Before using the USB-6451, verify that it is installed correctly through Hardware Configuration Utility or Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX).

Verifying the Installation in Hardware Configuration Utility

NI recommends using Hardware Configuration Utility to perform and to validate initial hardware configuration.

  1. Open Hardware Configuration Utility.
    The USB-6451 appears in the system pane automatically.
  2. Record the name that Hardware Configuration Utility assigns to the USB-6451 or provide a custom name.
    Use this name when programming the USB-6451.
  3. Validate that your instrument is installed correctly: select the USB-6451 module in the system pane, expand the Troubleshooting area of the configuration pane, and click Self-test.
    Hardware Configuration Utility reports when it has validated the hardware setup.

Verifying the Installation in MAX

To configure your NI hardware, use Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX). MAX informs other programs about the NI hardware products in the system and their hardware configuration. MAX is automatically installed with NI-DAQmx.

Note MAX is not available on Linux.
  1. Launch MAX.
  2. In the configuration tree, expand Devices and Interfaces to see the list of installed NI hardware.
    Note If you do not see the device in the list, press <F5> to refresh the list of installed devices. If the device is still not listed, power off the system, ensure that the device is correctly installed, and restart.
  3. Record the name MAX assigns to the hardware. Use this identifier when programming the USB-6451.
  4. Self-test the hardware by selecting the item in the configuration tree and clicking Self-Test in the MAX toolbar.
    MAX self-test performs a basic verification of hardware resources.

What Do I Do If the USB-6451 Does Not Appear in Hardware Configuration Utility or MAX?

  1. Check if you must refresh the connection between the hardware and the software.
    SoftwareDescription
    Hardware Configuration Utility Click the refresh button ().
    MAX
    1. In the MAX configuration tree, expand Devices and Interfaces.
    2. To see the list of installed hardware, expand the Chassis tree and press F5 to refresh the list.
  2. If the USB-6451 is still not listed, complete the following steps.
    1. Power off the system.
    2. Ensure that all hardware is correctly installed.
    3. Check that the USB cable is intact and fully inserted. If using a USB hub, validate connections and power to the hub.
    4. Restart the system.

What Should I Do If the USB-6451 Fails the Self-Test?

  1. Reset the USB-6451 through Hardware Configuration Utility or MAX and then perform the self-test again.
  2. Restart the system, and then perform the self-test again.
  3. Unplug and re-plug the USB Type-C cable from the computer.
  4. Perform the self-test again.
    Note If the module fails the self-test again, contact NI or visit ni.com/support for further troubleshooting information.