DAQ Getting Started

1. Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis.
2. Remove the device from the package and inspect the device for loose components or any other sign of damage.
   Notice Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.

   Note Do not install a device if it appears damaged in any way.
3. Unpack any other items and documentation from the kit.

Back up any applications before upgrading your software. You must be an Administrator to install NI software on your computer. Refer to the NI-DAQmx Readme on the software media for supported application software and versions.

1. If applicable, install an application development environment (ADE), such as LabVIEW, Microsoft Visual Studio®, or LabWindows™/CVI™.
2. Install the NI-DAQmx driver software.

1. Power off and unplug the computer.
2. Access the computer system expansion slots. This step might require you to remove one or more access panels on the computer case.
3. Locate a compatible slot and remove the corresponding slot cover on the computer back panel.
4. Touch any metal part of the computer to discharge any static electricity.
5. Insert the device into the applicable PCI/PCI Express system slot. Gently rock the device into place. Do not force the device into place.
   Per the PCI standard, NI PCI DAQ devices with the Universal PCI connector are supported in PCI-compliant buses, including PCI-X. You cannot install PCI Express devices in PCI slots and vice versa. PCI Express devices support up-plugging into a PCI Express slot of higher lane width.

   
   

   

   
   

   1. PCI/PCI Express DAQ Device
   2. PCI/PCI Express System Slot
   3. PC with PCI/PCI Express Slot

6. Secure the module mounting bracket to the computer back panel rail.
   Note Tightening the top and bottom mounting screws increases mechanical stability and also electrically connects the front panel to the chassis, which can improve the signal quality and electromagnetic performance.
7. On PCI Express devices, such as the PCIe-625x/63xx, connect the PC and the device disk drive power connectors. Refer to the device user manual for information about when to use the disk drive power connector. Use a disk drive power connector that is not in the same power chain as the hard drive.

   
   

   

   
   

   1. Device Disk Drive Power Connector
   2. PC Disk Drive Power Connector

   Note Connecting or disconnecting the disk drive power connector can affect the analog performance of your device. To compensate for this, NI recommends that you self-calibrate the PCI Express DAQ device in MAX after connecting or disconnecting the disk drive power connector; refer to the Configuring the Device in NI MAX section.
8. Replace any access panels on the computer case.
9. Plug in and power on your computer.
10. If applicable, install accessories and/or terminal blocks as described in the installation guides.
11. Attach sensors and signal lines to the device, terminal block, or accessory terminals. Refer to the documentation for your DAQ device or accessory for terminal/pinout information.

1. Launch NI MAX.
2. In the Configuration pane, double-click Devices and Interfaces to see the list of installed devices.
   If you do not see your device listed, press <F5> to refresh the list of installed devices.
3. Right‑click the device and select Self-Test to perform a basic verification of hardware resources.
4. (Optional) Right‑click the device and select Configure to add accessory information and configure the device.
5. Right-click the device and select Test Panels to test device functionality.
   Click Start to test the device functions, and then Stop and Close to exit the test panel. If the test panel displays an error message, refer to ni.com/support.
6. If your device supports Self-Calibration, right-click the device and select Self-Calibrate.
   A window reports the status of the calibration. Click Finish. For more information about Self-Calibration, refer to the device user manual.

   Note Remove all sensors and accessories from your device before Self-Calibrating.

1. In NI MAX, right-click Data Neighborhood and select Create New to open the DAQ Assistant.
2. Select NI-DAQmx Task and click Next.
3. Select Acquire Signals or Generate Signals.
4. Select the I/O type, such as analog input, and the measurement type, such as voltage.
5. Select the physical channel(s) to use and click Next.
6. Name the task and click Finish.
7. Configure individual channel settings. Each physical channel you assign to a task receives a virtual channel name. Click Details for physical channel information. Configure the timing and triggering for your task.
8. Click Run.