National Instruments 320174B-01 User Manual

Lab-NB

User Manual

Low-Cost Multifunction I/O Board for Macintosh NuBus

September 1995 Edition

Part Number 320174B-01

© Copyright 1989, 1995 National Instruments Corporation.

All Rights Reserved.

National Instruments Corporate Headquarters

6504 Bridge Point Parkway
Austin, TX 78730-5039
[phone]
Technical support fax: [phone]

[phone]

Branch Offices:

Australia 03 9 879 9422, Austria 0662 45 79 90 0, Belgium 02 757 00 20, Canada (Ontario) 519 622 9310,
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Sweden 08 730 49 70, Switzerland 056 20 51 51, Taiwan 02 377 1200, U.K. 01635 523545

Limited Warranty

The Lab-NB is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of
shipment, as evidenced by receipts or other documentation. National Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace
equipment that proves to be defective during the warranty period. This warranty includes parts and labor.

The media on which you receive National Instruments software are warranted not to fail to execute programming
instructions, due to defects in materials and workmanship, for a period of 90 days from date of shipment, as
evidenced by receipts or other documentation. National Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace software
media that do not execute programming instructions if National Instruments receives notice of such defects during
the warranty period. National Instruments does not warrant that the operation of the software shall be uninterrupted
or error free.

A Return Material Authorization (RMA) number must be obtained from the factory and clearly marked on the
outside of the package before any equipment will be accepted for warranty work. National Instruments will pay the
shipping costs of returning to the owner parts which are covered by warranty.

National Instruments believes that the information in this manual is accurate. The document has been carefully
reviewed for technical accuracy. In the event that technical or typographical errors exist, National Instruments
reserves the right to make changes to subsequent editions of this document without prior notice to holders of this
edition. The reader should consult National Instruments if errors are suspected. In no event shall National
Instruments be liable for any damages arising out of or related to this document or the information contained in it.

EXCEPT AS SPECIFIED HEREIN, NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,

AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE
OF

NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM LOSS OF DATA, PROFITS,

USE OF PRODUCTS, OR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY
THEREOF

whether in contract or tort, including negligence. Any action against National Instruments must be brought within
one year after the cause of action accrues. National Instruments shall not be liable for any delay in performance due
to causes beyond its reasonable control. The warranty provided herein does not cover damages, defects,
malfunctions, or service failures caused by owner's failure to follow the National Instruments installation, operation,
or maintenance instructions; owner's modification of the product; owner's abuse, misuse, or negligent acts; and
power failure or surges, fire, flood, accident, actions of third parties, or other events outside reasonable control.

. CUSTOMER'S RIGHT TO RECOVER DAMAGES CAUSED BY FAULT OR NEGLIGENCE ON THE PART

NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT THERETOFORE PAID BY THE CUSTOMER.

. This limitation of the liability of National Instruments will apply regardless of the form of action,

Copyright

Under the copyright laws, this publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, storing in an information retrieval system, or translating, in whole
or in part, without the prior written consent of National Instruments Corporation.

Trademarks

LabVIEW®, NI-DAQ®, and RTSI® are trademarks of National Instruments Corporation.
Product names and company names listed are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies.

WARNING REGARDING MEDICAL AND CLINICAL USE

OF NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS

National Instruments products are not designed with components and testing intended to ensure a level of reliability
suitable for use in treatment and diagnosis of humans. Applications of National Instruments products involving
medical or clinical treatment can create a potential for accidental injury caused by product failure, or by errors on
the part of the user or application designer. Any use or application of National Instruments products for or involving
medical or clinical treatment must be performed by properly trained and qualified medical personnel, and all
traditional medical safeguards, equipment, and procedures that are appropriate in the particular situation to prevent
serious injury or death should always continue to be used when National Instruments products are being used.
National Instruments products are NOT intended to be a substitute for any form of established process, procedure, or
equipment used to monitor or safeguard human health and safety in medical or clinical treatment.

Contents

About This Manual............................................................................................................xi

Organization of This Manual.........................................................................................xi

Conventions Used in This Manual.................................................................................xii

National Instruments Documentation............................................................................xii

Related Documentation..................................................................................................xiii

Customer Communication.............................................................................................xiii

Chapter 1
Introduction

About the Lab-NB..........................................................................................................1-1

What You Need to Get Started......................................................................................1-2

Software Programming Choices....................................................................................1-2

Optional Equipment.......................................................................................................1-4

Unpacking......................................................................................................................1-5

..........................................................................................................................1-1

LabVIEW and LabWindows/CVI Application Software..................................1-2

NI-DAQ Driver Software...................................................................................1-3

Register-Level Programming.............................................................................1-4

Cabling...............................................................................................................1-4

Chapter 2
Configuration and Installation

Board Configuration......................................................................................................2-1

Factory Default Jumper Settings........................................................................2-3

Analog Output Configuration............................................................................2-3

Bipolar

Unipolar Output Selection.....................................................................2-4

Analog Input Configuration...............................................................................2-4

Bipolar Input Selection..........................................................................2-4

Unipolar

Installation......................................................................................................................2-5

Signal

Connections........................................................................................................2-5

I/O Connector Pin Description...........................................................................2-5

Signal Connection Descriptions.........................................................................2-7

Analog Input Signal Connections..........................................................2-7

Analog

Digital

Timing

Output Selection........................................................................2-3

Input Selection........................................................................2-5

Connections for Signal Sources.................................................2-8

Output Signal Connections........................................................2-9

I/O Signal Connections..............................................................2-10

Port

C Pin Connections..............................................................2-11

Timing Specifications................................................................2-12

Mode

1 Input Timing.................................................................2-14

Mode

1 Output Timing...............................................................2-15

Mode

2 Bidirectional Timing.....................................................2-16

Connections...............................................................................2-17

DAQ Timing Connections.........................................................2-17

General-Purpose

.......................................................................................2-1

Timing Signal Connections............................2-21

© National Instruments Corporation v Lab-NB User Manual

Contents

Chapter 3
Theory

of Operation...........................................................................................................3-1

Functional Overview......................................................................................................3-1

NuBus Interface Circuitry..............................................................................................3-2

Analog

Input and DAQ Circuitry...................................................................................3-3

Analog Input Circuitry.......................................................................................3-4

DAQ

Timing Circuitry.......................................................................................3-4

Single-Channel Data Acquisition...........................................................3-5

Multichannel (Scanned) Data Acquisition.............................................3-5

DAQ Rates.............................................................................................3-6

Analog Output Circuitry................................................................................................3-7

Digital I/O Circuitry.......................................................................................................3-9

Timing I/O Circuitry......................................................................................................3-10

Chapter 4
Register-Level Programming

Register Access..............................................................................................................4-1

Slot Address Space.............................................................................................4-1

Register Map......................................................................................................4-2

Register Sizes.....................................................................................................4-4

Register

Configuration EPROM..................................................................................................4-35

Descriptions.....................................................................................................4-4

Register Description Format..............................................................................4-4

Analog Input Register Group.............................................................................4-5

A/D Configuration Register...................................................................4-6

Status Register........................................................................................4-9

A/D FIFO Register.................................................................................4-10

A/D Clear Register.................................................................................4-12

Analog Output Register Group..........................................................................4-13

DAC Configuration Register.................................................................4-14

DAC0 and DAC1 Data Registers...........................................................4-15

8253 Counter/Timer Register Groups................................................................4-16

Counter A0 Data Register......................................................................4-17

Counter A1 Data Register......................................................................4-18

Counter A2 Data Register......................................................................4-19

Counter A Mode Register......................................................................4-20

Counter B0 Data Register......................................................................4-21

Counter B1 Data Register......................................................................4-22

Counter B2 Data Register......................................................................4-23

Counter B Mode Register......................................................................4-24

82C55A Digital I/O Register Group..................................................................4-25

Port A Register.......................................................................................4-26

Port B Register.......................................................................................4-27

Port C Register.......................................................................................4-28

Digital

Interrupt

Control Register.........................................................................4-29

Control Register Group.......................................................................4-30

Interrupt Control Register......................................................................4-31

Interrupt Status Register.........................................................................4-33

Timer Interrupt Clear Register...............................................................4-34

.........................................................................................4-1

Lab-NB User Manual vi © National Instruments Corporation

Contents

Programming Considerations.........................................................................................4-35

Register Programming Considerations..............................................................4-35

Initializing the Lab-NB Board...........................................................................4-35

Programming

the Analog Input Circuitry..........................................................4-36

Analog Input Circuitry Programming Sequence....................................4-36

A/D FIFO Output Binary Modes...........................................................4-38

Clearing the Analog Input Circuitry......................................................4-39

Programming Multiple A/D Conversions on a Single Input Channel...............4-39

Programming in Controlled Acquisition Mode.....................................4-40

Programming

in Freerun Acquisition Mode..........................................4-43

External Timing Considerations for Multiple A/D Conversions.......................4-45

Using the EXTTRIG Signal to Initiate a Multiple A/D Conversion

DAQ

Operation (Posttrigger Mode)......................................................4-45

Using the EXTTRIG Signal to Terminate a Multiple A/D

Conversion DAQ Operation (Pretrigger Mode).....................................4-46

Using the EXTCONV* Signal to Initiate A/D Conversions..................4-46

Programming Multiple A/D Conversions Using External Timing....................4-46

Programming in Controlled Acquisition Mode.....................................4-46

Posttrigger Mode........................................................................4-46

Pretrigger Mode.........................................................................4-49

Programming

in Freerun Acquisition Mode..........................................4-51

Posttrigger Mode........................................................................4-51

Pretrigger Mode.........................................................................4-51

Programming Multiple A/D Conversions with Channel Scanning....................4-51

Interrupt Programming for the Analog Input Circuitry.....................................4-52

Programming the Analog Output Circuitry.......................................................4-52

Interrupt Programming for the Analog Output Circuitry...................................4-54

Programming the Digital I/O Circuitry..............................................................4-55

82C55A Modes of Operation.................................................................4-55

Mode 0–Basic I/O......................................................................4-56

Mode 1–Strobed I/O...................................................................4-56

Mode 2–Bidirectional Bus.........................................................4-56

Single Bit Set/Reset Feature......................................................4-56

Register Descriptions and Programming Examples...............................4-57

Mode 0 Control Words..............................................................4-58

Mode 0 Programming Examples................................................4-58

Mode 1 Strobed Input Control Words........................................4-59

Mode 1 Input Programming Example........................................4-61

Mode 1 Strobed Output Control Words.....................................4-61

Mode 1 Output Programming Example.....................................4-63

Mode 2 Control Words..............................................................4-63

Mode 2 Programming Example.................................................4-65

Single Bit Set/Reset Control Words...........................................4-65

Interrupt

Programming for the Digital I/O Circuitry.........................................4-65

© National Instruments Corporation vii Lab-NB User Manual

Contents

Chapter 5
Calibration

Calibration Equipment Requirements............................................................................5-1

Calibration Trimpots......................................................................................................5-2

Analog Input Calibration...............................................................................................5-3

Analog

.............................................................................................................................5-1

Board Configuration..........................................................................................5-4

Bipolar Input Calibration Procedure..................................................................5-4

Unipolar

Output Calibration.............................................................................................5-5

Board Configuration..........................................................................................5-6

Bipolar

Unipolar Output Calibration Procedure.............................................................5-7

Appendix A
Specifications

Appendix B
I/O Connector

Input Calibration Procedure................................................................5-5

Output Calibration Procedure...............................................................5-6

........................................................................................................................A-1

.......................................................................................................................B-1

Appendix C
AMD 8253 Data Sheet

.......................................................................................................C-1

Appendix D
OKI 82C55A Data Sheet

..................................................................................................D-1

Appendix E
Customer Communication

...............................................................................................E-1

Glossary........................................................................................................................Glossary-1

Index..................................................................................................................................Index-1

Lab-NB User Manual viii © National Instruments Corporation

Contents

Figures

Figure 1-1. The Relationship between the Programming Environment, NI-DAQ, and Your

Hardware............................................................................................................1-3

Figure 2-1. Parts Locator Diagram.......................................................................................2-2

Figure 2-2. Bipolar Output Jumper Configuration...............................................................2-4

Figure 2-3. Unipolar

Figure 2-4. Bipolar Input Jumper Configuration..................................................................2-5

Figure 2-5. Unipolar Input Jumper Configuration................................................................2-5

Figure 2-6. Lab-NB I/O Connector Pin Assignments...........................................................2-6

Figure 2-7. Analog

Figure 2-8. Analog Output Signal Connections....................................................................2-9

Figure 2-9. Digital I/O Connections.....................................................................................2-11

Figure 2-10. EXTCONV*

Figure 2-11. Posttrigger DAQ Timing (EXTCONV* High When Trigger Sensed)..............2-18

Figure 2-12. Posttrigger DAQ Timing (EXTCONV* Low When Trigger Sensed)...............2-18

Figure 2-13. Pretrigger DAQ Timing.....................................................................................2-19

Figure 2-14. Waveform Generation Timing with the EXTUPDATE*
Figure 2-15. NuBus Interrupt Generation with the EXTUPDATE*

Figure 2-16. Event-Counting Application with External Switch Gating................................2-22

Figure 2-17. Frequency Measurement Application................................................................2-23

Figure 2-18. General-Purpose Timing Signals.......................................................................2-24

Output Jumper Configuration.............................................................2-4

Input Signal Connections......................................................................2-8

Signal Timing...............................................................................2-17

Signal.......................2-20

Signal...........................2-20

Figure 3-1. Lab-NB Block Diagram.....................................................................................3-1

Figure 3-2. NuBus Interface Circuitry Block Diagram........................................................3-2

Figure 3-3. Analog Input and DAQ Circuitry Block Diagram.............................................3-3

Figure 3-4. Analog
Figure 3-5. Digital
Figure 3-6. Timing
Figure 3-7. Counter

Output Circuitry Block Diagram...........................................................3-8

I/O Circuitry Block Diagram.................................................................3-9

I/O Circuitry Block Diagram.................................................................3-10

Block Diagram.....................................................................................3-11

Figure 4-1. Control-Word Format with Control-Word Flag Set to 1...................................4-57

Figure 4-2. Control-Word Format with Control-Word Flag Set to 0...................................4-57

Figure 5-1. Calibration

Trimpot Location Diagram.............................................................5-2

Figure B-1. Lab-NB I/O Connector.......................................................................................B-1

Tables

Table 2-1. Lab-NB Jumper Settings....................................................................................2-3

Table 2-2. Port

Table 3-1. Analog Input Settling Time Versus Gain...........................................................3-6

Table 3-2. Lab-NB Maximum Recommended DAQ Rates................................................3-6

Table 3-3. Bipolar Analog Input Signal Range Versus Gain..............................................3-7

Table 3-4. Unipolar Analog Input Signal Range Versus Gain............................................3-7

C Signal Assignments................................................................................2-12

Table 4-1. Macintosh Slot Addresses..................................................................................4-2

Table 4-2. Lab-NB Register Map........................................................................................4-3

Table 4-3. Unipolar Input Mode A/D Conversion Values (Straight Binary Coding).........4-38

© National Instruments Corporation ix Lab-NB User Manual

Contents

Table 4-4. Bipolar Input Mode A/D Conversion Values (Two’s Complement Coding)....4-38

Table 4-5. Analog Output Voltage Versus Digital Code....................................................4-53

Table 4-6. Analog Output Voltage Versus Digital Code

(Bipolar Mode, Two's Complement Coding).....................................................4-54

Table 4-7. Mode
Table 4-8. Port

0 I/O Configurations................................................................................4-58

C Set/Reset Control Words........................................................................4-65

Lab-NB User Manual x © National Instruments Corporation

About This Manual

This manual describes the mechanical and electrical aspects of the Lab-NB and contains
information concerning its installation and operation. The Lab-NB is a low-cost multifunction
analog, digital, and timing I/O board for Macintosh NuBus computers. It contains a 12-bit
successive-approximation A/D converter (ADC) with eight analog inputs, two 12-bit D/A
converters (DACs) with voltage outputs, 24 lines of transistor-transistor logic (TTL) compatible
digital I/O, and three 16-bit counter/timer channels for timing I/O.

Organization of This Manual

The Lab-NB User Manual is organized as follows.

• Chapter 1, Introduction, describes the Lab-NB, lists what you need to get started, software
programming choices, optional equipment, and explains how to unpack the Lab-NB.

• Chapter 2, Configuration and Installation, describes how to configure and install the Lab-NB
into your Macintosh computer, and also includes signal connections to the Lab-NB and cable
wiring.

• Chapter 3, Theory of Operation, contains a functional overview of the Lab-NB and explains
the operation of each functional unit making up the Lab-NB.

• Chapter 4, Register-Level Programming, describes in detail the address and function of each
of the Lab-NB control and status registers. This chapter also includes important information
about register-level programming the Lab-NB.

• Chapter 5, Calibration, discusses the calibration procedures for the Lab-NB analog input and
analog output circuitry.

• Appendix A, Specifications, lists the specifications of the Lab-NB.

• Appendix B, I/O Connector, contains the pinout and signal names for the I/O connector on
the Lab-NB.

• Appendix C, AMD 8253 Data Sheet, contains the manufacturer data sheet for the AMD 8253
System Timing Controller integrated circuit (Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.). This circuit is
used on the Lab-NB.

• Appendix D, OKI 82C55A Data Sheet, contains the manufacturer data sheet for the
OKI 82C55A (OKI Semiconductor) CMOS programmable peripheral interface. This
interface is used on the Lab-NB.

• Appendix E, Customer Communication, contains forms you can use to request help from
National Instruments or to comment on our products and manuals.

© National Instruments Corporation xi Lab-NB User Manual

About This Manual

• The Glossary contains an alphabetical list and description of terms used in this manual,
including abbreviations, acronyms, metric prefixes, mnemonics, symbols, and terms.

• The Index alphabetically lists topics covered in this manual, including the page where you
can find each one.

Conventions Used in This Manual

The following conventions are used in this manual.
bold Bold text denotes menus, menu items, or dialog box buttons or options.
bold italic Bold italic text denotes a note, caution, or warning.
italic Italic text denotes emphasis, a cross reference, or an introduction to a key

concept.

Macintosh Macintosh refers to all Macintosh II, Macintosh Quadra, and Macintosh

Centris computers, except the Centris 610, unless otherwise noted.

NI-DAQ NI-DAQ is used throughout this manual to refer to the NI-DAQ software

for Macintosh unless otherwise noted.

SCXI SCXI stands for Signal Conditioning eXtensions for Instrumentation and

is a National Instruments product line designed to perform front-end signal
conditioning for National Instruments plug-in DAQ boards.

< > Angle brackets containing numbers separated by an ellipsis represent a

range of values associated with a bit or signal name (for example,
ACH <0..7> stands for ACH0 through ACH7).

Abbreviations, acronyms, metric prefixes, mnemonics, symbols, and terms are listed in the
Glossary.

National Instruments Documentation

The Lab-NB User Manual is one piece of the documentation set for your data acquisition (DAQ)
system. You could have any of several types of manuals, depending on the hardware and
software in your system. Use the different types of manuals you have as follows:

• Getting Started with SCXI—If you are using SCXI, this is the first manual you should read.
It gives an overview of the SCXI system and contains the most commonly needed
information for the modules, chassis, and software.

• Your SCXI hardware user manuals—If you are using SCXI, read these manuals next for
detailed information about signal connections and module configuration. They also explain
in greater detail how the module works and contain application hints.

Lab-NB User Manual xii © National Instruments Corporations

About This Manual

• Your DAQ hardware user manuals—These manuals have detailed information about the
DAQ hardware that plugs into or is connected to your computer. Use these manuals for
hardware installation and configuration instructions, specification information about your
DAQ hardware, and application hints.

• Software manuals—Examples of software manuals you may have are the LabVIEW and
LabWindows

NI-DAQ supports LabWindows for DOS). After you set up your hardware system, use either
the application software (LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI) manuals or the NI-DAQ manuals
to help you write your application. If you have a large and complicated system, it is
worthwhile to look through the software manuals before you configure your hardware.

• Accessory installation guides or manuals—If you are using accessory products, read the
terminal block and cable assembly installation guides or accessory board user manuals. They
explain how to physically connect the relevant pieces of the system. Consult these guides
when you are making your connections.

• SCXI chassis manuals—If you are using SCXI, read these manuals for maintenance
information on the chassis and installation instructions.

®

/CVI manual sets and the NI-DAQ manuals (a 4.6.1 or earlier version of

Related Documentation

The following documents contain information that you may find helpful as you read this manual.

• Macintosh II or Quadra Owner’s Manual, Getting Started manual, or Setting Up manual

• Inside Macintosh–Volume 5

Customer Communication

National Instruments wants to receive your comments on our products and manuals. We are
interested in the applications you develop with our products, and we want to help if you have
problems with them. To make it easy for you to contact us, this manual contains comment and
configuration forms for you to complete. These forms are in Appendix E, Customer

Communication, at the end of this manual.

© National Instruments Corporation xiii Lab-NB User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

This chapter describes the Lab-NB, lists what you need to get started, software programming
choices, optional equipment, and explains how to unpack the Lab-NB.

About the Lab-NB

Thank you for buying the National Instruments Lab-NB. The Lab-NB is a low-cost multi­function analog, digital, and timing I/O board for Macintosh NuBus computers. It contains a
12-bit successive-approximation ADC with eight analog inputs, two 12-bit DACs with voltage
outputs, 24 lines of TTL-compatible digital I/O, and six 16-bit counter/timer channels for timing
I/O.

The low cost of a Lab-NB-based system makes it ideal for laboratory work in industrial and
academic environments. The multichannel analog input is useful in signal analysis and data
logging. The 12-bit ADC is useful in high-resolution applications such as chromatography,
temperature measurement, and DC voltage measurement. The analog output channels can be
used to generate experiment stimuli and are also useful for machine and process control and
analog function generation. The 24 TTL-compatible digital I/O lines can be used for switching
external devices such as transistors and solid-state relays, for reading the status of external digital
logic, and for generating interrupts. The counter/timers can be used to synchronize events,
generate pulses, and measure frequency and time. The Lab-NB, used in conjunction with the
Macintosh, is a versatile, cost-effective platform for laboratory test, measurement, and control.

Note: The Lab-NB cannot sink sufficient current to drive the SSR-OAC-5 and

SSR-OAC-5A output modules. However, it can drive the SSR-ODC-5 output module
and all SSR input modules available from National Instruments.

If you need to drive a SSR-OAC-5 or SSR-OAC-5A, you can use a non-inverting digital
buffer chip between the Lab-NB and the SSR backplane.

Detailed Lab-NB specifications are in Appendix A, Specifications.

© National Instruments Corporation 1-1 Lab-NB User Manual

Introduction Chapter 1

What You Need to Get Started

To set up and use your Lab-NB board, you will need the following:

Lab-NB board

Lab-NB User Manual

One of the following software packages and documentation:

NI-DAQ software for Macintosh
LabVIEW for Macintosh

Your computer

Software Programming Choices

There are several options to choose from when programming your National Instruments DAQ
and SCXI hardware. You can use LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or NI-DAQ. A 4.6.1 or earlier
version of NI-DAQ supports LabWindows for DOS.

LabVIEW and LabWindows/CVI Application Software

LabVIEW and LabWindows/CVI are innovative program development software packages for
data acquisition and control applications. LabVIEW uses graphical programming, whereas
LabWindows/CVI enhances traditional programming languages. Both packages include
extensive libraries for data acquisition, instrument control, data analysis, and graphical data
presentation.

LabVIEW features interactive graphics, a state-of-the-art user interface, and a powerful graphical
programming language. The LabVIEW Data Acquisition VI Library, a series of VIs for using
LabVIEW with National Instruments DAQ hardware, is included with LabVIEW. The
LabVIEW Data Acquisition VI Libraries are functionally equivalent to the NI-DAQ software.

LabWindows/CVI features interactive graphics, a state-of-the-art user interface, and uses the
ANSI standard C programming language. The LabWindows/CVI Data Acquisition Library, a
series of functions for using LabWindows/CVI with National Instruments DAQ hardware, is
included with the NI-DAQ software kit. The LabWindows/CVI Data Acquisition libraries are
functionally equivalent to the NI-DAQ software.

Using LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI software will greatly reduce the development time for
your data acquisition and control application.

Lab-NB User Manual 1-2 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 1 Introduction

NI-DAQ Driver Software

The NI-DAQ driver software is included at no charge with all National Instruments DAQ
hardware. NI-DAQ is not packaged with SCXI or accessory products, except for the SCXI-1200.
NI-DAQ has an extensive library of functions that you can call from your application
programming environment. These functions include routines for analog input (A/D conversion),
buffered data acquisition (high-speed A/D conversion), analog output (D/A conversion),
waveform generation, digital I/O, counter/timer operations, SCXI, RTSI, self-calibration,
messaging, and acquiring data to extended memory.

NI-DAQ has both high-level DAQ I/O functions for maximum ease of use and low-level DAQ
I/O functions for maximum flexibility and performance. Examples of high-level functions are
streaming data to disk or acquiring a certain number of data points. An example of a low-level
function is writing directly to registers on the DAQ device. NI-DAQ does not sacrifice the
performance of National Instruments DAQ devices because it lets multiple devices operate at
their peak performance.

NI-DAQ also internally addresses many of the complex issues between the computer and the
DAQ hardware such as programming interrupts and DMA controllers. NI-DAQ maintains a
consistent software interface among its different versions so that you can change platforms with
minimal modifications to your code. Figure 1-1 illustrates the relationship between NI-DAQ and
LabVIEW and LabWindows/CVI.

Conventional

Programming

Environment

(PC, Macintosh, or

Sun SPARCstation)

DAQ or

SCXI Hardware

LabVIEW

(PC, Macintosh, or

Sun SPARCstation)

NI-DAQ

Driver Software

LabWindows/CVI

(PC or Sun

SPARCstation)

Personal

Computer or

Workstation

Figure 1-1. The Relationship between the Programming Environment,

NI-DAQ, and Your Hardware

© National Instruments Corporation 1-3 Lab-NB User Manual

Introduction Chapter 1

Register-Level Programming

The final option for programming any National Instruments DAQ hardware is to write register­level software. Writing register-level programming software can be very time-consuming and
inefficient, and is not recommended for most users.

Even if you are an experienced register-level programmer, consider using NI-DAQ, LabVIEW,
or LabWindows/CVI to program your National Instruments DAQ hardware. Using the NI-DAQ,
LabVIEW, or LabWindows/CVI software is easier than, and as flexible as, register-level
programming, and can save weeks of development time.

Optional Equipment

National Instruments offers a variety of products to use with your Lab-NB board, including
cables, connector blocks, and other accessories, as follows:

• Cables and cable assemblies, shielded and ribbon

• Connector blocks, shielded and unshielded 50-pin screw terminals

• Real Time System Integration (RTSI) bus cables

• Signal conditioning eXtensions for Instrumentation (SCXI) modules and accessories for
isolating, amplifying, exciting, and multiplexing signals for relays and analog output. With
SCXI you can condition and acquire up to 3,072 channels.

• Low channel count signal conditioning modules, boards, and accessories, including
conditioning for strain gauges and RTDs, simultaneous sample and hold, and relays.

For more specific information about these products, refer to your National Instruments catalog or
call the office nearest you.

Cabling

National Instruments offers cables and accessories for you to prototype your application or to use
if you frequently change board interconnections.

If you want to develop your own cable, however, the following guidelines may be useful:
National Instruments currently offers a cable termination accessory, the CB-50, for use with the

Lab-NB board. This kit includes a terminated, 50-conductor, flat ribbon cable and a connector
block. Signal input and output wires can be attached to screw terminals on the connector block
and thereby connected to the Lab-NB I/O connector.

The CB-50 is useful for initially prototyping an application or in situations where Lab-NB
interconnections are frequently changed. When you develop a final field wiring scheme,
however, you may wish to develop your own cable.

Lab-NB User Manual 1-4 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 1 Introduction

The Lab-NB I/O connector is a 50-pin male ribbon cable header. The manufacturer part
numbers used by National Instruments for this header are as follows:

• Electronic Products Division/3M (part number 3596-5002)

• T&B/Ansley Corporation (part number 609-500)

The mating connector for the Lab-NB is a 50-position, polarized, ribbon socket connector with
strain relief. National Instruments uses a polarized (keyed) connector to prevent inadvertent
upside-down connection to the Lab-NB. Recommended manufacturer part numbers for this
mating connector are as follows:

• Electronic Products Division/3M (part number 3425-7650)

• T&B/Ansley Corporation (part number 609-5041CE)

The following are the standard ribbon cables (50-conductor, 28 AWG, stranded) that can be used
with these connectors:

• Electronic Products Division/3M (part number 3365/50)

• T&B/Ansley Corporation (part number 171-50)

Unpacking

Your Lab-NB board is shipped in an antistatic package to prevent electrostatic damage to the
board. Electrostatic discharge can damage several components of the board. To avoid such
damage in handling the board, take the following precautions:

• Ground yourself via a grounding strap or by holding a grounded object.

• Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of your computer chassis before removing the
board from the package.

• Remove the board from the package and inspect the board for loose components or any other
sign of damage. Notify National Instruments if the board appears damaged in any way. Do
not install a damaged board into your computer.

• Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.

© National Instruments Corporation 1-5 Lab-NB User Manual

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

This chapter describes how to configure and install the Lab-NB into your Macintosh computer,
and also includes signal connections to the Lab-NB and cable wiring.

Board Configuration

The Lab-NB contains three jumpers for changing the analog input and output configuration of
the board. The jumpers are shown in the parts locator diagram in Figure 2-1. Jumpers W1 and
W2 configure the two analog outputs. Jumper W3 (not labeled on the board) is used to select the
analog input range. Because of space constraints on the board, the jumper post labels are
missing. To distinguish between the A, B, and C posts of the jumpers, hold the board so that the
component side is facing you, the NuBus connector is down, and the 50-pin I/O connector is on
your right. The posts are then in the order A-B-C from left to right on all three of the horizontal
jumpers, as shown in Figure 2-1.

Note: This same orientation of the board is also assumed in the figures illustrating the

jumper connections (Figures 2-2 and 2-3).

© National Instruments Corporation 2-1 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

3

2

1W1
2W2
3W3

1

Figure 2-1. Parts Locator Diagram

Lab-NB User Manual 2-2 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

Factory Default Jumper Settings

The Lab-NB is shipped from the factory with the following configuration:

• Jumpers W1 and W2–bipolar analog output

• Jumper W3–bipolar analog input

Table 2-1 lists all the available jumper configurations for the Lab-NB with the factory defaults
noted.

Table 2-1. Lab-NB Jumper Settings

Configuration Jumper Setting

Output CH0
Polarity

Output CH1
Polarity

Input Range Bipolar: ±5 V (factory setting)

Bipolar: ±5 V (factory setting)
Unipolar: 0 to 10 V

Bipolar: ±5 V (factory setting)
Unipolar: 0 to 10 V

Unipolar: 0 to 10 V

W1: A-B
W1: B-C

W2: A-B
W2: B-C

W3: A-B
W3: B-C

Analog Output Configuration

Two ranges are available for the analog outputs: bipolar (±5 V) and unipolar (0 to 10 V).
Jumper W1 controls output channel 0, and W2 controls output channel 1.

Bipolar Output Selection

You can select the bipolar (±5 V) output configuration for either analog output channel by
setting the following jumpers:

Analog Output Channel 0 W1 A-B
Analog Output Channel 1 W2 A-B
This configuration is shown in Figure 2-2.

© National Instruments Corporation 2-3 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

W1

ABC

W2

ABC

Channel 0

Channel 1

Figure 2-2. Bipolar Output Jumper Configuration

Unipolar Output Selection

You can select the unipolar (0 to 10 V) output configuration for either analog output channel by
setting the following jumpers:

Analog Output Channel 0 W1 B-C
Analog Output Channel 1 W2 B-C
This configuration is shown in Figure 2-3.

W1

ABC

W2

ABC

Channel 0

Channel 1

Figure 2-3. Unipolar Output Jumper Configuration

Analog Input Configuration

Two ranges are available for the analog inputs: bipolar (±5 V) and unipolar (0 to 10 V). Jumper
W3 controls the input range for all eight analog input channels.

Bipolar Input Selection

You can select the bipolar (±5 V) input configuration by setting the following jumper:
Analog Input W3 A-B
This configuration is shown in Figure 2-4.

Lab-NB User Manual 2-4 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

W3

ABC

Figure 2-4. Bipolar Input Jumper Configuration

Unipolar Input Selection

You can select the unipolar (0 to 10 V) input configuration by setting the following jumper:
Analog Input W3 B-C
This configuration is shown in Figure 2-5.

W3

ABC

Figure 2-5. Unipolar Input Jumper Configuration

Note: If you are using a software package such as NI-DAQ or LabVIEW, you may need to

reconfigure your software to reflect any changes in jumper or switch settings.

Installation

Find the section in your Macintosh documentation that explains how to install an expansion
board in your computer. You can use this procedure as a universal board installation guide.

First, read the entire procedure. Then, install your Lab-NB board in the Macintosh by following
the outlined procedure.

Signal Connections

I/O Connector Pin Description

Figure 2-6 shows the pin assignments for the Lab-NB I/O connector. This connector is located
on the back panel of the Lab-NB board and is accessible at the rear of the Macintosh computer
after the board has been properly installed.

© National Instruments Corporation 2-5 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

Warning: Connections that exceed any of the maximum ratings of input or output signals on

the Lab-NB may result in damage to the Lab-NB board and to the Macintosh
computer. This includes connecting any power signals to ground and vice versa.
National Instruments is

NOT liable for any damages resulting from any such

signal connections.

ACH0
ACH2
ACH4
ACH6

AIGND

AOGND

DGND

PA1
PA3
PA5
PA7
PB1
PB3
PB5
PB7
PC1

PC3

12
34
56
78

9

10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18
19 20
21 22
23 24
25 26
27 28
29 30
31 32
33 34

ACH1
ACH3
ACH5
ACH7
DAC0 OUT
DAC1 OUT
PA0
PA2
PA4
PA6
PB0
PB2
PB4
PB6
PC0
PC2

PC4
PC5
PC7

EXTUPDATE*

OUTB0
OUTB1
CLKB1
GATB2

+5V

35 36

37 38
39 40
41 42
43 44
45 46
47 48
49 50

PC6

EXTTRIG

EXTCONV*

GATB0

GATB1

OUTB2

CLKB2

DGND

Figure 2-6. Lab-NB I/O Connector Pin Assignments

Lab-NB User Manual 2-6 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

Signal Connection Descriptions

Pin Signal Name Description

1-8 ACH<0..7> Analog input channels 0 through 7 (single-ended).
9 AIGND Analog input ground.
10 DAC0 OUT Voltage output signal for analog output channel 0.
11 AOGND Analog output ground.
12 DAC1 OUT Voltage output signal for analog output channel 1.
13 DGND Digital ground.
14–21 PA<0..7> Bidirectional data lines for port A. PA7 is the MSB, PA0 the LSB.
22–29 PB<0..7> Bidirectional data lines for port B. PB7 is the MSB, PB0 the LSB.
30–37 PC<0..7> Bidirectional data lines for port C. PC7 is the MSB, PC0 the LSB.
38 EXTTRIG External control signal to start a timed conversion sequence.
39 EXTUPDATE* External control signal to update DAC outputs.
40 EXTCONV* External control signal to trigger A/D conversions.
41 OUTB0 Counter B0 output.
42 GATB0 Counter B0 gate.
43 OUTB1 Counter B1 output.
44 GATB1 Counter B1 gate.
45 CLKB1 Counter B1 clock.
46 OUTB2 Counter B2 output.
47 GATB2 Counter B2 gate.
48 CLKB2 Counter B2 clock.
49 +5 V +5 V out, 1 A maximum.
50 DGND Digital ground.

Note: Pin 49 is connected to the NuBus +5 V supply via a 1 A fuse. A replacement fuse is available

from Allied Electronics, part number 845-2007, and Littelfuse, part number 251001.

* Indicates that the signal is active low.

The connector pins can be grouped into analog input signal pins, analog output signal pins,
digital I/O signal pins, and timing I/O signal pins. Signal connection guidelines for each of these
groups are included later in this chapter.

Analog Input Signal Connections

Pins 1 through 8 are analog input signal pins for the 12-bit ADC. Pin 9, AIGND, is an analog
common signal. This pin can be used for a general analog power ground tie to the Lab-NB. Pins
1 through 8 are tied to the eight single-ended analog input channels of the input multiplexer
through 4.7-kΩ series resistances. Pin 40 is EXTCONV* and can be used to trigger conversions.
A conversion occurs when this signal makes a high-to-low transition. It can only be used to

© National Instruments Corporation 2-7 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

cause conversions to occur; it cannot be used as a monitor to detect conversions caused by the
onboard sample-interval timer.

The following input ranges and maximum ratings apply to inputs ACH<0..7>:

Input impedance 0.1 GΩ in parallel with 45 pF
Input signal range Bipolar input: ±(5 / gain) V

Unipolar input: 0 to (10 / gain) V

Maximum input voltage rating ±45 V powered on or off

Exceeding the input signal range for gain settings greater than 1 will not damage the input
circuitry as long as the maximum input voltage rating of ±45 V is not exceeded. For example,
with a gain of 10, the input signal range is ±0.5 V for bipolar input and 0 to 1 V for unipolar
input, but the Lab-NB is guaranteed to withstand inputs up to the maximum input voltage rating.

Warning: Exceeding the input signal range will result in distorted input signals. Exceeding

the maximum input voltage rating may result in damage to the Lab-NB board and
to the Macintosh computer. National Instruments is

NOT liable for any damages

resulting from any such signal connections.

Connections for Signal Sources
Figure 2-7 shows how to connect a signal source to a Lab-NB board. When you connect

grounded signal sources, observe the polarity carefully to avoid shorting the signal source output.

ACH<0..7>

•

•

•

Input Multiplexer

AIGND

+

-

R

f

R

a

Programmable Gain

Amplifier

+

M

Measured

-

V

Voltage

Signal

Source

+++

S1

V

V

I/O Connector

S2

V

S3

1

2
3

8

--­9

Lab-NB Board

Figure 2-7. Analog Input Signal Connections

Lab-NB User Manual 2-8 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

Analog Output Signal Connections

Pins 10 through 12 of the I/O connector are analog output signal pins.
Pins 10 and 12 are the DAC0 OUT and DAC1 OUT signal pins. DAC0 OUT is the voltage

output signal for Analog Output Channel 0. DAC1 OUT is the voltage output signal for Analog
Output Channel 1.

Pin 11, AOGND, is the ground reference point for both analog output channels as well as analog
input.

The following output ranges are available:

Output signal range Bipolar input: ±5 V

Unipolar input: 0 to 10 V

*

Maximum load current = ±1 mA for 12-bit linearity

Figure 2-8 shows how to make analog output connections.

DAC0 OUT10

+

Load

Load

VOUT 0

VOUT 1

-

-

+

11

12

AOGND

DAC1 OUT

*

*

Channel 0

Channel 1

Analog Output Channels

Lab-NB Board

Figure 2-8. Analog Output Signal Connections

© National Instruments Corporation 2-9 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

Digital I/O Signal Connections

Pins 13 through 37 of the I/O connector are digital I/O signal pins. Digital I/O on the Lab-NB is
designed around the 82C55A integrated circuit. The 82C55A is a general-purpose PPI
containing 24 programmable I/O pins. These pins represent the three 8-bit ports (PA, PB, and
PC) of the 82C55A.

Pins 14 through 21 are connected to the digital lines PA<0..7> for digital I/O port A. Pins 22
through 29 are connected to the digital lines PB<0..7> for digital I/O port B. Pins 30 through 37
are connected to the digital lines PC<0..7> for digital I/O port C. Pin 13, DGND, is the digital
ground pin for all three digital I/O ports.

The following specifications and ratings apply to the digital I/O lines.

Absolute maximum voltage input rating +5.5 V with respect to DGND

-0.5 V with respect to DGND

Digital input specifications (referenced to DGND):

V

input logic high voltage 2.2 V min

IH

VIL input logic low voltage 0.8 V max

I

input current load,

IH

logic high input voltage 1.0 µA max

input current load,

I

IL

logic low input voltage -1.0 µA max

Digital output specifications (referenced to DGND):

output logic high voltage 3.7 V min

V

OH

VOL output logic low voltage 0.4 V max

I

output source current,

OH

logic high -2.5 mA max

output sink current,

I

OL

logic low 2.5 mA max

Lab-NB User Manual 2-10 © National Instruments Corporation

Chapter 2 Configuration and Installation

Figure 2-9 illustrates signal connections for three typical digital I/O applications.

+5 V

LED

+5 V

Switch

I/O Connector

14 PA0

Port A

P A<7..0>

Port B

22 PB0

PB<7..0>

TTL Signal

30 PC0

Port C

PC<7..0>

13

DGND

Lab-NB Board

Figure 2-9. Digital I/O Connections

In Figure 2-9, port A is configured for digital output, and ports B and C are configured for digital
input. Digital input applications include receiving TTL signals and sensing external device states
such as the switch in Figure 2-9. Digital output applications include sending TTL signals and
driving external devices such as the LED shown in Figure 2-9.

Port C Pin Connections
The signals assigned to port C depend on the mode in which the 82C55A is programmed. In

mode 0, port C is considered as two 4-bit I/O ports. In modes 1 and 2, port C is used for status
and handshaking signals with two or three I/O bits mixed in. The following table summarizes
the signal assignments of port C for each programmable mode. See Chapter 4, Register-Level
Programming, for programming information.

Warning: During programming, note that each time a port is configured, output ports A

and C are reset to 0, and output port B is undefined.

© National Instruments Corporation 2-11 Lab-NB User Manual

Configuration and Installation Chapter 2

Table 2-2. Port C Signal Assignments

Programming

Group A Group B

Mode

PC7 PC6 PC5 PC4 PC3 PC2 PC1 PC0

Mode 0
Mode 1 Input
Mode 1 Output
Mode 2

* Indicates that the signal is active low.

I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O
I/O I/O IBF
OBFA* ACKA* I/O I/O INTR
OBFA* ACKA* IBF

STBA* INTR

A

STBA* INTR

A

STBB* IBFB

A

ACKB* OBFB* INTR

A

I/O I/O I/O

A

INTR

B

Timing Specifications
The handshaking lines STB* and IBF are used to synchronize input transfers. The handshaking

lines OBF* and ACK* are used to synchronize output transfers.

B

B

Lab-NB User Manual 2-12 © National Instruments Corporation