National Instruments SCXI-1520 Strain/Bridge Input Module

The NI SCXI-1520 (Part Number: 777966-20, 186338-01) Universal Strain-Gauge Input Module can be utilized with the SCXI-1314 Screw Terminal Block, the SCXI-1310 Connector and Shell Assembly, the TBX-96 DIN-rail mounted Terminal Block, or the SCXI-1314T RJ-50 Terminal Block. The DC coupled device has 8 analog input channels. It provides every feature users require for straightforward or more complicated strain and bridge-based sensor measurements. One of these features is the capability to read signals from strain, load, force, torque, and pressure sensors. Another beneficial feature of this module is the automatic calibration capability in altering conditions. There is also a programmable amplifier and programmable 4-pole Butterworth filter on every channel to provide precise strain measurements. The 4-pole Butterworth filters offer a sharp cutoff to stop noise while preserving the highest flatness in the passband. Every channel additionally has an individual 0 to 10 V programmable excitation source with remote sense for each channel. Yet another useful feature of the SCXI 1520 module is the simultaneous-sample-and-hold feature. This feature utilizes track-and-hold or T/H circuitry for simultaneous-sampling applications.

The SCXI 1520 is operated using the NI-DAQmx driver software which is compatible with software packages/application development environments (ADEs) such as LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or Measurement Studio.

Parallel mode is available for high-speed acquisitions with the use of NI-DAQ 7. During parallel mode, every channel is directed to a different analog input channel of the DAQ instrument to which it is cabled. NI-DAQ Traditional does not have the parallel mode of operation. Additionally, there is a random scanning capability on the SCXI-1520 Strain/Bridge Input Module. The random scanning feature allows the user to obtain information from the channels they choose in any order, which helps decrease total scan times. If there is an application that entails less than eight strain gauges, then the extra analog input channels can be utilized for general-purpose analog signals. The device weighs 10.4 oz., measuring 1.2 x 6.9 x 8.0 in. in dimensions. It has a recommended operating temperature range of 0 to 50 °C.

SCXI-1520 Obsolete Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the module will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.