A computer can store and process data, but it cannot directly measure every physical signal from a machine—or send every type of control signal back to it. A **data acquisition (DAQ) card** provides the interface between the computer and external sensors, instruments and equipment.

A PCI or PCI Express (PCIe) DAQ card is installed in a compatible expansion slot inside a desktop or industrial computer. It can convert sensor signals into digital data for software to read, record and analyse. Depending on the card, it can also send output signals from the computer to external equipment.

### Why is data acquisition needed?

Machines and processes produce physical measurements: temperature, pressure, force, vibration, speed, position, voltage and current.

A DAQ system helps a computer capture these measurements so an application can:

• Monitor equipment and process conditions

• Log measurements for reports, testing and traceability

• Compare actual values with limits or test criteria

• Trigger alarms or notify an operator

• Automate test sequences

• Send selected control signals to external devices

In a measurement-and-control setup, sensors provide input to the computer through the DAQ card. Software processes that data and, where the application requires it, the card sends outputs to compatible external devices.

### Common input signal types

**Analog inputs (AI):** Measure changing signals such as voltage or current from suitable sensors and instruments.

**Digital inputs (DI):** Read on/off states from devices such as switches, proximity sensors, machine status contacts and alarms. Confirm the required voltage and wiring type for the card.

**Thermocouples:** Measure temperature using a small millivolt signal. The selected hardware may need appropriate signal conditioning and cold-junction compensation.

**RTDs:** Measure temperature through resistance changes. Check that the card supports the RTD type and wiring method, and provides the required excitation.

**Strain gauges and bridge sensors:** Measure strain, force or load through small bridge signals. These applications may require bridge completion, excitation and amplification.

**Counter inputs:** Count pulses or measure frequency, period, events and—in supported configurations—encoder signals.

### Common output signal types

**Analog outputs (AO):** Generate voltage or current signals used as references or commands for compatible equipment.

**Digital outputs (DO):** Send on/off logic or control signals. Check voltage, current, isolation and whether an external driver is required.

**Relay outputs:** Switch external circuits within the relay’s specified ratings. Relays can help with switching, but the card is not a substitute for a properly rated power-control system.

**Card capabilities vary.** Not every PCI/PCIe DAQ card supports every signal type. Thermocouples, RTDs and strain gauges may require a suitable card, signal-conditioning hardware, terminal board or external conditioner. Confirm sensor ranges, channel count, isolation, wiring, sampling speed and output ratings before selecting a model.

### Where can PCI/PCIe DAQ cards be used?

• Automated test benches and end-of-line testers

• Product, machine and component validation

• Electronics and semiconductor equipment

• Vibration and condition-monitoring systems

• Temperature and environmental test systems

• Industrial machine monitoring and measurement

• Research laboratories and engineering test setups

• PC-based data logging and custom measurement systems

### Windows, LabVIEW and Ubuntu driver support

Driver and software compatibility depends on the **exact DAQ card model** and the computer’s operating system. Before ordering, confirm:

• Windows edition and version

• Ubuntu version and kernel

• LabVIEW version and required integration method

• Whether the manufacturer provides a supported driver, SDK, API, LabVIEW VIs or example programs for that card

LabVIEW support does not automatically mean a card works with NI-DAQmx. The card manufacturer must provide a compatible integration path. Likewise, Linux support for one model does not guarantee that every model works with every Ubuntu release.

**Through STS, customers can enquire about suitable PCI/PCIe DAQ cards and model-specific driver compatibility.** Please share the application, signal types, required channel count, computer slot, Windows or Ubuntu version, and LabVIEW version so the card and software support can be checked before selection.

### Why Sundar Techno Solutions?

Sundar Techno Solutions (STS), based in Bangalore, supplies industrial and embedded computing solutions across India. STS can help match a DAQ card to the measurement task, available PCI/PCIe slot, computer platform, signal-conditioning needs and software environment.

**Email:** [sales@sundartechno.com](mailto:sales@sundartechno.com)

**WA/MOB:** +91-9482081014

**Bangalore, India**

**Cities served:** Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Coimbatore, Hosur, Noida, Gurugram, Vadodara, Surat, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Nagpur, Indore, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur, Bhubaneswar, Patna and Ranchi.

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