USER GUIDE AND SPECIFICATIONS

NI myDAQ

NI myD
AQ

Figure 1. NI myDAQ

NI myDAQ is a low-cost portable data acquisition (DAQ) device that uses

NI LabVIEW-based software instruments, allowing students to measure
and analyze real-world signals. NI myDAQ is ideal for exploring
electronics and taking sensor measurements. Combined with NI LabVIEW
on the PC, students can analyze and process acquired signals and control
simple processes anytime, anywhere.

Contents
Conventions ............................................................................................ 2
Safety Information .................................................................................. 3
Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines............................................. 3
NI myDAQ Hardware Overview ............................................................ 4
Analog Input (AI) ............................................................................ 5
Analog Output (AO) ........................................................................ 5
Digital Input/Output (DIO) .............................................................. 5
Power Supplies ................................................................................ 6
Digital Multimeter (DMM) Overview ............................................. 6
 NI myDAQ Software Overview ..............................................................7
NI ELVISmx Driver Software..........................................................7
NI LabVIEW and NI ELVISmx Express VIs ..................................7
NI myDAQ and NI Multisim ...........................................................7
Getting Started .........................................................................................8
Making Signal Connections with NI myDAQ ........................................8
Setting up Your NI myDAQ Device ................................................8
Connecting Signals...........................................................................10
Connecting Analog Input Signals.....................................................11
NI myDAQ DMM Fuse Replacement..............................................14
Digital I/O (DIO) and Counters/Timers ..................................................17
Using NI myDAQ with Soft Front Panel (SFP) Instruments ..................18
NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher ..................................................18
Digital Multimeter (DMM) ..............................................................19
Oscilloscope (Scope) ........................................................................20
Function Generator (FGEN).............................................................21
Bode Analyzer ..................................................................................22
Dynamic Signal Analyzer (DSA).....................................................23
Arbitrary Waveform Generator (ARB) ............................................24
Digital Reader...................................................................................25
Digital Writer....................................................................................26
Example: Measuring a Signal Using the NI ELVISmx
Oscilloscope SFP with NI myDAQ...............................................27
Using NI myDAQ with LabVIEW ..........................................................27
NI ELVISmx Express VIs in LabVIEW ..........................................27
Example: Measuring Signals Using the NI ELVISmx
Oscilloscope Express VI with NI myDAQ....................................28
Using NI-DAQmx with NI myDAQ ................................................30
Example: Measuring Audio Pass-Through in LabVIEW with
NI myDAQ ....................................................................................31
Specifications...........................................................................................34
Texas Instruments Components in NI myDAQ ......................................46
Resource Conflicts...................................................................................48
Additional Resources...............................................................................50
Related Documentation ....................................................................50
Other Resources................................................................................51
Common Terms and Acronyms........................................................51
Warranty ...........................................................................................52
Where to Go for Support ..................................................................52

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:

This icon denotes a tip, which alerts you to advisory information.

This icon denotes a note, which alerts you to important information.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 2 ni.com

 This icon denotes a caution, which advises you of precautions to take to
avoid injury, data loss, or a system crash.

CAUTION—The inputs/outputs of this product can be damaged if

subjected to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD). To prevent damage,
industry-standard ESD prevention measures must be employed during
installation, maintenance, and operation.

Safety Information
Do not operate the hardware in a manner not specified in this document and
in the user documentation. Misuse of the hardware can result in a hazard.
You can compromise the safety protection if the hardware is damaged in
any way. If the hardware is damaged, return it to National Instruments for
repair.

Clean the hardware with a soft, nonmetallic brush. Make sure that the
hardware is completely dry and free from contaminants before returning it
to service.

Electromagnetic Compatibility Guidelines

This product was tested and complies with the regulatory requirements and
limits for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) as stated in the product
specifications. These requirements and limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the product is
operated in its intended operational electromagnetic environment. There is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. To
minimize the potential for the product to cause interference to radio and
television reception or to experience unacceptable performance
degradation, install and use this product in strict accordance with the
instructions in the product documentation.

Cautions The following statements contain important EMC information needed before
installing and using this product:

• This product is intended for use in residential, commercial and industrial locations.

• This product may become more sensitive to electromagnetic disturbances in the

operational environment when test leads are attached or when connected to a test object.

• Emissions that exceed the regulatory requirements may occur when this product is
connected to a test object.

• Changes or modifications not expressly approved by National Instruments could void

the user’s authority to operate the hardware under the local regulatory rules.

© National Instruments Corporation 3 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

NI myDAQ Hardware Overview
NI myDAQ provides analog input (AI), analog output (AO), digital input
and output (DIO), audio, power supplies, and digital multimeter (DMM)
functions in a compact USB device.

Tip The Common Terms and Acronyms section has a list of acronyms and terms that you
will see in this manual, and in many engineering and measurement documents and
websites.

Integrated circuits supplied by Texas Instruments form the power and

analog I/O subsystems of NI myDAQ. Figure 2 depicts the arrangement
and function of the NI myDAQ subsystems. Refer to Table 5 for more
information on all of the Texas Instruments components used in
NI myDAQ.

Regulator +15 V
Current (TPS61170)
USB Connector

Limiter –15 V
VBUS (TPS2553)
Protection
Circuit +5 V

8
DIO x
Regulator
(TPS62003)
Channel AI 0+
Instrumentation
Gain Multiplexer AI 0 –
Amplifier
ADC (TLE2082) (TLE2082) (MPC509AU) AI 1+
+1.2 V (ADS8319) AI 1 –
Regulator Line In R
(TPS62007)
+3.3 V Line In L
USB-STC3 DAC OP AMP
(DAC8551) (OPA1642) AO 0
+3.3 V
Switch
OP AMP
(OPA1642) AO 1
DC/DC Digital Isolation
Isolation Isolator Barrier
Transformer (ISO7241)
Audio AMP Line Out R
(TPA6110A2)
Line Out L

LDO LDO
Regulator Regulator Shift
(TPS71501) (TPS76433) Register
(SN74AHC595)

Isolated +3.3 V DMM

Isolated +5 V Switch
(TS5A23159)

HI COM HI
(V Ω ) (A)

Note: NI myDAQ components may be changed or substituted without notice.

Figure 2. NI myDAQ Hardware Block Diagram

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 4 ni.com

Analog Input (AI)
There are two analog input channels on NI myDAQ. These channels can be
configured either as general-purpose high-impedance differential voltage
input or audio input. The analog inputs are multiplexed, meaning a single
analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is used to sample both channels. In
general-purpose mode, you can measure up to ±10 V signals. In audio
mode, the two channels represent left and right stereo line level inputs.
Analog inputs can be measured at up to 200 kS/s per channel, so they are
useful for waveform acquisition. Analog inputs are used in the
NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope, Dynamic Signal Analyzer, and Bode Analyzer
instruments.

Analog Output (AO)

There are two analog output channels on NI myDAQ. These channels can
be configured as either general-purpose voltage output or audio output.
Both channels have a dedicated digital-to-analog converter (DAC), so they
can update simultaneously. In general-purpose mode, you can generate up
to ±10 V signals. In audio mode, the two channels represent left and right
stereo outputs.

Caution If using earphones to listen to the audio output of the NI myDAQ, ensure that the
volume is set to a safe level. Listening to audio signals at a high volume may result in
permanent hearing loss.

Analog outputs can be updated at up to 200 kS/s per channel, making them
useful for waveform generation. Analog outputs are used in the
NI ELVISmx Function Generator, Arbitrary Waveform Generator, and
Bode Analyzer instruments.

Digital Input/Output (DIO)

There are eight digital I/O (DIO) lines on NI myDAQ. Each line is a
Programmable Function Interface (PFI), meaning that it can be configured
as a general-purpose software-timed digital input or output, or it can act as
a special function input or output for a digital counter. Refer to Digital I/O
(DIO) and Counters/Timers section for more information about counters
on NI myDAQ.

Note The digital I/O lines are 3.3 V LVTTL and are tolerant to 5 V inputs. The digital
output is not compatible with 5V CMOS logic levels.

© National Instruments Corporation 5 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Power Supplies
There are three power supplies available for use on NI myDAQ. +15 V and
–15 V can be used to power analog components such as operational
amplifiers and linear regulators. +5 V can be used to power digital
components such as logic devices.

The total power available for the power supplies, analog outputs, and digital
outputs is limited to 500 mW (typical)/100 mW (minimum). To calculate
the total power consumption of the power supplies, multiply the output
voltage by the load current for each rail and sum them together. For digital
output power consumption, multiply 3.3 V by the load current. For analog
output power consumption, multiply 15 V by the load current. Using audio
output subtracts 100 mW from the total power budget.

For example, if you use 50 mA on +5 V, 2 mA on +15 V, 1 mA on –15 V,

use four DIO lines to drive LEDs at 3 mA each, and have a 1 mA load on
each AO channel, the total output power consumption is:
5 V × 50 mA = 250 mW
|+15 V| × 2 mA = 30 mW
|–15 V| × 1 mA = 15 mW
3.3 V × 3 mA × 4 = 39.6 mW
15 V × 1 mA × 2 = 30 mW
Total output power consumption = 250 mW + 30 mW + 15 mW +
39.6 mW + 30 mW = 364.6 mW

Digital Multimeter (DMM) Overview

The NI myDAQ DMM provides the functions for measuring voltage
(DC and AC), current (DC and AC), resistance, and diode voltage drop.

DMM measurements are software-timed, so update rates are affected by the

load on the computer and USB activity.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 6 ni.com

NI myDAQ Software Overview
NI ELVISmx Driver Software
NI ELVISmx is the driver software that supports NI myDAQ.
NI ELVISmx uses LabVIEW-based software instruments to control the
NI myDAQ device, providing the functionality of a suite of common
laboratory instruments. Refer to the Using NI myDAQ with Soft Front
Panel (SFP) Instruments section for information on the NI ELVISmx suite
of measurement instruments. Refer to the NI ELVISmx Readme for
information on supported operating systems and application software. The
NI ELVISmx Readme is located on your NI ELVISmx driver software
installation media, or can be found by searching for ELVISmx on the
Drivers and Updates page at ni.com/downloads.

NI LabVIEW and NI ELVISmx Express VIs

Also installed with NI ELVISmx are the LabVIEW Express VIs, which use
NI ELVISmx software instruments to program NI myDAQ with more
enhanced functionality. For more information on the NI ELVISmx Express
VIs, refer to the Using NI myDAQ with LabVIEW section.

Note NI ELVISmx does not support LabVIEW (64 bit). For software support information,
refer to the NI myDAQ driver software readme—the NI ELVISmx Readme—located on
your NI ELVISmx driver software installation media. The NI ELVISmx Readme can also
be found by searching for ELVISmx on the Drivers and Updates page at ni.com/
downloads.

NI myDAQ and NI Multisim

You can use NI ELVISmx instruments in NI Multisim to simulate a circuit,
measure the real signals with NI myDAQ, and compare simulated and
acquired data. To see step-by-step instructions for using NI ELVISmx
instruments in NI Multisim, refer to Using NI ELVISmx in NI Multisim help
file, installed with NI ELVISmx. To access this help file, go to Start»All
Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS &
NI myDAQ»Using NI ELVISmx in NI Multisim.

© National Instruments Corporation 7 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Getting Started
Caution For EMC compliance, the USB cable must be less than 2.0 m (6.6 ft) in length.
Also, wires attached to the MIO screw terminal connector must be limited to 30.0 cm
(11.8 in.) in length.

Getting started with NI myDAQ is a simple process, but it is important to

ensure that you install the right components in the correct order. To get
started with your NI myDAQ, complete the following steps:
1. Install the NI myDAQ Software Suite from the DVD shipped with your
device.
The NI myDAQ Software Suite installs application software
(NI LabVIEW, NI Multisim) first, and then installs the NI ELVISmx
driver software.

Note If you are not installing software from the NI myDAQ Software Suite media, make
sure to install all application software before installing the driver software.

2. Connect the cable from the computer Hi-Speed USB port to the USB
port on the device.
The computer will recognize the NI myDAQ and the NI ELVISmx
Instrument Launcher appears. You can also manually open
NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher by selecting Start»All Programs»
National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»
NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher.

Making Signal Connections with NI myDAQ

Setting up Your NI myDAQ Device
Cautions Insert and remove the 20-position screw terminal connector aligned evenly to the
NI myDAQ. Inserting the screw terminal connector at an angle to the NI myDAQ may
cause damage to the connector.

The screw terminal connector must snap securely into place to ensure proper signal
connection.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 8 ni.com

 1 2

NI myD
AQ
USB Power
Supply
Curre
Limite nt DC-to
r Conve DC
rter
±15 V
System
Timing
Controlle 5V
r Digital
Input/O
utput

DIO
Analog
Analo Input
to-Dig g-
Conve ital
rter
xer

Gain
AI
tiple
Mul

AUDIO
Analog IN
Dig Outpu
to-An ital- t
Convealog
Dig
rter
4
itch

Multimital AO
eter
Sw

AUDIO
OUT
VΩ
A

NI myDA
Q Syste
m Diagra
m

6 5

1 NI myDAQ 4 20-Position Screw Terminal Connector

2 USB Cable 5 Audio Cable
3 LED 6 DMM Banana Cable

Figure 3. NI myDAQ Connection Diagram

© National Instruments Corporation 9 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Connecting Signals
Figure 4 shows the available audio, AI, AO, DIO, GND, and power signals
accessed through the 3.5 mm audio jacks and screw terminal connections.
Refer to Table 1 for descriptions of these signals.

Caution Signal wires must be securely affixed and screwed down in the screw terminal
connector to ensure proper connection.

AO AII (±10 V) DIO (0-5 V)

+15V -15V AGND 0 1 AGND 0+ 0- 1+ 1- 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 DGND 5V

AUDIO AUDIO
IN OUT

Figure 4. NI myDAQ 20-Position Screw Terminal I/O Connector

Table 1. Screw Terminal Signal Descriptions

Signal Name Reference Direction Description

AUDIO IN — Input Audio Input—Left and right audio inputs
on a stereo connector
AUDIO OUT — Output Audio Output—Left and right audio
outputs on a stereo connector
+15V/–15V AGND Output +15 V/–15 V power supplies
AGND — — Analog Ground—Reference terminal for
AI, AO, +15 V, and –15 V
AO 0/AO 1 AGND Output Analog Output Channels 0 and 1
AI 0+/AI 0–; AGND Input Analog Input Channels 0 and 1
AI 1+/AI 1–
DIO <0..7> DGND Input or Digital I/O Signals—General-purpose
Output digital lines or counter signals
DGND — — Digital Ground—Reference for the DIO
lines and the +5 V supply
5V DGND Output 5 V power supply

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 10 ni.com

 Figure 5 shows the DMM connections on the NI myDAQ. Table 2
describes these signals.

Caution 60 VDC/20 Vrms maximum. Do not plug digital multimeter probes into circuits
with Hazardous Voltages, such as wall outlets.

1 2

60 V
20 Vrms 1A
MAX MAX
HI COM HI

1 Connectors for Voltage/Resistance/Diode/Continuity

2 Connectors for Current

Figure 5. Connections for DMM Measurements

Table 2. DMM Signal Descriptions

Signal Name Reference Direction Description

HI (V) COM Input Positive terminal for voltage, resistance,
and diode measurements
COM — — Reference for all DMM measurements
HI (A) COM Input Positive terminal for current
measurements (Fused: F 1.25 A 250 V
Fast-Acting)

Connecting Analog Input Signals

When configuring the input channels and making signal connections,
you must first determine whether the signal sources are floating or ground
referenced. The following sections describe these two signal types.

Ground-Referenced Signal Sources

A ground-referenced signal source is connected to the building system
ground, so it is already connected to a common ground point with respect
to the NI myDAQ device, assuming that the computer is plugged into the
same power system. Instruments or devices with nonisolated outputs that
plug into the building power system are ground-referenced signal sources.

© National Instruments Corporation 11 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Note Most laptop computers have isolated power supplies, and are consequently not
connected to the building ground system. In these cases, treat the analog input signal as
floating with respect to NI myDAQ.

The difference in ground potential between two instruments connected to

the same building power system is typically between 1 and 100 mV. This
difference can be much higher if power distribution circuits are improperly
connected. If a grounded signal source is improperly measured, this
difference might appear as a measurement error. Connect the differential
analog inputs across the signal source and do not connect the NI myDAQ
AGND pin to the grounded source.

Signal Source
AI+ +
+
– AI– –

AGND

Figure 6. Ground-Referenced Differential Connection

Floating Signal Sources

A floating signal source is not connected to the same ground reference as
NI myDAQ, but instead has an isolated reference point. Some examples of
floating signal sources are battery-powered devices, outputs of
transformers, thermocouples, optical isolator outputs, and isolation
amplifiers. An instrument or device that has an isolated output is a floating
signal source. You must connect the ground reference of a floating signal
to an NI myDAQ AGND pin through a bias resistor or jumper wire to
establish a local or onboard reference for the signal. Otherwise, the
measured input signal varies as the source floats out of the common-mode
input range.

The easiest way to reference the source to AGND is to connect the positive
side of the signal to AI+ and connect the negative side of the signal to
AGND as well as to AI– without using resistors. This connection works
well for DC-coupled sources with low source impedance (less than 100 Ω).

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 12 ni.com

 Signal Source
AI+ +
+
– AI– –

Rsource <100 Ω
AGND

Figure 7. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources without Resistors

For larger source impedances, however, this connection leaves the

differential signal path significantly off balance. Noise that couples
electrostatically onto the positive line does not couple onto the negative line
because it is connected to ground. This noise appears as a differential-mode
signal instead of a common-mode signal, and thus appears in your data.
In this case, instead of directly connecting the negative line to AGND,
connect the negative line to AGND through a resistor that is about
100 times the equivalent source impedance. The resistor puts the signal
path nearly in balance, so that about the same amount of noise couples onto
both connections, yielding better rejection of electrostatically coupled
noise. This configuration does not load down the source.

Signal Source
AI+ +
+
– AI– –

Rsource >100 Ω
AGND

Figure 8. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources a Single Resistor

You can fully balance the signal path by connecting another resistor of the
same value between the positive input and AGND, as shown in Figure 9.
This fully balanced configuration offers slightly better noise rejection, but
has the disadvantage of loading the source down with the series
combination (sum) of the two resistors. If, for example, the source
impedance is 2 kΩ and each of the two resistors is 100 kΩ, the resistors
load down the source with 200 kΩ and produce a –1% gain error.

© National Instruments Corporation 13 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Signal Source
AI+ +
+
– AI– –

Rsource >100 Ω
AGND

Figure 9. Differential Connections for Floating Signal Sources with Two Resistors

Both positive and negative analog input lines require a DC path to ground
in order for the instrumentation amplifier to work. If the source is
AC coupled (capacitively coupled), a resistor is needed between the
positive input and AGND. If the source has low impedance, choose a
resistor that is large enough not to significantly load the source but small
enough not to produce significant input offset voltage as a result of input
bias current (typically 100 kΩ to 1 MΩ). In this case, connect the negative
input directly to AGND. If the source has high output impedance, balance
the signal path as previously described using the same value resistor on
both the positive and negative inputs.

NI myDAQ DMM Fuse Replacement

NI myDAQ has a fuse to protect the device from overcurrent through
HI (A) current measurement input on the DMM. If the DMM soft front
panel (SFP) always reads 0 A current, the cause may be a blown fuse.

Testing Your Fuse

To test for a blown fuse, complete the following steps.
1. Using a banana cable, connect the HI (V) and HI (A) DMM terminals.
2. Launch the NI ELVISmx Digital Multimeter (DMM) Soft Front Panel
instrument from the NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher, located at
Start»All Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for
NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher.
3. Select the Resistance mode.
4. Set the Range to 200 Ω.
5. Click Run.
6. If the fuse is blown, the display will show +Over, indicating a
disconnected circuit path. Replace the fuse and complete the procedure
again.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 14 ni.com

 Replacing the Fuse
Replace broken fuses with a 1.25 A Fast-Acting 5X20 fuse (Littelfuse part
number 02161.25 at www.littelfuse.com).

To replace a broken fuse, complete the following steps.

1. Power down the device by properly disconnecting it from the PC and
removing the USB cable.
2. Remove the screw terminal connector and all other signal cables from
the device.
3. Loosen the four Phillips screws that attach the bottom of the enclosure
to the device, and remove the top lid of the enclosure.

© National Instruments Corporation 15 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 4. Replace the broken fuse while referring to Figure 10 for the fuse location.

NI myDA
Q

1 2 1

1 Enclosure Screws
2 Internal Fuse—1.25 A Fast-Acting (Littelfuse Part Number 02161.25)

Figure 10. NI myDAQ Fuse Location

5. Replace the lid and screws.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 16 ni.com

Digital I/O (DIO) and Counters/Timers
There are eight, software-timed DIO lines on the NI myDAQ that can be
individually configured for input or output. Additionally, lines DIO <0..4>
can be configured for counter/timer functionality. The input—accessed
through DIO 0, DIO 1, and DIO 2 signals configured as a counter—is used
for counter, timer, pulse width measuring, and quadrature encoding
applications.

When using the counter/timer, the Source is accessed through DIO 0,

the Gate through DIO 1, the Auxiliary Input through DIO 2, the Output
through DIO 3, and the Frequency Output through DIO 4. When using the
counter/timer as a quadrature encoder, A, Z, and B correspond to DIO 0,
DIO 1, and DIO 2, respectively. In some instances, the software may refer
to the output lines as PFI as opposed to DIO. Refer to Table 3 for a list of
the corresponding counter/timer signals assignments through the DIO
terminals.

Table 3. NI myDAQ Counter/Timer Signal Assignments

Programmable
Function Interface Counter/Timer Quadrature Encoder
NI myDAQ Signal (PFI) Signal Signal
DIO 0 PFI 0 CTR 0 SOURCE A
DIO 1 PFI 1 CTR 0 GATE Z
DIO 2 PFI 2 CTR 0 AUX B
DIO 3* PFI 3 CTR 0 OUT —
DIO 4 PFI 4 FREQ OUT —
* Pulse-width modulation (PWM) pulse train measurements are generated through DIO 3

For more information about event timing requirements, refer to the

Specifications section. For more detailed information on using
counter/timers with NI myDAQ, refer to the KnowledgeBase document
How Do I Use the NI myDAQ Counter?. To access this document, go to
ni.com/info and enter the Info Code mydaqcounter.

© National Instruments Corporation 17 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Using NI myDAQ with Soft Front Panel (SFP)
Instruments
Note Before opening a SFP, make sure that the NI myDAQ device is connected to the
system and is ready to use. After the NI myDAQ is connected to the system, the blue LED
lights, indicating the device is ready for use, and the NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher
launches automatically.

NI ELVISmx provides soft front panel (SFP) instruments, created in

LabVIEW, and the source code for the instruments. You cannot directly
modify the executable files, but you can modify or enhance the
functionality of these instruments by modifying the LabVIEW code, which
is located at C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Shared
Documents\National Instruments\NI ELVISmx Source Code.

Note For a detailed explanation of the SFP instruments and instructions for taking a
measurement with each instrument, refer to the NI ELVISmx Help. To access this help file,
go to Start»All Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS &
NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx Help.

NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher

The NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher provides access to the
NI ELVISmx SFP instruments. When you install the NI myDAQ device,
the NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher automatically opens. To manually
open the Instrument Launcher, navigate to Start»All Programs»National
Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx
Instrument Launcher. This opens the suite of LabVIEW SFP
instruments.

Figure 11. NI ELVISmx Instrument Launcher

To launch an instrument, click the button corresponding to the desired

instrument. Select the NI myDAQ device from the Device control.

Some instruments perform similar operations using the same resources of

the NI myDAQ hardware and therefore cannot run at the same time. If you
launch two instruments with overlapping functionality that cannot run at
the same time, the NI ELVISmx software generates an error dialog
describing the conflict. The instrument with the error is disabled and will
not function until the conflict is resolved. For information about possible
resource conflicts, refer to the Resource Conflicts section.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 18 ni.com

Digital Multimeter (DMM)
NI ELVISmx Digital Multimeter (DMM) is a stand-alone instrument that
controls the basic DMM capabilities of NI myDAQ. This commonly used
instrument can perform the following types of measurements:
• Voltage (DC and AC)
• Current (DC and AC)
• Resistance
• Diode test
• Audible continuity

Make connections for measurements to the DMM banana jacks on the

device. This instrument has the following measurement parameters:
• DC voltage: 60 V, 20 V, 2 V, and 200 mV ranges
• AC voltage: 20 V, 2 V, and 200 mV ranges
• DC current: 1 A, 200 mA, and 20 mA ranges
• AC current: 1 A, 200 mA, and 20 mA ranges
• Resistance: 20 MΩ, 2 MΩ, 200 kΩ, 20 kΩ, 2 kΩ, and 200 Ω ranges
• Diode: 2 V range
• Resolution (number of significant digits for display): 3.5

Figure 12. NI ELVISmx Digital Multimeter SFP

© National Instruments Corporation 19 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Oscilloscope (Scope)
The NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope (Scope) displays voltage data for analysis.
This instrument provides the functionality of the standard desktop
oscilloscope found in typical undergraduate laboratories. The
NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope SFP has two channels and provides scaling and
position adjustment knobs along with a modifiable timebase. The autoscale
feature allows you to adjust the voltage display scale based on the
peak-to-peak voltage of the AC signal for the best display of the signal.
The computer-based scope display has the ability to use cursors for
accurate screen measurements. This instrument has the following
measurement parameters:
• Channel Source: Channels AI 0 and AI 1; AudioInput Left, and
AudioInput Right. You can use AI channels or AudioInput channels,
but not a combination of both.
• Coupling: AI Channels support DC Coupling only. AudioInput
Channels support AC Coupling only.
• Scale Volts/Div: AI channels—5 V, 2 V, 1 V, 500 mV, 200 mV,
100 mV, 50 mV, 20 mV, 10 mV and for AudioInput Channels—1 V,
500 mV, 200 mV, 100 mV, 50 mV, 20 mV, 10 mV.
• Sample Rate: The Max Sample Rate available for AI and AudioInput
Channels: 200 kS/s when either one or both channels are configured.
• Timebase Time/Div: The available values for both AI and AudioInput
channels: 200 ms to 5 μs.
• Trigger settings: Immediate and Edge Trigger Types are supported.
When using Edge Trigger Type, you can specify a Horizontal Position
of 0%–100%.

Figure 13. NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope SFP

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 20 ni.com

Function Generator (FGEN)
The NI ELVISmx Function Generator (FGEN) generates standard
waveforms with options for the type of output waveform (sine, square, or
triangle), amplitude selection, and frequency settings. In addition, the
instrument offers DC offset setting, frequency sweep capabilities, and
amplitude and frequency modulation. The FGEN uses AO 0 on the screw
terminal connector.

This instrument has the following measurement parameters:

• Output channel: AO 0
• Frequency range: 0.2 Hz to 20 kHz

Figure 14. NI ELVISmx Function Generator SFP

© National Instruments Corporation 21 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Bode Analyzer
The NI ELVISmx Bode Analyzer produces a Bode plot for analysis. By
combining the frequency sweep feature of the function generator and the
analog input capability of the device, a full-function Bode Analyzer is
available with NI ELVISmx. You can set the frequency range of the
instrument and choose between linear and logarithmic display scales. You
can also invert the measured values of the input signal during Bode analysis
by inverting the Op-Amp signal polarity. Refer to the NI ELVISmx Help for
required hardware connections. To access this help file, go to Start»
All Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS &
NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx Help.

This instrument has the following measurement parameters:

• Stimulus measurement channel: AI 0
• Response measurement channel: AI 1
• Stimulus signal source: AO 0
• Frequency range: 1 Hz to 20 kHz

Figure 15. NI ELVISmx Bode Analyzer SFP

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 22 ni.com

Dynamic Signal Analyzer (DSA)
The NI ELVISmx Dynamic Signal Analyzer (DSA) performs a frequency
domain transform of the AI or Audio Input waveform measurement. It can
either continuously make measurements or make a single scan. You can
also apply various window and filtering options to the signal.

This instrument has the following measurement parameters:

• Source Channel: AI 0 and AI 1; AudioInput Left and
AudioInput Right
• Voltage Range:
– For AI channels: ±10 V, ±2 V
– For AudioInput channels: ±2 V

Figure 16. NI ELVISmx Dynamic Signal Analyzer SFP

© National Instruments Corporation 23 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Arbitrary Waveform Generator (ARB)
The NI ELVISmx Arbitrary Waveform Generator (ARB) generates a
signal, displayed as an electrical waveform. This advanced-level SFP
instrument uses the AO capabilities of the device. You can create a variety
of signal types using the Waveform Editor software, which is included with
the NI ELVISmx software. You can load waveforms created with the
NI Waveform Editor into the ARB SFP to generate stored waveforms.
Refer to the NI ELVISmx Help for more information about the Waveform
Editor. To access this help file, go to Start»All Programs»National
Instruments»NI ELVISmx for NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx
Help.

Since the device has two AO and two AudioOutput channels, two
waveforms may be simultaneously generated. You can choose to run
continuously or run once. This instrument has the following measurement
parameters:
• Output Channels: AO 0 and AI 1; AudioOutput Left and
AudioOutput Right. You can use AO channels or AudioOutput
channels, but not a combination of both.
• Trigger Source: Immediate only. This control will always be disabled.

Figure 17. NI ELVISmx Arbitrary Waveform Generator SFP

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 24 ni.com

Digital Reader
The NI ELVISmx Digital Reader reads digital data from the NI myDAQ
digital lines. NI ELVISmx Digital Reader groups the I/O lines into ports
through which data can be read. You can read one port at a time, either
continuously or as a single reading. The lines are grouped into two ports of
four pins (0–3 and 4–7) or one port of eight pins (0–7).

Figure 18. NI ELVISmx Digital Reader SFP

© National Instruments Corporation 25 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Digital Writer
The ELVISmx Digital Writer updates the NI myDAQ digital lines with
user-specified digital patterns. NI ELVISmx Digital Writer groups the I/O
lines into ports through which data can be written. You can write a 4-bit
pattern (0–3 or 4–7) or an 8-bit pattern (0–7). You can also manually create
a pattern or select predefined patterns, such as ramp, toggle, or walking 1s.
This instrument can control a port of four or eight consecutive lines and
either continually output a pattern or just perform a single write.

The output of the NI ELVISmx Digital Writer SFP stays latched until
either another pattern is generated, the lines it is using are configured for
read, or the power is cycled on the NI myDAQ.

Figure 19. NI ELVISmx Digital Writer SFP

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 26 ni.com

Example: Measuring a Signal Using the NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope SFP
with NI myDAQ
Complete the following steps to measure a signal with the NI ELVISmx
Scope SFP.

Note Before opening a SFP, make sure that the NI myDAQ device is connected to the
system and is ready to use. After the NI myDAQ is connected to the system, the blue LED
lights, indicating the device is ready for use.

1. Connect the signal(s) you want to measure to the connector(s) on the

side of the NI myDAQ device.
2. Launch the NI ELVISmx Scope SFP from the NI ELVISmx Instrument
Launcher.
3. Click Run. You should see the signal in the Display Window.
4. If necessary, adjust the controls to stabilize the signal in the graph. Adjust
the Time/Div, Vertical Position, Scale, and other controls as desired.

Using NI myDAQ with LabVIEW

This section provides an overview of using NI myDAQ with LabVIEW.

NI ELVISmx Express VIs in LabVIEW

With NI ELVISmx, the NI myDAQ instruments have an associated
LabVIEW Express VI. Express VIs allow you to interactively configure the
settings for each instrument. This enables you to develop LabVIEW
applications without extensive programming expertise. To access the
NI ELVISmx Express VIs, open a LabVIEW block diagram and select
Measurement I/O»NI ELVISmx from the function palette.

© National Instruments Corporation 27 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Table 4 shows the available NI ELVISmx Express VIs. Refer to the
NI ELVISmx Help for more information. To access this help file,
go to Start»All Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for
NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx Help.

Table 4. NI ELVISmx Express VIs for NI myDAQ

NI ELVISmx Express VI

Example: Measuring Signals Using the NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope

Express VI with NI myDAQ
Complete the following steps to use the NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope to
measure a signal.

Note For more information on grounding the signals, refer to the Connecting Analog
Input Signals section.

1. Launch LabVIEW.

Tip You can also open the block diagram from the VI front panel by pressing <Ctrl-E>.

2. In the Getting Started window, click Blank VI. A blank VI opens.

Select Window»Show Block Diagram to open the VI block diagram.

Tip To open the ELVISmx Express VI palette, right-click the block diagram window to
open the Functions palette, and select Measurement I/O»NI ELVISmx.

3. Select the NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope Express VI from the VI palette

and place it on the block diagram. The NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope
configuration window opens.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 28 ni.com

 4. Connect the signal(s) you want to measure to the connector(s) on the
side of the NI myDAQ device.
5. On the Configuration tab of the configuration window, select to
measure Channel 0, Channel 1, or both. Select the Channel 0 Enable
checkbox to measure Channel 0. Select the Channel 1 Enable
checkbox to measure Channel 1. Select the Channel 0 Enable and
Channel 1 Enable checkboxes to measure both channels.
6. If necessary, click the Auto Setup button to automatically configure
the oscilloscope parameters to acquire the signal, or explicitly set the
Sample Rate and Record Length. You can also configure the
measurement to acquire N samples or acquire Continuously. If
necessary, adjust the controls to stabilize the signal in the graph.

7. Click OK on the configuration window front panel.

8. On the block diagram, right-click the Channel 0 output terminal and
select Create»Graph Indicator from the menu. This creates a Graph
Indicator on the VI front panel to display the signal data. Repeat this
step for Channel 1 if you configured the NI ELVISmx Oscilloscope
Express VI to enable Channel 1.

© National Instruments Corporation 29 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 9. Click the Run button to begin acquiring the measurement. You should
see the signal(s) in the graphs on the VI front panel.

Using NI-DAQmx with NI myDAQ

NI myDAQ is supported by NI-DAQmx, and therefore you can program it
using the DAQ Assistant Express VI. Figure 20 shows the DAQ Assistant
Express VI.

Figure 20. DAQ Assistant Express VI

Note In NI-DAQmx, DIO <0..7> appear as P0.<0..7>.

Furthermore, you can use NI-DAQmx to program some of the available

general AI, AO, and timing functionality of the device. Refer to the
NI ELVISmx Help and NI-DAQmx Help for more information.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 30 ni.com

 Note When using NI-DAQmx to read the audio channels, you must manually change the
voltage range to ±2 V from the default voltage range of ±10 V. The ±10 V range is not
supported by NI-DAQmx and will cause an NI-DAQmx error, but it will not cause the user
to receive corrupt data.

Example: Measuring Audio Pass-Through in LabVIEW with NI myDAQ

This example covers the simultaneous acquisition of input signals and
generation of output signals using the DAQ Assistant in LabVIEW. This
example forms the foundation for audio signal processing experimentation.
1. Launch LabVIEW.
2. In the Getting Started window, click Blank VI. A blank VI opens.
Select Window»Show Block Diagram to open the VI block diagram.
3. Locate the DAQ Assistant Express VI by right-clicking the block
diagram window and selecting Measurement I/O»NI DAQmx»
DAQ Assist from the Functions palette.
4. Place the DAQ Assistant Express VI on the block diagram. The DAQ
Assistant Create New Express Task configuration window opens.

Tip You can also use the Quick Drop dialog box to locate the DAQ Assistant Express VI.
Select View»Quick Drop or press the <Ctrl-Space> keys to display this dialog box.

5. In the DAQ Assistant configuration window, select Acquire Signals»

Analog Input, and click Voltage to select a Voltage task.
6. In the Supported Physical Channels window, select audioInputLeft.
You can also press <Ctrl> while clicking audioInputRight to select
both channels.
7. Click Finish to exit the Create New Express Task dialog.
8. On the Configuration tab of the DAQ Assistant front panel window,
configure voltage channel 0 by selecting Voltage_0 in the Channel
Settings pane, and setting Max to 2 and Min to -2 in the Signal Input
Range pane. Repeat this step for voltage channel 1 if you configured
the task for two channels.

© National Instruments Corporation 31 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 9. Under Timing Settings, set Acquisition Mode to Continuous
Samples. Enter 5000 in Samples to Read, and 40000 in Rate (Hz).

10. Click OK to exit the DAQ Assistant configuration front panel. The VI
builds. Click No on the dialog box that displays.
11. Place another DAQ Assistant Express VI to the right of the previously
configured DAQ Assistant Express VI on the block diagram. The DAQ
Assistant Create New Express Task configuration window opens.
12. In the DAQ Assistant configuration window, select Generate Signals»
Analog Output, and click Voltage to select a Voltage task.
13. In the Supported Physical Channels window, select
audioOutputLeft from under the Devx (NI myDAQ) option. You can
also press <Ctrl> while clicking audioOutputRight to select both
channels.
14. Click Finish to exit the Create New Express Task dialog.
15. On the Configuration tab of the DAQ Assistant front panel window,
configure voltage channel 0 by selecting VoltageOut_0 in the
Channel Settings pane, and setting Max to 2 and Min to -2 in the
Signal Input Range pane. Repeat this step for voltage channel 1 if you
configured the task for two channels.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 32 ni.com

 16. Under Timing Settings, set Generation Mode to Continuous
Samples.

17. Click OK to exit the DAQ Assistant configuration front panel. The VI
builds. Click No on the dialog box that displays.
18. Wire the data output terminal of the first DAQ Assistant Express VI to
the data input terminal of the second DAQ Assistant Express VI.
19. Add a While Loop to the block diagram by right-clicking the block
diagram window and selecting Programming»Structures»While
Loop from the Functions palette, and drag out a rectangular region to
enclose both DAQ Assistant Express VIs.

© National Instruments Corporation 33 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 20. Add a STOP control to your front panel by right-clicking the STOP
button and selecting Create Control.

21. Click the run button to test your LabVIEW application.

22. Attach a music player to the AUDIO IN 3.5 mm jack, and connect
speakers to the AUDIO OUT jack. You should hear the music on the
speakers. If you do not hear sound, test the speakers on the music
player to make sure there is sound playing and that the speakers are
functioning properly.

This example provides the basis for audio measurement. Experiment

further by placing digital signal processing steps such as filters between the
input and output.

Specifications
Performance is typical after a three-minute warmup, at 23 °C unless
otherwise specified. This document may not contain the most recent
published specifications. To get the most recent edition of this document,
go to ni.com/manuals and enter mydaq into the Search field.

Analog Input
Number of channels................................2 differential or 1 stereo audio
input

ADC resolution.......................................16 bits

Maximum sampling rate .........................200 kS/s

Timing accuracy .....................................100 ppm of sample rate

Timing resolution ...................................10 ns

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 34 ni.com

 Range
Analog input ................................... ±10 V, ±2 V, DC-coupled
Audio input ..................................... ±2 V, AC-coupled

Passband (–3 dB)

Analog input ................................... DC to 400 kHz
Audio input ..................................... 1.5 Hz to 400 kHz

Connector type
Analog input ................................... Screw terminals
Audio input ..................................... 3.5 mm stereo jack

Input type (audio input).......................... Line-in or microphone

Microphone excitation (audio input)...... 5.25 V through 10 kΩ

Absolute accuracy

Nominal Range
Positive Negative Typical at 23 °C Maximum (18 to 28 °C)
Full Scale Full Scale (mV) (mV)
10 –10 22.8 38.9
2 –2 4.9 8.6

© National Instruments Corporation 35 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 4
3.75 2 kΩ
3.5 5 kΩ
3.25 10 kΩ
3
2.25
2.25
Settling Error (%)

2.25
2
1.75
1.5
1.25
1
0.75
0.5
0.25
0
–0.25
200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40
Sample Rate (kHz)

Figure 21. Settling Time (10 V Range) versus Different Source Impedance

2.8
2.6 2 kΩ
2.4 5 kΩ
10 kΩ
2.2
2
1.8
Settling Error (%)

1.6
1.4
1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
–0.2
200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40
Sample Rate (kHz)

Figure 22. Settling Time (2 V Range) versus Different Source Impedance

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 36 ni.com

 Input FIFO size ...................................... 4,095 samples, shared among
channels used

Maximum working voltage for analog

inputs (signal + common mode)............. ±10.5 V to AGND

Common-mode rejection
ratio (CMRR) (DC to 60 Hz) ................. 70 dB

Input impedance
Device on
AI+ or AI– to AGND............... >10 GΩ || 100 pF
AI+ to AI– ............................... >10 GΩ || 100 pF
Device off
AI+ or AI– to AGND............... 5 kΩ
AI+ to AI– ............................... 10 kΩ

Anti-aliasing filter .................................. None

Overvoltage protection
AI+ or AI – to AGND ............................ ±16 V

Overvoltage protection (audio input

left and right).......................................... None

Analog Output
Number of channels ............................... 2 ground-referenced
or 1 stereo audio output

DAC resolution ...................................... 16 bits

Maximum update rate ............................ 200 kS/s

Range
Analog output ................................. ±10 V, ±2 V, DC-coupled
Audio output ................................... ±2 V, AC-coupled

Maximum output current

(analog output)1 ...................................... 2 mA

1 The total power available for the power supplies, analog outputs, and digital outputs is limited to 500 mW (typical)/100 mW
(minimum). Refer to the NI myDAQ Hardware Overview section for information on calculating the total power consumption
of the components of your system.

© National Instruments Corporation 37 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Output impedance
Analog output ..................................1 Ω
Audio output....................................120 Ω

Minimum load impedance

(audio output) .........................................8 Ω

Connector type
Analog output ..................................Screw terminals
Audio output....................................3.5 mm stereo jack

AC-coupling high-pass frequency

(audio output with 32 Ω load) ................48 Hz

Absolute accuracy

Nominal Range
Positive Negative Typical at 23 °C Maximum (18 to 28 °C)
Full Scale Full Scale (mV) (mV)
10 –10 19.6 30.9
2 –2 5.4 8.8

Slew rate .................................................4 V/μs

Timing accuracy .....................................100 ppm of sample rate

Timing resolution ...................................10 ns

Overdrive protection...............................±16 V to AGND

Maximum power-on voltage1 .................±110 mV

Output FIFO size ....................................8,191 samples, shared among

channels used

Digital I/O
Number of lines ......................................8; DIO <0..7>

Direction control.....................................Each line individually

programmable as input or output

Update mode...........................................Software-timed

Pull-down resistor...................................75 kΩ

1 When powered on, the analog output signal is not defined until after USB configuration is complete.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 38 ni.com

 Logic level.............................................. 5 V compatible LVTTL input;
3.3 V LVTTL output

VIH min................................................... 2.0 V

VIL max .................................................. 0.8 V

Maximum output current per line1 ......... 4 mA

General Purpose Counter/Timer

Number of counter/timers ...................... 1

Resolution .............................................. 32 bits

Internal base clocks................................ 100 MHz

Base clock accuracy ............................... 100 ppm

Maximum counting and pulse

generation frequency.............................. 1 MHz

Default routing
CTR 0 SOURCE............................. PFI 0 routed through DIO 0
CTR 0 GATE .................................. PFI 1 routed through DIO 1
CTR 0 AUX .................................... PFI 2 routed through DIO 2
CTR 0 OUT .................................... PFI 3 routed through DIO 3
FREQ OUT ..................................... PFI 4 routed through DIO 4

Data transfers ......................................... Programmed I/O

Update mode .......................................... Software-timed

Digital Multimeter
Functions2 .............................................. DC voltage, AC voltage,
DC current, AC current,
resistance, diode, continuity

Isolation level ......................................... 60 VDC/20 Vrms, Measurement

Category I

1 The total power available for the power supplies, analog outputs, and digital outputs is limited to 500 mW (typical)/100 mW
(minimum). Refer to the NI myDAQ Hardware Overview section for information on calculating the total power consumption
of the components of your system.
2 All AC specifications are based on sine wave RMS.

© National Instruments Corporation 39 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Caution Do not use this device for connection to signals or for measurements within
Measurement Categories II, III, or IV. For more information on Measurement Categories,
refer to the Safety Voltages section.

Connectivity............................................Banana jacks

Resolution ...............................................3.5 digits

Input coupling.........................................DC (DC Voltage, DC Current,

Resistance, Diode, Continuity);
AC (AC Voltage, AC Current)

Voltage Measurement
DC ranges ...............................................200 mV, 2 V, 20 V, 60 V

AC ranges ...............................................200 mVrms, 2 Vrms, 20 Vrms

Accuracy

Accuracy
Function Range Resolution ± ([% of Reading] + Offset)
DC Volts 200.0 mV 0.1 mV 0.5% + 0.2 mV
2.000 V 0.001 V 0.5% + 2 mV
20.00 V 0.01 V 0.5% + 20 mV
60.0 V 0.1 V 0.5% + 200 mV
40 to 400 Hz 400 to 2,000 Hz
AC Volts 200.0 mV 0.1 mV 1% + 0.15%* —
2.000 V 0.001 V 1% + 0.15% 5% + 3 mV
20.00 V 0.01 V 1% + 0.15% 5% + 30 mV
* The accuracy for AC Volts 200.0 mV range is in the frequency range of 40 Hz to 100 Hz

Input impedance .....................................10 MΩ

Current Measurement
DC ranges ...............................................20 mA, 200 mA, 1 A

AC ranges ...............................................20 mArms, 200 mArms, 1 Arms

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 40 ni.com

 Accuracy

Accuracy
Function Range Resolution ± ([% of Reading] + Offset)
DC Amps 20.00 mA 0.01 mA 1% + 0.02 mA
200.0 mA 0.1 mA 0.5% + 0.2 mA
1.000 A 0.001 A 0.5% + 2 mA
40 to 400 Hz 400 to 2,000 Hz
AC Amps 20.00 mA 0.01 mA 1.5% + 0.03 mA 5.5% + 0.03 mA
200.0 mA 0.1 mA 1% + 0.3 mA 5% + 0.3 mA
1.000 A 0.001 A 1% + 3 mA 5% + 3 mA

Input protection ...................................... Internal ceramic fuse, 1.25 A

250 V, fast-acting, 5 × 20 mm,
F 1.25A H 250V
(Littelfuse part number 02161.25)

Resistance Measurement
Ranges .................................................... 200 Ω, 2 kΩ, 20 kΩ, 200 kΩ,
2 MΩ, 20 MΩ

Accuracy

Accuracy
Function Range Resolution ± ([% of Reading] + Offset)
Ω 200.0 Ω 0.1 Ω 0.8% + 0.3 Ω*
2.000 kΩ 0.001 kΩ 0.8% + 3 Ω
20.00 kΩ 0.01 kΩ 0.8% + 30 Ω
200.0 kΩ 0.1 kΩ 0.8% + 300 Ω
2.000 MΩ 0.001 MΩ 0.8% + 3 kΩ
20.00 MΩ 0.01 MΩ 1.5% + 50 kΩ
* Exclusive of lead wire resistance

Diode Measurement
Range ..................................................... 2 V

© National Instruments Corporation 41 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Power Supplies
Caution Do not mix power from NI myDAQ with power from external power sources.
When using external power, remove any connections to the power supply terminals on
NI myDAQ.

+15V Supply
Output voltage
Typical (no load) .............................15.0 V
Maximum voltage with no load.......15.3 V
Minimum voltage with full load......14.0 V

Maximum output current1 .......................32 mA

Maximum load capacitance ....................470 μF

–15V Supply
Output voltage
Typical (no load) .............................–15.0 V
Maximum voltage with no load.......–15.3 V
Minimum voltage with full load......–14.0 V

Maximum output current1 .......................32 mA

Maximum load capacitance ....................470 μF

+5V Supply
Output voltage
Typical (no load) .............................4.9 V
Maximum voltage with no load.......5.2 V
Minimum voltage with full load......4.0 V

Maximum output current1 .......................100 mA

Maximum load capacitance ....................33 μF

1 The total power available for the power supplies, analog outputs, and digital outputs is limited to 500 mW (typical)/100 mW
(minimum). Refer to the NI myDAQ Hardware Overview section for information on calculating the total power consumption
of the components of your system.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 42 ni.com

Communication
Bus interface .......................................... USB 2.0 Hi-Speed

Physical Characteristics
Dimensions (without screw terminal
connector)............................................... 14.6 cm × 8.7 cm × 2.2 cm
(5.75 in. × 3.43 in. × 0.87 in.)

Weight .................................................... 175.0 g (6.1 oz)

Screw-terminal wiring............................ 16 to 26 AWG

Torque for screw terminals .................... 0.22–0.25 N · m (2.0–2.2 lb · in.)

Environmental
The NI myDAQ device is intended for indoor use only.

Operating temperature
(IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2) ..... 0 to 45 °C

Storage temperature
(IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2) ..... –20 to 70 °C

Operating humidity
(IEC 60068-2-56) ................................... 10 to 90% RH, noncondensing

Storage humidity
(IEC 60068-2-56) ................................... 10 to 90% RH, noncondensing

Maximum altitude .................................. 2,000 m (at 25 °C ambient

temperature)

Pollution Degree (IEC 60664) ............... 2

Safety
Safety Voltages
Measurement Category I is for measurements performed on circuits not
directly connected to the electrical distribution system referred to as
MAINS voltage. MAINS is a hazardous live electrical supply system that
powers equipment. This category is for measurements of voltages from
specially protected secondary circuits. Such voltage measurements include
signal levels, special equipment, limited-energy parts of equipment,
circuits powered by regulated low-voltage sources, and electronics.

© National Instruments Corporation 43 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

 Caution Do not use this module for connection to signals or for measurements within
Measurement Categories II, III, or IV.

Safety Standards
This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following
standards of safety for electrical equipment for measurement, control,
and laboratory use:
• IEC 61010-1, EN 61010-1
• UL 61010-1, CSA 61010-1

Note For UL and other safety certifications, refer to the product label or the Online
Product Certification section.

Hazardous Locations
The NI myDAQ device is not certified for use in hazardous locations.

Electromagnetic Compatibility
This product meets the requirements of the following EMC standards for
electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use:
• EN 61326-1 (IEC 61326-1): Class B emissions; Basic immunity
• EN 55011 (CISPR 11): Group 1, Class B emissions
• AS/NZS CISPR 11: Group 1, Class B emissions
• FCC 47 CFR Part 15B: Class B emissions
• ICES-001: Class B emissions

Note For EMC declarations and certifications, refer to the Online Product Certification
section.

CE Compliance
This product meets the essential requirements of applicable European
Directives as follows:
• 2006/95/EC; Low-Voltage Directive (safety)
• 2004/108/EC; Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC)

Online Product Certification

To obtain product certifications and the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
for this product, visit ni.com/certification, search by model number
or product line, and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 44 ni.com

Environmental Management
NI is committed to designing and manufacturing products in an
environmentally responsible manner. NI recognizes that eliminating
certain hazardous substances from our products is beneficial to the
environment and to NI customers.

For additional environmental information, refer to the NI and the

Environment Web page at ni.com/environment. This page contains the
environmental regulations and directives with which NI complies, as well
as other environmental information not included in this document.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

EU Customers The symbol indicates that the waste products should be disposed of
separately from municipal household waste according to Directive 2002/96/EC of the
European Parliament and the Council on waste electrical and electronic equipment
(WEEE). At the end of the product life cycle, all products must be sent to a WEEE
collection and recycling center. Proper disposal of WEEE reduces the environmental
impact and risk to human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally
used in such equipment. Your cooperation in the correct disposal of the products will
contribute to the effective usage of natural resources. For information about the available
collection and recycling scheme in a particular country, refer to
http://www.ni.com/citizenship/weee.htm.

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(For information about China RoHS compliance, go to ni.com/environment/rohs_china.)

© National Instruments Corporation 45 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Texas Instruments Components in NI myDAQ
Integrated circuits supplied by Texas Instruments form the power and
analog I/O subsystems of NI myDAQ. Figure 2 depicts the arrangement
and function of the NI myDAQ subsystems. Table 5 lists all of the Texas
Instruments components used in NI myDAQ. Visit www.ti.com to see the
specifications documents for each of the components in the design.

Table 5. Texas Instruments Components in NI myDAQ

Texas Instruments Part

Integrated Circuit (IC) Number Description
Current-Limited Power TPS2553 This is used for applications where precision
Distribution Switch current limiting is required or heavy capacitive
loads and short circuits are encountered.
Regulator TPS61170 This is a monolithic high-voltage boost regulator
with an integrated 1.2 A, 40 V power MOSFET.
Regulator TPS62007 The TPS6200x devices are a family of low-noise
synchronous step-down DC-DC converter that is
Regulator TPS62003
ideally suited for systems powered from a
one-cell Li-ion battery or from a two- to
three-cell NiCd, NiMH, or alkaline battery.
LDO Regulator TPS71501 These are low-dropout (LDO) voltage
regulators, offering the benefits of low noise,
LDO Regulator TPS76433
low-dropout voltage, low-power operation, and
miniaturized packages.
Digital Isolator ISO7241A This is a quad-channel digital isolator with
multiple channel configurations and output
enable functions.
Shift Register SN74AHC595 This device contains an 8-bit serial-in,
parallel-out shift register that feeds an 8-bit
D-type storage register.
Switch TS5A23159 This is a dual single-pole double-throw (SPDT)
analog switch designed to operate from 1.65 V
to 5.5 V.
Operational Amplifier TLC2262 This is a dual low-noise rail-to-rail operational
amplifier.
Operational Amplifier TL062C This JFET operational amplifier features high
input impedance, wide bandwidth, high slew
rate, low input offset, and input bias currents.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 46 ni.com

 Table 5. Texas Instruments Components in NI myDAQ (Continued)

Texas Instruments Part

Integrated Circuit (IC) Number Description
ADC ADS8319 This is a 16-bit, 500-kS/s analog-to-digital
converter.
DAC DAC8551 This is a small, low-power, voltage output, 16-bit
digital-to-analog converter (DAC).
Reference REF3025 This is a precision, low power, low voltage
dropout voltage reference available in a small
SOT23-3.
Tristate Buffer SN74AHCT1G125 This is a single bus buffer gate/line driver with
three-state output.
Voltage Supervisor TPS3809 This is a supervisory circuit that provides circuit
initialization and timing supervision, primarily
for DSPs and processor-based systems.
Comparator TLV3491 This is a push-pull output comparator that
features a fast 6 μs response time and <1.2 μA
(max) nanopower capability, allowing operation
from 1.8 V–5.5 V.
NOR Gate SN74LVC1G02 This single two-input positive NOR gate is
designed for 1.65 V–5.5 V VCC operation.
Instrument Amplifier TLE2082 This is an operational amplifier more than
Stage double the bandwidth and triple the slew rate of
the TL07x and TL08x families of BiFET
operational amplifiers.
Operational Amplifier OPA1642 This is a JFET-input, ultra-low distortion,
low-noise operational amplifier, fully specified
for audio applications.
Audio Amplifier TPA6110A2 This is a stereo audio power amplifier packaged
in an eight-pin PowerPAD™ MSOP package
capable of delivering 150 mW of continuous
RMS power per channel into 16 Ω-loads.
Multiplexer MPC509AU This is a four-channel differential multiplexer.

© National Instruments Corporation 47 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Resource Conflicts
Table 6 summarizes the resource conflicts you might encounter if you run
certain NI myDAQ circuitry simultaneously.

To use the information in Table 6, find the instrument you want to use in
the left column. That row lists all the functions that are resource conflicts.
If the intersecting box contains an —, you can use those functions
simultaneously without any conflicts.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 48 ni.com

© National Instruments Corporation
Table 6. NI myDAQ Resource Conflicts

Scope Scope DSA DSA Arb Arb DI DI DO DO

DMM (AI) (Audio) FGEN Bode (AI) (Audio) (AO) (Audio) (4 Lines) (8 Lines) (4 Lines) (8 Lines)

DMM — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Scope
— —  —    — — — — — —
(AI)

Scope
—  — —    — — — — — —
(Audio)
FGEN — — — —  — —   — — — —

Bode —    —     — — — —

DSA
—   —  —  — — — — — —
(AI)
DSA
—   —   — — — — — — —
(Audio)
49

Arb
— — —   — — —  — — — —
(AO)

Arb
— — —   — —  — — — — —
(Audio)
DI
— — — — — — — — — — — — 
(4 Lines)
NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

DI
— — — — — — — — — — —  
(8 Lines)

DO
— — — — — — — — — —  — —
(4 Lines)
DO
— — — — — — — — —   — —
(8 Lines)

— = No resource conflict
 = Conflict exists
Additional Resources
The following resources contain information you might find helpful.

Related Documentation
The following documents contain information that you may find helpful as
you use this manual.

NI ELVISmx
NI ELVISmx Help—This help file contains information about the
NI ELVISmx software, including information on using NI ELVISmx SFP
instruments and NI ELVISmx Express VIs. To access this help file, go to
Start»All Programs»National Instruments»NI ELVISmx for
NI ELVIS & NI myDAQ»NI ELVISmx Help.

LabVIEW
• LabVIEW Help—This help file includes information about LabVIEW
programming concepts, step-by-step instructions for using LabVIEW,
and reference information about LabVIEW VIs, functions, palettes,
menus, and tools.
• Getting Started with LabVIEW—Use this document as a tutorial to
familiarize yourself with the LabVIEW graphical programming
environment and the basic LabVIEW features you use to build data
acquisition and instrument control applications. This document
contains exercises that you can use to learn how to develop basic
applications in LabVIEW.

Multisim
• Getting Started with NI Circuit Design Suite—Follow the tutorial in
Chapter 2 of this manual to familiarize yourself with the basics of
Multisim.
• Multisim Help File—This help file describes Multisim and its
functions. It is organized based on the stages of circuit design, and
explains all aspects of Multisim in detail. This help file also provides
detailed information about using NI ELVISmx instruments in
Multisim. The NI ELVISmx information is also found in the
NI Multisim for Education manual.
• Using NI ELVISmx Instruments in NI Multisim—This help file
contains tutorials and information on using NI ELVISmx instruments
in NI Multisim to simulate data, acquire data from hardware, and
compare simulated and acquired data. To access this help file, select
Start»All Programs»National Instruments»ELVISmx»Using
NI ELVISmx Instruments in NI Multisim.

NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications 50 ni.com

 NI-DAQmx
NI-DAQmx Help—This help file explains key NI-DAQmx concepts,
describes how to create common applications, and details device-specific
information needed to use NI-DAQmx.

Other Resources
ni.com/mydaq—Contains product information, support information, and
helpful links to tutorials, examples, curriculum, videos, and more.

Common Terms and Acronyms

Table 7 lists some commonly used acronyms in data acquisition and
measurement.

Table 7. Commonly Used Acronyms

Acronym Definition Description

ADC Analog-to-digital converter Device that converts analog signals into digital data.
AI/AO Analog input/analog output A continuous signal that conveys data from physical
phenomena such as temperature, strain, pressure,
sound, or light.
DAC Digital-to-analog converter Device that converts digital code into analog signals.
DAQ Data acquisition Measuring an electrical or physical phenomenon such
as voltage, current, or temperature using a
combination of hardware and software.
DIO Digital input/output A non-continuous signal that conveys data in digits or
pulses that can be logged as digital data or converted
into an analog signal for viewing.
GND Ground The ground or earth reference in a circuit.
MIO Multifunction input/output The collective term for multiple measurements types,
such as AI, AO, DIO, GND, and power signals.
PFI Programmable Function A signal that can be configured for different uses, such
Interface as a digital input, a digital output, a timing input, or a
timing output.
SFP Soft front panel The software-based user interface for your
NI ELVISmx instrument.
VI Virtual Instrument A software program and hardware device that work
together to create a user-defined measurement system.

© National Instruments Corporation 51 NI myDAQ User Guide and Specifications

Warranty
The NI myDAQ is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of one year from the date of shipment, as evidenced by receipts
or other documentation. National Instruments will, at its option, repair or
replace equipment that proves to be defective during the warranty period.
This warranty includes parts and labor.

Where to Go for Support

The National Instruments Web site is your complete resource for technical
support. At ni.com/support you have access to everything from
troubleshooting and application development self-help resources to email
and phone assistance from NI Application Engineers.

A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is our claim of compliance with the

Council of the European Communities using the manufacturer’s
declaration of conformity. This system affords the user protection for
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and product safety. You can obtain
the DoC for your product by visiting ni.com/certification. If your
product supports calibration, you can obtain the calibration certificate for
your product at ni.com/calibration.

National Instruments corporate headquarters is located at

11500 North Mopac Expressway, Austin, Texas, 78759-3504.
National Instruments also has offices located around the world to help
address your support needs. For telephone support in the United States,
create your service request at ni.com/support and follow the calling
instructions or dial 512 795 8248. For telephone support outside the United
States, visit the Worldwide Offices section of ni.com/niglobal to access
the branch office Web sites, which provide up-to-date contact information,
support phone numbers, email addresses, and current events.

LabVIEW, National Instruments, NI, ni.com, the National Instruments corporate logo, and the Eagle
logo are trademarks of National Instruments Corporation. Refer to the Trademark Information at
ni.com/trademarks for other National Instruments trademarks. Other product and company
names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies. For patents
covering National Instruments products/technology, refer to the appropriate location: Help»Patents
in your software, the patents.txt file on your media, or the National Instruments Patent Notice
at ni.com/patents.

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