National Instruments AT E User Manual

DAQ

AT E Series User Manual

Multifunction I/O Devices for the PC AT

AT E Series User Manual

May 2002 Edition

Part Number 370507A-01

Support

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For further support information, see the Technical Support and Professional Services appendix. To comment on
the documentation, send email to [e-mail].

© 1994–2002 National Instruments Corporation. All rights reserved.

Important Information

Warranty

The AT E Series devices are 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 document 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.

XCEPT AS SPECIFIED HEREIN,NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF

E

MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE

NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT THERETOFORE PAID BY THE CUSTOMER.NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR

DAMAGES RESULTING FROM LOSS OF DATA

. This limitation of the liability of National Instruments will apply regardless of the form of action, whether in contract or tort, including

THEREOF

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.

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

Copyright

Under the copyright laws,this publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic ormechanical, 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

CVI™, DAQPad™, DAQ-PnP™,DAQ-STC™,LabVIEW™, Measurement Studio™, National Instruments™,NI™,ni.com™, NI-DAQ™,

™

NI-PGIA

Product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies.

,RTSI™,andSCXI™are trademarks of National Instruments Corporation.

Patents

For patents covering National Instruments products, refer to the appropriate location: Help»Patents in your software, the
on your CD, or

ni.com/patents

.

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

patents.txt

file

WARNING REGARDING USE OF NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS

(1) NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS ARE NOT DESIGNED WITH COMPONENTS AND TESTING FOR A LEVEL OF
RELIABILITY SUITABLE FOR USE IN OR IN CONNECTION WITH SURGICAL IMPLANTS OR AS CRITICAL COMPONENTS IN
ANY LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS WHOSE FAILURE TO PERFORM CAN REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO CAUSE SIGNIFICANT
INJURY TO A HUMAN.

(2) IN ANY APPLICATION, INCLUDING THE ABOVE, RELIABILITY OF OPERATION OF THE SOFTWARE PRODUCTS CAN BE
IMPAIRED BY ADVERSE FACTORS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO FLUCTUATIONS IN ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY,
COMPUTER HARDWARE MALFUNCTIONS, COMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE FITNESS, FITNESS OF COMPILERS
AND DEVELOPMENT SOFTWARE USED TO DEVELOP AN APPLICATION, INSTALLATION ERRORS, SOFTWARE AND
HARDWARE COMPATIBILITY PROBLEMS, MALFUNCTIONS OR FAILURES OF ELECTRONIC MONITORING OR CONTROL
DEVICES, TRANSIENT FAILURES OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS (HARDWARE AND/OR SOFTWARE), UNANTICIPATED USES OR
MISUSES, OR ERRORS ON THE PART OF THE USER OR APPLICATIONS DESIGNER (ADVERSE FACTORS SUCH AS THESE ARE
HEREAFTER COLLECTIVELY TERMED “SYSTEM FAILURES”). ANY APPLICATION WHERE A SYSTEM FAILURE WOULD
CREATE A RISK OF HARM TO PROPERTY OR PERSONS (INCLUDING THE RISK OF BODILY INJURY AND DEATH) SHOULD
NOT BE RELIANT SOLELY UPON ONE FORM OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEM DUE TO THE RISK OF SYSTEM FAILURE. TO AVOID
DAMAGE, INJURY, OR DEATH, THE USER OR APPLICATION DESIGNER MUST TAKE REASONABLY PRUDENT STEPS TO
PROTECT AGAINST SYSTEM FAILURES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO BACK-UP OR SHUT DOWN MECHANISMS.
BECAUSE EACH END-USER SYSTEM IS CUSTOMIZED AND DIFFERS FROM NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS' TESTING
PLATFORMS AND BECAUSE A USER OR APPLICATION DESIGNER MAY USE NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS IN
COMBINATION WITH OTHER PRODUCTS IN A MANNER NOT EVALUATED OR CONTEMPLATED BY NATIONAL
INSTRUMENTS, THE USER OR APPLICATION DESIGNER IS ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING AND VALIDATING
THE SUITABILITY OF NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS WHENEVER NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS PRODUCTS ARE
INCORPORATED IN A SYSTEM OR APPLICATION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE APPROPRIATE DESIGN,
PROCESS AND SAFETY LEVEL OF SUCH SYSTEM OR APPLICATION.

Compliance

FCC/Canada Radio Frequency Interference Compliance*

Determining FCC Class

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has rules to protect wireless communications from interference. The FCC
places digital electronics into two classes. These classes are known as Class A (for use in industrial-commercial locations only)
or Class B (for use in residential or commercial locations). Depending on where it is operated, this product could be subject to
restrictions in the FCC rules. (In Canada, the Department of Communications (DOC), of Industry Canada, regulates wireless
interference in much the same way.)

Digital electronics emit weak signals during normal operation that can affect radio, television, or other wireless products. By
examining the product you purchased, you can determine the FCC Class and therefore which of the two FCC/DOC Warnings
apply in the following sections. (Some products may not be labeled at all for FCC; if so, the reader should then assume these are
Class A devices.)

FCC Class A products only display a simple warning statement of one paragraph in length regarding interference and undesired
operation. Most of our products are FCC Class A. The FCC rules have restrictions regarding the locations where FCC Class A
products can be operated.

FCC Class B products display either a FCC ID code, starting with the letters EXN,
or the FCC Class B compliance mark that appears as shown here on the right.

Consult the FCC Web site at

http://www.fcc.gov

FCC/DOC Warnings

This equipment generates anduses radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in strict accordance with the instructions
in this manual and the CE Mark Declaration of Conformity**, may cause interference to radio and television reception.
Classification requirements are the same for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Department
of Communications (DOC).

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by National Instruments could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment under the FCC Rules.

for more information.

Class A

Federal Communications Commission

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated
in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his own expense.

Canadian Department of Communications

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Class B

Federal Communications Commission

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Canadian Department of Communications

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Compliance to EU Directives

Readers in the European Union (EU) must refer to the Manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for information**
pertaining to the CE Mark compliance scheme. The Manufacturer includes a DoC for most every hardware product except for
those bought for OEMs, if also available from an original manufacturer that also markets in the EU, or where compliance is not
required as for electrically benign apparatus or cables.

To obtain the DoC for this product, click Declaration of Conformity at
by product family. Select the appropriate product family, followed by your product, and a link to the DoC appears in Adobe
Acrobat format. Click the Acrobat icon to download or read the DoC.

* Certain exemptions may apply in the USA, see FCC Rules §15.103 Exempted devices,and§15.105(c). Also available in

sections of CFR 47.

** The CE Mark Declaration of Conformity will contain important supplementary information and instructions for the user or

installer.

ni.com/hardref.nsf/

. This Web site lists the DoCs

Contents

About This Manual

Conventions ...................................................................................................................xi

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

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

Chapter 1
Introduction

About the AT E Series ...................................................................................................1-1

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

Software Programming Choices ....................................................................................1-3

NI-DAQ...........................................................................................................1-3

National Instruments ADE Software...............................................................1-4

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

Optional Equipment.......................................................................................................1-5

Custom Cabling .............................................................................................................1-5

Unpacking......................................................................................................................1-6

Safety Information .........................................................................................................1-6

Chapter 2
Installing and Configuring the Device

Installing the Software ...................................................................................................2-1

Installing the Hardware..................................................................................................2-1

Configuring the Device..................................................................................................2-2

Bus Interface....................................................................................................2-2

Plug and Play ....................................................................................2-2

Switchless Data Acquisition .............................................................2-3

Base I/O Address Selection...............................................................2-3

DMA Channel Selection ...................................................................2-3

Interrupt Channel Selection ..............................................................2-3

Chapter 3
Hardware Overview

Analog Input ..................................................................................................................3-6

Input Mode ......................................................................................................3-6

Input Polarity and Input Range........................................................................3-7

Considerations for Selecting Input Ranges.......................................3-10

© National Instruments Corporation vii AT E Series User Manual

Contents

Dither .............................................................................................................. 3-10

Multiple-Channel Scanning Considerations ...................................................3-11

Analog Output ............................................................................................................... 3-13

Analog Output Reference Selection................................................................ 3-13

Analog Output Polarity Selection ................................................................... 3-13

Analog Output Reglitch Selection .................................................................. 3-14

Analog Trigger ..............................................................................................................3-14

Digital I/O......................................................................................................................3-18

Timing Signal Routing .................................................................................................. 3-18

Programmable Function Inputs....................................................................... 3-20

Device and RTSI Clocks................................................................................. 3-20

RTSI Triggers ................................................................................................. 3-20

Chapter 4
Connecting Signals

I/O Connector ................................................................................................................4-1

I/O Connector Signal Descriptions ................................................................. 4-5

Analog Input Signal Connections..................................................................................4-15

Types of Signal Sources ................................................................................................ 4-17

Floating Signal Sources .................................................................................. 4-17

Ground-Referenced Signal Sources ................................................................ 4-17

Input Configurations...................................................................................................... 4-18

Differential Connection Considerations (DIFF Input Configuration) ............ 4-20

Single-Ended Connection Considerations ...................................................... 4-24

Common-Mode Signal Rejection Considerations........................................... 4-26

Analog Output Signal Connections............................................................................... 4-27

Digital I/O Signal Connections ..................................................................................... 4-28

Power Connections........................................................................................................ 4-29

Timing Connections ...................................................................................................... 4-30

Programmable Function Input Connections ...................................................4-31

DAQ Timing Connections .............................................................................. 4-32

Differential Connections for Ground-Referenced Signal Sources ... 4-21
Differential Connections for Nonreferenced or

Floating Signal Sources ................................................................. 4-22

Single-Ended Connections for Floating Signal Sources

(RSE Configuration)...................................................................... 4-25

Single-Ended Connections for Grounded Signal Sources

(NRSE Configuration) ................................................................... 4-25

TRIG1 Signal.................................................................................... 4-33

TRIG2 Signal.................................................................................... 4-34

STARTSCAN Signal........................................................................ 4-36

CONVERT* Signal .......................................................................... 4-38

AIGATE Signal ................................................................................ 4-39

AT E Series User Manual viii ni.com

Contents

SISOURCE Signal ............................................................................4-39

SCANCLK Signal.............................................................................4-40

EXTSTROBE* Signal ......................................................................4-41

Waveform Generation Timing Connections ...................................................4-41

WFTRIG Signal ................................................................................4-41

UPDATE* Signal..............................................................................4-42

UISOURCE Signal ...........................................................................4-44

General-Purpose Timing Signal Connections .................................................4-44

GPCTR0_SOURCE Signal...............................................................4-44

GPCTR0_GATE Signal....................................................................4-45

GPCTR0_OUT Signal ......................................................................4-46

GPCTR0_UP_DOWN Signal ...........................................................4-46

GPCTR1_SOURCE Signal...............................................................4-47

GPCTR1_GATE Signal....................................................................4-47

GPCTR1_OUT Signal ......................................................................4-48

GPCTR1_UP_DOWN Signal ...........................................................4-48

FREQ_OUT Signal ...........................................................................4-50

Timing Specifications for Digital I/O Ports A, B, and C ................................4-50

Mode 1 Input Timing ........................................................................ 4-52

Mode 1 Output Timing .....................................................................4-53

Mode 2 Bidirectional Timing............................................................4-54

Field Wiring Considerations..........................................................................................4-55

Chapter 5
Calibrating the Device

Loading Calibration Constants ......................................................................................5-1

Self-Calibration..............................................................................................................5-2

External Calibration.......................................................................................................5-2

Other Considerations .....................................................................................................5-3

Appendix A
Specifications

Appendix B
Optional Cable Connector Descriptions

Appendix C
Common Questions

© National Instruments Corporation ix AT E Series User Manual

Contents

Appendix D
Technical Support and Professional Services

Glossary

Index

AT E Series User Manual x ni.com

About This Manual

This manual describes the electrical and mechanical aspects of each device
in the AT E Series product line and contains information concerning their
operation and programming. Unless otherwise noted, text applies to all
devices in the AT E Series.

The AT E Series includes the following devices:

• AT-MIO-16E-1

• AT-MIO-16E-2

• AT-MIO-64E-3

• AT-MIO-16E-10

• AT-MIO-16DE-10

• AT-MIO-16XE-10

• AT-AI-16XE-10

• AT-MIO-16XE-50

The AT E Series devices are high-performance multifunction analog,
digital, and timing I/O devices for the PC AT series computers. Supported
functions include analog input (AI), analog output (AO), digital I/O (DIO),
and timing I/O (TIO).

Conventions

The following conventions appear in this manual:

<> Angle brackets that contain numbers separated by an ellipsis represent

a range of values associated with a bit or signal name—for example,
DIO<3..0>.

♦ The ♦ symbol indicates that the following text applies only to a specific

product, a specific operating system, or a specific software version.

This icon denotes a note, which alerts you to important information.

This icon denotes a caution, which advises you of precautions to take to
avoid injury, data loss, or a system crash. When this symbol is marked on
thedevice,seetheSafety Information section of Chapter 1, Introduction,
for precautions to take.

© National Instruments Corporation xi AT E Series User Manual

About This Manual

bold Bold text denotes items that you must select or click in the software, such

as menu items and dialog box options. Bold text also denotes parameter
names.

italic Italic text denotes variables, emphasis, a cross reference, or an introduction

to a key concept. This font also denotes text that is a placeholder for a word
or value that you must supply.

NI-DAQ NI-DAQ refers to the NI-DAQ software for PC compatibles unless

otherwise noted.

PC PC refers to the PC AT series computers.

SCXI SCXI stands for Signal Conditioning eXtensions for Instrumentation and is

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

National Instruments Documentation

The AT-MIO/AI E Series User Manual is one piece of the documentation
set for the DAQ system. You could have any of several types of manuals
depending on the hardware and software in the system. Use the 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.

• The 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.

• SCXI Chassis Manual—If you are using SCXI, read this manual for
maintenance information on the chassis and installation instructions.

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

• Software documentation—Examples of software documentation you
may have are the LabVIEW andLabWindows/CVI documentation sets
and the NI-DAQ documentation. After you set up the hardware system,
use either the application software (LabVIEW or LabWindows/CVI)

AT E Series User Manual xii ni.com

or the NI-DAQ documentation to help you write your application.
If you have a large and complicated system, it is worthwhile to look
through the software documentation before you configure the
hardware.

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

Related Documentation

The following documents contain information that you might find helpful
as you read this manual:

• AT E Series Register-Level Programmer Manual

• DAQ-STC Technical Reference Manual

• NI Developer Zone tutorial, Field Wiring and Noise Considerations
for Analog Signals,at

About This Manual

ni.com/zone

© National Instruments Corporation xiii AT E Series User Manual

Introduction

This chapter describes the AT E Series devices, lists what you need to
get started, describes the optional software and optional equipment, and
explains how to unpack the AT E Series device.

AbouttheATESeries

Thank you for buying an NI AT E Series device. The AT E Series devices
are the first completely Plug and Play-compatible multifunction analog,
digital, and timing I/O devices for the PC AT and compatible computers.
This family of devices features 12-bit and 16-bit ADCs with 16 and 64
analog inputs, 12-bit and 16-bit DACs with voltage outputs, eight and
32 lines of TTL-compatible DIO, and two 24-bit counter/timers for TIO.
Because the AT E Series devices have no DIP switches, jumpers, or
potentiometers, they are easily configured and calibrated using software.

The AT E Series devices are the first completely switchless and jumperless
data acquisition (DAQ) devices. This feature is made possible by the
National Instruments DAQ-PnP bus interface chip that connects the device
to the AT I/O bus. The DAQ-PnP implements the Plug and Play ISA
Specification so that the DMA, interrupts, and base I/O addresses are all
software configurable. This allows you to easily change the AT E Series
device configuration without having to remove the device from the
computer. The DAQ-STC makes possible such applications as buffered
pulse generation, equivalent time sampling, and seamlessly changing the
sampling rate.

1

The AT E Series devices use the National Instruments DAQ-STC system
timing controller for time-related functions. The DAQ-STC consists of
three timing groups that control AI, AO, and general-purpose counter/timer
functions. These groups include a total of seven 24-bit and three 16-bit
counters and a maximum timing resolution of 50 ns.

A common problem with DAQ devices is that you cannot easily
synchronize several measurement functions to a common trigger or timing
event. The AT E Series devices have the Real-Time System Integration
(RTSI) bus to solve this problem. The RTSI bus consists of the RTSI bus

© National Instruments Corporation 1-1 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

interface and a ribbon cable to route timing and trigger signals between
several functions on as many as five DAQ devices in the PC.

The AT E Series devices can interface to an SCXI system so that you
can acquire over 3,000 analog signals from thermocouples, RTDs, strain
gauges, voltage sources, and current sources. You can also acquire or
generate digital signals for communication and control. SCXI is the
instrumentation front end for plug-in DAQ devices.

Detailed specifications of the AT E Series devices are in Appendix A,

Specifications.

What You Need to Get Started

To set up and use the AT E Series device, you need the following:

❑

One of the following devices:

– AT-MIO-16E-1 (NI 6070E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-16E-2 (NI 6060E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-64E-3 (NI 6061E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-16E-10 (NI 6020E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-16DE-10 (NI 6021E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-16XE-10 (NI 6030E) for ISA

– AT-AI-16XE-10 (NI 6032E) for ISA

– AT-MIO-16XE-50 (NI 6011E) for ISA

AT E Series User Manual

❑

❑

One of the following software packages and documentation

– LabVIEW for Windows

– Measurement Studio

– NI-DAQ for PC Compatibles

– VI Logger

❑

A computer

AT E Series User Manual 1-2 ni.com

Software Programming Choices

When programming National Instruments DAQ hardware, you can use an
NI application development environment (ADE) or other ADEs. In either
case, you use NI-DAQ.

NI-DAQ

NI-DAQ, which shipped with the AT E Series device, has an extensive
library of functions that you can call from the ADE. These functions allow
you to use all the features of the AT E Series device.

NI-DAQ carries out many of the complex interactions, such as
programming interrupts, between the computer and the DAQ hardware.
NI-DAQ maintains a consistent software interface among its different
versions so that you can change platforms with minimal modifications to
the code. Whether you are using LabVIEW, Measurement Studio, or other
ADEs, your application uses NI-DAQ, as illustrated in Figure 1-1.

Chapter 1 Introduction

LabVIEW,

Measurement Studio,

or VI Logger

Personal

Computer or

Workstation

DAQ Hardware

Figure 1-1.

Conventional
Programming

Environment

NI-DAQ

The Relationship Between the Programming Environment,

NI-DAQ, and the Hardware

To download a free copy of the most recent version of NI-DAQ, click
Download Software at

ni.com

.

© National Instruments Corporation 1-3 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

National Instruments ADE Software

LabVIEW features interactive graphics, a state-of-the-art interface,
and a powerful graphical programming language. The LabVIEW Data
Acquisition VI Library, a series of virtual instruments for using LabVIEW
with National Instruments DAQ hardware, is included with LabVIEW.

Measurement Studio, which includes LabWindows/CVI, tools for Visual
C++, and tools for Visual Basic, is a development suite that allows you
to use ANSI C, Visual C++, and Visual Basic to design the test and
measurement software. For C developers, Measurement Studio includes
LabWindows/CVI, a fully integrated ANSI C application development
environment that features interactive graphics and the LabWindows/CVI
Data Acquisition and Easy I/O libraries. For Visual Basic developers,
Measurement Studio features a set of ActiveX controls for using National
Instruments DAQ hardware. These ActiveX controls provide a high-level
programming interface for building virtual instruments. For Visual C++
developers, Measurement Studio offers a set of Visual C++ classes and
tools to integrate those classes into Visual C++ applications. The libraries,
ActiveX controls, and classes are available with Measurement Studio and
NI-DAQ.

Using LabVIEW or Measurement Studio greatly reduces the development
time for your data acquisition and control application.

Register-Level Programming

The final option for programming any National Instruments DAQ
hardware is to write register-level 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 the National
Instruments DAQ hardware. Using the NI-DAQ, LabVIEW, or
LabWindows/CVI software is as easy and as flexible as register-level
programming and can save weeks of development time. For more
information, refer to the AT E Series Register-Level Programmer Manual.

AT E Series User Manual 1-4 ni.com

Optional Equipment

NI offers a variety of products to use with the AT E Series device,
including cables, connector blocks, and other accessories, as follows:

• Cables and cable assemblies, shielded and ribbon

• Connector blocks, shielded and unshielded 50-, 68-, and 100-pin screw

terminals

• RTSI bus cables

• 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, devices, and
accessories, including conditioning for strain gauges and RTDs,
simultaneous sample and hold, and relays

For more specific information about these products, refer to

ni.com/catalog

Custom Cabling

Chapter 1 Introduction

or call the office nearest you.

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

If you want to develop your own cable, however, the following guidelines
may be useful:

• For the AI signals, shielded twisted-pair wires for each AI pair yield
the best results, assuming that you use differential inputs. Tie the shield
for each signal pair to the ground reference at the source.

• You should route the analog lines separately from the digital lines.

• When using a cable shield, use separate shields for the analog and

digital halves of the cable. Failure to do so results in noise coupling
into the analog signals from transient digital signals.

Mating connectors and a backshell kit for making custom 68-pin cables are
available from NI.

© National Instruments Corporation 1-5 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

Unpacking

The AT E Series device is shipped in an antistatic package to prevent
electrostatic damage to the device. Electrostatic discharge can damage
several components on the device.

Caution

Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.

To avoid such damage in handling the device, take the following
precautions:

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

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

Remove the device from the package and inspect the device for loose
components or any sign of damage. Notify NI if the device appears
damaged in any way. Do not install a damaged device into the computer.

Store the AT E Series device in the antistatic envelope when not in use.

Safety Information

The following section contains important safety information that you must
follow during installation and use of the product.

Do not operate the product in a manner not specified in this document.
Misuse of the product can result in a hazard. You can compromise the
safety protection built into the product if the product is damaged in any
way. If the product is damaged, return it to NI for repair.

If the product is rated for use with hazardous voltages (>30 V
or 60 V
to the installation instructions. Refer to Appendix A, Specifications, for
maximum voltage ratings.

Do not substitute parts or modify the product. Use the product only with
the chassis, modules, accessories, and cables specified in the installation
instructions. You must have all covers and filler panels installed during
operation of the product.

Do not operate the product in an explosive atmosphere or where there may
be flammable gases or fumes. Operate the product only at or below the

AT E Series User Manual 1-6 ni.com

), you may need to connect a safety earth-ground wire according

dc

,42.4Vpk,

rms

Chapter 1 Introduction

pollution degree stated in Appendix A, Specifications. Pollution is foreign
matter in a solid, liquid, or gaseous state that can produce a reduction of
dielectric strength or surface resistivity. The following is a description of
pollution degrees:

• Pollution degree 1 means no pollution or only dry, nonconductive
pollution occurs. The pollution has no influence.

• Pollution degree 2 means that only nonconductive pollution occurs in
most cases. Occasionally, however, a temporary conductivity caused
by condensation must be expected.

• Pollution degree 3 means that conductive pollution occurs, or dry,
nonconductive pollution occurs, which becomes conductive due to
condensation.

Clean the product with a soft nonmetallic brush. The product must be
completely dry and free from contaminants before returning it to service.

Yo u must insulate signal connections for the maximum voltage for which
the product is rated. Do not exceed the maximum ratings for the product.
Remove power from signal lines before connection to or disconnection
from the product.

Operate this product only at or below the installation category stated in
Appendix A, Specifications.

The following is a description of installation categories:

• Installation Category I is for measurements performed on circuits not
directly connected to MAINS

1

. This category is a signal level such as
voltages on a printed wire board (PWB) on the secondary of an
isolation transformer.

Examples of Installation Category I are measurements on circuits
not derived from MAINS and specially protected (internal)
MAINS-derived circuits.

• Installation Category II is for measurements performed on circuits
directly connected to the low-voltage installation. This category refers
to local-level distribution such as that provided by a standard wall
outlet.

Examples of Installation Category II are measurements on household
appliances, portable tools, and similar equipment.

1

MAINS is defined as the electricity supply system to which the equipment concerned is designed to be connected either for
powering the equipment or for measurement purposes.

© National Instruments Corporation 1-7 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 1 Introduction

• Installation Category III is for measurements performed in the building
installation. This category is a distribution level referring to hardwired
equipment that does not rely on standard building insulation.

Examples of Installation Category III include measurements on
distribution circuits and circuit breakers. Other examples of
Installation Category III are wiring including cables, bus-bars, junction
boxes, switches, socket outlets in the building/fixed installation, and
equipment for industrial use, such as stationary motors with a
permanent connection to the building/fixed installation.

• Installation Category IV is for measurements performed at the source
of the low-voltage (<1,000 V) installation.

Examples of Installation Category IV are electric meters, and
measurements on primary overcurrent protection devices and
ripple-control units.

Below is a diagram of a sample installation.

AT E Series User Manual 1-8 ni.com

Installing and Configuring the
Device

This chapter explains how to install and configure the AT E Series device.

Installing the Software

Complete the following steps to install the software before installing the
DAQ device.

1. Install the application development environment (ADE), such as
LabVIEW or Measurement Studio, according to the instructions on
the CD and the release notes.

2. Install NI-DAQ according to the instructions on the CD and the DAQ
Quick Start Guide included with the device.

Note

It is important to install NI-DAQ before installing the DAQ device to ensure that the

device is properly detected.

2

Installing the Hardware

You can install an AT E Series device in any available expansion slot in the
PC. However, to achieve best noise performance, you should leave as much
room as possible between the AT E Series device and other devices and
hardware. The following are general installation instructions, but consult
the PC user manual or technical reference manual for specific instructions
and warnings.

1. Write down the AT E Series device serial number. You need this serial
number when you install and configure the software.

2. Turn off and unplug the computer.

3. Remove the top cover or access port to the I/O channel.

4. Remove the expansion slot cover on the back panel of the computer.

5. Ground yourself using a grounding strap or by holding a grounded
object. Follow the ESD protection precautions described in the

Unpacking section of Chapter 1, Introduction.

© National Instruments Corporation 2-1 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 2 Installing and Configuring the Device

6. Insert the AT E Series device into an EISA or 16-bit ISA slot. It may
be a tight fit, but do not force the device into place.

7. Screw the mounting bracket of the AT E Series device to the back
panel rail of the computer.

8. Visually verify the installation. Make sure the device is not touching
other devices or components and is fully inserted in the slot.

9. Replace the cover.

10. Plug in and turn on the computer.

The AT E Series device is installed. You are now ready to install and
configure the software.

Configuring the Device

Due to the DAQ-PnP features, the AT E Series devices are completely
software configurable. Two types of configuration must be performed
on the AT E Series devices—bus-related configuration and data
acquisition-related configuration. Bus-related configuration includes
setting the base I/O address, DMA channels, and interrupt channels. Data
acquisition-related configuration, explained in Chapter 3, Hardware

Overview, includes such settings as AI polarity and range, AO reference

source, and other settings. For more information about data
acquisition-related configuration, refer to the NI-DAQ user manual.

Bus Interface

The AT E Series devices work in either a Plug and Play mode or a
switchless mode. These modes dictate how the base I/O address, DMA
channels, and interrupt channels are determined and assigned to the device.

Plug and Play

The AT E Series devices are fully compatible with the industry-standard
Plug and Play ISA specification. A Plug and Play system arbitrates and
assigns resources through software, freeing you from manually setting
switches and jumpers. These resources include the device base I/O address,
DMA channels, and interrupt channels. Each AT E Series device is
configured at the factory to request these resources from the Plug and Play
Configuration Manager.

The Configuration Manager receives all of the resource requests at start up,
compares the available resources to those requested, and assigns the
available resources as efficiently as possible to the Plug and Play devices.

AT E Series User Manual 2-2 ni.com

Chapter 2 Installing and Configuring the Device

Application software can query the Configuration Manager to determine
the resources assigned to each device without your involvement. The Plug
and Play software is installed as a device driver or as an integral component
of the computer BIOS.

Switchless Data Acquisition

You can use an AT E Series device in a non-Plug and Play system as a
switchless DAQ device. A non-Plug and Play system is a system in which
the Configuration Manager has not been installed and which does not
contain any non-NI Plug and Play products. You use a configuration utility
to enter the base address, DMA, and interrupt selections, and the
application software assigns them to the device.

Note

Avoid resource conflicts with non-NI devices. For example, do not configure two

devices for the same base address.

Base I/O Address Selection

The AT E Series devices can be configured to use base addresses in the
range of 20 to FFE0 hex. Each AT E Series device occupies 32 bytes of
address space and must be located on a 32-byte boundary. Therefore, valid
addresses include 100, 120, 140, ..., 3C0, 3E0 hex. This selection is
software configured and does not require you to manually change any
settings on the device.

DMA Channel Selection

The AT E Series devices can achieve high transfer rates by using up to
three 16-bit DMA channels. You can use these DMA channels for data
transfers with the AI, AO, and general-purpose counter sections of the
device. The AT E Series devices can use only 16-bit DMA channels, which
correspond to channels 5, 6, and 7 in an ISA computer and channels 0, 1,
2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 in an EISA computer. These selections are all software
configured and do not require you to manually change any settings on the
device.

Interrupt Channel Selection

The AT E Series devices can increase bus efficiency by using an interrupt
channel. You can use an interrupt channel for event notification without the
use of polling techniques. AT E Series devices can use interrupt channels
3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, and 15. These selections are all software configured
and do not require you to manually change any settings on the device.

© National Instruments Corporation 2-3 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 2 Installing and Configuring the Device

The following tables provide information concerning possible conflicts
when configuring the AT E Series device.

I/O Address Range (Hex) Device

100 to 1EF —

1F0 to 1F8 IBM PC AT Fixed Disk

200 to 20F PC and PC AT Game Controller, reserved

210 to 213 PC-DIO-24 (default)

218 to 21F —

220 to 23F Previous generation of AT-MIO devices

240 to 25F AT-DIO-32F (default)

260 to 27F Lab-PC/PC+ (default)

278 to 28F AT Parallel Printer Port 2 (LPT2)

Table 2-1. PC AT I/O Address Map

(default)

279 Reserved for Plug and Play operation

280 to 29F WD EtherCard+ (default)

2A0to2BF —

2E2to2F7 —

2F8to2FF PC,ATSerialPort2(COM2)

300 to 30F 3Com EtherLink (default)

310 to 31F —

320 to 32F ICMPC/XTFixedDiskController

330 to 35F —

360 to 363 PC Network (low address)

364 to 367 Reserved

368 to 36B PC Network (high address)

36C to 36F Reserved

370 to 366 PC, AT Parallel Printer Port 1 (LPT1)

AT E Series User Manual 2-4 ni.com

Chapter 2 Installing and Configuring the Device

Table 2-1. PC AT I/O Address Map (Continued)

I/O Address Range (Hex) Device

380 to 38C SDLC Communications

380 to 389 Bisynchronous (BSC) Communications

(alternate)

390 to 393 Cluster Adapter 0

394 to 39F —

3A0 to 3A9 BSC Communications (primary)

3AA to 3AF —

3B0to3BF Monochrome Display/Parallel Printer

Adapter 0

3C0to3CF Enhanced Graphics Adapter, VGA

3D0to3DF Color/Graphics Monitor Adapter, VGA

3E0to3EF —

3F0 to 3F7 Diskette Controller

3F8to3FF Serial Port 1 (COM1)

A79 Reserved for Plug and Play operation

Table 2-2. PC AT Interrupt Assignment Map

IRQ Device

15 Available

14 FixedDiskController

13 Coprocessor

12 AT-DIO-32F (default)

11 AT-DIO-32F (default)

10 AT-MIO-16 (default)

9 PC Network (default)

PC Network Alternate (default)

8 Real Time Clock

© National Instruments Corporation 2-5 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 2 Installing and Configuring the Device

IRQ Device

Table 2-2. PC AT Interrupt Assignment Map (Continued)

7 Parallel Port 1 (LPT1)

6 Diskette Drive Controller

Fixed Disk and Diskette Drive Controller

5 Parallel Port 2 (LPT2)

PC-DIO-24 (default)
Lab-PC/PC+ (default)

4 Serial Port 1 (COM1)

BSC, BSC Alternate

3 Serial Port 2 (COM2)

BSC, BSC Alternate
Cluster (primary)
PC Network, PC Network Alternate
WD EtherCard+ (default)
3Com EtherLink (default)

2 IRQ 8–15 Chain (from interrupt controller 2)

1 Keyboard Controller Output Buffer Full

0 Timer Channel 0 Output

Table 2-3. PC AT 16-bit DMA Channel Assignment Map

Channel Device

7 AT-MIO-16 series (default)

6 AT-MIO-16 series (default)

AT-DIO-32F (default)

5 AT-DIO-32F (default)

4 Cascade for DMA Controller #1

(channels 0 through 3)

Note

EISA computers also have channels 0–3 available as 16-bit DMA channels.

AT E Series User Manual 2-6 ni.com

Hardware Overview

This chapter presents an overview of the hardware functions on
the AT E Series device.

Figure 3-1 shows the block diagram for the AT-MIO-16E-1 and
AT-MIO-16E-2.

3

(8)

Analog

Muxes

(8)

Trigger Level

DACs

Trigger

PFI / Trigger

I/O Connector

Digital I/O (8)

Calibration

Timing

Voltage

REF

Mux

2

DAC0

DAC1

Mux Mode
Selection
Switches

Analog
Trigger
Circuitry

6

Dither

Circuitry

Calibration

DACs

3

+

NI-PGIA
Gain
Amplifier
–

DAC
FIFO

Calibration

DACs

Trigger

Counter/

Timing I/O

Digital I/O

Sampling

Converter

Configuration

Memory

Analog Input

Timing/Control

DAQ - STC

Analog Output
Timing/Control

AO Control

Data (16)

12-Bit

A/D

ADC
FIFO

AI Control

DMA/
Interrupt
Request

Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

Data (16)

IRQ
DMA

Analog

Input

Control

DAQ-STC

Bus

Interface

Analog
Output
Control

Transceivers

EEPROM

EEPROM

Control

DAQ-PnP

8255

DIO

Control

Data

DMA

Interface

Plug

Play

Interface

Figure 3-1. AT-MIO-16E-1 and AT-MIO-16E-2 Block Diagram

8

3

and

Bus

AT – I/O Channel

© National Instruments Corporation 3-1 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 3 Hardware Overview

Figure 3-2 shows the block diagram for the AT-MIO-64E-3.

(32)

Analog

Muxes

(32)

Trigger Level

DACs

Trigger

PFI / Trigger

Timing

I/O Connector

Digital I/O (8)

Voltage

REF

Calibration

Mux

2

DAC0

DAC1

Mux Mode
Selection
Switches

Analog
Trigger

Circuitry

6

Dither

Circuitry

Calibration

DACs

+

NI-PGIA
Gain
Amplifier

–

DAC
FIFO

Calibration

DACs

3

12-Bit

Trigger

Counter/

Timing I/O

Digital I/O

Sampling

Converter

Configuration

Memory

Analog Input

Timing/Control

DAQ - STC

Analog Output

Timing/Control

AO Control

Data (16)

A/D

AI Control

DMA/
Interrupt
Request

Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

Interface

ADC

FIFO

Data (16)

IRQ
DMA

RTSI Bus

Figure 3-2. AT-MIO-64E-3 Block Diagram

Analog

Input

Control

DAQ-STC

Bus

Interface

Analog
Output
Control

Transceivers

EEPROM

EEPROM

Control

DAQ-PnP

8255

DIO

Control

Data

DMA

Interface

Plug

and

Play

Bus

Interface

8

3

AT – I/O Channel

AT E Series User Manual 3-2 ni.com

Chapter 3 Hardware Overview

Figure 3-3 shows the block diagram for the AT-MIO-16E-10 and
AT-MIO-16DE-10.

(8)

Analog

Muxes

(8)

PFI / Trigger

PA (8)

PB (8)

PC (8)

Timing

Digital I/O (8)

8255

DIO
Port

I/O Connector

Voltage

REF

Calibration

Mux

DAC0

DAC1

Calibration

Mux Mode
Selection
Switches

Dither

Circuitry

AT-MIO-16DE-10 ONLY

Data (8)

Calibration

6

DACs

4

+

NI-PGIA
Gain
Amplifier

–

DACs

Trigger

Counter/

Timing I/O

Digital I/O

Sampling

Converter

Configuration

Memory

Analog Input

Timing/Control

DAQ - STC

Analog Output
Timing/Control

AO Control

Data (16)

12-Bit

A/D

FIFO

AI Control

DMA/
Interrupt
Request

Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

ADC

Data (16)

IRQ
DMA

Analog

Input

Control

DAQ-STC

Bus

Interface

Analog
Output
Control

Transceivers

EEPROM

EEPROM

Control

DAQ-PnP

8255

DIO

Control

Data

DMA

Interface

Plug

and

Play

Bus

Interface

Figure 3-3. AT-MIO-16E-10 and AT-MIO-16DE-10 Block Diagram

8

3

AT – I/O Channel

The primary differences between the AT-MIO-16E-10 and the
AT-MIO-16DE-10 are in the 8255 DIO port, which is not present on
the AT-MIO-16E-10, and the I/O connector.

© National Instruments Corporation 3-3 AT E Series User Manual

Chapter 3 Hardware Overview

Voltage

REF

(8)

Analog

Muxes

(8)

Trigger Level

DACs

Trigger

PFI / Trigger

Digital I/O (8)

I/O Connector

Timing

Calibration

Mux

2

Mux Mode
Selection
Switches

Figure 3-4 shows a block diagram for the AT-MIO-16XE-10.

REF

2

Sampling

Converter

Configuration

Memory

Analog Input

Timing/Control

DAQ - STC

Analog Output

Timing/Control

AO Control

Buffer

16-Bit

AI Control

DMA/
Interrupt
Request

Bus

Interface

RTSI Bus

Interface

ADC
FIFO

Data (16)

IRQ
DMA

A/D

Analog

Input

Control

DAQ-STC

Bus

Interface

Analog
Output
Control

Transceivers

EEPROM

EEPROM

Control

DAQ-PnP

8255

DIO

Control

Data

DMA

Interface

Plug
and
Play

Bus

Interface

Analog
Trigger

Circuitry

Calibration

DACs

+

Programmable
Gain
Amplifier

–

3

Trigger

Counter/

Timing I/O

Digital I/O

8

7

AT – I/O Channel

DAC0

DAC1

DAC
FIFO

4

Calibration

DACs

Data (16)

RTSI Bus

Figure 3-4. AT-MIO-16XE-10 Block Diagram

AT E Series User Manual 3-4 ni.com