NI PCI-6602 Timing and Digital I/O Module

The NI PCI-6602 is a high-performance timing and digital I/O module for PCI bus systems. It delivers precise timing, counting, pulse generation, and event detection across eight 32-bit counter/timer channels with maximum source frequencies up to 125 MHz. The module integrates 32 digital I/O lines—8 dedicated plus 24 shared with counter/timers—all TTL/CMOS compatible and individually configurable. Built on National Instruments’ proprietary NI-TIO ASIC, it supports encoder position measurement, event counting, period measurement, pulse-width measurement, pulse generation, pulse-train generation, and frequency measurement. Three simultaneous high-speed DMA transfers enable efficient data streaming over the PCI bus.

– Technical Specifications

Counter/Timer Channels: 8 channels, 32-bit resolution, maximum count of 4,294,967,295. Maximum source frequency unprescaled is 80 MHz; with 8x or 2x prescalers, operation extends to 125 MHz. Standard timebases include 20 MHz and 100 kHz, with an 80 MHz timebase on the NI 6602. Minimum pulse width for trigger and clock signals is 25 ns; Z-index pulses for position measurement require a minimum of 50 ns.

Digital I/O: 32 lines total (8 dedicated, 24 shared). TTL/CMOS logic levels at 5V with individual input/output configuration. Digital debouncing filter provided. Input impedance ranges from 25 kΩ to 500 kΩ; output impedance is 75 kΩ. Schmitt triggers provide 300 mV hysteresis. Pull-down current between 10 µA and 200 µA minimum to maximum.

System Interface: PCI bus with bus-master operation and PCI burst transfers via MITE interface. Three simultaneous DMA transfer channels.

Power & Environmental: 5 VDC (±5%) supply with current draw from 0.5 A to 1.5 A on the NI 6602. I/O power available: 4.65 to 5.25 VDC at 1 A maximum. Operating temperature 0 °C to 55 °C; storage from –20 °C to 70 °C. Relative humidity 0% to 90%, noncondensing.

Physical: 17.5 cm × 9.9 cm (6.9 in. × 3.9 in.).

– Key Features

• Gate, up/down, and source signal control via external or internal signals
• Pad synchronization for precise counter event alignment
• Duplicate count prevention
• NI-DAQmx driver support

– Typical Applications

Encoder position tracking, event counting, frequency measurement, pulse generation, timing synchronization, and digital signal control in test and measurement systems.

– Compatibility & Integration

Supported through NI-DAQmx driver software with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and Measurement Studio development environments.