NI AT-AO-10 Analog Output Board

The NI AT-AO-10 is a 12-bit analog output board for ISA computers delivering precise signal generation across 10 independent channels. It generates both voltage and current outputs with jumper-selectable bipolar or unipolar configuration, 0.1 Ω output impedance, and ±5 mA maximum current drive on voltage outputs. The board sinks 4 to 20 mA current outputs when connected to an external 7 to 40 VDC source, with 0.1% full-scale accuracy and 7 µs settling time. Voltage outputs settle within 5 µs to 0.5 LSB across the ±10 V nominal range, delivering 0.0044% absolute accuracy and ±35 μV/°C offset temperature coefficient. Dynamic performance includes 15 V/µs slew rate, 80 μV rms noise (DC to 1 MHz), –95 dB channel crosstalk, and –90 dB typical THD. The onboard 1,024-word FIFO buffer supports simultaneous waveform generation on all 10 channels at up to 300 kS/s maximum update rate. An 8-bit digital I/O port provides additional control flexibility. Reference voltage is jumper-selectable: onboard 10 V or external input accepting ±11 V with ±25 V powered and ±15 V unpowered overvoltage protection. Short-circuit protection to ground and DC output coupling are standard. The AT-AO-10 powers up to 0 V (±200 mV) and operates with legacy NI-DAQ drivers on Windows NT, 98, and 95 platforms via LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and equivalent software. Though announced obsolete by National Instruments, the board remains available through select distributors for purchase and repair.

– Technical Specifications

• 10 analog output channels, 12-bit resolution
• Voltage output: ±10 V nominal (bipolar) or unipolar, jumper-selectable
• Current output: 4 to 20 mA sink capability with 7 to 40 VDC external supply
• Voltage settling: 5 µs to 0.5 LSB; current settling: 7 µs
• Absolute accuracy: 0.0044% of reading; current output: 0.1% full scale
• Output impedance: 0.1 Ω maximum
• Voltage output drive: ±5 mA maximum
• Slew rate: 15 V/µs
• Noise: 80 μV rms (DC to 1 MHz)
• Channel crosstalk: –95 dB
• Total harmonic distortion: –90 dB typical
• Offset temperature coefficient: ±35 μV/°C
• Reference voltage: 10 V onboard or external ±11 V (overvoltage protection: ±25 V powered, ±15 V unpowered)
• 1,024-word FIFO buffer
• Maximum update rate: 300 kS/s
• Power-on state: 0 V (±200 mV)
• 8-bit digital I/O port

– Key Features

• Jumper-selectable bipolar/unipolar voltage output
• Short-circuit protection to ground
• DC output coupling
• Simultaneous waveform generation across all 10 channels
• Channel pair grouping with independent update signals
• Compatible with legacy NI-DAQ driver software

– Typical Applications

• Automated test and measurement systems
• Industrial process control signal generation
• Multi-channel signal simulation and waveform synthesis

– Compatibility & Integration

Operates with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and equivalent National Instruments software on Windows NT, 98, and 95. ISA bus interface for legacy computer integration.