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Requirements and Compatibility | Ordering Information | Detailed Specifications | Pinouts/Front Panel Connections For user manuals and dimensional drawings, visit the product page resources tab on ni.com.

Last Revised: 2008-09-24 10:47:16.0

High-Speed M Series Multifunction DAQ for USB - 16-Bit, up to 1.25 MS/s, Integrated BNC Connectivity

  • Up to 16 differential BNC analog inputs at 16 bits, 1.25 MS/s (1 MS/s scanning)
  • Up to 4 BNC analog outputs at 16 bits, 2.86 MS/s
  • Up to 48 TTL/CMOS digital I/O lines (8 BNC, up to 32 hardware-timed at up to 1 MHz)
  • Two 32-bit, 80 MHz counter/timers
  • Analog and digital triggering supported; power supply included
  • NI-PGIA 2 and NI-MCal calibration technology for improved measurement accuracy
  • NI signal streaming for 4 high-speed data streams on USB
  • NI-DAQmx driver software and LabVIEW SignalExpress LE included

Overview

With recent bandwidth improvements and new innovations from National Instruments, USB has evolved into a core bus of choice for measurement and automation applications. High-speed NI M Series devices for USB deliver high-performance data acquisition in an easy-to-use and portable form factor through USB ports on laptop computers and other portable computing platforms. NI created NI signal streaming, an innovative patent-pending technology that enables sustained bidirectional high-speed data streams on USB. The new technology, combined with advanced external synchronization and isolation, helps engineers and scientists achieve high-performance applications on USB.

NI M Series high-speed multifunction data acquisition (DAQ) modules for USB are optimized for superior accuracy at fast sampling rates. They provide an onboard NI-PGIA 2 amplifier designed for fast settling times at high scanning rates, ensuring 16-bit accuracy even when measuring all available channels at maximum speed. All high-speed devices have a minimum of 16 analog inputs, 24 digital I/O lines, seven programmable input ranges, analog and digital triggering, and two counter/timers. USB M Series devices are ideal for test, control, and design applications including portable data logging, field monitoring, embedded OEM, in-vehicle data acquisition, and academic. High-speed NI USB-625x M Series devices have an extended two-year calibration interval.

Requirements and Compatibility

OS Information

  • Windows 2000/XP
  • Windows Vista x64/x86

Driver Information

  • NI-DAQmx

Software Compatibility

  • ANSI C/C++
  • LabVIEW SignalExpress
  • Visual Studio .NET
  • Visual C#
  • LabVIEW

Comparison Tables

FamilyConnectorAnalog InputsResolutionMax RateAnalog OutputsResolutionMax RateDigital I/OCounter/ Timer
USB-6251 BNCBNC and screw8 differential16 bits1.25 MS/s216 bits2.86 MS/s24 (8 BNC, 8 clocked)2
USB-6259BNC and screw16 differential16 bits1.25 MS/s416 bits2.86 MS/s48 (8 BNC, 32 clocked)2

Application and Technology

NI Signal Streaming

Unlike typical multifunction USB data acquisition devices, NI USB M Series DAQ devices incorporate NI signal streaming, a patent-pending technology that combines three innovative hardware- and software-level design elements to enable sustained high-speed and bidirectional data streams over USB. NI signal streaming, along with the error correction, noise rejection, power management, and power distribution inherent in the USB protocol, yields a robust, secure, and reliable bus. Without NI signal streaming, a multifunction data acquisition device could sustain only a single high-speed data stream, effectively making it a single-function device. For more information, visit ni.com/usb.

USB M Series for Test

For test, you can use the M Series high-speed analog inputs and 10 MHz digital lines with direct BNC connectivity for applications including test, component characterization, and sensor measurement. USB M Series multifunction DAQ devices also complement existing test systems that need additional measurement channels. For higher-channel-count signal conditioning on USB, consider the NI CompactDAQ or NI SCXI platform.

USB M Series for Control

USB M Series digital lines can drive 24 mA for relay and actuator control. By clocking the digital lines as fast as 10 MHz (with onboard regeneration), you can use these lines for pulse-width modulation (PWM) to control valves, motors, fans, lamps, and pumps. With four waveform analog outputs, two 80 MHz counter/timers, and four high-speed data streams on USB, M Series devices can execute multiple control loops simultaneously. High-speed USB-625x M Series devices also offer direct support for encoder measurements, protected digital lines, and digital debounce filters. With up to 32 single-ended analog inputs, 32 clocked digital lines, and four analog outputs, you can execute multiple control loops with a single device. 

You can also create a complete custom motion controller by combining USB M Series devices with the NI SoftMotion Development Module.

USB M Series for Design

For design applications, you can use a wide range of I/O – from 32 single-ended analog inputs to 48 digital lines – to measure and verify prototype designs. USB M Series devices and NI LabVIEW SignalExpress interactive measurement software deliver benchtop measurements to the PC. With LabVIEW SignalExpress, you can quickly create design verification tests. The fast acquisition and generation rates of high-performance USB M Series high-speed devices along with LabVIEW SignalExpress provide fast design analysis. You can convert your tested and verified LabVIEW SignalExpress projects to LabVIEW applications for immediate M Series DAQ use, and bridge the gap between test, control, and design applications.

USB M Series for OEMs

Shorten your time to market by integrating National Instruments OEM products in your design. Board-only versions of USB M Series DAQ devices are available for OEM applications, with competitive quantity pricing and software customization. The NI OEM Elite Program offers free 30-day trial kits for qualified customers. Visit ni.com/oem for more information.

Recommended Software

National Instruments measurement services software, built around NI-DAQmx driver software, includes intuitive application programming interfaces, configuration tools, I/O assistants, and other tools designed to reduce system setup, configuration, and development time. National Instruments recommends using the latest version of NI-DAQmx driver software for application development in NI LabVIEW, LabVIEW SignalExpress, LabWindows™/CVI, and Measurement Studio. To obtain the latest version of NI-DAQmx, visit ni.com/support/daq/versions. NI measurement services software speeds up your development with features including:

  • A guide to create fast and accurate measurements with no programming using the DAQ Assistant
  • Automatic code generation to create your application in LabVIEW; LabWindows/CVI; LabVIEW SignalExpress; and Visual Studio .NET, ANSI C/C++, C#, or Visual Basic using Measurement Studio
  • Multithreaded streaming technology for 1,000 times performance improvements
  • Automatic timing, triggering, and synchronization routing to make advanced applications easy
  • More than 3,000 free software downloads to jump-start your project available at ni.com/zone
  • Software configuration of all digital I/O features without hardware switches/jumpers
  • Single programming interface for analog input, analog output, digital I/O, and counters on hundreds of multifunction DAQ hardware devices 

M Series devices are compatible with the following versions (or later) of NI application software – LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or Measurement Studio versions 7.x or LabVIEW SignalExpress 2.x.

Ordering Information

For a complete list of accessories, visit the product page on ni.com.

Products Part Number Recommended Accessories Part Number
Board-Only Devices for Embedded Systems and OEM
USB-6259 OEM (Quantity 1)
 194929-01 No accessories required.
USB-6251 OEM (Quantity 1)
 194929-03 No accessories required.
High-Speed M Series Multifunction DAQ for USB with Integrated BNC Connectivity
USB-6251 BNC
 780115-0P No accessories required.
USB-6259 BNC
 780114-0P No accessories required.

Software Recommendations

NI LabVIEW Professional Development System for Mac OS X
  • Multiple communication options (TCP/IP, UDP, serial, and more)
  • Source code control integration and code complexity metrics
  • Extensive signal processing, analysis, and math functionality
  • Easy-to-use graphical development environment
  • Tight integration with a wide range of measurement hardware
  • Rapid user interface development for displaying live data

NI Measurement Studio Professional Edition
  • Requires Microsoft Visual Studio 2008/2005/.NET 2003 or Visual Studio 6.0
  • Base analysis and instrumentation components for Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C#, and Visual C++
  • Scientific user interface controls
  • Acquire data from GPIB, serial, Ethernet, and plug-in data acquisition devices
  • Code-generating DAQ Assistant and Instrument I/O Assistant
  • Cross-platform communication with network variables

NI LabVIEW SignalExpress for Windows
  • Scale your application with automatic LabVIEW code generation
  • Create custom reports or easily export data to LabVIEW, DIAdem or Microsoft Excel
  • Perform basic signal processing, analysis, and file I/O
  • Quickly configure projects without programming
  • Log data from more than 250 data acquisition devices
  • Control over 400 PC-based and stand-alone instruments

NI LabWindows™/CVI for Windows
  • Simplified cross-platform communication with network variables
  • The mark LabWindows is used under a license from Microsoft Corporation.
  • Measurement Studio .NET tools (included in LabWindows/CVI Full only)
  • Analysis tools for array manipulation, signal processing statistics, and curve fitting
  • Real-time advanced 2D graphs and charts with support for Windows Vista/XP/2000
  • Complete hardware compatibility with IVI, VISA, DAQ, GPIB, and serial

Support and Services

Calibration

NI measurement hardware is calibrated to ensure measurement accuracy and verify that the device meets its published specifications. To ensure the ongoing accuracy of your measurement hardware, NI offers basic or detailed recalibration service that provides ongoing ISO 9001 audit compliance and confidence in your measurements. To learn more about NI calibration services or to locate a qualified service center near you, contact your local sales office or visit ni.com/calibration.

Technical Support

Get answers to your technical questions using the following National Instruments resources.

Support - Visit ni.com/support to access the NI KnowledgeBase, example programs, and tutorials or to contact our applications engineers who are located in NI sales offices around the world and speak the local language.
Discussion Forums - Visit forums.ni.com for a diverse set of discussion boards on topics you care about.
Online Community - Visit community.ni.com to find, contribute, or collaborate on customer-contributed technical content with users like you.

Repair

While you may never need your hardware repaired, NI understands that unexpected events may lead to necessary repairs. NI offers repair services performed by highly trained technicians who quickly return your device with the guarantee that it will perform to factory specifications. For more information, visit ni.com/repair.

Training and Certifications

The NI training and certification program delivers the fastest, most certain route to increased proficiency and productivity using NI software and hardware. Training builds the skills to more efficiently develop robust, maintainable applications, while certification validates your knowledge and ability.
Classroom training in cities worldwide - the most comprehensive hands-on training taught by engineers.
On-site training at your facility - an excellent option to train multiple employees at the same time.
Online instructor-led training - lower-cost, remote training if classroom or on-site courses are not possible.
Course kits - lowest-cost, self-paced training that you can use as reference guides.
Training memberships and training credits - to buy now and schedule training later.

Visit ni.com/training for more information.

Extended Warranty

NI offers options for extending the standard product warranty to meet the life-cycle requirements of your project. In addition, because NI understands that your requirements may change, the extended warranty is flexible in length and easily renewed. For more information, visit ni.com/warranty.

OEM

NI offers design-in consulting and product integration assistance if you need NI products for OEM applications. For information about special pricing and services for OEM customers, visit ni.com/oem.

Detailed Specifications

Specifications listed below are typical at 25 °C unless otherwise noted. Refer to the M Series User Manual for more information about NI 625x devices.

Analog Input

Number of channels

  

 

NI 6250/6251

 

8 differential or 16 single ended

NI 6254/6259

 

16 differential or 32 single ended

NI 6255

 

40 differential or 80 single ended

ADC resolution

 

16 bits

DNL

 

No missing codes guaranteed

INL

 

Refer to the AI Absolute Accuracy Table

Sampling rate

 

 

Maximum

 

 

NI 6250/6251/6254/6259

 

1.25 MS/s single channel,
1.00 MS/s multi-channel (aggregate)

NI 6255

 

1.25 MS/s single channel
750 kS/s multi-channel (aggregate)

Minimum

 

No minimum

Timing accuracy

 

50 ppm of sample rate

Timing resolution

 

50 ns

Input coupling

 

DC

Input range

  

±10 V, ±5 V, ±2 V, ±1 V, ±0.5 V, ±0.2 V, ±0.1 V

Maximum working voltage for analog inputs (signal + common mode)

  

±11 V of AI GND

CMRR (DC to 60 Hz)

  

100 dB

Input impedance

    

Device on

    

AI+ to AI GND

  

>10 GΩ in parallel with 100 pF

AI- to AI GND

  

>10 GΩ in parallel with 100 pF

Device off

    

AI+ to AI GND

  

820 Ω

AI- to AI GND

  

820 Ω

Input bias current

  

±100 pA

Crosstalk (at 100 kHz)

 

 

Adjacent channels

 

-75 dB

Non-adjacent channels

 

-90 dB1

Small signal bandwidth (-3 dB)

 

1.7 MHz

Input FIFO size

 

4,095 samples

Scan list memory

 

4,095 entries

Data transfers

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

DMA (scatter-gather), interrupts, programmed I/O

USB devices

 

USB Signal Stream, programmed I/O

Overvoltage protection (AI <0..79>, AI SENSE, AI SENSE 2)

 

Device on

 

±25 V for up to four AI pins

Device off

 

±15 V for up to four AI pins

Input current during overvoltage condition

 

±20 mA max/AI pin

1  For USB-6255 devices, channel AI <0..15> crosstalk to channel AI <64..79> is -67 dB; applies to channels with 64-channel separation, for example, AI (x) and AI (x + 64).

Settling Time for Multichannel Measurements

NI 6250/6251/6254/6259

Range

±60 ppm of Step (±4 LSB for Full Scale Step)

±15 ppm of Step (±1 LSB for Full Scale Step)
±10 V, ±5 V, ±2 V, ±1 V 1 µs 1.5 µs
±0.5 V 1.5 µs 2 µs
±0.2 V, ±0.1 V 2 µs 8 µs

 

NI 6255

Range

±60 ppm of Step (±4 LSB for Full Scale Step)

±15 ppm of Step (±1 LSB for Full Scale Step)
±10 V, ±5 V, ±2 V, ±1 V 1.3 µs 1.6 µs
±0.5 V 1.8 µs 2.5 µs
±0.2 V, ±0.1 V 3 µs 8 µs

 
Typical Performance Graphs









Analog Triggers
Number of triggers  

1
Source  

 

NI 6250/6251

  

AI <0..15>, APFI 0

NI 6254/6259

  

AI <0..31>, APFI <0..1>

NI 6255

  

AI <0..79>, APFI 0
Functions  

Start Trigger, Reference Trigger, Pause Trigger, Sample Clock, Convert Clock, Sample Clock Timebase
Source level  

 

AI <0..79>

  

±full scale

APFI <0..1>

  

±10 V

Resolution

 

10 bits, 1 in 1,024

Modes

 

Analog edge triggering, analog edge triggering with hysteresis, and analog window triggering

Bandwidth (-3 dB)

 

 

AI <0..79>

 

3.4 MHz

APFI <0..1>

 

3.9 MHz

Accuracy

 

±1%

APFI <0..1> characteristics

 

 

Input impedance

 

10 kΩ

Coupling

 

DC

Protection

 

 

Power on

 

±30 V

Power off

 

±15 V

Analog Output

Number of channels

 

 

NI 6250/6254

 

0

NI 6251/6255

 

2

NI 6259

 

4

DAC resolution

   16 bits

DNL

 

±1 LSB

Monotonicity

 

16 bit guaranteed

Accuracy

 

Refer to the AO Absolute Accuracy Table

Maximum update rate

 

 

1 channel

 

2.86 MS/s

2 channels

 

2.00 MS/s

3 channels

 

1.54 MS/s

4 channels

 

1.25 MS/s

Timing accuracy

 

50 ppm of sample rate

Timing resolution

 

50 ns

Output range

   ±10 V, ±5 V, ±external reference on APFI <0..1>

Output coupling

  

DC

Output impedance

  

0.2 Ω

Output current drive

   ±5 mA

Overdrive protection

  

±25 V

Overdrive current

  

20 mA

Power-on state

  

±5 mV2

Power-on glitch

  

1.5 V peak for 1.5 s

Output FIFO size

  

8,191 samples shared among channels used

Data transfers

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

DMA (scatter-gather), interrupts, programmed I/O

USB devices

 

USB Signal Stream, programmed I/O

AO waveform modes:

  • Non-periodic waveform
  • Periodic waveform regeneration mode from onboard FIFO
  • Periodic waveform regeneration from host buffer including dynamic update

Settling time, full scale step 15 ppm (1 LSB)

  

2 µs

Slew rate

  

20 V/µs

Glitch energy at midscale transition, ±10 V range

 

 

Magnitude

 

10 mV

Duration

 

1 µs

2  For all USB-6251/6259 Screw Terminal devices, when powered on, the analog output signal is not defined until after USB configuration is complete.

External Reference

APFI <0..1> characteristics

 

 

Input impedance

 

10 kΩ

Coupling

 

DC

Protection

 

 

Power on

 

±30 V

Power off

 

±15 V

Range

 

±11 V

Slew rate

 

20 V/µs

 

 

 

 

Calibration (AI and AO)

Recommended warm-up time

 

15 minutes

Calibration interval

 

2 years

AI Absolute Accuracy Table
Nominal Range Residual
Gain
Error
(ppm of
Reading)		 Gain
Tempco
(ppm/°C)		 Reference
Tempco		 Residual
Offset
Error
(ppm of
Range)		 Offset
Tempco
(ppm of
Range/°C)		 INL Error
(ppm of
Range)		 Random
Noise,
σ (µVrms)		 Absolute
Accuracy
at
Full
Scale1 (µV)		 Sensitivity2
(µV)

Positive
Full
Scale

Negative
Full
Scale
10 -10 60 13 1 20 21 60 280 1,920 112.0
5 -5 70 13 1 20 21 60 140 1,010 56.0
2 -2 70 13 1 20 24 60 57 410 22.8
1 -1 80 13 1 20 27 60 32 220 12.8
0.5 - 0.5 90 13 1 40 34 60 21 130 8.4
0.2 - 0.2 130 13 1 80 55 60 16 74 6.4
0.1 - 0.1 150 13 1 150 90 60 15 52 6.0

Accuracies listed are valid for up to two years from the device external calibration.

AbsoluteAccuracy = Reading · (GainError) + Range · (OffsetError) + NoiseUncertainty

GainError = ResidualAIGainError + GainTempco · (TempChangeFromLastInternalCal) + ReferenceTempco · (TempChangeFromLastExternalCal)

OffsetError = ResidualAIOffsetError + OffsetTempco · (TempChangeFromLastInternalCal) + INL_Error


1 Absolute accuracy at full scale on the analog input channels is determined using the following assumptions:

TempChangeFromLastExternalCal = 10 °C

TempChangeFromLastInternalCal = 1 °C

number_of_readings = 100

CoverageFactor = 3 σ

For example, on the 10 V range, the absolute accuracy at full scale is as follows:

GainError = 60 ppm + 13 ppm · 1 + 1 ppm · 10       GainError = 83 ppm

OffsetError = 20 ppm + 21 ppm · 1 + 60 ppm         OffsetError = 101 ppm

AbsoluteAccuracy = 10 V · (GainError) + 10 V · (OffsetError) + NoiseUncertainty      AbsoluteAccuracy = 1920 µV

2 Sensitivity is the smallest voltage change that can be detected. It is a function of noise.

 

AO Absolute Accuracy Table
Nominal Range Residual
Gain Error
(ppm of
Reading)		 Gain
Tempco
(ppm/°C)		 Reference
Tempco		 Residual
Offset Error
(ppm of
Range)		 Offset
Tempco
(ppm of
Range/°C)		 INL
Error
(ppm of
Range)		 Absolute
Accuracy at
Full
Scale1
(µV)

Positive
Full
Scale

Negative
Full
Scale
10 -10 75 17 1 40 2 64 2,080
5 -5 85 8 1 40 2 64 1,045

1 Absolute Accuracy at full scale numbers is valid immediately following internal calibration and assumes the device is operating within 10 °C of the last external calibration.
Accuracies listed are valid for up to two years from the device external calibration.

AbsoluteAccuracy = OutputValue · (GainError) + Range · (OffsetError)

GainError = ResidualGainError + GainTempco · (TempChangeFromLastInternalCal) + ReferenceTempco · (TempChangeFromLastExternalCal)

OffsetError = ResidualOffsetError + AOOffsetTempco · (TempChangeFromLastInternalCal) + INL_Error

 

Digital I/O/PFI

Static Characteristics

Number of channels

 

 

NI 6250/6251/6255

 

24 total, 8 (P0.<0..7>), 16 (PFI <0..7>/P1, PFI <8..15>/P2)

NI 6254/6259

  

48 total, 32 (P0.<0..31>), 16 (PFI <0..7>/P1, PFI <8..15>/P2)

Ground reference

  

D GND

Direction control

 

Each terminal individually programmable as input or output

Pull-down resistor

 

50 kΩ typ, 20 kΩ min

Input voltage protection3

 

±20 V on up to two pins

3  Stresses beyond those listed under Input voltage protection may cause permanent damage to the device.

Waveform Characteristics (Port 0 Only)

Terminals used

 

 

NI 6250/6251/6255

 

Port 0 (P0.<0..7>)

NI 6254/6259

 

Port 0 (P0.<0..31>)

Port/sample size

 

 

NI 6250/6251/6255

 

Up to 8 bits

NI 6254/6259

 

Up to 32 bits

Waveform generation (DO) FIFO

 

2,047 samples

Waveform acquisition (DI) FIFO

 

2,047 samples

DI Sample Clock frequency

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

0 to 10 MHz4

USB devices

 

0 to 1 MHz system dependent4

DO Sample Clock frequency

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

 

Regenerate from FIFO

 

0 to 10 MHz

Streaming from memory

 

0 to 1 MHz system dependent4

USB devices

 

 

Regenerate from FIFO

 

0 to 10 MHz

Streaming from memory

 

0 to 1 MHz system dependent4

Data transfers

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

DMA (scatter-gather), interrupts, programmed I/O

USB devices

 

USB Signal Stream, programmed I/O

DO or DI Sample Clock source5

 

Any PFI, RTSI, AI Sample or Convert Clock, AO Sample Clock, Ctr n Internal Output, and many other signals

4  Performance can be dependent on bus latency and volume of bus activity.
5  The digital subsystem does not have its own dedicated internal timing engine. Therefore, a sample clock must be provided from another subsystem on the device or an external source.

PFI/Port 1/Port 2 Functionality

Functionality

 

Static digital input, static digital output, timing input, timing output

Timing output sources

 

Many AI, AO, counter, DI, DO timing signals

Debounce filter settings

 

125 ns, 6.425 µs, 2.56 ms, disable; high and low transitions; selectable per input

 

Recommended Operation Conditions6

Level

Min

Max
Input high voltage (VIH) 2.2 V 5.25 V
Input low voltage (VIL) 0 V 0.8 V
Output high current (IOH)
   P0.<0..31>
   PFI <0..15>/P1/P2
—
—
-24 mA
-16 mA
Output low current (IOL)
   P0.<0..31>
   PFI <0..15>/P1/P2
—
—
24 mA
16 mA

 

Electrical Characteristics

Level

Min

Max
Positive-going threshold (VT+)
Negative-going threshold (VT-)		 —
0.8 V		 2.2 V
—
Delta VT hysteresis (VT+ - VT-) 0.2 V —
IIL input low current (Vin = 0 V)

IIH input high current (Vin = 5 V)

 —

—

 -10 µA

250 µA

 

Digital I/O Characteristics6





6  On earlier versions of the USB-6251 Screw Terminal (part numbers 194929A/B/C-0x) and the USB-6259 Screw Terminal (part numbers 194021B/C-0x), the digital I/O characteristics of P0.<16..31> match the characteristics of PFI <0..15>. Refer to the November 2006 version of the NI 625x Specifications (part number 371291G-01) for more details.

General-Purpose Counter/Timers

Number of counter/timers

 

2

Resolution

 

32 bits

Counter measurements

 

Edge counting, pulse, semi-period, period, two-edge separation

Position measurements

 

X1, X2, X4 quadrature encoding with Channel Z reloading; two-pulse encoding

Output applications

 

Pulse, pulse train with dynamic updates, frequency division, equivalent time sampling

Internal base clocks

 

80 MHz, 20 MHz, 0.1 MHz

External base clock frequency

 

0 MHz to 20 MHz

Base clock accuracy

 

50 ppm

Inputs

 

Gate, Source, HW_Arm, Aux, A, B, Z, Up_Down

Routing options for inputs

 

Any PFI, RTSI, PXI_TRIG, PXI_STAR, analog trigger, many internal signals

FIFO

 

2 samples

Data transfers

 

 

PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices

 

Dedicated scatter-gather DMA controller for each counter/timer; interrupts, programmed I/O

USB devices

 

USB Signal Stream, programmed I/O

Frequency Generator

Number of channels

 

1

Base clocks

 

10 MHz, 100 kHz

Divisors

 

1 to 16

Base clock accuracy

  

50 ppm

Output can be available on any PFI or RTSI terminal.

Phase-Locked Loop (PLL)

Number of PLLs

 

1

Reference signal

 

PXI_STAR, PXI_CLK10, RTSI <0..7>

Output of PLL

 

80 MHz Timebase; other signals derived from 80 MHz Timebase including 20 MHz and 100 kHz Timebases

External Digital Triggers

Source

 

Any PFI, RTSI, PXI_TRIG, PXI_STAR

Polarity

 

Software-selectable for most signals

Analog input function

 

Start Trigger, Reference Trigger, Pause Trigger, Sample Clock, Convert Clock, Sample Clock Timebase

Analog output function

 

Start Trigger, Pause Trigger, Sample Clock, Sample Clock Timebase

Counter/timer functions

 

Gate, Source, HW_Arm, Aux, A, B, Z, Up_Down

Digital waveform generation (DO) function

  

Sample Clock

Digital waveform acquisition (DI) function

  

Sample Clock

Device-To-Device Trigger Bus

PCI/PCIe devices

 

RTSI <0..7>7

PXI/PXIe devices

 

PXI_TRIG <0..7>, PXI_STAR

USB devices

 

None

Output selections

  

10 MHz Clock; frequency generator output; many internal signals

Debounce filter settings

  

125 ns, 6.425 µs, 2.56 ms, disable; high and low transitions; selectable per input

7  In other sections of this document, RTSI refers to RTSI <0..7> for PCI/PCIe devices or PXI_TRIG <0..7> for PXI/PXIe devices.

Bus Interface

PCI/PXI devices

 

3.3 V or 5 V signal environment

PCIe devices

 

 

Form factor

 

x1 PCI Express, specification v1.0a compliant

Slot compatibility

 

x1, x4, x8, and x16 PCI Express slots8

PXIe devices

 

 

Form factor

 

x1 PXI Express peripheral module, specification rev 1.0 compliant

Slot compatibility

 

x1 and x4 PXI Express or PXI Express hybrid slots

USB devices

 

USB 2.0 Hi-Speed or full-speed9,10

DMA channels (PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe devices)

 

6, analog input, analog output, digital input, digital output, counter/timer 0, counter/timer 1

USB Signal Stream (USB devices)

  

4, can be used for analog input, analog output, digital input, digital output, counter/timer 0, counter/timer 1

All PXI-625x devices support one of the following features:

  • May be installed in PXI Express hybrid slots
  • Or, may be used to control SCXI in PXI/SCXI combo chassis
    
Table 1. PXI/SCXI Combo and PXI Express Chassis Compatibility
M Series Device M Series Part Number SCXI Control in PXI/SCXI Combo Chassis PXI Express Hybrid Slot Compatible
PXI-6250
 191325D-04/191325E-04L No Yes
PXI-6251 191325D-03/191325E-03L No Yes
191325D-13/191325E-13L Yes No
PXI-6254 191325D-02/191325E-03L No Yes
PXI-6255 193618A-01 No Yes
PXI-6259
 191325D-01/191325E-01L No Yes
191325D-11/191325E-11L Yes No
Earlier versions of PXI-6251/ 6254/6259 191325C-0x 191325B-0x Yes No

All NI PXIe-625x devices may be installed in PXI Express slots or PXI Express hybrid slots.

8  Some motherboards reserve the x16 slot for graphics use. For PCI Express guidelines, refer to ni.com/pciexpress.
9  If you are using a USB M Series device in full-speed mode, device performance will be lower and you will not be able to achieve maximum sampling/update rates.
10  Operating on a full-speed bus may result in lower high-speed full-speed performance.

Power Requirements

Current draw from bus during no-load condition11

 

 

PCI/PXI devices

 

 

+5 V

 

0.03 A

+3.3 V

 

0.725 A

+12 V

 

0.35 A

PCIe devices

 

 

+3.3 V

 

0.925 A

+12 V

 

0.35 A

PXIe devices

 

 

+3.3 V

 

0.45 A

+12 V

 

0.5 A

Current draw from bus during AI and AO overvoltage condition11

 

 

PCI/PXI devices

 

 

+5 V

 

0.03 A

+3.3 V

 

1.2 A

+12 V

 

0.38 A

PCIe devices

 

 

+3.3 V

 

1.4 A

+12 V

 

0.38 A

PXIe devices

    

+3.3 V

 

0.48 A

+12 V

  

0.71 A

Caution USB-625x devices must be powered with NI offered AC adapter or a National Electric Code (NEC) Class 2 DC source that meets the power requirements
for the device and has appropriate safety certification marks for country of use.

USB power supply requirements

 

11 to 30 VDC, 20 W, locking or non-locking power jack with 0.080" diameter center pin, 5/16-32 thread for locking collars

11  Does not include P0/PFI/P1/P2 and +5 V terminals.

Power Limits

Caution  Exceeding the power limits may cause unpredictable behavior by the device and/or PC/chassis.

PCI devices

 

 

+5 V terminal (connector 0)

 

1 A max12

+5 V terminal (connector 1)

 

1 A max12

PCIe devices

 

 

Without disk drive power connector installed

 

 

+5 V terminals combined

 

0.35 A max12

P0/PFI/P1/P2 and +5 V terminals combined

 

0.39 A max

With disk drive power connector installed

 

 

+5 V terminal (connector 0)

  

1 A max12

+5 V terminal (connector 1)

  

1 A max12

P0/PFI/P1/P2 combined

  

0.39 A max

PXI/PXIe devices

  

 

+5 V terminal (connector 0)

  

1 A max12

+5 V terminal (connector 1)

 

1 A max12

P0/PFI/P1/P2 and +5 V terminals combined

 

2 A max

USB devices

 

 

+5 V terminal

 

1 A max12

P0/PFI/P1/P2 and +5 V terminals combined

 

2 A max

Power supply fuse

 

2 A, 250 V

12  Has a self-resetting fuse that opens when current exceeds this specification.

Physical Requirements

Printed circuit board dimensions

 

 

NI PCI-6250/6251/6254/6255/6259

 

9.7 × 15.5 cm (3.8 × 6.1 in.)

NI PCIe-6251/6259

 

9.9 × 16.8 cm (3.9 × 6.6 in.) (half-length)

NI PXI/PXIe-6250/6251/6254/6255/6259

 

Standard 3U PXI

Enclosure dimensions (includes connectors)

 

 

NI USB-6251/6255/6259 Screw Terminal

 

26.67 × 17.09 × 4.45 cm (10.5 × 6.73 × 1.75 in.)

NI USB-6251/6259 BNC

 

28.6 × 17 × 6.9 cm (11.25 × 6.7 × 2.7 in.)

NI USB-6251/6255/6259 Mass Termination

 

18.8 × 17.09 × 4.45 cm (7.4 × 6.73 × 1.75 in.)

NI USB-6251/6255/6259 OEM

 

Refer to the NI USB-622x/625x OEM User Guide

Weight

 

 

NI PCI-6250

 

142 g (5 oz)

NI PCI-6251

 

149 g (5.2 oz)

NI PCI-6254

 

152 g (5.3 oz)

NI PCI-6255

 

164 g (5.8 oz)

NI PCI-6259

 

162 g (5.6 oz)

NI PCIe-6251

 

161 g (5.7 oz)

NI PCIe-6259

 

175 g (6.1 oz)

NI PXI-6250

 

212 g (7.5 oz)

NI PXI-6251/6254

 

222 g (7.8 oz)

NI PXI-6255

 

236 g (8.3 oz)

NI PXI-6259

 

233 g (8.2 oz)

NI PXIe-6251

 

208 g (7.3 oz)

NI PXIe-6259

 

221 g (7.8 oz)

NI USB-6251 Screw Terminal

 

1.2 kg (2 lb 10 oz)

NI USB-6255/6259 Screw Terminal

 

1.24 kg (2 lb 11 oz)

NI USB-6251/6255/6259 Mass Termination

 

816 g (1 lb 12.8 oz)

NI USB-6251 OEM

 

140 g (4.9 oz)

NI USB-6255/6259 OEM

 

172 g (6.1 oz)

I/O connector

 

 

NI PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe-6250/6251

 

1 68-pin VHDCI

NI PCI/PCIe/PXI/PXIe-6254/6255/6259

 

2 68-pin VHDCI

NI USB-6251 Screw Terminal

 

64 screw terminals

NI USB-6255/6259 Screw Terminal

 

128 screw terminals

NI USB-6251 BNC

 

21 BNCs and 30 screw terminals

NI USB-6259 BNC

 

32 BNCs and 60 screw terminals

NI USB-6251 Mass Termination

 

1 68-pin SCSI

NI USB-6255/6259 Mass Termination

 

2 68-pin SCSI

Disk drive power connector (PCIe devices)

 

Standard ATX peripheral connector (not serial ATA)

USB-6251/6255/6259 Screw Terminal/USB-6251/6259 BNC screw terminal wiring

 

16-28 AWG

Maximum Working Voltage13

NI 6250/6251/6254/6255/6259 channel-to-earth

 

11 V, Measurement Category I

Caution  Do not use for measurements within Categories II, III, or IV.

13  Maximum working voltage refers to the signal voltage plus the common-mode voltage.

Environmental

Operating temperature

 

 

PCI/PXI/PXIe devices

 

0 to 55 °C

PCIe devices

 

0 to 50 °C

USB devices

 

0 to 45 °C

Storage temperature

 

-20 to 70 °C

Humidity

 

10 to 90% RH, noncondensing

Maximum altitude

 

2,000 m

Pollution Degree (indoor use only)

 

2

Shock and Vibration (PXI/PXIe Devices Only)

Operational shock

 

30 g peak, half-sine, 11 ms pulse
(Tested in accordance with IEC-60068-2-27. Test profile developed in accordance with MIL-PRF-28800F.)

Random vibration

 

 

Operating

 

5 to 500 Hz, 0.3 grms

Nonoperating

 

5 to 500 Hz, 2.4 grms
(Tested in accordance with IEC-60068-2-64. Nonoperating test profile exceeds the requirements of MIL-PRF-28800F, Class 3.)

 

Safety

This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following standards of safety for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use:
  • IEC 61010-1, EN 61010-1
  • UL 61010-1, CSA 61010-1

Note For UL and other safety certifications, refer to the product label or visit ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line, and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following standards of EMC for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use:
  • EN 61326 EMC requirements; Minimum Immunity
  • EN 55011 Emissions; Group 1, Class A
  • CE, C-Tick, ICES, and FCC Part 15 Emissions; Class A

Note For EMC compliance, operate this device with shielded cables.

CE Compliance

This product meets the essential requirements of applicable European Directives, as amended for CE marking, as follows:
  • 73/23/EEC; Low-Voltage Directive (safety)
  • 89/336/EEC; Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC)

Note Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this product for any additional regulatory compliance information. To obtain the DoC for this product, visit ni.com/certification, search by model number or product line, and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.

Environmental Management

National Instruments is committed to designing and manufacturing products in an environmentally responsible manner. NI recognizes that eliminating certain hazardous substances from our products is beneficial not only to the environment but also to NI customers.

For additional environmental information, refer to the NI and the Environment Web page at ni.com/environment. This page contains the environmental regulations and directives with which NI complies, as well as other environmental information not included in this document.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

At the end of their life cycle, all products must be sent to a WEEE recycling center. For more information about WEEE recycling centers and National Instruments WEEE initiatives, visit ni.com/environment/weee.htm.



 

Pinouts/Front Panel Connections

NI USB-6251 Screw Terminal Pinout
NI USB-6255 Screw Terminal Pinout
NI USB-6259 Screw Terminal Pinout

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