DAcq E-series: analog output: freq. and regular waveform

[rcpopa]

In our application (using DAcq6024E), we need to generate periodic signals on the 2 analog outputs, while simultaneosly performing data acquisition on (some of) the analog inputs.

Two questions:

1. The generation, and acquisition sampling freqs. should be INDEPENDENT (e.g., 20 kHz on each of say 5-6 analog inputs, and, say, 200/400 kHz for each waveform generated on the two analog outputs). Is that possible ?

2. So, the waveforms to be generated are periodic, e.g., sinus, triangle, rectangular pulses; how can we do this generation (which functions to call) with a MINIMUM LOAD on the processor, i.e., fastest ? Here, we are hoping that the regularity of the waveforms we need to generate would help finding
a better solution than using a circular buffer of samples.

We would be very grateful for possible related C++ program samples, too.

Thank you in advance.

Radu Popa

[Sarah Thompson]

Radu,
1. The sampling rates for all analog input channels must be the same. Also, all generation rates for analog output channels must be the same. This is because they share timing and synchronization hardware on the board. As far as the specifications for the NI 6024E, it can input up to 200kS/s but it can only output 1kS/s when outputting on multiple lines.

2. There are some examples that install with NI-DAQ to show you the methods of programming analog input and output. The directory where the examples install depends on the version of C++ and whether or not you are using Measurement Studio.

Good luck with your application.