How can I determine the maximum number of samples my system can acquire and record.

[AeroEng]

I am using a PCI-6110 card, sampling all four channels at 5Ms/S. What is, or how do I determine the longest time interval that I can acquire and record data without overflowing the buffer?

[alcava.cr]

Hi there, since you are using all four channels the input buffer divides by four to support simultaneous readings. In other words, you have a buffer size of 2,048 samples per channel, for more specifications look here. Now, figuring how long can you acquire data will be difficult because we are missing a couple configurations, it will be better if I show you how to avoid an overflow. Take a look at this article: Understanding and Avoiding Overwrite and Overflow Errors with NI-DAQmx. I hope this helps.

[AeroEng]

Thanks for the answer.

We have since added another PCI-6110 card and now need to read all 8 channels at full sample rate (5MS/s) for at least 1 second. Ideally even longer if possible.

From the article you sent it appears that increasing the on-board memory is the easiest option we have of increasing our run time.

We are considering increasing the desktop memory and switching over to 64-bit OS since that seems to be the most economical way of enhancing our capabilities.

What other bottle necks are there besides the FIFO buffer and PCI bus speed?

Regards

Peter