Description
The National Instruments M Series PCI-6221 is a high-performance data acquisition card designed for a variety of applications including laboratory automation, research, and manufacturing. This model, identified by part numbers 779066-01 and 779418-01, offers a range of features to meet the demanding requirements of these applications.
It comes equipped with 16 single-ended or 8 differential analog input channels and 2 analog output channels, providing flexibility for various data acquisition tasks. The 16 bits analog input resolution ensures high-quality data capture, while the data acquisition rate of up to 250 kS/s and an analog output rate of 833 kS/s for a single channel or 740 kS/s for dual channels support efficient data processing and output.
The PCI-6221 operates in either a 3.3 V or 5 V signal environment, offering compatibility with a wide range of external devices. The analog input absolute accuracy is specified at 3100 uV, ensuring precise measurements. Despite its high performance, the card does not support simultaneous sampling, which may affect usage in specific applications requiring this feature.
This model includes 2 32-bit counters/timers, enhancing its capability for time-based measurements and operations. For digital I/O, the card offers 8 correlated (clocked) up to 1 MHZ for the 68-pin version and 2 correlated (clocked) for the 37-pin version, providing flexibility for digital communications. With 6 DMA channels for various I/O and counter/timer operations, the PCI-6221 ensures efficient data handling and transfer.
The physical characteristics of the PCI-6221 include a weight of 3.2 oz. and dimensions of 4.2 x 6.1 in., making it a compact and lightweight option for many systems. Its compatibility features and technical specifications make the PCI-6221 a versatile and powerful tool for a wide range of data acquisition and control applications.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Line | M Series |
| Manufacturer | National Instruments |
| Model | PCI-6221 |
| Part Numbers | 779066-01, 779418-01 |
| Application | Laboratory automation, research, manufacturing |
| Analog Input Channels | 16 single-ended or 8 differential |
| Analog Output Channels | 2 |
| Analog Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Data Acquisition Rate | 250 kS/s |
| AO Rate (Single Channel) | 833 kS/s |
| AO Rate (Dual Channels) | 740 kS/s |
| Bus Power | 3.3 V or 5 V signal environment |
| Analog Input Absolute Accuracy | 3100 uV |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 250 kS/s |
| Simultaneous Sampling | No |
| Counters/Timers | 2 32-bit |
| Digital I/O (68-pin version) | 8 correlated (clocked) up to 1 MHZ |
| Digital I/O (37-pin version) | 2 correlated (clocked) |
| DMA Channels | 6 (Analog I/O, Digital I/O, counter/timer 0 and 1) |
| Weight | 3.2 oz. |
| Dimensions | 4.2 x 6.1 in. |
| Compatibility |



