National Instruments PCI-7356

The National Instruments PCI-7356 is a sophisticated motion controller capable of managing up to six axes of motion and designed for both brushed and brushless servo and stepper motors. Featuring 64 digital I/O channels and delivering a 16-bit input resolution, this device utilizes a powerful API for simplified programming, allowing users to execute motion control and configuration functions directly through a dynamic link library (DLL). Designed in compliance with PCI Local Bus Specifications and Standards Rev 2.2, the PCI-7356 facilitates automatic bus-related configurations, eliminating the need for jumper adjustments. It connects seamlessly into any +3.3 V or +5 V PCI slot and supports brushless drives with sinusoidal commutation, using a single digital-to-analog converter (DAC) output per axis. When interfacing with brushed drives, it effectively uses two DAC outputs per axis while providing capabilities for commutation value calculations via Hall Effect sensors or the shake-and-wake methodology. The device incorporates an integrated 32-bit CPU, 16-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADC), and 16-bit DACs, offering eight channels each for analog input and output. The PCI-7356 requires specific drives, including the MID-7604 Stepper Motor Drive and MID-7654 Servo Motor Drive, along with associated cables and a Universal Motion Interface. With dimensions of 6.9 x 3.9 inches and a weight of just 0.25 pounds, it features two high-density 68-pin VHDCI I/O connectors and has a power consumption of 18 W. Although the PCI-7356 has been announced as obsolete, it remains available for purchase and repair through Apex Waves. For further information, users may access the device's manuals online.