PXIe-6738 Current Drive Limit

[NathanJD]

The specifications for the PXIe-6738 shows the "Output current drive" is ±10 mA.  Is that per-pin?  What is the maximum for all 32 channels?

[ybalam]

The 6738 should be able to sink or source 10mA for each of its 32 channels. Just for future reference, I got that info from the specifications explained guide for MIO DAQ, as I had some trouble determining (just from the data sheet) what was indicated by that spec as well.

[NathanJD]

That guide states that it is the amount of current that the device can sink or source.  This does not seem to imply that it is "per pin".

In the example shown, it says "from any analog output channel".  This doesn't seem to imply that it's "per pin" and still could be per device.

Your reply actually does imply that it is "per pin".  That would mean that I should be able to sink 320 mA for the entire module.  Is that correct?

[ybalam · Accepted solution]

Just to be clear, each channel can sink or source a maximum of 10mA, and you can have all 32 channels running simultaneously at that max sourcing/sinking current. 

That said, this device isn't intended for cascading outputs in order to drive more current, so it would not be within spec to put them all together in order to get 320mA of current drive. As long as the channels are operating independently, they can all work within that 10mA limit. 

Apologies for the confusion! I realize the wording here isn't entirely clear and I want to make sure we're on the same page.

[NathanJD]

Thanks for the info!

I certainly don't intend to cascade outputs.  Just need to make sure that I would be able to sink a several independent 10 mA signals.