Is there a way to get more voltage input range from an SCXI-1520?

[dj143]

I suspect the answer is no, but I�m going to ask anyway. I am using an SCXI-1520 strain gauge signal conditioner to monitor strain gauge bridges. Additionally, I�m using an unused input to measure voltage. The SCXI-1520 has an input range of -10 to +10VDC and I am using it to measure 0 to +10VDC. The problem is that the sensors that I�m measuring may have a slight more output than +10VDC. For example, a sensor may output up to +10.1vdc, which is acceptable for the sensor. The problem of course is that the system reads 10.1 as 10.0, which is an error. I could put a resistive voltage divider at the voltage input and scale the numeric output, but that�s a hassle. My NI sales rep would appreciate my purcha
sing an additional SCXI card to handle the voltage, but that�s more $$$. (Especially for only one voltage input.) Is there a way to increase the range through software?

[cb34]

I will not answer your question but will ask you something that may be familiar to you.

Im sure your SCXI 1520 is connected to a DAQ card, right?

For example, if you specify the voltage input range of the 1520, what happens to the input range of the DAQ card. Is it put on default (maybe +/- 10V)? Do you know a way to manipulate both the input ranges of the DAQ card and scxi 1520?

Thanks!

[dj143]

Yes, I'm using a PCI-6030E. As I understand it, the 1520 is configured in conjuction with the 6030. I'm not aware of a way to manipulate both input ranges. Also, (again as I understand it) all the I/O available to the 6030 is required by the 1520 in the way I'm using the 1520.

[Sean_C.]

Hello,

Thank you for contacting National Instruments.

Unfortunately, you are correct. +/- 10 Volts is the largest input range available on the SCXI-1520. The only thing you could do would be to scale the voltage down with external circuitry.

Let me know if you have further questions.

Sincerely,

Sean C.
Applications Engineer
National Instruments