NI PCI-5102

Description

NI PCI – 5102 Product Description

1. Detailed Parameter Table

NI PCI-5102

2. Product Introduction

The NI PCI – 5102 is a high – performance 2 – channel digitizer developed by National Instruments (NI). Renowned for its expertise in test, measurement, and automation, NI has designed the PCI – 5102 to meet the demanding requirements of applications that necessitate high – speed data acquisition. This device plugs directly into a PC’s PCI slot, bringing laboratory – grade digitization capabilities to standard computing platforms.

Engineers, researchers, and technicians in fields such as electronics, telecommunications, and research & development can greatly benefit from the NI PCI – 5102. Its two analog input channels, each with 15 MHz of analog input bandwidth and an 8 – bit ADC resolution, enable the accurate capture of high – frequency signals. Whether it’s analyzing transient events in a high – speed circuit or capturing fast – changing waveforms in a communication system, the PCI – 5102 is up to the task.

The PCI – 5102 is not just a simple digitizer; it’s a comprehensive solution that combines advanced hardware design with powerful software compatibility. Leveraging NI’s NI – Scope driver, it seamlessly integrates with a wide range of software tools. This integration allows for the creation of custom applications that can handle real – time data acquisition, analysis, and visualization, making it an ideal choice for building faster – performing automated test systems.

3. Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

3.1 High – Speed Sampling and Wide Bandwidth

The PCI – 5102 offers a real – time sampling rate of up to 20 MS/s, ensuring precise data acquisition even in dynamic environments. With the option of random – interleaved sampling, the effective sampling rate can be extended up to 1 GS/s. This high – speed sampling, combined with its 15 MHz analog input bandwidth, enables the accurate capture of high – frequency signals. For example, in high – speed communication systems where signals can change rapidly, the PCI – 5102 can precisely digitize these signals, providing engineers with the data needed to analyze and optimize the system’s performance.

3.2 Flexible Input Configuration

The software – selectable attenuation feature allows for an input voltage range from ±50 mV to ±5 V. This flexibility is further enhanced by the ability to extend the voltage range up to ±50 V using attenuating probes. Additionally, the software – selectable AC/DC coupling enables users to adapt to different signal types. In power supply testing, for instance, the ability to switch between AC and DC coupling can help in accurately measuring different aspects of the power supply’s output, whether it’s the DC offset or the AC ripple.

3.3 Advanced Triggering Options

The device comes with a variety of sophisticated triggering options. Programmable trigger thresholds, hysteresis values, and bi – level triggering enhance measurement accuracy. The ability to define how many samples should be acquired before and after a trigger event gives users greater control over data collection. In addition, the two TTL/CMOS digital triggers are useful for synchronizing multiple instruments. When conducting experiments that require the coordinated operation of multiple devices, such as in a multi – sensor data acquisition system, these digital triggers can ensure that all instruments start and stop data collection at the same time, providing consistent and synchronized data.

3.4 On – board Memory and Data Transfer

The PCI – 5102 has an on – board acquisition memory of 663,000 samples. This memory buffers data before transferring it to the host PC memory, ensuring efficient data storage and transfer. The device can transfer samples to host memory in real – time, and if the system has 48 MB or more of unused storage, it can acquire up to 16 million samples. This large – capacity data handling capability is beneficial in applications where continuous data acquisition over an extended period is required, such as in long – term monitoring of a high – speed manufacturing process.

4. Typical Application Scenarios

4.1 Automated Test Systems

In the context of automated test systems, the NI PCI – 5102 can be used to create faster and more efficient test setups. For example, in the testing of printed circuit boards (PCBs), the PCI – 5102 can quickly digitize the signals from various components on the PCB. By analyzing these digitized signals, engineers can detect manufacturing defects, such as short circuits or open circuits, with high accuracy. The high – speed sampling rate and advanced triggering options allow for the precise capture of transient signals that may occur during the testing process, reducing overall testing time and improving the quality of the test results.

4.2 High – Speed Data Acquisition in Research

In research applications, the PCI – 5102 is invaluable for analyzing transient events or capturing fast signals. In physics experiments, for example, when studying the behavior of particles in high – energy collisions, the device can accurately digitize the signals from detectors. The 15 MHz analog input bandwidth and high – speed sampling rate enable the capture of the rapid changes in these signals, providing researchers with the data necessary to understand the underlying physical processes. Its compatibility with various software tools also allows researchers to perform complex data analysis and visualization, facilitating in – depth research.

4.3 Electronic Testing and Troubleshooting

For electronic testing and troubleshooting, the PCI – 5102 can be used to analyze the performance of electronic components and circuits. In the development of new semiconductor devices, engineers can use the digitizer to measure the voltage and current waveforms at different points in the device. The ability to select different input voltage ranges and coupling types allows for the accurate measurement of a wide variety of signals. By comparing the measured waveforms with the expected values, engineers can identify potential issues in the design or manufacturing process of the semiconductor device, leading to improved product quality.

NI PCI-5102

5. Related Model Recommendations

5.1 NI PCI – 5112

The NI PCI – 5112 is another high – speed digitizer in NI’s product lineup. It offers 2 channels like the PCI – 5102 but has a higher sampling rate of up to 80 MS/s and a 20 MHz analog input bandwidth. This makes it suitable for applications that require even higher – speed data acquisition, such as in high – frequency radar signal analysis or high – speed optical communication testing. If the application demands a faster sampling rate and broader bandwidth than what the PCI – 5102 can offer, the PCI – 5112 could be a more appropriate choice.

5.2 NI PXI – 5102

The NI PXI – 5102 is a PXI – based version of the digitizer. It shares many of the same features as the PCI – 5102, such as 2 channels, 15 MHz analog input bandwidth, and 20 MS/s sampling rate. However, being part of the PXI platform, it offers advantages like high – speed data transfer and synchronization capabilities, which are beneficial in modular test systems. If the user is working in a PXI – based test environment and requires the functionality of the PCI – 5102 but with the added benefits of the PXI platform, the PXI – 5102 would be a great option.

5.3 NI LabVIEW

NI LabVIEW is an essential software for maximizing the capabilities of the NI PCI – 5102. It provides a graphical programming environment that allows users to easily create custom applications for data acquisition, analysis, and visualization. With LabVIEW, users can quickly build interfaces to display real – time data from the PCI – 5102, perform complex signal processing algorithms, and create automated test sequences. For example, a user can create a virtual instrument in LabVIEW that continuously monitors the signals from the PCI – 5102 and displays relevant parameters in real – time, along with generating alerts when certain thresholds are crossed.

5.4 NI – Scope

The NI – Scope driver software is the backbone of the NI PCI – 5102’s operation. It provides the necessary interface between the hardware and the software applications. Ensuring that the latest version of NI – Scope is installed is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility. The driver software allows for easy configuration of the PCI – 5102’s settings, such as sampling rate, channel configuration, and trigger options. It also enables seamless integration with other NI software tools and third – party applications that support NI – Scope, making it an indispensable part of using the PCI – 5102 effectively.

6. Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

6.1 Installation Preparation

Before installing the NI PCI – 5102, power off the PC and ensure that it has an available PCI slot compatible with the device. Wear an ESD wristband to protect the card from electrostatic discharge, as static electricity can damage the sensitive components. Gently insert the PCI – 5102 into the PCI slot, making sure it is properly seated, and then secure it with the appropriate chassis screw.

Connect the input signals to the BNC connectors on the front panel using suitable cables. For high – quality data acquisition, use shielded cables to minimize noise interference. When connecting sensors or other signal sources, ensure that the connections are secure and that the output of the source is compatible with the input requirements of the PCI – 5102.

Download and install the latest version of the NI – Scope driver software from NI’s official website. After installation, use NI’s Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) to detect the PCI – 5102. In MAX, you can configure the device settings, such as sampling rate, channel configuration, and calibration options.

6.2 Maintenance Suggestions

To maintain the accuracy and performance of the NI PCI – 5102, it is recommended to perform self – calibration on a regular basis, at least once every few months. This can be done through software commands within the NI – Scope driver or using compatible applications like LabVIEW.

Inspect the connectors (BNC, SMB, and aux) regularly for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. If any issues are detected, clean the connectors using a suitable contact cleaner and ensure that the connections are tightened properly. Avoid exposing the PC and the PCI – 5102 to extreme temperatures, humidity, or mechanical vibrations outside of the specified operating conditions, as this can affect the device’s performance and lifespan.

If you notice any abnormal behavior or inaccurate measurements, use MAX to run diagnostic tests on the PCI – 5102. Update the NI – Scope driver software whenever new versions are available to ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and to benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements.

6.3 Service and Guarantee Commitment

National Instruments (NI) provides a standard warranty for the NI PCI – 5102, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. The exact duration of the warranty can be found in NI’s official product documentation. For customers who require additional protection, NI offers extended warranty plans, such as the ServicePlus Premium plan. This plan not only extends the warranty period but also includes benefits like priority technical support, annual calibration services, and expedited repairs.

NI’s global technical support team is available to assist users with any questions or issues related to the PCI – 5102. Whether it’s a problem with installation, calibration, or software integration, you can reach out to NI’s support via phone, email, or online chat. Additionally, NI provides a wealth of online resources, including application notes, user manuals, and example code, to help users make the most of the PCI – 5102 in their applications.