LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT

INDUSTRIAL SOLUTION?

Discover embedded, communication and automation solutions tailored to your application.

cPCI-6208A

8 DA cPCI Card 16bit 0-20/4-20/5-25mA/±10V
  • Manufacturer Adlink Technology Inc.
  • Category: D/A Intelligent PXI/cPCI
  • The ADLINK cPCI-6208A is a high-performance, 3U CompactPCI analog output module designed for industrial automation, process control, and test and measurement applications. It provides eight channels of 16-bit digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion with both voltage and current output modes, offering flexible signal generation and control capabilities. The card is fully compliant with the PICMG 2.0 R2.1 CompactPCI specification and integrates plug-and-play functionality for simplified system integration.
- 8 Analog Output Channels: Supports both voltage and current output modes.
- High Resolution: 16-bit D/A resolution for precise analog signal generation.
- Programmable Output Ranges:
- Voltage: ±10 V
- Current: 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA, 5–25 mA
- Fast Settling Time: 17 µs typical for current output (20 mA step), 130 µs typical for voltage output (20 V step).
- High Slew Rate: 26 V/µs (voltage), 1.3 mA/µs (current).
- Integrated DC/DC Converter: Provides isolated power for stable analog performance.
- Digital I/O Support: 4 TTL-compatible digital inputs and 4 TTL-compatible digital outputs.
- CompactPCI Bus Interface: 32-bit, 3U Eurocard form factor, PICMG 2.0 R2.1 compliant.
- Plug-and-Play Configuration: Automatic resource allocation via PCI BIOS.
- Software Support: Compatible with Windows 7/8 (x86/x64) and Linux; drivers and SDKs available for LabVIEW™, MATLAB®, C/C++, Visual Basic, and Visual Studio .NET.
- High Accuracy: Gain error ±0.2% (voltage), span error ±0.3% (current).
- Monotonicity: 15-bit typical for voltage, 14-bit typical for current.
- Output Drive Capability: ±5 mA maximum for voltage outputs.
- Compact Form Factor: 3U Eurocard (100 mm × 160 mm).

Country of origin: Taiwan R.O.C.

Customs tariff number: 8473 3020 000

Comprehensive Product Summary: ADLINK cPCI-6208A 8-Channel 16-Bit Analog Output CompactPCI Card




### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: cPCI-6208A
Model: cPCI-6208A
Series: 6208/6216-GL Series (CompactPCI Analog Output Cards)
Article Number: cPCI-6208A
Manufacturer: ADLINK Technology Inc.
Product Type: 8-Channel 16-Bit Analog Output CompactPCI Card with Voltage and Current Output Capability

The ADLINK cPCI-6208A is a high-performance, 3U CompactPCI analog output module designed for industrial automation, process control, and test and measurement applications. It provides eight channels of 16-bit digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion with both voltage and current output modes, offering flexible signal generation and control capabilities. The card is fully compliant with the PICMG 2.0 R2.1 CompactPCI specification and integrates plug-and-play functionality for simplified system integration.




### 2. Key Features

- 8 Analog Output Channels: Supports both voltage and current output modes.
- High Resolution: 16-bit D/A resolution for precise analog signal generation.
- Programmable Output Ranges:
- Voltage: ±10 V
- Current: 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA, 5–25 mA
- Fast Settling Time: 17 µs typical for current output (20 mA step), 130 µs typical for voltage output (20 V step).
- High Slew Rate: 26 V/µs (voltage), 1.3 mA/µs (current).
- Integrated DC/DC Converter: Provides isolated power for stable analog performance.
- Digital I/O Support: 4 TTL-compatible digital inputs and 4 TTL-compatible digital outputs.
- CompactPCI Bus Interface: 32-bit, 3U Eurocard form factor, PICMG 2.0 R2.1 compliant.
- Plug-and-Play Configuration: Automatic resource allocation via PCI BIOS.
- Software Support: Compatible with Windows 7/8 (x86/x64) and Linux; drivers and SDKs available for LabVIEW™, MATLAB®, C/C++, Visual Basic, and Visual Studio .NET.
- High Accuracy: Gain error ±0.2% (voltage), span error ±0.3% (current).
- Monotonicity: 15-bit typical for voltage, 14-bit typical for current.
- Output Drive Capability: ±5 mA maximum for voltage outputs.
- Compact Form Factor: 3U Eurocard (100 mm × 160 mm).




### 3. Technical Specifications

Analog Output (Voltage Mode):
- Channels: 8
- Resolution: 16-bit
- Output Range: ±10 V
- Monotonicity: 15-bit typical
- Slew Rate: 26 V/µs typical
- Settling Time: 130 µs typical (20 V step)
- Gain Error: ±0.2% max
- Differential Nonlinearity (DNL): ±1 LSB typical
- Output Drive: ±5 mA max
- Output Initial Status: 0 V after reset or power-on
- Data Transfer: Programmed I/O

Analog Output (Current Mode):
- Channels: 8
- Resolution: 15-bit typical
- Monotonicity: 14-bit typical
- Output Ranges (software programmable): 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA, 5–25 mA
- Slew Rate: 1.3 mA/µs typical
- Settling Time: 17 µs typical (20 mA step)
- Span Error: ±0.3% typical
- Output Initial Status: 4 mA after reset or power-on
- Data Transfer: Programmed I/O

Digital I/O:
- Channels: 4 inputs, 4 outputs
- Logic Level: 5 V TTL compatible
- Data Transfer: Programmed I/O

General:
- I/O Connector: One 37-pin D-sub female connector
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 80°C (-4°F to 176°F)
- Relative Humidity: 5% to 95%, non-condensing
- Dimensions: 160 mm × 100 mm (6.24" × 3.9")
- Weight: Approx. 200 g (typical for 3U cPCI module)

Power Requirements:
- +5 V: 500 mA typical
- +12 V: 200 mA typical




### 4. Functionality

The cPCI-6208A functions as a multi-channel analog output module capable of generating precise voltage or current signals for control and simulation tasks. Each channel is equipped with a dedicated 16-bit D/A converter, allowing independent updates and simultaneous multi-channel operation. The card supports both bipolar voltage and unipolar current outputs, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial and laboratory applications.

Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial process control and automation
- Servo motor control and actuator driving
- Signal generation and waveform synthesis
- Reference voltage/current source
- Test and measurement systems
- SCADA and HMI integration

Compatibility:
- CompactPCI backplane systems (PICMG 2.0 R2.1 compliant)
- Supported operating systems: Windows 7/8 (x86/x64), Linux
- Supported development environments: LabVIEW™, MATLAB®, Visual Studio, C/C++, Visual Basic




### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- cPCI-6208A analog output card
- User’s manual and documentation
- ADLINK All-in-One software CD (drivers, SDKs, utilities)

Optional Accessories:
- DIN-37D-01: Terminal board with one 37-pin D-sub connector and DIN-rail mounting.
- ACLD-9137-01: General-purpose terminal board with one 37-pin D-sub male connector.
- ACLD-9137F-01: General-purpose terminal board with one 37-pin D-sub female connector.
- ACL-10137-1MM: 37-pin D-sub male/male cable, 1 m length.
- ACL-10137-1MF: 37-pin D-sub male/female cable, 1 m length.




### 6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- CompactPCI chassis with available 3U slot
- Proper grounding and ESD protection during installation
- Compatible operating system and driver package

Installation Steps:
1. Power off the CompactPCI system and disconnect all power sources.
2. Insert the cPCI-6208A module into an available 3U CompactPCI slot.
3. Secure the module using the retaining screws.
4. Connect the 37-pin D-sub cable to the I/O connector.
5. Power on the system and allow the BIOS to automatically configure the card (Plug and Play).
6. Install the ADLINK DAQPilot or legacy PCIS-DASK driver from the All-in-One CD or ADLINK website.
7. Verify installation using DAQMaster or the included utility software.

Configuration:
- No manual jumper settings required; all resources (I/O addresses, IRQs) are assigned automatically by the PCI BIOS.
- Software calibration and channel configuration are performed through the provided driver interface.




### 7. Performance & Capabilities

Analog Performance:
- High precision 16-bit D/A conversion ensures accurate signal reproduction.
- Fast response with 17 µs settling time for current outputs and 130 µs for voltage outputs.
- Excellent linearity and low noise characteristics due to integrated DC/DC converter and precision components (BB PCM56U or equivalent, BB XTR110 for V/I conversion).

Speed & Throughput:
- Data transfer via programmed I/O for deterministic performance.
- Each channel can be updated independently, enabling flexible waveform generation.

Capacity & Efficiency:
- Eight simultaneous analog outputs with independent control.
- Efficient power consumption suitable for embedded and industrial systems.

Limitations:
- Maximum output drive current ±5 mA (voltage mode).
- Limited to 8 channels per module (expandable via additional cards).




### 8. Standards & Compliance

- CompactPCI Compliance: PICMG 2.0 R2.1
- Bus Interface: 32-bit CompactPCI
- Electrical Standards: TTL-compatible digital I/O
- Software Standards: Compatible with major DAQ frameworks (LabVIEW™, MATLAB®, ActiveX, VEE™)
- Environmental Compliance: Designed for industrial temperature and humidity ranges
- Safety: Meets standard ESD and electrical safety requirements for industrial modules




### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Standard ADLINK limited warranty (typically one year) covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Support & Maintenance:
- Technical support available through ADLINK regional offices and online resources.
- Recalibration recommended annually for optimal accuracy.
- Firmware and driver updates available via ADLINK’s official website.

Calibration:
Factory-calibrated using precision 6½-digit digital multimeters. Calibration data stored in onboard flash memory for automatic correction of gain and offset errors.

Software Utilities:
- 6208UTIL: DOS-based utility for function testing and calibration.
- DAQPilot: Modern Windows driver and SDK for rapid application development.
- DAQMaster: Device management and configuration tool.

Documentation:
- User’s Manual (Part Number: 50-11234-2020, Revision 4.03)
- Updated specifications and manuals available at [www.adlinktech.com](http://www.adlinktech.com)

Manufacturer Contact:
ADLINK Technology Inc.
9F, No.166 Jian Yi Road, Chungho City, Taipei County 235, Taiwan
Tel: +886-2-8226-5877 | Fax: +886-2-8226-5717
Email: service@adlinktech.com




### Summary

The ADLINK cPCI-6208A is a robust, high-precision analog output module engineered for demanding industrial and laboratory environments. With eight 16-bit D/A channels supporting both voltage and current outputs, it delivers exceptional flexibility for control, simulation, and signal generation tasks. Its CompactPCI form factor ensures reliable integration into modular systems, while comprehensive software support and plug-and-play configuration simplify deployment. The combination of high accuracy, fast response, and broad compatibility makes the cPCI-6208A an ideal choice for automation, process control, and test instrumentation applications.