The NI PCI-6518 is a 32-channel industrial digital I/O module that delivers optically isolated input and output capability for demanding control and data acquisition tasks. Built on the NI-STC3 chipset, it combines 16 sink/source input lines and 16 source output lines with bank-level optical isolation to protect against voltage transients and electromagnetic interference. This PCI-based interface integrates directly into Windows and Linux systems via the NI-DAQmx driver stack, enabling rapid deployment in manufacturing test, process automation, and industrial control environments.
Technical Specifications
Digital I/O Architecture
• 32 total channels: 16 inputs (sink/source), 16 outputs (source)
• Input voltage range: −30 V to +30 V
• Output voltage range: −30 V to +30 V
• Maximum input current: 12.5 mA per line
• Output current: 350 mA per channel, 75 mA all channels simultaneously
• Propagation delay: 75 μs
• Timebase: 100 MHz
• Up to four improved counters
Power and Physical
• Power consumption: 250 mA typical at +5 VDC (±5%), 300 mA typical at +3.3 VDC (±5%)
• I/O connector: 37-pin male DSUB
• Dimensions: 5.54 in × 4.47 in (14.1 cm × 11.4 cm)
• Weight: 2.5 oz
• Operating temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C
– Key Features
• Optical isolation per bank — Eliminates ground loops and protects sensitive logic from industrial noise
• Programmable power-up states — Configurable output initialization for safe interaction with actuators and solenoids
• Digital watchdog timers — Automatic failsafe output switching upon computer or application fault detection
• Input filtering and debouncing — Programmable filters remove glitches, chatter, and transient spikes from relay and switch inputs
– Compatibility & Integration
Supports LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, Python, ANSI C, C#.NET, and MATLAB. Configuration and diagnostics via Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX). PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2 compliant.
