PCI-6233 Isolated Multifunction Data Acquisition Device
The PCI-6233 is an isolated M Series multifunction data acquisition board for industrial monitoring, control and automated testing. It provides 16 single-ended or eight differential voltage inputs, two voltage outputs, industrial digital I/O and two 32-bit counters/timers.
The analog inputs support four software-selectable ranges and aggregate sampling rates up to 250 kS/s. Bank isolation separates the field-side analog and digital circuitry from the computer bus, helping protect the computer and reduce problems caused by ground-potential differences.
Key Features of the PCI-6233
- 16 single-ended or eight differential voltage inputs
- 16-bit analog input resolution
- 250 kS/s maximum aggregate analog input rate
- ±0.2 V, ±1 V, ±5 V and ±10 V input ranges
- Two 16-bit ±10 V analog outputs
- 500 kS/s maximum single-channel output rate
- Six industrial digital input lines
- Four sinking digital output lines
- 0 V to 30 V digital input range
- Up to 350 mA on one digital output line
- Two 32-bit counters/timers
- Voltage input/output bank isolation
- 37-pin D-Sub connectivity
- NI-DAQmx support
PCI-6233 Technical Specifications
| Product Model | PCI-6233 |
|---|---|
| Product Series | Isolated M Series DAQ |
| Bus Interface | PCI |
| Analog Inputs | 16 single-ended or 8 differential voltage channels |
| ADC Resolution | 16 bits |
| Maximum Input Sample Rate | 250 kS/s aggregate |
| Input Ranges | ±0.2 V, ±1 V, ±5 V and ±10 V |
| Input Bandwidth | 700 kHz typical |
| Analog Outputs | 2 voltage output channels |
| DAC Resolution | 16 bits |
| Output Range | ±10 V |
| Maximum Output Rate | 500 kS/s on one channel; 450 kS/s/ch using two |
| Digital Inputs | 6 fixed-direction industrial inputs |
| Digital Outputs | 4 fixed-direction sinking outputs |
| Digital Input Range | 0 V to 30 V |
| Maximum Digital Supply | 30 VDC |
| Counters/Timers | 2 × 32-bit |
| Isolation | Analog and industrial digital I/O bank isolation |
| I/O Connector | 37-pin D-Sub |
| Calibration Interval | 1 year |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C |
PCI-6233 Part Number and Accessories
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6233 | 779619-01 | Isolated voltage-input and voltage-output PCI DAQ device |
| 37-Pin D-Sub Cable | Configuration dependent | Connects the PCI-6233 to a terminal accessory or fixture |
| 37-Pin Terminal Block | Configuration dependent | Provides screw-terminal access to analog and digital signals |
| External Digital Supply | User supplied | Powers the sinking digital output circuit within its rating |
| RTSI Cable | Configuration dependent | Synchronizes the board with other compatible PCI devices |
The PCI-6233 uses isolated field-side circuitry, but its channels are organized into banks rather than providing independent channel-to-channel isolation. Review the isolation diagram before combining signals from unrelated electrical systems.
Isolated Voltage Acquisition
The analog input bank accepts voltage signals from ±0.2 V through ±10 V. Differential measurement can help reject common-mode noise and is generally preferred when measuring remote or noisy signal sources.
The isolation barrier separates the measurement circuitry from the computer bus. Voltage across the isolation barrier must remain within the specified 30 Vrms or 60 VDC continuous Measurement Category I rating.
Two Programmable Voltage Outputs
Two 16-bit analog outputs generate signals across a ±10 V range. They can provide setpoints, stimuli and simulated sensor signals for compatible high-impedance loads.
The outputs provide ±5 mA drive and should not be used to directly power high-current actuators. External power amplification is required for larger loads.
Industrial Digital Input and Sinking Output
Six inputs accept industrial logic signals from 0 V to 30 V. Four outputs use a sinking architecture and require a correctly connected external supply and load.
Each sinking output supports 100 mA when all four lines operate simultaneously, while a single active line can handle up to 350 mA under the specified conditions.
PCI-6233 Applications
- Industrial voltage monitoring
- Automated functional testing
- Process-control systems
- Sensor and transmitter acquisition
- PLC signal simulation
- Industrial digital control
- Production test fixtures
- Motor and actuator monitoring
- Ground-loop reduction
- Data logging
- Hardware-in-the-loop testing
- Legacy PCI system maintenance
Industrial Control and Monitoring
The board can acquire conditioned voltage signals, generate analog control setpoints and interact with 24 V industrial status and control circuits.
Production Functional Testing
Analog outputs can stimulate a DUT while analog inputs measure its response. Industrial digital lines can operate fixture relays and monitor interlock signals.
PCI-6233 Installation Workflow
Step 1: Verify the PCI Slot
Confirm that the target computer provides a compatible conventional PCI slot and supports the required NI-DAQmx version.
Step 2: Install the Device
Power down the computer, install the PCI-6233 and secure the bracket before connecting any external signals.
Step 3: Connect the Terminal Accessory
Attach a compatible 37-pin D-Sub cable and terminal block. Verify every signal against the PCI-6233 pinout.
Step 4: Design the Isolation Boundaries
Determine which signals share AI GND, AO GND, digital ground and the computer-side isolation boundary.
Step 5: Configure NI-DAQmx
Use NI MAX to self-test the board and create analog input, analog output and digital channel configurations.
Step 6: Test with Known Signals
Validate voltage acquisition and output operation at low levels before connecting industrial equipment.
Step 7: Connect the Industrial Digital Supply
Wire the sinking output supply and loads with correct polarity, voltage and current protection.
PCI-6233 Troubleshooting
The analog inputs show incorrect values
Check single-ended or differential configuration, signal reference, input range and bank grounding. Confirm that the isolation limit is not being exceeded.
The analog output cannot drive the load
The output current is limited to approximately ±5 mA. Use a buffer or amplifier for lower-impedance and higher-current loads.
A sinking digital output does not activate
Check the external supply, load wiring and output-ground connection. A sinking output cannot provide load current without a suitable external circuit.
The card is not detected
Reseat the device, check the PCI slot and reinstall a supported NI-DAQmx version.
Noise increases when industrial equipment starts
Review cable shielding, field grounding, isolation-bank connections and routing near motor or inverter conductors.
PCI-6233 Comparison
| Model | Primary Configuration | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| PCI-6233 | 16 voltage AI, 2 voltage AO, industrial digital I/O | Isolated voltage measurement and control |
| PCI-6232 | Isolated voltage input without analog output | Voltage acquisition-only applications |
| PCI-6236 | 4 current AI, 4 voltage AO | Current-loop inputs with voltage control outputs |
| PCI-6239 | 8 current AI, 2 current AO | Expanded 0–20 mA and ±20 mA process interfaces |
Recommended Related Products
- PCI-6236 Isolated Current-Input DAQ
- PCI-6239 Isolated Current I/O DAQ
- PCI-6280 High-Accuracy DAQ
- View More NI PCI and USB DAQ Products
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCI-6233?
The PCI-6233 is an isolated M Series PCI DAQ board with voltage inputs, voltage outputs, industrial digital I/O and counters.
How many analog inputs does it provide?
It supports 16 single-ended or eight differential voltage-input channels.
What is the analog output range?
Both 16-bit analog outputs provide a ±10 V range.
Are the digital outputs sourcing or sinking?
The four industrial outputs are sinking outputs and require an external field supply.
What is the PCI-6233 part number?
The standard ordering part number is 779619-01.
Request a Quote for the PCI-6233
Contact us for current availability and pricing for the PCI-6233 Isolated Multifunction DAQ Device. We can also help identify compatible D-Sub cables, terminal blocks and replacement isolated DAQ hardware.
