Data Acquisition & Measurement Module (DAQ)

NXI data acquisition and measurement modules (DAQ) enable the precise acquisition of electrical and physical parameters in development, laboratory, and production environments. Depending on the selected module, voltage, current, temperature, and other analog signals can be measured with high resolution, fast sampling rates, or a high channel density.

The portfolio includes high-speed DAQ modules for dynamic signals, precision measurement modules with up to 6½-digit resolution, multi-channel measurement modules, and solutions for thermocouples and resistance temperature detectors (RTDs). Modules for higher input voltages and for voltage or current measurement in combination with suitable external sensors are also available for power electronics applications.

The modular NXI architecture allows measurement modules to be combined with NXI measurement and control chassis, digital I/O modules, and other functional modules. This provides scalable data acquisition systems for automated test equipment, functional testing, long-term measurements, and industrial ATE systems.

How to Select an NXI Data Acquisition and Measurement Module

Selecting a suitable DAQ module starts with the signals that must be measured and the requirements of the test sequence. In addition to input range and channel count, accuracy, sampling rate, isolation, synchronization, and the required data throughput should be considered.

• Measured parameter and signal type: First determine whether DC or AC voltage, current, temperature, or a general analog sensor signal must be acquired. Thermocouples, RTD sensors, and external current sensors require suitable inputs and measurement methods.
• Input range and signal conditioning: The input range must safely cover the lowest and highest expected signal levels. The NXI-6102 and NXI-6103 modules, for example, are designed for higher analog input voltages. High-voltage or high-current applications may additionally require compatible voltage dividers, shunts, or external sensors.
• Accuracy and resolution: Consider not only the specified resolution but also basic accuracy, temperature coefficient, long-term stability, and the uncertainty of the complete measurement chain. The 6½-digit NXI-6400 measurement module is an option for applications requiring particularly precise measurements.
• Sampling rate and bandwidth: Slow temperature or monitoring measurements have different requirements from the acquisition of fast switching events. For dynamic signals, a high-speed DAQ module such as the NXI-6100 with a sampling rate of up to 1.25 MS/s may be relevant. Verify whether the specified sampling rate applies per channel or to the complete module.
• Channel count and simultaneous acquisition: Define how many signals must be measured in parallel. Also check whether the channels are sampled simultaneously or sequentially through a multiplexer and consider the resulting time offset between channels.
• Temperature measurement: For thermocouples, sensor type, cold-junction compensation, and wiring must be considered. For RTD sensors, the resistance range and two-, three-, or four-wire connection must match the application. NXI-6500 and NXI-6501 modules are intended for thermocouples, while the NXI-6510 is designed for RTD measurements.
• Isolation and reference potentials: Check the permissible voltage between inputs, between the channels and system ground, and between the measurement system and protective earth. Galvanic isolation is particularly important for power electronics, battery systems, and signals with different reference potentials.
• Triggering and synchronization: Time-correlated multi-channel measurements require suitable trigger functions, time bases, and synchronization options. This is especially important when analog measurements must be evaluated together with digital I/O signals or other test system data.
• Chassis and data throughput: Channel count, sampling rate, and measurement duration determine the generated data volume. Select an appropriate NXI chassis and controller with sufficient slots, memory, and communication bandwidth for the planned configuration.
• Interfaces and automation: For automated test equipment, verify remote-control functions, software integration, available drivers, command structure, and data export options. The system can be extended with NXI communication modules where required.
• Scalability and system integration: Consider possible future channels, measured parameters, and test sequences during the initial system design. ET System can combine NXI modules with power supplies, electronic loads, switching equipment, safety components, and test software through custom test system integration.

For support with configuring an NXI measurement system, provide the required signal types, input ranges, channel count, sampling rate, and automation requirements to our technical sales team. Contact ET System for application-specific advice.