converters.

In renewable energy, the NI CFP-AO-200 regulates wind turbine pitch control systems. Installed in a NI CFP-1804 mounted in the turbine’s nacelle, it outputs ±10 V signals to 4 hydraulic actuators—adjusting the angle of the turbine blades to optimize power generation and prevent overspeed. The module’s 250 Vrms isolation protects the NI CFP-1804 from voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes or grid fluctuations, while its 1 kHz update rate ensures the blades respond quickly to wind speed changes. This setup helps the turbine operate efficiently in -30 °C winter conditions and 60 °C summer heat—far beyond the capabilities of non-rugged analog output modules.

NI CFP-AO-200

Related model recommendations

NI CFP-1804: The primary CFP embedded controller for the NI CFP-AO-200. The NI CFP-AO-200 slots into the NI CFP-1804’s module slots, drawing power and receiving commands via the CFP backplane—forming a complete rugged control system for industrial applications.

NI CFP-AI-111: A CFP analog input module complementary to the NI CFP-AO-200. The NI CFP-AI-111 measures sensor data (e.g., temperature, pressure) and sends it to the NI CFP-1804, which uses the data to adjust the NI CFP-AO-200’s output signals—enabling closed-loop control.

NI CFP-DO-401: A CFP digital output module that works with the NI CFP-AO-200 in mixed-signal systems. The NI CFP-AO-200 controls analog devices (e.g., valves), while the NI CFP-DO-401 triggers digital devices (e.g., relays, alarms)—all coordinated by the NI CFP-1804.

NI PXIe-6733: A PXIe analog output module that serves as a modern alternative to the NI CFP-AO-200 for lab-based systems. It offers higher resolution (16-bit) and faster update rates but lacks the NI CFP-AO-200’s ruggedness—ideal for prototyping before deploying the NI CFP-AO-200 in field environments.

NI CFP-1380: An 8-slot CFP rack for expanding NI CFP-1804 systems. It accommodates additional NI CFP-AO-200 modules (up to 8 total), enabling control of more analog devices (e.g., 32 valves in a large-scale water treatment plant).

NI 9172: A NIST-traceable voltage reference for calibrating the NI CFP-AO-200. It verifies the module’s ±0.1% FS accuracy annually, ensuring compliance with industrial quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001).

NI LabVIEW 2012+: Legacy LabVIEW version for configuring the NI CFP-AO-200 via the NI CFP-1804. It includes VIs for setting output ranges, updating channel values, and monitoring module status—simplifying integration into CFP control systems.

NI CFP-CAN-201: A CFP CAN communication module that pairs with the NI CFP-AO-200 and NI CFP-1804. It enables the system to communicate with CAN-based industrial devices (e.g., automotive ECUs), while the NI CFP-AO-200 controls analog actuators in the same system.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the NI CFP-AO-200, power off the CFP controller (e.g., NI CFP-1804) and wear an ESD wristband (±15 kV) to protect the module’s precision circuits. Align the NI CFP-AO-200 with an empty CFP slot on the controller, ensuring the guide pins match the slot’s grooves. Push the module firmly until it clicks into place, then secure it with the front-panel screw. Connect analog actuators or devices to the module’s 16-pin terminal block—use twisted-pair, shielded cables (24 AWG) to minimize noise and cross-talk between channels. Power on the NI CFP-1804 and launch NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) on a host PC. Use MAX to detect the NI CFP-AO-200 (via the NI CFP-1804) and run a “Channel Self-Test” to verify each output channel’s functionality (e.g., setting a 5 V output and measuring it with a multimeter).

Maintenance suggestions: Calibrate the NI CFP-AO-200 annually using a NIST-traceable voltage reference (e.g., NI 9172) to maintain ±0.1% FS accuracy. Use LabVIEW or NI-DAQmx to initiate the calibration routine, which adjusts the module’s internal gain and offset. Inspect the terminal block quarterly: tighten loose wiring (to prevent resistance-induced voltage drops) and clean terminals with isopropyl alcohol (99.9% purity) to remove oxidation. If the NI CFP-AO-200 outputs incorrect voltages, check for short circuits in the wiring (the module’s short-circuit protection will recover after the fault is removed) or update the NI CFP-1804’s firmware via MAX. Avoid exposing the module to temperatures above 70 °C or humidity above 95%—extreme conditions can degrade its digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and isolation components. When replacing the module, ensure the NI CFP-1804 is powered off to prevent damage to the backplane.

Service and guarantee commitment

National Instruments (NI) provides a 1-year standard warranty for new NI CFP-AO-200 units (limited stock for legacy products), covering defects in the DAC, isolation circuits, terminal block, and CFP interface. For extended protection, the Legacy Industrial Support Plan extends coverage to 3 years, including annual calibration (traceable to NIST), priority technical support (4-hour response time for utility/manufacturing customers), and expedited repairs (parts subject to availability).

NI’s legacy technical team includes CFP system specialists, offering 24/7 support for the NI CFP-AO-200—assisting with calibration, troubleshooting (e.g., resolving output drift), and integration with the NI CFP-1804. Customers gain access to archived resources: legacy application notes on analog control with the NI CFP-AO-200, LabVIEW example code for closed-loop PID control, and a community forum for sharing CFP module best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, NI’s Legacy Module Restore Service (when parts are available) replaces aged components (e.g., DAC, isolation capacitors) and verifies output accuracy—restoring the NI CFP-AO-200 to factory specs. This commitment reflects NI’s dedication to supporting users with legacy CFP systems that rely on the module for critical analog control tasks.