Comprehensive Product Summary – AO‑1604LI‑PE PCI Express Isolated Analog Output Board

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### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: AO‑1604LI‑PE
Article Number: AO‑1604LI‑PE
Series: LI‑PE Series (Bus‑Isolated Analog I/O Boards for PCI Express)
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Osaka, Japan)
Product Type: PCI Express Bus‑Isolated 16‑bit Analog Output Interface Board
Version: Hardware/Documentation Ver. 1.05 (January 2018)

The AO‑1604LI‑PE is a high‑precision, bus‑isolated analog output board designed for PCI Express x1 slots. It provides four independent 16‑bit analog output channels with bipolar ±10 V range, four isolated digital inputs, four isolated digital outputs, and one 32‑bit counter channel. The board is engineered for industrial measurement, control, and signal‑generation applications requiring electrical isolation between the PC and external I/O circuitry.

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### 2. Key Features

- Bus‑Isolated Analog Output:
Four 16‑bit D/A channels with ±10 V bipolar range, isolated from the host PC by a digital isolator to enhance noise immunity and protect against ground loops.

- High‑Speed Conversion:
10 µs conversion time per channel (100 kS/s aggregate rate) enabling precise waveform generation and real‑time control.

- Integrated Digital I/O:
Four isolated TTL‑level digital inputs and four isolated TTL‑level digital outputs (positive logic) for auxiliary control and status signaling.

- 32‑bit Counter Function:
One isolated up‑count channel (1 MHz max) with gate and up‑clock inputs and a count‑match pulse output for event counting or frequency measurement.

- 1 k‑Word Buffer Memory:
On‑board FIFO/RING buffer supports continuous or cyclic analog output independent of host CPU timing.

- Flexible Trigger and Clock Control:
Start/stop of sampling selectable via software command, external trigger, or specified sample count; internal or external sampling clock supported.

- Digital Filtering:
Optional 1 µs digital filter suppresses chattering and noise on external trigger, sampling clock, digital input, and counter signals.

- Safety Power‑On Design:
All analog outputs automatically reset to 0 V when power is applied, preventing transient voltages that could damage connected equipment.

- Software‑Based Calibration:
Full calibration performed via software; user can store additional adjustment data to compensate for environmental variations.

- Comprehensive Software Support:
Includes Windows and Linux drivers (API‑PAC W32), C‑LOGGER data‑logging software, and libraries for MATLAB (ML‑DAQ) and LabVIEW (VI‑DAQ).

- Compatibility:
Connector pinout and functions are compatible with the legacy PCI board DAI16‑4(LPCI)L, simplifying migration to PCI Express systems.

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### 3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Interface | PCI Express Base Specification Rev. 1.0a (x1 lane) |
| Isolation Type | Digital isolator between PC bus and external I/O circuits |
| Analog Output Channels | 4 channels, isolated |
| Output Range | Bipolar ±10 V |
| Resolution | 16 bits (1 LSB ≈ 0.305 mV) |
| Conversion Speed | 10 µs per sample (100 kS/s max) |
| Output Impedance | ≤ 1 Ω |
| Absolute Max Output Current | ± 5 mA per channel |
| Non‑Linearity Error | ± 5 LSB (≈ 0.1 % FS typ.) |
| Buffer Memory | 1 k word FIFO/RING configurable |
| External Start/Stop/Clock Signals | Isolation TTL‑level, rising/falling edge selectable |
| Digital Inputs | 4 channels, isolated TTL positive logic |
| Digital Outputs | 4 channels, isolated TTL positive logic, IOL = 16 mA |
| Counter | 1 channel, 32‑bit up counter, 1 MHz max frequency |
| Counter Inputs | Gate (positive logic level), Up (rising edge) |
| Counter Output | Count‑match pulse output (positive logic) |
| I/O Address Space | 64 ports |
| Interrupt Level | Single INTA line for errors and events |
| Connector Type | 50‑pin mini‑ribbon (3M 10250‑52A2JL) |
| Power Consumption | +3.3 V DC ±5 %, 1.5 A max |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 50 °C |
| Operating Humidity | 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing) |
| Dimensions | 169.33 (L) × 110.18 (H) mm |
| Weight | Approx. 120 g |
| Color/Design | Subject to change without notice |

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### 4. Functionality

Operating Principle:
The AO‑1604LI‑PE converts digital data from the host PC into isolated analog voltage outputs through precision 16‑bit D/A converters. Each channel can output continuous or triggered waveforms under software or external control. The board’s FPGA manages timing, buffering, and isolation, ensuring deterministic performance even under host CPU load.

Use Cases & Applications:
- Industrial process control and actuator driving
- Analog waveform generation for test and simulation
- Automated measurement systems requiring isolated analog outputs
- Hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) and real‑time control environments
- Integration with MATLAB, LabVIEW, or custom C/C++ applications

Compatibility:
Fully compatible with Windows (32/64‑bit) and Linux environments via API‑PAC (W32) driver suite. MATLAB ML‑DAQ and LabVIEW VI‑DAQ libraries provide seamless integration with scientific and engineering software.

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### 5. Components & Accessories

Standard Package Contents:
1. AO‑1604LI‑PE board × 1
2. First Step Guide × 1
3. Driver Disk (API‑PAC W32) × 1 (includes drivers and User’s Guide)
4. Warranty Certificate × 1
5. Serial Number Label × 1

Optional Accessories:
- Shield Cables (50‑pin Mini‑Ribbon):
 • PCB50PS‑0.5P (0.5 m)  • PCB50PS‑1.5P (1.5 m)
- Shield Cable (one end connector):
 • PCA50PS‑0.5P (0.5 m)  • PCA50PS‑1.5P (1.5 m)
- Screw Terminal Unit: EPD‑50A (M3 × 50 P, spring‑up type)
- Buffer Amplifier Boxes: ATBA‑8L (8 ch) / ATBA‑16L (16 ch) – require external AC adapter POA200‑20
- BNC Terminal Unit: ATP‑8L (for up to 8 analog inputs and 2 outputs)

All accessories use the 50‑pin mini‑ribbon interface; shielded cables are recommended for long‑distance or noise‑sensitive installations.

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### 6. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:
- Available PCI Express x1 slot (compatible with x4/x8/x16 slots)
- +3.3 V DC power supply capable of 1.5 A per slot
- Supported OS: Windows XP → Windows 10 / Linux kernel modules (API‑AIO LNX)

Installation Procedure:
1. Software Installation: Install API‑PAC (W32) drivers before hardware insertion.
2. Hardware Setup: Set Board ID (SW1 rotary switch 0–Fh) if multiple boards are used.
3. Mounting: Power off PC, insert board into PCIe slot, secure bracket.
4. Driver Detection: Upon boot, Windows detects the board and installs drivers automatically.
5. Verification: Use the diagnostic utility to test analog output, digital I/O, and counter functions.

Connector Interface (CN1):
50‑pin mini‑ribbon (3M 10250‑52A2JL) with pin assignments for AO channels 0–3, AGND, digital I/O, counter signals, and external triggers. Analog and digital grounds are isolated and must not be shorted.

Mounting Notes:
- Maintain separation between analog and digital grounds to avoid noise coupling.
- Leave reserved pins unconnected.
- Use shielded cables for long runs or high‑noise environments.

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### 7. Performance & Capabilities

Analog Output Performance:
- Speed: 100 kS/s aggregate (10 µs per sample)
- Accuracy: ± 0.1 % FS typical non‑linearity
- Output Drive: ± 5 mA max per channel
- Settling Time: 10 µs typical to ± 0.01 % FS
- Isolation Voltage: Digital isolator provides robust PC to I/O separation (typ. 500 V DC isolation path)

Digital I/O Performance:
- TTL positive logic levels (High ≥ 2.0 V, Low ≤ 0.8 V)
- Input filter time selectable (1 µs or none)
- Output sink current 16 mA max per bit

Counter Performance:
- 32‑bit up counter (0 to 0xFFFFFFFF)
- 1 MHz max count frequency
- Gate and Up inputs TTL‑level isolated
- Count‑match pulse output for synchronization

Buffer Operation:
- FIFO mode for continuous streaming output
- RING mode for cyclic waveform generation
- Supports background operation independent of host software timing

Limitations:
- Output current limited to ± 5 mA; not intended for direct load driving.
- Analog and digital grounds must remain isolated.
- External clock frequency limited to 1 MHz for counter and trigger inputs.

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### 8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Express Base Specification Rev. 1.0a (x1)
- Electrical Isolation: Digital isolator between bus and I/O circuits
- Environmental Conditions: 0 – 50 °C, 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing)
- Safety & EMC: Designed for industrial PC use; shielded cable required to meet CE EMC Directive levels.
- RoHS Compliance: Conforms to RoHS directives for hazardous substance control.
- Quality Assurance: Factory calibrated and tested under ISO 9001 process control.

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### 9. Additional Information

Software Support & Development Tools:

- API‑AIO (WDM): Windows driver library (DLL) with Win32 API functions for Visual C++/VB development.
- API‑AIO (LNX): Linux shared library and kernel module with gcc sample programs.
- C‑LOGGER: Graphical data logger for signal display, file storage, and Excel export without programming.
- ML‑DAQ: MATLAB library integrated with Data Acquisition Toolbox for direct use of CONTEC devices.
- VI‑DAQ: LabVIEW VI library emulating NI DAQ VIs for easy integration.

Maintenance & Calibration:
- Software‑based calibration utility accessible via device properties.
- Analog output calibration requires a 5‑digit precision digital multimeter.
- Factory calibration data can be restored at any time.

Warranty & Support:
- Warranty Period: Three (3) years from date of purchase.
- Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
- Exclusions: Physical damage, misuse, unauthorized modification.
- Service Procedure: Return with RMA number and proof of purchase (prepaid freight).
- Technical Support: Documentation, drivers, and updates available at [https://www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com).

Safety Precautions:
- Do not install or remove the board with PC power on.
- Avoid connecting outputs to ground or each other.
- Use shielded cables to maintain EMC compliance.
- Operate within specified temperature and humidity limits.

Physical Design & Construction:
- Compact PCIe half‑length board (169.33 × 110.18 mm).
- High‑quality PCB with digital isolator and DC/DC converter for galvanic separation.
- 3M mini‑ribbon connector for robust industrial connections.

Migration from Legacy PCI Boards:
- Functionally equivalent to DAI16‑4(LPCI)L with identical connector pinout.
- Simplifies upgrade to modern PCI Express systems without rewiring or software changes.

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### Summary

The CONTEC AO‑1604LI‑PE is a robust, high‑precision, four‑channel analog output board engineered for industrial and laboratory environments requiring isolated, deterministic analog signal generation. Its 16‑bit resolution, 100 kS/s throughput, and comprehensive trigger and buffer capabilities make it suitable for waveform synthesis, control, and simulation tasks. The inclusion of isolated digital I/O and a 32‑bit counter adds flexibility for synchronization and event handling.

With cross‑platform driver support, software‑based calibration, and compatibility with MATLAB and LabVIEW, the AO‑1604LI‑PE integrates seamlessly into automated test systems and data‑acquisition frameworks. Its bus isolation, safety‑on‑power‑up design, and adherence to PCI Express standards ensure reliable operation and long‑term maintainability in demanding industrial applications.