You would just need to use DAQmx to control the card. DAQmx is free. Note that DAQmx 8.9 is the last version to support 7.1.
The bigger problem you're going to have is the sharing of code. If you write the code in 7.1 then you can open it in 8.2 and resave it. However, once you save it in 8.2 you will not be able to open it in 7.1. To go back to 7.1 you must save it as 8.0 from within 8.2 and then you need to have a copy of LabVIEW 8.0 to resave it for 7.1.
I've noticed you've posted several questions recently about the 6259. Have you talked to your local NI rep? They should be able to answer your questions.
