Can I activate/deactivate solenoid valves (24VDC/5.5W) using PXI 2503 channels?

[Callisto]

Hello,

I'm trying to control fluid flow into a test chamber via solenoid valves (24VDC/5.5W) and would like to know if I can use the 24-Channel relay MUX (PXI-2503) to switch the valves on/off at specific intervals.

Many thanks

Message Edited by Callisto on 10-01-2008 04:31 AM

[Mark M]

Hi Callisto,

Hope you are doing well!

Would you explain in more details about your system's configurations please? How many valves are you planning to use? Do you have any digital output modules or current source for the valves at the moment?

Thanks,

[Callisto]

Hello Mark,

Thank you very much for your response.

I was looking for a way to auto-activate/deactivate 3 Takasago solenoid valves at different pre-programmed intervals. I thought the valves would have a 'com' port/lead that could be used to control its operation but they arrived with 2 power leads. Because I have unused channels on the PXI 2503, I thought it may be used to drive the valves (with appropriate flyback protection) and whilst looking through the PXI 2503 help manual, I came across an item on switching inductive loads which prompted my enquiry. However, I have found another way to switch the valves by using a ULN 2803 high voltage/current transistor array (with TTL input compatibility) that I could drive with digital output channels from a PXI 6722 card. I am just about to put the transistor/valve circuit together.

I hope this gives you a better picture of my set up, I welcome any suggestions.

Best regards,

Callisto

[Mark M]

Hi Callisto,

I'm afraid I'm not aware of PXI-2503 being capable of switching inductive loads. However, as you only have three valves, I would agree with what you have been doing at the moment. Routing through a mux will only add latency to your system unless you have, say 20 valves, then it's worth trying to do it.

Please let me know if I can help you further,