NI PCI-4472

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

NI PCI-4472

Product Introduction

The NI PCI-4472 is a high-performance dynamic signal acquisition (DSA) card developed by National Instruments (NI), designed specifically for precise measurement of audio, vibration, and acoustic signals in industrial and laboratory automation systems. As a key member of NI’s PCI-based DSA product family, this card integrates advanced 24-bit delta-sigma ADC technology to deliver exceptional signal fidelity, making it ideal for applications requiring low noise and high dynamic range.

At the core of the NI PCI-4472 is its simultaneous sampling capability across 8 differential channels, each supporting sampling rates up to 102.4 kS/s. This ensures that time-aligned data is captured from multiple sensors—such as accelerometers, microphones, or pressure transducers—without phase skew, a critical requirement for modal analysis, structural health monitoring, and audio test systems. When paired with NI’s LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI software, the NI PCI-4472 provides a fully integrated measurement solution, enabling engineers to quickly configure tests, process data in real time, and generate actionable insights to optimize automation performance.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

High Signal Integrity: The NI PCI-4472 leverages 24-bit resolution and built-in 8-pole elliptic anti-aliasing filters to minimize noise and eliminate frequency aliasing. This combination results in a dynamic range of up to 118 dB, ensuring that even low-amplitude signals (down to microvolt levels) are accurately captured—critical for applications like machine vibration monitoring, where early detection of subtle anomalies prevents unplanned downtime.

Flexible Channel Configuration: Unlike fixed-range DSA cards, the NI PCI-4472 offers software-selectable input voltage ranges (±1 V to ±10 V), allowing it to interface with a wide variety of sensors without the need for external signal conditioning. This flexibility reduces hardware complexity and costs, as a single NI PCI-4472 can replace multiple specialized cards in mixed-signal test setups.

Seamless Software Integration: The NI PCI-4472 is fully compatible with NI’s software ecosystem, including LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and the NI-DAQmx driver. The NI-DAQmx driver simplifies configuration with intuitive APIs, enabling users to set up sampling rates, filter parameters, and trigger conditions in minutes—even for complex multi-channel tests. This integration accelerates time-to-market for automation projects by reducing development time and ensuring reliable data acquisition.

Typical Application Scenarios

The NI PCI-4472 excels in industrial and laboratory environments where precise dynamic signal measurement is essential. In automotive manufacturing, for example, it is used to test the acoustic performance of vehicle components (e.g., engines, exhaust systems) by capturing audio signals from microphones placed around the test bench. The simultaneous sampling capability of the NI PCI-4472 ensures that engineers can correlate noise levels with specific operational states (e.g., idle, acceleration), enabling them to identify and resolve noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) issues before production.

In aerospace and defense, the NI PCI-4472 supports structural health monitoring of aircraft components, such as wings or landing gear. By connecting accelerometers to the card’s 8 channels, the system continuously measures vibration patterns during flight or ground testing. The high resolution of the NI PCI-4472 detects 微小 changes in vibration frequencies, which indicate potential fatigue or damage—allowing for proactive maintenance and enhancing flight safety.

In audio equipment manufacturing, the NI PCI-4472 is used to validate the performance of speakers, amplifiers, and headphones. Its low noise floor and wide frequency response (DC to 48 kHz) ensure that audio parameters like frequency response, total harmonic distortion (THD), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are measured with industry-leading accuracy, ensuring compliance with global audio standards.

Related Model Recommendations

NI PCI-4471: A 4-channel version of the NI PCI-4472, designed for applications requiring fewer channels but the same high signal integrity. Ideal for small-scale vibration or audio tests where space or budget is limited.

NI PCI-4474: An 8-channel DSA card with extended sampling rates (up to 204.8 kS/s per channel), serving as an upgrade to the NI PCI-4472 for high-frequency measurements (e.g., ultrasonic testing).

NI cDAQ-9234: A compactDAQ module compatible with NI’s cDAQ chassis, offering 4-channel DSA functionality as a portable alternative to the PCI-based NI PCI-4472—suitable for field testing or mobile measurement setups.

NI PCIe-4499: A PCI Express (PCIe) version of the NI PCI-4472, providing faster data transfer speeds (via PCIe x1) for high-throughput applications like real-time data processing or multi-card synchronization.

NI PCI-4461: A 2-channel DSA card with integrated IEPE excitation (for accelerometers), a complementary model to the NI PCI-4472 for applications requiring sensor power alongside signal acquisition.

NI PCI-4481: An 8-channel DSA card with 16-bit resolution, a cost-effective alternative to the NI PCI-4472 for applications where 24-bit resolution is not required (e.g., basic audio testing).

NI PXIe-4497: A PXI Express DSA card with 8 channels, designed for modular test systems that require synchronization with other PXI instruments. Works with the NI PCI-4472 in hybrid PCI/PXI setups for large-scale testing.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the NI PCI-4472, ensure the host computer has an available 32-bit PCI slot and meets the minimum system requirements (Windows 10/11, 4 GB RAM, 100 MB free hard disk space). Power off the computer and disconnect all power sources to prevent electrical damage. Use an anti-static wristband to handle the NI PCI-4472, as electrostatic discharge can damage internal components. Insert the card firmly into the PCI slot until the bracket is seated, then secure it with a screw to prevent movement during operation. After installation, install the latest NI-DAQmx driver from NI’s website to ensure full compatibility with software tools.

Maintenance suggestions: For optimal performance of the NI PCI-4472, calibrate the card annually using NI’s Calibration Executive software or a certified calibration service—this maintains accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Periodically inspect the card’s PCI connector for dust or debris; clean it gently with a dry, lint-free cloth if needed. If the NI PCI-4472 fails to communicate with the software, check the driver installation (reinstall if necessary) and verify the PCI slot is functional by testing with another PCI device. For hardware issues (e.g., no signal input), contact NI technical support—do not attempt to open the card, as this will void the warranty. Replace worn or damaged cables (e.g., sensor cables) regularly to avoid signal degradation.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The NI PCI-4472 comes with a standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. NI guarantees that the NI PCI-4472 will meet all published technical specifications during the warranty period, with free repair or replacement of defective units. Beyond the warranty, customers can purchase NI’s Extended Service Program (ESP), which extends coverage up to 5 years and includes priority technical support, expedited repair, and calibration services.

NI provides comprehensive technical support for the NI PCI-4472 through multiple channels: online resources (knowledge base, application notes, and video tutorials), email support, and phone support from NI’s global team of automation experts. For custom application needs, NI offers professional services to help integrate the NI PCI-4472 into existing systems, including software development, system validation, and training. This commitment ensures that customers maximize the value of their NI PCI-4472 investment, with reliable performance and responsive support throughout the product lifecycle.