Description
The PCI-6221 is a PC-based multifunction Data Acquisition (DAQ) device with part numbers 779066-01 and 779418-01. This device features a 37-Pin D-Sub connector and has a variety of functionalities including 16 Analog Inputs (AI), 10 Digital I/O (DIO), and 2 Analog Outputs (AO).
The Analog Inputs can be configured as either 16 single-ended channels or 8 differential channels, providing flexibility for various data acquisition needs. The input resolution for these channels is 16 bits, ensuring high precision in measurements. The PCI-6221 offers a data acquisition rate of up to 250 kS/s, enabling efficient and rapid data collection.
In terms of Analog Output, the device includes 2 channels. These outputs can deliver data at a rate of 833 kS/s when a single channel is used, and 740 kS/s when both channels are operated simultaneously. This feature allows for high-speed output generation suitable for a wide range of applications.
The device is designed to operate in a bus-powered environment, supporting both 3.3 V and 5 V signal environments. This ensures compatibility and easy integration with various computer systems. The analog input absolute accuracy of the PCI-6221 is 3100 uV, highlighting the device’s capability to provide precise and accurate measurements.
Despite its high-speed data acquisition capabilities, the PCI-6221 does not support simultaneous sampling. However, it compensates with digital I/O capabilities. Specifically, it offers 8 correlated (clocked) DIO for the 68-pin version up to 1 MHz and 2 correlated (clocked) DIO for the 37-pin version, providing versatility in digital data handling.
The device is equipped with 6 DMA (Direct Memory Access) channels, enhancing data transfer efficiency by allowing peripheral devices to send and receive data directly to and from the memory without CPU intervention. This feature significantly improves the performance of data-intensive applications.
Regarding physical specifications, the PCI-6221 measures 4.2 x 6.1 inches and weighs 3.2 ounces, making it a compact and lightweight option for many DAQ systems. Additionally, it is compatible with NI SCC and SCXI, ensuring it can be integrated into existing National Instruments setups with ease.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Numbers | 779066-01, 779418-01 |
| Category | PC-based Multifunction DAQ |
| Model | PCI-6221 |
| Description | PCI-6221 (37-Pin D-Sub, 16 AI, 10 DIO, 2 AO) |
| Analog Input Channels | 16 single-ended or 8 differential |
| Analog Input Resolution | 16 bits |
| Data Acquisition Rate | 250 kS/s |
| Analog Output Channels | 2 |
| Analog Output Rate | 833 kS/s (single channel), 740 kS/s (dual channels) |
| Power | Bus powered, 3.3 V or 5 V signal environment |
| Analog Input Absolute Accuracy | 3100 uV |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 250 kS/s |
| Simultaneous Sampling | No |
| Digital I/O | 8 correlated (clocked) DIO for 68-pin version up to 1 MHz; 2 correlated (clocked) DIO for 37-pin version |
| DMA Channels | 6 |
| Dimensions | 4.2 x 6.1 in |
| Weight | 3.2 oz. |
| Compatibility | NI SCC, SCXI |
Question 1: What is the max data acquisition rate of PCI-6221?
Answer 1: 250 kS/s
Question 2: How many Analog Inputs does the PCI-6221 have?
Answer 2: 16 AI
Question 3: Does the PCI-6221 support simultaneous sampling?
Answer 3: No
Question 4: What is the absolute accuracy of PCI-6221’s analog input?
Answer 4: 3100 uV
Question 5: How many DMA channels does the PCI-6221 offer?
Answer 5: 6 DMA channels



