PCI-6250 16-Channel 16-Bit Multifunction DAQ Device
The NI PCI-6250 is a high-speed M Series multifunction data acquisition device designed for automated testing, laboratory measurements, industrial monitoring and control-system development. It provides 16 single-ended or eight differential analog input channels with 16-bit resolution.
The PCI-6250 supports single-channel sampling rates up to 1.25 MS/s and multichannel aggregate sampling rates up to 1 MS/s. It also provides 24 bidirectional digital I/O lines, eight hardware-timed digital lines and two 32-bit counter/timers.
This model does not include analog outputs, making it suitable for measurement-focused systems that require fast analog acquisition, digital control and counter functions without programmable voltage generation.
Key Features of the PCI-6250
- 16 single-ended or eight differential analog inputs
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 1.25 MS/s maximum single-channel sampling
- 1 MS/s maximum multichannel aggregate sampling
- Seven programmable bipolar input ranges
- 24 bidirectional digital I/O lines
- Eight hardware-timed digital I/O lines
- Digital waveform rates up to 10 MHz
- Two 32-bit counter/timers
- Analog and digital triggering
- One 68-pin VHDCI connector
- Conventional PCI interface
- NI-DAQmx driver support
PCI-6250 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6250 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 779069-01 |
| Product Family | NI M Series Multifunction DAQ |
| Bus Interface | Conventional PCI |
| Analog Inputs | 16 single-ended or 8 differential |
| ADC Resolution | 16 bits |
| Single-Channel Sample Rate | 1.25 MS/s maximum |
| Multichannel Sample Rate | 1 MS/s aggregate maximum |
| Input Ranges | ±0.1 V, ±0.2 V, ±0.5 V, ±1 V, ±2 V, ±5 V and ±10 V |
| Analog Outputs | None |
| Digital I/O | 24 bidirectional lines |
| Hardware-Timed DIO | 8 lines, up to 10 MHz |
| Counter/Timers | 2 × 32-bit |
| Triggering | Analog and digital |
| Front Connector | 1 × 68-pin VHDCI |
| Driver | NI-DAQmx |
The PCI-6250 uses multiplexed analog acquisition. Its active input channels are sampled sequentially through a shared ADC rather than simultaneously.
PCI-6250 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6250 | 779069-01 | 16-channel, 16-bit PCI multifunction DAQ device |
| SHC68-68-EPM | 192061-02 | 2 m shielded VHDCI cable |
| SCB-68A | 782536-01 | Shielded 68-pin screw-terminal connector block |
| BNC-2110 | 777643-01 | BNC accessory for analog, digital and counter signals |
| BNC-2120 | 777960-01 | Desktop BNC accessory for laboratory experiments |
Verify cable length, terminal-block compatibility and connector pin assignments before ordering. Shielded accessories are recommended for low-level or electrically noisy measurements.
High-Speed Analog Acquisition
The 1.25 MS/s single-channel rate allows the PCI-6250 to capture transient signals and dynamic waveforms. When multiple channels are scanned, the 1 MS/s aggregate rate is distributed across the active channels.
Because the inputs are multiplexed, high source impedance can increase settling errors. Buffering, lower source impedance or a slower channel-scanning rate may improve accuracy.
Programmable Input Ranges
Seven bipolar input ranges allow the PCI-6250 to measure signals from ±100 mV through ±10 V. Selecting the narrowest suitable range improves the effective voltage resolution for low-amplitude signals.
Digital I/O and Counter Functions
The 24 digital lines can monitor logic states and control compatible external circuits. Eight lines support clocked waveform acquisition or generation at rates up to 10 MHz.
The two counters support event counting, frequency and period measurement, quadrature encoders, pulse-width measurement and pulse-train generation.
NI-DAQmx Integration
NI-DAQmx provides channel configuration, timing, triggering, data transfer and diagnostic functions. The PCI-6250 can be used with LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI and supported text-based programming environments.
PCI-6250 Applications
- Automated functional testing
- Production test equipment
- High-speed voltage acquisition
- Laboratory data acquisition
- Industrial monitoring
- Sensor measurement with external conditioning
- Digital fixture control
- Encoder and frequency measurement
- Research and development
Automated Test Systems
The analog inputs can measure DUT voltages while digital outputs control fixture states and counters verify frequency or pulse signals. Hardware triggering provides repeatable coordination between measurement operations.
Sensor Measurement
The PCI-6250 can acquire conditioned voltage signals from pressure, displacement, force and temperature sensors. Sensors requiring excitation, isolation or amplification need compatible external signal-conditioning hardware.
PCI-6250 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Verify the PCI Slot
Confirm that the computer has an available conventional PCI slot. The PCI-6250 cannot be installed directly in a PCI Express-only slot.
Step 2: Install NI-DAQmx
Verify operating-system and driver compatibility, then install the appropriate NI-DAQmx version.
Step 3: Install the Board
Power down the computer, observe ESD precautions and install the board securely in the PCI slot.
Step 4: Connect the Accessory
Attach the VHDCI cable and terminal block, then verify the physical channel pinout.
Step 5: Test in NI MAX
Run the device self-test and use a test panel to verify analog, digital and counter operation.
Step 6: Configure the Application
Create the NI-DAQmx task and configure the channels, input ranges, sampling rate, trigger and terminal mode.
PCI-6250 Troubleshooting
The device is not detected
Check PCI slot compatibility, board seating, computer BIOS resources and NI-DAQmx support.
Measurements contain excessive noise
Use differential wiring, shielded cables and proper grounding. Separate analog wiring from motors, power supplies and digital switching circuits.
The acquisition rate is lower than expected
The 1.25 MS/s specification applies to one channel. Multichannel tasks share a 1 MS/s aggregate rate.
Adjacent channels affect each other
Reduce source impedance, increase settling time or lower the channel-scanning rate.
A digital line cannot control a load
Use an external driver or relay interface. Digital I/O lines should not directly power motors, lamps or high-current relays.
PCI-6250 Comparison
| Model | Analog Inputs | Analog Outputs | Maximum AI Rate | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCI-6250 | 16 | 0 | 1.25 MS/s | High-speed input-only DAQ |
| PCI-6251 | 16 | 2 | 1.25 MS/s | Acquisition with analog stimulus |
| PCI-6254 | 32 | 0 | 1.25 MS/s | Higher input and DIO density |
| PCIe-6351 | 16 | 2 | 1.25 MS/s | Newer PCI Express systems |
Why Choose the PCI-6250?
Choose the PCI-6250 when the system requires fast 16-bit analog acquisition, conventional PCI compatibility and multifunction timing resources without analog outputs.
PCI-6250 Frequently Asked Questions
How many analog inputs does the PCI-6250 have?
It provides 16 single-ended or eight differential analog inputs.
What is its maximum sampling rate?
The maximum rate is 1.25 MS/s for one channel and 1 MS/s aggregate for multichannel scanning.
Does the PCI-6250 have analog outputs?
No. Select the PCI-6251 if two analog outputs are required.
How many digital I/O lines are available?
The device provides 24 bidirectional digital I/O lines.
Which driver controls it?
The PCI-6250 uses NI-DAQmx.
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6251 Multifunction DAQ Device
- PCI-6254 Multifunction DAQ Device
- PCIe-6351 X Series DAQ Device
- View More NI DAQ Products
Request a Quote for the PCI-6250
Contact us for current availability, pricing and configuration assistance for the NI PCI-6250 Multifunction DAQ Device. We can also help identify compatible cables, terminal blocks and replacement PCI Express DAQ hardware.
