National Instruments NI-9203 C Series Current Input Module

The National Instruments NI-9203 (Part Numbers: 779516-01, 783731-01, 779516-02) is a Current Input Module from the C Series. This 8-Channel module can acquire samples at 200 kS/s and is intended for high-performance monitoring and control applications. Its 8 single-ended analog input channels have a resolution of 16 bits. The NI-9203 comes featured with variable connectivity and programmable input range options. To safeguard the device against signal transients, this module has 250 Vrms, channel-to-ground dual isolation barrier. In addition, this Current Input Module has an integrated overvoltage protection for each channel that is set at ±30 V.

The National Instruments NI-9203 is available in three variations since it can be outfitted with several different connector types: a Screw Terminal (Part Number: 779516-01), Spring Terminal (Part Number: 783731-01), and a Conformal Coated Screw Terminal (Part Number: 779516-02). The addition of conformal coating provides the terminals with maximum protection against moisture. All other specifications of the NI-9203 are the same. For example, the module can measure current within a range of -20 mA to 20 mA.  The printed circuit board of the NI-9203 is contained within a protective housing.

The device is run using the NI-DAQmx 9.2 driver software which is compatible with software packages/application development environments (ADEs) such as LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, C/C++, C#, or Visual Basic .NET. The device hardware can be configured using the Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) tool.

The input circuitry of this Current Input Module includes a single 16-bit successive approximation or SAR ADC. The ADC’s function is to buffer, condition, and sample the input signals. A properly calibrated NI-9203 can operate with ±0.04% gain error and ±0.02% offset error provided that the temperature is 25 °C, ±5 °C. Also, the NI 9203 module consumes 399 mW of maximum power in active mode and 5 mW maximum power in sleep mode. When used with an R Series Expansion Chassis, this module offers 5.2 μs min conversion time. The NI-9203 module delivers overvoltage protection for every channel. However, only a single channel can be in the overvoltage setting at a time. The device has a recommended operating temperature range of –40 to 70 °C.