National Instruments PXI-6120

The National Instruments PXI-6120 is a high-performance multifunction DAQ module for PXI systems that combines analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and counter/timer functionality in a single instrument. Built around four simultaneous-sampling pseudo-differential analog input channels with dedicated 16-bit ADCs, this module delivers 800 kS/s per channel with a 1 MS/s maximum in Warp Mode. The device integrates two 16-bit analog outputs, eight hardware-timed digital I/O lines, and two 24-bit counter/timer channels, all synchronized to a 100 MHz timebase. Equipped with 64 million samples of onboard memory and analog triggering with sub-10 ns reaction time, the PXI-6120 supports phase-locked multi-instrument synchronization via the PXI backplane. Input ranges span 200 mV to 42 V with AC or DC coupling, achieving absolute accuracy of 76 mV and spurious-free dynamic range up to 90 dB. Antialiasing filters and noise as low as 6 µV ensure signal integrity across automated test, scientific research, and industrial control applications. The module connects via 68-pin SCSI-II connector and operates from 0 °C to 50 °C.

– Technical Specifications

-# Analog Input
• 4 pseudo-differential channels
• 16-bit resolution
• 800 kS/s per channel standard; 1 MS/s maximum (Warp Mode)
• Dedicated ADC per channel for simultaneous sampling
• AC or DC input coupling
• Selectable ranges: 200 mV to 42 V
• Absolute accuracy: 76 mV
• Spurious-free dynamic range: up to 90 dB
• Noise: as low as 6 µV
• Antialiasing filters included

-# Analog Output
• 2 channels, 16-bit resolution
• DC output coupling
• Synchronized with analog input and digital I/O

-# Digital I/O
• 8 hardware-timed lines
• Digital triggering capability

-# Counter/Timer
• 2 channels, 24-bit resolution

-# Memory & Timing
• 64 million samples onboard memory
• 100 MHz timebase
• Analog triggering with <10 ns reaction time
• Retriggerable acquisitions supported
• Phase-locking for multi-instrument synchronization

-# Interfaces
• 68-pin SCSI-II connector
• +4.65 to +5.25 VDC @ 1 A available at I/O connector

– Key Features

• Simultaneous sampling across all four analog input channels eliminates skew
• Sub-10 nanosecond analog trigger reaction time for time-critical acquisitions
• 64 MS onboard memory reduces external storage dependencies
• Phase-lock synchronization preserves phase relationships across multiple modules
• Hardware-timed digital and counter operations decouple timing from software

– Typical Applications

• Automated test systems requiring synchronized multi-channel acquisition
• Precision waveform generation and analysis in research labs
• Industrial process monitoring and feedback control
• High-speed signal characterization and validation

– Compatibility & Integration

NI-DAQmx driver enables application development in LabVIEW and text-based languages. DAQExpress interactive measurement software included. Operates 0 °C to 50 °C; stores -20 °C to 70 °C.