Need help selecting hardware for classes and beyond

[AltiumDesigner]

Hello,

I'm having trouble getting a straight answer from sales and the NI team in general as what to buy. I was told the hardware listed below are good for labview core 1.

• PCI-6221 or USB-6212
• IEEE 488.2 (GPIB) controller
• BNC-2120

I want to purchase hardware that I can use now, in future classes, and for development outside of the classes. Not sure if there's a platform that will satisfy all of those need but I have to think there's something that I can get multiple uses out of and not just to use in a small section of the course.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Daniel R

[crossrulz]

The real questions are "what will you need in future classes?" and "what do you want to do outside of class?"

The USB-6212 is a very capable DAQ, with 16 analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, and 32 DIO.  I use these regularly to test all kinds of things.  I recommend getting the version with the screw terminals as then you won't need additional accessories.

The GPIB controller is only useful if you are trying to communicate with an instrument that has a GPIB port.  I personally rather use an Ethernet connection for talking to instruments.

I'm not sure what you would need the BNC-2120 for.

[AltiumDesigner]

Thanks for the input! Not exactly sure what ill need for the next two classes as I cant get a straight answer for this class other then the list I posted. For work most of the labview based test sets have a USB interface. The voltage and current readings are coming through a picoscope on that interface. 

[AltiumDesigner]

bump

[natasftw]

Bumping won't really help.  Asking a better question is what you need here.

Core 1/2 will have some DAQmx components, a little VISA, and an introduction to Instrument Control.  Core 3 is primarily programming and organizing your development.

You shouldn't be purchasing hardware specifically for the course.  You should be getting hardware for what you're wanting to actually accomplish.  The only way it'd make sense to be purchasing hardware focused on the course is if you're planning to get the course materials and teach the course.  I'm pretty sure that's not alright by the terms.  Also, anyone needing help picking out the hardware really shouldn't be teaching the course.

So, let's get away from what you're specifically asking and instead focus on what you're actually wanting to know.  What are you trying to accomplish?  When we know that, it'll be easier to point you to better hardware selections.