NI PCI-6115 Multifunction DAQ Device

Description

Product Introduction & Engineering Value

The PCI-6115 is built for measurement systems where timing between channels matters. Its four analog inputs use simultaneous sampling rather than relying on a conventional multiplexed input architecture, making the board suitable for transient signal acquisition and synchronized stimulus/response testing.

That makes it particularly useful in legacy test platforms. Automotive electronics, radar, sonar, ultrasound, and laboratory measurement systems can depend on the exact acquisition behavior of the original DAQ hardware. Replacing the board with a generic multifunction card can change timing, driver behavior, or signal characteristics.

Technical Specifications

NI’s published specifications identify the PCI-6115 as a 4-channel, 12-bit, 10 MS/s/channel simultaneous-sampling device. The specification document also lists software-enabled 50 kHz and 500 kHz 3-pole Bessel input filters.

NI currently lists the PCI-6115 as no longer available for purchase and notes that support, repair, and calibration are limited rather than guaranteed.

Field Application & the “Trench” Experience

A test-equipment manufacturer maintained an older automotive transient-test station built around National Instruments PCI DAQ hardware. The system measured fast-changing signals while simultaneously generating stimulus signals. After the original PCI-6115 failed, the initial proposal was to replace it with a newer DAQ platform.

That sounded simple until the validation engineer compared sampling architecture, channel synchronization, driver behavior, and the existing application code.

The team ultimately sourced a verified PCI-6115 replacement. After installing the board, they checked device recognition, analog acquisition, output generation, trigger operation, and the existing NI-DAQmx application. The test station was returned to service without rewriting the complete measurement system.

Specific application scenarios

• 42 V automotive electronics testing, where synchronized acquisition is required
• Radar and sonar signal measurement
• Ultrasound instrumentation
• Stimulus/response test systems
• High-speed laboratory data acquisition
• Legacy automated test equipment

NI specifically identifies automotive 42 V applications, radar, sonar, ultrasound, and synchronized stimulus/response applications as suitable use cases.

PCI-6115

PCI-6115

Transparency SOP: QA & Testing

For a used or refurbished PCI-6115, functional testing should cover more than PCI bus detection.

1. Hardware inspection

• Confirm the PCI-6115 model and part number.
• Inspect the PCB and PCI edge connector.
• Check the I/O connector and mounting hardware.
• Look for corrosion, contamination, or component damage.

2. Host-computer verification

Install the board in a compatible full-length PCI system and verify that the operating system and NI software recognize the device correctly.

3. DAQ functional test

Where suitable test equipment is available, verify:

• Four analog input channels
• Simultaneous acquisition
• Sampling operation
• Two analog outputs
• Digital I/O
• Counter operation
• Trigger functionality

New Surplus units should be checked for storage condition and OEM identification. Refurbished units should have documented functional testing and warranty terms.

The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide

⚠️ Trap 1: Confusing PCI-6115 with PXI-6115

These are not simply different mounting versions. The PCI-6115 is a PCI board, while the PXI-6115 is designed for a PXI chassis. NI lists them as separate products.

PRO TIP: Match the exact bus architecture before purchasing.

⚠️ Trap 2: Assuming four inputs means four multiplexed channels

The PCI-6115 uses simultaneous sampling. That characteristic can be important to applications measuring phase relationships or fast transient events.

Do not substitute a conventional multiplexed DAQ board without checking the application’s timing requirements.

⚠️ Trap 3: Ignoring the host PC

The PCI-6115 requires a suitable full-length PCI slot. A modern computer with only PCI Express slots is not automatically compatible. NI explicitly states that the board requires a chassis capable of accommodating full-length PCI modules.

Dynamic FAQ

Q1. What is the NI PCI-6115 used for?

The PCI-6115 is a multifunction DAQ board for high-speed, synchronized measurement and stimulus/response applications. It combines analog input, analog output, digital I/O, counters, and digital triggering.

Q2. How many analog inputs does the PCI-6115 have?

It has 4 analog input channels, with 12-bit resolution and up to 10 MS/s per channel.

Q3. Does the PCI-6115 have analog outputs?

Yes. It provides 2 analog output channels, in addition to its four simultaneous analog inputs.

Q4. Is the PCI-6115 still manufactured?

NI currently lists the PCI-6115 as no longer available for purchase and provides limited rather than guaranteed support, repair, and calibration services.

Q5. What should buyers verify when sourcing a replacement?

Confirm the exact model, part number, hardware condition, host computer’s PCI slot availability, driver/application requirements, and whether the board’s calibration status matters to the application.

Q6. Are New Surplus and refurbished PCI-6115 boards suitable as spares?

They can be appropriate for legacy test systems when the board is properly identified and function-tested. For metrology or regulated applications, also verify calibration requirements and available calibration documentation before installation.