National Instruments SCXI-1503 Temperature Input Module

The NI SCXI-1503 (Part Number: 779638-01) is ideal for measuring resistive transducers like RTDs or thermistors. Each of the sixteen channels on this module has an amplifier with a selectable gain of 1 or 100, as well as a lowpass filter with a 5 Hz cutoff frequency to discard 50/60 Hz noise. This RTD module can programmatically link every input to ground, which increases the preciseness by allowing a self-calibration of every input to minimize offset drift errors. Several SCXI-1503 Temperature Input Modules and other SCXI modules can be multiplexed into one channel on the DAQ instrument. This results in vastly increasing the quantity of analog input signals that can be digitized.

The SCXI 1503 module can be used with the SCXI-1306 Front-Mounting Terminal Block which has screw terminals for linking signals. The NI SCXI-1503 can be used with the SCXI-1310 as well, which is a customized kit for custom linking. The third option is to use the TBX-96, which is a DIN EN Mount Terminal Block with screw terminals.

The SCXI-1503 current sources unceasingly deliver 16 channels of 100 μA current excitation. When the SCXI chassis is powered on, these current sources are on. The current sources are created to be precise within ±0.05 percent of the designated value with a temperature drift of ±5 ppm/°C at the most. The preciseness and steadiness of the current sources ensures they are suitable for measuring resistance to an extreme degree of preciseness.

The SCXI 1503 is run using the NIDAQmx driver software (version 8.1 or later) which is compatible with software packages or application development environments (ADEs) such as LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or Measurement Studio. The device can be self-calibrated using the Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) tool, and should be externally calibrated at least once a year.

The NI device weighs 26.3 oz, and measures 7.4 x 6.8 x 1.2 in. in physical dimensions. It has recommended operating and storage temperature ranges of 0 to 50 °C and –20 to 70 °C respectively.

SCXI-1503 Obsolete Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves. 

The SCXI-1503 is available to be calibrated. While the recommended calibration period for individual parts varies, most parts should be calibrated either annually or every two years to ensure accuracy. If you need the SCXI-1503 calibrated, Apex Waves provides options. We offer high-quality NIST accredited calibrations through a 3rd party, with an average turnaround time of 1 to 2 weeks. When you order the SCXI-1503 with us, you can request basic (unaccredited) in-house calibration that will calibrate the part to the manufacturer specifications prior to being shipped. Call or email us today for more information about calibrating the SCXI-1503!