CompactDAQ Systems

Improve test coverage and meet requirements across any distance and in any environment with modular and flexible CompactDAQ modules.

Configure a custom system

What Is CompactDAQ?

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CompactDAQ systems collect and deliver the data validation you need to meet test requirements at any distance, in any environment. These portable, customizable solutions—made of data acquisition modules that can synchronize measurements across a network—help you digitize data closer to sensors, minimizing noise and simplifying cabling in the field.

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Easy Sensor Connectivity

CompactDAQ supports virtually any physical sensor with modules designed specifically for your measurement type. Each module includes the necessary signal conditioning and connectors, so you can spend less time worrying about setup and more time collecting accurate data. We’ve done the hard work—just choose the module that matches your sensor, and you’re ready to go.

Compact, Rugged Design

Don’t worry about protecting your instrumentation—the CompactDAQ chassis handles 50 g shock and operates at -40 °C to 70 °C. Its compact size and flexible mounting options make it easy to set up near your device under test, reducing sensor wiring and preserving data quality. Designed for reliability, CompactDAQ lets you focus on the test, not the hardware.

Key Applications

cDAQ-9183 CompactDAQ Ethernet chassis in a laboratory setting

  • Electromechanical validation
  • Component test
  • Motor/pump test
  • Structural and durability test
  • Noise, vibration, and harshness test (NVH)
  • Research measurements
  • Cycle test systems
  • Performance benchmarks
  • Power and thermal tests
  • Power and battery characterization
  • HALT/HASS measurements
  • Sensor measurements

Why Choose CompactDAQ Hardware?

front view of 4 slot compactdaq chassis with modules

CompactDAQ is a cost-effective approach to benchtop measurement. Pair sensor-specific, conditioned I/O modules with software optimized for DAQ applications.

Recommended Uses:

  • High-channel-count distributed DAQ applications
  • Benchtop test and measurement
  • Mixed sensor measurements

CompactDAQ System Components

LabVIEW software interface displayed on a computer screen, with CompactDAQ systems hardware displayed belowNEED

Each CompactDAQ system includes a chassis that connects to your PC over USB or Ethernet, plus one or more I/O modules for measurements. You can control and analyze data using NI software—like LabVIEW or FlexLogger™—or choose from a wide range of common programming languages, including .NET, C#, and Python.

CompactDAQ Chassis

cDAQ-9189 CompactDAQ Ethernet chassis with multiple connected modules

CompactDAQ chassis connect your I/O modules to a PC over USB or Ethernet and unify your measurements for seamless data acquisition with built-in timing and synchronization. All chassis share the same core technology and module compatibility, but differ by communication bus, slot count, and environmental range.

Chassis Features

1. Module Latch Catches

2. Grounding Lug (on exterior)

3. Rear Mounting Hole

4. Desktop Mount Mounting Hold

5. Status LEDs

6. Bus Connector (USB or ENET)

7. Power Supply Connector (9-30 VDC)

8. Module Slots (1-, 2-, 8-, 14-slot options)

Mounting Considerations

Mechanical mounting and fixturing is a critical element of a design validation test system. Use the following table as you work through the physical design of your system.

Diagram of NI CompactDAQ system setup on a desktop 

Desktop

Use the NI-9901 mounting kit (blue feet) with your chassis for easier access to I/O terminals when working on a desk or workbench.

Diagram of NI CompactDAQ system mounted in a rack

Rack Mount

  • I/O cables for CompactDAQ systems all exit in the same direction.
  • DIN rail can be used in conjunction with rack mount.
  • Consider space for terminal blocks, power supplies, and cable management.

Diagram of NI CompactDAQ system mounted on a DIN rail

DIN

  • Industrial power supplies have DIN mounting options.
  • Don’t ship systems on DIN rail without considering shock impacts of traditional shipping methods.

Diagram of NI CompactDAQ system mounted on a panel 

Panel

  • Consider chassis replacements and upgrades. Can you use the same mounting plate for multiple chassis types?
  • Some chassis have the same mounting hole configuration, others do not.
  • Some chassis mount threads access from the front, and some from the back.

Recommended Chassis

Lowest Cost

NI cDAQ-9171

1-Slot USB Chassis 

Start with this option if you need only one measurement at a time but want the flexibility to use a wide range of CompactDAQ modules for different tests. USB provides a simple, plug-and-play setup that gets you to your first data quickly.

 

More Module Slots

NI cDAQ-9174

4-Slot USB Chassis

Enjoy the ease of USB with additional slots for multiple measurement types or future scalability. For larger setups, 8- and 12-slot USB chassis are also available, making it easy to leave open slots for future growth.

 

 

 

Distributed Systems

NI cDAQ-9187

New 8-Slot Ethernet Chassis

Leverage Ethernet for distributed data acquisition or up to 100 m cable runs. Daisy-chain multiple chassis from a single PC or network and synchronize measurements with TSN* for submicrosecond accuracy.

 

 

*Chassis with TSN synchronization will synchronize channel inputs using the same Ethernet cable used for communication. Refer to Designing TSN Ethernet-Based Measurement Systems for more information about the underlying technology.

Connector Options

Connectivity Options and Considerations

A CompactDAQ cDAQ-9183 chassis in a lab, connected to sensors and instruments for data acquisition

CompactDAQ modules provide multiple connector options, giving you flexibility to match your wiring preferences, environmental needs, and installation requirements. These choices ensure your system is ready for a variety of test setups.

CompactDAQ Module Connectivity

1. NI-9205 Spring Terminal Module

2. NI-9205 D-SUB Module

3. Connect to cDAQ chassis

4. Spring-Terminal Connections

5. Plastic Backshell Around the Spring-Terminal Connectors

6. 37-pin D-SUB Terminal Block

7. NI 37-pin D-SUB Cable

NI C Series Module Connector Types

Use modules with a quick connection option for systems that are more portable or for systems that will be subject to frequent setups and changeover. The tradeoff is you will manage multiple types of accessories, need to crimp and terminate sensor wires, and have fewer channels per module (quick connects are less channel-dense). The payback comes from time saved during repetitive test setup. BNC (several modules), RJ-50 (strain/load), LEMO (dynamic universal), and 10-32 coaxial jack (or “Microdot” as seen on the NI-9231 IEPE module) are all quick-connect style modules.

Close-up of a BNC connector used in NI equipment

BNC

BNC connectors have two signal pins and secure the cable to the module with a quarter-turn coupling nut. It is ideal for single-ended measurements. Because the BNC connector has two pins, it doesn’t provide a true differential measurement, which requires three pins.

Close-up of a screw terminal connector used in NI equipment 

Screw Terminal

Screw-terminal connection options require a flat-bladed screwdriver to close a metal gate that clamps down on exposed wires.

 

Spring Terminal

Spring-terminal connections use a spring mechanism inside the connector to clamp down on exposed signal wires. Use a small, flat-bladed precision screwdriver to open the cage clamp. Remove the screwdriver after inserting exposed signal wire.

 

 

D-SUB

D-SUB connections, named for the D-shaped metal shell, are a mass termination option that uses a pin-and-socket connection.

 

10-32 Coaxial Jack

The 10-32 coaxial jack, or “Microdot,” uses two pins for the connection with a threaded collar to screw the cable in place. This is a common connector for accelerometers and microphones when there are space constraints.

 

RJ50

RJ50 is a variant of the ubiquitous RJ45 that is used for copper Ethernet connections, but the connector and tools are not compatible. The RJ50 has 10 pins. Purchase RJ50 cables and dongles that convert to screw terminals from NI or purchase a crimping tool and use RJ50 connectors to connect sensor wires directly into the module.

 

LEMO

LEMO is a multi-pin push/pull connector that works with several connector standards to offer high-quality connections with a variety of options.

Quick Selection

Choose from our most popular CompactDAQ modules for sensors, voltage input or output, digital I/O, or current input. If these options don’t meet your needs, browse our entire lineup to find the best fit for your application.

CompactDAQ sensor modules support measurements like temperature, strain, and vibration with built-in signal conditioning for precise and reliable data.

 

 One-slot chassis with voltage input module NI-9210

Universal Analog for Flexible Sensor

NI-9219 (±10 V, 4-ch, 100 S/s/ch, universal)

  

16-channel C series voltage output module that accommodates higher-channel-count systems

Thermocouple Input

NI-9213 (16-ch, ±80 mV, 14 S/s, 24-bit)

  

Four-slot chassis with voltage input module NI-9213

Strain and Bridge Measurements

NI-9237 (4-ch, ±25 mV/V, 50 kS/s/ch, bridge input)

  

NI CompactDAQ C Series module for sound and vibration measurements

Sound and Vibration Measurements

NI-9234 (4-ch, ±5 V, 51.2 kS/s/ch, IEPE input)

  

Voltage products can accurately measure voltage over a wide range of values and generate voltage signals for control and communication applications. NI voltage products have options that are optimized for industrial or hazardous locations.

 

32-channel C series voltage input module

General Purpose ±10 V Input

NI-9205 (16-ch DI, 32-ch SE, 16-bit, 250 kS/s)

  

4-channel C series voltage input module

High-Speed ±10 V Input

NI-9223 (4-ch, ±10 V, 1 MS/s/ch, simultaneous)

  

16-channel C series voltage input module

Medium-Speed ±10 V Input

NI-9220 (16-ch, ±10 V, 100 kS/s/ch, simultaneous)

  

16-channel C series voltage input module with excellent flexibility

Noise Rejection for ±10 V Input

NI-9202 (16-ch, ±10 V, 24-bit, 10 kS/s/ch)

  

Voltage products can accurately measure voltage over a wide range of values and generate voltage signals for control and communication applications. NI voltage products have options that are optimized for industrial or hazardous locations.

 

Simultaneously updating analog 4-channel C series voltage output module

General Purpose ±10 V Output

NI-9263 (4-ch, ±10 V, 100 kS/s/ch)

  

4-channel C series voltage input module

High-Density Voltage Output

NI-9264 (16-ch, ±10 V, 25 kS/s/ch)

  

16-channel C series voltage input module

Isolated High-Range Output

NI-9269 (4-ch, ±10 V or ±40 V, 100 kS/s/ch)

  

Digital I/O products can acquire and generate digital signals and patterns at multiple logic levels. You can characterize circuits, toggle control lines, and meet many other digital application needs.

 

Configurable digital I/O interface C series module for input or output in 4-bit increments

TTL Digital I/O

NI-9401 (8-ch, 5 V TTL)

  

Digital I/O interface C series module that works with industrial logic levels

Industrial Digital I/O

NI-9375 (32-ch, 12 V/24 V industrial level)

  

4-channel C series relay output module that directly connects to a wide array of industrial devices

Relay Output for Switching

NI-9482 (4 relays, 250 VAC, 60 VDC)

  

CompactDAQ current modules can measure up to 50 A or communicate with 4 mA to 20 mA (4-20 mA) equipment for high-performance control and monitoring applications.

 

3-channel C series voltage input module that performs single-ended analog input

Power Measurement for Voltage

NI-9242 (3-ch, ±250 V, 50 kS/s/ch)

  

3-channel C series voltage input module that performs differential analog input

Voltage Module for High Power

NI-9225 (3-ch, ±300 V Pk, 50 kS/s/ch)

  

3-channel C series current input module designed to support direct ring lug connectivity

Current Measurement with CT Input

NI-9246 (5 A, connects to CTs, 20 A range)

  

 

Industry-Leading DAQ Software Included

Flexlogger Lite monitor to visualize live data

  • Free logging software—NI FlexLogger™ Lite
  • Seamless LabVIEW integration
  • Documented APIs with example programs for Python, C/C++, C#, and more

Services

ni offers repair services, life cycle services, configuration, and calibration to help you maximize your compactdaq system

From the moment you unbox your hardware, through deployment and life-cycle maintenance, NI is here to help you get started quickly and operate efficiently.

Overcome your challenges with:

  • Repair Services

  • Life-Cycle Services 

  • Configuration

  • Calibration 

Product Bundles

cDAQ Measurement Bundles

Streamline your data acquisition setup and save money with NI’s CompactDAQ measurement bundles. Bundles include a chassis, modules, and accessories for popular measurement applications.

cDAQ Chassis and Module

CompactDAQ Resources

Architecture and Terminology Architecture and Terminology
CompactDAQ System Resources CompactDAQ System Resources