NI PCI-6035

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

NI PCI-6035

Product Introduction

The NI PCI-5922 is a high-performance 2-channel dynamic signal analyzer (DSA) card developed by National Instruments (NI), engineered to deliver precise time-domain and frequency-domain signal analysis for PCI-based test and automation systems. Unlike ultra-wideband digitizers like the NI PCI-5154 (focused on high-speed transient capture), the NI PCI-5922 specializes in low-to-medium frequency signals (up to 100 kHz), making it ideal for audio testing, vibration analysis, industrial condition monitoring, and acoustic measurement applications.

At the core of the NI PCI-5922 is its 24-bit delta-sigma ADC, which delivers a dynamic range of up to 118 dB—far exceeding the 12-bit resolution of the NI PCI-5154 for low-amplitude signal detection. When paired with NI’s NI-DAQmx driver and software tools like LabVIEW, the NI PCI-5922 transforms a standard PCI-equipped PC into a laboratory-grade DSA system. Engineers can leverage its simultaneous 2-channel sampling (204.8 kS/s per channel) to capture correlated signals (e.g., vibration from two machine bearings) and built-in IEPE excitation to power sensors like accelerometers or microphones—eliminating the need for external signal conditioning. This combination of high dynamic range, sensor compatibility, and dual-domain analysis makes the NI PCI-5922 a versatile tool for applications where signal fidelity and frequency resolution are critical.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

24-Bit Resolution for Ultra-Low Noise Measurement: The NI PCI-5922’s 24-bit delta-sigma ADC provides 16 million voltage quantization levels—over 4,000x more than the 12-bit NI PCI-5154—enabling detection of ultra-low-amplitude signals (down to microvolt levels). For example, in audio equipment testing, the NI PCI-5922 measures total harmonic distortion (THD) as low as 0.001% in high-end speakers, capturing subtle audio artifacts that would be lost in lower-resolution cards. This precision also makes it ideal for vibration analysis, where the card detects minute frequency shifts (e.g., 0.1 Hz) in rotating machinery—early indicators of bearing wear or imbalance.

Dual-Domain Analysis (Time + Frequency): Unlike digitizers focused solely on time-domain capture (e.g., NI PCI-5154), the NI PCI-5922 excels in both time-domain and frequency-domain analysis. With built-in FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) capabilities, it converts time-domain signals into frequency spectra with high resolution (down to 0.001 Hz at low sampling rates). In industrial condition monitoring, for instance, engineers use the NI PCI-5922 to record time-domain vibration signals from a motor (time-domain) and analyze harmonic frequencies (frequency-domain) to identify resonant frequencies or faulty components. This dual-domain functionality eliminates the need to export data to third-party software, streamlining analysis workflows.

Built-In IEPE Excitation for Sensor Integration: The NI PCI-5922 includes 4 mA constant-current IEPE (Integrated Electronics Piezoelectric) excitation per channel, enabling direct connection to IEPE sensors like accelerometers, microphones, or pressure transducers. This is a key advantage over the NI PCI-5154, which requires external power supplies for such sensors. For example, in automotive NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) testing, technicians connect IEPE accelerometers to the NI PCI-5922 to measure vibration from a car chassis—no external signal conditioning is needed, reducing system complexity and cost. The software-enableable excitation also lets users switch between IEPE and non-IEPE sensors (e.g., thermocouples) without hardware changes.

Automated Anti-Aliasing Filters: The NI PCI-5922 features 8-pole elliptic anti-aliasing filters that automatically tune to the selected sampling rate, providing -80 dB/octave roll-off to eliminate frequency aliasing. This is critical for frequency-domain analysis, where aliasing (false frequency components) can invalidate results. For example, when sampling a 50 kHz vibration signal at 204.8 kS/s, the filter blocks frequencies above 102.4 kHz (Nyquist frequency), ensuring the FFT spectrum accurately represents the true signal. This automation eliminates manual filter configuration, reducing user error and setup time.

Typical Application Scenarios

The NI PCI-5922 excels in low-to-medium frequency signal analysis across industries. In audio equipment manufacturing, it is a cornerstone of end-of-line (EOL) test stations for high-end audio devices like studio monitors or headphones. Engineers connect the NI PCI-5922’s channels to the device’s audio outputs and reference microphones, using the card to measure frequency response (20 Hz–20 kHz), THD (Total Harmonic Distortion), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Its 24-bit resolution ensures compliance with strict audio standards (e.g., AES60), while simultaneous 2-channel sampling lets technicians test stereo devices in one pass—reducing test time by 50% compared to sequential testing.

In industrial condition monitoring, the NI PCI-5922 is used to track the health of rotating machinery like pumps, motors, or gearboxes. Maintenance teams install IEPE accelerometers on machine bearings, connecting them to the NI PCI-5922 in a PCI-based industrial PC. The card continuously samples vibration signals (up to 100 kHz) and analyzes frequency spectra to detect anomalies—such as a 2x increase in 120 Hz harmonic energy, which indicates a misaligned motor shaft. The NI PCI-5922’s high dynamic range ensures it captures these anomalies even in noisy factory environments, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing unplanned downtime.

In aerospace and defense, the NI PCI-5922 supports acoustic testing of aircraft cabin components (e.g., HVAC systems or seatbelt buzzers). Engineers place IEPE microphones in a test chamber, connecting them to the NI PCI-5922 to measure sound pressure levels (SPL) and frequency content. The card’s frequency-domain analysis identifies unwanted noise sources (e.g., a 800 Hz hum from a fan), while its 24-bit resolution captures subtle SPL variations (down to 0.1 dB)—critical for meeting strict aerospace noise standards (e.g., FAA Part 36). When paired with the NI PCI-5154 (for high-frequency radar testing), the NI PCI-5922 creates a comprehensive test system for both acoustic and UWB signal analysis.

NI PCI-6035

Related Model Recommendations

NI PCI-5921: A 1-channel version of the NI PCI-5922, designed for single-sensor applications (e.g., standalone vibration monitoring of a single pump) where 2 channels are unnecessary—offers the same 24-bit resolution and 100 kHz bandwidth.

NI PCIe-5922: A PCI Express (PCIe) version of the NI PCI-5922, featuring PCIe x1 interface for faster data transfer (up to 2.5 GB/s) — ideal for users transitioning from PCI to PCIe systems who need to stream large frequency-domain datasets.

NI PCI-5154: An 8-channel ultra-wideband digitizer, a complementary model to the NI PCI-5922 for mixed-frequency setups (e.g., 2 channels of low-frequency vibration data + 8 channels of high-frequency radar data) in aerospace test systems.

NI cDAQ-9234: A CompactDAQ 4-channel DSA module, a portable alternative to the NI PCI-5922 for field testing (e.g., on-site machinery vibration checks) where PCI-based systems are impractical.

NI PCI-4472: An 8-channel DSA card with 102.4 kS/s sampling rate, an expansion of the NI PCI-5922 for multi-channel applications (e.g., 8-sensor vibration arrays in large industrial machines).

NI PCI-5114: A 4-channel 8-bit digitizer, a cost-effective companion to the NI PCI-5922 for mixed-signal setups (e.g., 2 channels of high-precision DSA + 4 channels of basic voltage measurement).

NI PXIe-4497: A PXIe-based 8-channel DSA module, an upgrade to the NI PCI-5922 for modular test systems requiring higher channel counts (e.g., automotive NVH testing with 8 microphones) and PXI synchronization.

NI PCI-6115: A multi-function DAQ card with 100 MS/s sampling rate, a versatile alternative to the NI PCI-5922 for applications combining low-frequency DSA with high-speed digitization (e.g., mixed vibration and transient voltage testing).

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the NI PCI-5922, confirm the host PC has an available 32-bit PCI slot (compatible with 3.3-V or 5-V architectures) and meets system requirements (Windows 10/11, 4 GB RAM, 200 MB free disk space for NI-DAQmx drivers). Power off the PC and disconnect all power sources to prevent electrical damage. Use an anti-static wristband when handling the NI PCI-5922 to avoid ESD damage to its 24-bit ADC components. Align the card’s edge connector with the PCI slot, press firmly until the bracket seats against the PC case, and secure it with a screw to prevent movement. After installation, power on the PC, install the latest NI-DAQmx driver (verify compatibility via NI’s website), and configure sensor settings (e.g., enable IEPE excitation for accelerometers) via NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX).

Maintenance suggestions: For long-term reliability of the NI PCI-5922, clean the PCI connector every 3 months with low-pressure compressed air to remove dust buildup, which can cause intermittent connectivity. Inspect the differential BNC connectors for bent pins or corrosion—use NI-approved contact cleaner (part number 781562-01) to clean oxidized contacts, as poor connections degrade signal integrity. If the NI PCI-5922 exhibits reduced dynamic range or noisy measurements, re-run the NI-DAQmx Self-Calibration utility (via MAX) to correct for environmental drift. Calibrate the card annually using NI’s Calibration Executive (with ISO 17025 traceability) to maintain 24-bit resolution accuracy. For hardware issues (e.g., no IEPE excitation, unresponsive channels), contact NI technical support—do not open the card, as this voids the warranty and risks damaging the precision ADC.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The NI PCI-5922 comes with a standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. NI guarantees the NI PCI-5922 will meet all published technical specifications during the warranty period, with free repair or replacement of defective units. Customers can extend coverage to 5 years via NI’s Extended Service Program (ESP), which includes annual ISO 17025-calibrated calibration, priority technical support, and expedited repair (48–72 hour turnaround for industrial applications).

NI provides specialized support for the NI PCI-5922 through its team of DSA and low-frequency measurement experts: users gain access to application notes (e.g., “Optimizing Vibration Analysis with the NI PCI-5922”), video tutorials on FFT setup, and direct phone/email support for sensor integration challenges. For custom projects (e.g., building an automated audio test bench), NI offers professional services—including system design, LabVIEW code development for frequency-domain analysis, and on-site training for engineering teams. This commitment ensures users maximize the NI PCI-5922’s performance, minimize downtime, and protect their investment in high-precision dynamic signal analysis technology.