reading multiple counters 6601

[MikeO]

Hi,
I have a 6601 counter and I using borland builder to program it. Finally got the shipped examples to compile and work. Here�s what I�m trying achieve.

I have 3 pulse signals all with the same period but shifted in time. I want to use signal 1 as a reference signal and I need the delay of 2 to 1 and 3 to 1. Additionally, I need the period of signal 1. So I�m trying to use the two edge separation example as a start. The only way I have been able to get data off of multiple channels is to create a task for one channel, get that data and stop that task. Then I need to start another task and get that data. I just keep looping through. Of course, I am losing lots of data when I do it this way.

So first question is can I confi
gure one task that sets all the counters up with the same parameters and then continously read all counters. Second, to get the period data of signal one, can I still use the 2 edge separation function and just wire the same signal to gate and aux terminal. I think this would allow me to set all counters to the same function (i.e. one task fits all). I am very fuzzy on the task and taskhandle stuff. Additionally, is there any advantage for traditional daq or daqmx for my particular application. Any help would be really appreciated.

Thanks
Mike

[chericks1]

Dear Mike,

Thank you for contacting National Instruments.

To address your first question, a task can contain only one counter input channel. To read from multiple counters simultaneously, use a separate task for each counter.

In reference to the second question, you can use the 2 edge separation function to measure the signal's period by wiring the same signal to gate and auxilary, but its easier to use the period function.

Lastly, in my opinion DAQmx is a lot less tedious when coding.

Let me know if you have any further questions or if this does not resolve your issue.

Thanks again and have a great day!

Chad AE
Applications Engineer - National Instruments

[MikeO]

Thanks for the reply. I think we are getting a handle on it. Very impressive little device.