National Instruments PCI-7330

The National Instruments PCI-7330 Motion Controller is a robust PCI-based solution designed for advanced stepper motor control, facilitating the management of up to four coordinated or independent axes of motion. This versatile controller allows for fully programmable motion control, making it suitable for applications ranging from straight-line vector movements to complex, arbitrary trajectories. It includes dedicated motional I/O for home and limit switches as well as general-purpose I/O capabilities. The PCI-7330 features 8 multiplexed single-ended inputs with 12-bit resolution, 4 outputs, and 4 digital I/O ports, each 8 bits wide, alongside 2 PWM outputs operating at 50 kHz with 8-bit resolution.

The integrated dual-processor architecture enhances performance, combining a 32-bit CPU with custom FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) and a DSP, facilitated by a FIFO bus interface for efficient communication and optimal system command throughput. Users can operate the stepper axes in open-loop or closed-loop modes, with the latter utilizing analog inputs or quadrature encoders delivering velocity and position feedback. Moreover, the PCI-7330 offers multiple motion I/O options, including encoder feedback and end-of-travel limit signals, all conveniently routed through the module's motion I/O connector.

Additional features include four analog inputs for joystick control or ±10 V monitoring of analog sensors, and a 32-bit digital I/O connection. The device is equipped with two 68-pin female high-density VHDCI connectors for motion I/O and digital I/O. It consumes 5.7 W of power, requiring +5 V, +12 V, and –12 V supplies. The PCI-7330 can be programmed with various software platforms, including NI-Motion, LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, or Microsoft Visual Basic. The compact module measures 6.9 x 3.9 inches and weighs 0.25 lb. Each unit comes with a three-year warranty, and user manuals are available for download. Pricing details can be obtained by contacting a sales representative.