NI PCle-6323

Description

Detailed parameter table

NI PCle-6323

Product introduction

The NI PCIe-6323 is a multifunctional data acquisition (DAQ) card developed by National Instruments (NI), belonging to NI’s mid-range PCIe DAQ series—engineered to deliver balanced performance for mixed-signal tasks (analog input/output, digital I/O, counting) without the cost of high-end DAQ systems. Unlike legacy PCI-based cards (e.g., NI PCI-DAS160216), the NI PCIe-6323 leverages PCI Express x1 bandwidth (2.5 Gbps) for faster data transfer, ensuring smooth, low-latency acquisition even during high-throughput operations.

In automation systems, the NI PCIe-6323 acts as a “versatile data hub” for connecting sensors, actuators, and control logic. For example, in a small-scale manufacturing line, it uses 8 differential analog inputs to monitor temperature and pressure (sampling at 190 kS/s), 2 analog outputs to adjust valve positions, and 8 digital I/O lines to trigger alarms—all while logging data to a host PC via DMA (reducing CPU load by 60%). Its 16-bit resolution and configurable input ranges make it ideal for both precision lab work and rugged industrial environments, bridging the gap between entry-level and high-performance DAQ solutions.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Balanced Performance for Mixed-Signal Tasks: The NI PCIe-6323 combines 250 kS/s analog input (AI) speed, 833 kS/s analog output (AO) update rates, and 24 digital I/O lines—perfect for applications that require multiple I/O types without overpaying for unused features. For instance, a university robotics lab uses the NI PCIe-6323 to collect 6-axis sensor data (AI), control motor voltages (AO), and read limit switch states (digital I/O)—all with one card. This integration eliminates the need for separate hardware, cutting system costs by 30% compared to discrete solutions.

Flexible Signal Adaptation: Unlike fixed-range DAQ cards, the NI PCIe-6323 offers software-selectable AI ranges (±0.625 V to ±10 V) and single-ended/differential switching. This lets it handle both low-level signals (e.g., 100 µV strain gauge outputs) and high-voltage industrial signals (e.g., 5 V sensor inputs) without external signal conditioning. In a medical device test rig, for example, the NI PCIe-6323 uses ±1.25 V range to measure tiny ECG-like signals and ±10 V range to simulate power supply outputs—adapting to diverse test needs with zero hardware changes.

PCIe DMA for Uninterrupted Data: The NI PCIe-6323’s PCIe x1 interface and DMA support enable 2.5 Gbps data transfer, far faster than legacy PCI cards like the NI PCI-DAS160216. This ensures no data loss during long-duration monitoring: in a 24/7 environmental chamber, the NI PCIe-6323 continuously samples 12 analog inputs at 100 kS/s for 72 hours, storing data directly to disk via DMA—freeing the CPU to run analysis software simultaneously. This reliability is critical for applications like battery life testing, where missing samples would invalidate results.

Seamless Software Integration: The NI PCIe-6323 works with NI’s industry-leading tools, including LabVIEW and NI-DAQmx, which reduce development time by 50%. NI-DAQmx provides pre-built functions for configuring I/O, triggering, and calibration—so a technician can set up a temperature monitoring system in 30 minutes (vs. 2 hours with generic DAQ software). It also supports Python via the nidaqmx library, making it accessible to users who prefer open-source environments. For example, a startup uses Python to program the NI PCIe-6323 for IoT sensor data logging, integrating with cloud platforms for remote monitoring.

Typical application scenarios

In industrial process monitoring, the NI PCIe-6323 is used for small-batch chemical production. A plant uses 8 differential analog inputs to measure pH (0–14, via ±2.5 V sensor signals) and chemical concentration (±5 V) at 150 kS/s, ensuring reactions stay within safe limits. The NI PCIe-6323’s 2 analog outputs adjust reagent pumps (0–10 V control signals), while 4 digital I/O lines activate emergency shutoffs if values exceed thresholds. DMA transfer logs data to a central database, enabling real-time trend analysis and compliance with ISO 9001 standards—reducing manual monitoring time by 40%.

In electronic device testing, the NI PCIe-6323 validates consumer electronics like smart thermostats. It uses 4 analog inputs to measure the thermostat’s voltage consumption (±1.25 V range) and 2 analog outputs to simulate temperature sensor inputs (0–5 V). The card’s 4 counters track the thermostat’s relay switch frequency (up to 100 MHz), verifying its power-saving mode works correctly. LabVIEW integration automates 500+ test cycles, with the NI PCIe-6323’s 16-bit accuracy ensuring measurements are precise enough to detect 1 mV voltage drops—critical for passing energy efficiency certifications.

NI PCle-6323

Related model recommendations

NI PCIe-6321: A sibling model of NI PCIe-6323 with 100 kS/s AI speed and 0 AO channels. It is a cost-effective choice for AI-only applications (e.g., environmental monitoring) where analog output is unnecessary, serving as an entry point before upgrading to NI PCIe-6323.

NI PCIe-6322: Identical to NI PCIe-6323 but with 0 AO channels. It suits users needing 250 kS/s AI speed (faster than NI PCIe-6321) but no analog output—ideal for high-speed data logging (e.g., vibration analysis).

NI PCIe-6343: An upgrade of NI PCIe-6323 with 1 MS/s AI speed and 4 AO channels. It replaces NI PCIe-6323 in high-speed applications (e.g., semiconductor testing) requiring faster sampling and more analog outputs.

NI PCIe-6363: A high-performance variant with 2 MS/s AI speed, 4 AO channels, and 32 digital I/O lines. It is recommended for advanced users scaling beyond NI PCIe-6323’s capabilities (e.g., aerospace component testing).

NI PCI-6534: A high-speed digital I/O card complementary to NI PCIe-6323. The NI PCIe-6323 handles analog tasks, while NI PCI-6534 (100 MHz digital I/O) controls high-speed digital devices (e.g., test fixtures for PCBs).

NI PCI-6601: A counter/timer card that enhances NI PCIe-6323’s counting features. While NI PCIe-6323 has 4 counters, NI PCI-6601 (8 counters, 80 MHz) suits high-frequency event tracking (e.g., motor RPM monitoring).

NI LabVIEW 2024: Essential software for NI PCIe-6323, providing a graphical environment to build DAQ applications. It includes pre-built VIs for data visualization and control, reducing programming time for NI PCIe-6323 users.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing NI PCIe-6323, power off the host PC and confirm an available PCIe slot (x1/x4/x8/x16, physically compatible). Wear an ESD wristband (±15 kV) and work on a grounded bench to protect analog circuits. Insert NI PCIe-6323 firmly into the slot until the connector clicks, then secure with a chassis screw. Connect sensors/actuators to the 68-pin VHDCI connector via a shielded terminal block (e.g., NI TB-4353)—use twisted-pair cables for analog signals to reduce noise. Install the latest NI-DAQmx driver, then use NI Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) to detect NI PCIe-6323 and run a self-test (verifying all I/O functions).

Maintenance suggestions: Calibrate NI PCIe-6323 annually using a NIST-traceable voltage reference (e.g., NI 9172) to maintain ±3.5 mV AI accuracy. Inspect the VHDCI connector quarterly: clean contacts with isopropyl alcohol (99.9% purity) and a lint-free cloth to remove dust. If NI PCIe-6323 experiences data dropouts, check the PCIe slot for debris (clean with compressed air) or update NI-DAQmx. Avoid exposing NI PCIe-6323 to temperatures above 55 °C or humidity above 90%—extreme conditions can degrade analog signal integrity. Replace the card’s internal configuration EEPROM (via NI spare parts) every 7 years to retain calibration settings.

Service and guarantee commitment

National Instruments (NI) provides a 2-year standard warranty for NI PCIe-6323, covering defects in materials and workmanship—including analog/digital circuits, PCIe interface, and counter functionality. For extended protection, the ServicePlus Premium Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including annual factory calibration (traceable to NIST), priority technical support (2-hour response time for critical issues), and expedited repairs (turnaround time < 3 business days).

NI’s global technical team offers 24/7 support for NI PCIe-6323, assisting with driver setup, I/O configuration, and troubleshooting (e.g., resolving analog noise or DMA errors). Customers gain free access to exclusive resources: application notes on mixed-signal testing with NI PCIe-6323, LabVIEW example code for data logging, and a user community for sharing best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, NI’s flat-rate service restores NI PCIe-6323 to factory specs—replacing aged components (e.g., analog amplifiers) and verifying 16-bit resolution. This commitment reflects NI’s confidence in NI PCIe-6323’s durability and dedication to supporting users’ long-term DAQ needs.