Low-Cost Digital I/O Device for USB
NI USB-6501
• Small, portable digital I/O device
• 24 digital I/O lines, one 32-bit counter
• Overvoltage protection, 8.5 mA
current drive
• Full-speed USB (12 Mb/s) bus interface
• Built-in screw terminals with removable
connectors for easier connectivity
• OEM version available with 34-pin IDC
mass termination connectivity
Operating Systems
• Windows Vista/XP/2000
• Mac OS X
1
• Linux
®1
Recommended Software
• LabVIEW
• LabWindows
™
/CVI
Measurement Services
Software (included)
• NI-DAQmx driver software
• Measurement & Automation Explorer
configuration utility
OS X and Linux users need to download
NI-DAQmx Base.
1
Mac
Overview
The National Instruments USB-6501 is a portable digital I/O device,
providing reliable data acquisition and control at a low price. With
plug-and-play USB connectivity, the NI USB-6501 is simple enough
for home/academic applications but robust and versatile enough for
laboratory/industrial applications. The board-only version is ideal
for embedded OEM applications.
Digital I/O
Lines
24
Counter/
Timers
1
Current
Drive
8.5 mA
Industrial
Logic Level Feature Set
5 V TTL /
CMOS
–
GND +5V P1.7 P1.6 P1.5 P1.4 GND GND P2.7 P2.6 P2.5 P2.4 P2.3 P2.2 P2.1 P2.0
Terminal
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Signal
GND
+5 V
P1.7
P1.6
P1.5
P1.4
GND
GND
P2.7
P2.6
P2.5
P2.4
P2.3
P2.2
P2.1
P2.0
Product
NI 6501
Bus
USB
Table 1. USB-6501 Features
Hardware
The USB-6501 is a full-speed USB device that provides 24 DIO lines and
a 32-bit counter. The 24 digital lines are arranged in three ports: P0.<0..7>,
P1.<0..7>, and P2.<0..7>. P2.7 can also function as a 32-bit counter. You
can individually program each of the USB-6501 DIO lines as a DI or DO
line and use the DIO lines to monitor or control digital signals. All
samples of the DI lines and updates of the DO lines are software-timed.
The default configuration of the USB-6501 DIO ports is open-drain, for
5 V operation with an onboard 4.7 kΩ pull-up resistor. You can add an
external, user-provided, pull-up resistor to increase the source current
drive up to 8.5 mA per line.
Each DIO signal is protected against overvoltage, undervoltage, and
overcurrent conditions, as well as ESD events. At system startup and
reset, the hardware sets all DIO lines to high-impedance inputs.
GND +5V P1.3 P1.2 P1.1 P1.0 GND GND P0.7 P0.6 P0.5 P0.4 P0.3 P0.2 P0.1 P0.0
Terminal
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Signal
P0.0
P0.1
P0.2
P0.3
P0.4
P0.5
P0.6
P0.7
GND
GND
P1.0
P1.1
P1.2
P1.3
+5 V
GND
Figure 1. USB-6501 Pinout
Low-Cost Digital I/O Device for USB
The data acquisition device does not drive the signal high or low. Each
line has a weak pull-up resistor connected to it.
You can configure P2.7 as the source for a 32-bit counter. In this
mode, the device counts high to low transitions (falling edges) on
P2.7. You can arm and disarm the counter and read or reset the count
through software.
The USB-6501 supplies a nominal 5 V from two pins, one on each
screw-terminal block. You can use the voltage source, which is provided
by the USB host, to power external components. The USB-6501 features
current limiting short circuit protection for safe USB host power use.
+5 V
1
LED
LED
2
3
+5 V
4
Switch
I/O Connector
GND
TTL Signal
P0.0
P0.1
P0.2
P0.3
P0.4
P0.5
P0.6
P0.7
Figure 3. Interactive Control Panel Example Program Shipped with the USB-6501
Recommended Accessories
The USB-6501 has built-in screw terminals for connectivity; no additional
accessories are required.
Board-Only Version for OEMs
A board-only version of the USB-6501 is available to OEMs for use in
embedded applications. The OEM version offers a 34-pin IDC ribbon
cable header for mass termination instead of screw-terminal
connectivity. You can mount the OEM version using standoffs (not
included in kit) with your own enclosure. For information on special
configurations and pricing, visit
ni.com/oem.
1. P0.0 configured as an open-drain digital output driving an LED
2. P0.2 configured as a push-pull digital output driving an LED
3. P0.4 configured as a digital input receiving a TTL signal from a gated inverter
4. P0.7 configured as a digital input receiving a 0 V or 5 V signal from a switch
Figure 2. Example of Connecting a Load
Ordering Information
Software
The USB-6501 is shipped with NI-DAQmx measurement services
software, a high-performance multithreaded driver for interactive
configuration and data acquisition. Use it to develop customized data
acquisition applications with NI LabVIEW or C-based development
environments. Examples include an interactive control panel to help
you get started with your application quickly.
NI USB-6501 ..........................................................................779205-01
Includes NI-DAQmx Base software and a USB cable.
NI USB-6501 hardware only (for OEM) ................................192317-50
BUY NOW!
For complete product specifications, pricing, and accessory
information, call 800 813 3693 (U.S.) or go to
ni.com/daq.
BUY ONLINE
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or
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2
Low-Cost Digital I/O Device for USB
Specifications
The following specifications are typical at 25 °C, unless otherwise noted.
Digital I/O
Number of lines
P0.<0..7>..............................................
P1.<0..7>..............................................
P2.<0..7>..............................................
Direction control .................................
Output driver type ...............................
Pull-up resistor....................................
Absolute voltage range.......................
Power-on state....................................
Digital logic levels
8
8
8
Input or output,
software-selectable
Push-pull or open-drain,
software-selectable
4.7 kΩ
-0.5 to 5.8 V with respect
to GND
Input (high impedance)
Min
-0.3
2.0
–
–
–
2.8
2.0
2.0
2.0
Max
0.8
5.8
50
0.4
0.8
3.6
3.5
5.0
–
Units
V
V
µA
V
V
V
V
V
V
With connectors ............................. 8.18 by 8.51 by 2.31 cm
(3.22 by 3.35 by 0.91 in.)
I/O connectors..................................... USB series B receptacle,
(2) 16 position (screw-terminal)
plug headers
Screw-terminal wiring ........................ 16 to 28 AWG copper conductor
wire with 10 mm (0.39 in.) of
insulation stripped from the end
Torque for screw terminals................. 0.22 to 0.25 N · m
(2.0 to 2.2 lb · in.)
Weight................................................. 84 g (3 oz)
Safety Standards
The USB-6501 is designed to meet the requirements of the following
standards of safety for electrical equipment for measurement, control,
and laboratory use:
• IEC 61010-1, EN 61010-1
• UL 61010-1
• CSA 61010-1
Note:
For UL and other safety certifications, refer to the product label, or
visit
ni.com/certification,
search by model number or product line, and
click the appropriate link in the Certification column.
Level
Input low voltage
Input high voltage
Input leakage current
Output low voltage (I = 2 mA)
Output low voltage (I = 8.5 mA)
Output high voltage
Push-pull, I = -2 mA
Push-pull, I = -8.5 mA
Open-drain, I = -0.4 mA, nominal
Open-drain, I = -7.5 mA, with external pull-up resistor
Overvoltage Protection
Connect only voltages that are within these limits.
Channel-to-COM (one channel) .......... ±30 V max, Measurement
Category I
Channel-to-COM
(one port, all channels) ....................... ±8.9 V max, Measurement
Category I
Measurement Category I is for measurements performed on circuits not
directly connected to the electrical distribution system referred to as
MAINS voltage. MAINS is a hazardous live electrical supply system that
powers equipment. This category is for measurements of voltages from
specially protected secondary circuits. Such voltage measurements
include signal levels, special equipment, limited-energy parts of
equipment, circuits powered by regulated low-voltage sources, and
electronics. Caution: Do not use this module for connection to signals or
for measurements within Measurement Categories II, III, or IV.
Counter
Number of counters ............................ 1 (P2.7 can be configured
as the counter)
Resolution ........................................... 32 bits
Counter measurements....................... Falling edge counting
Maximum input frequency.................. 5 MHz
Minimum high pulse width................. 100 ns
Minimum low pulse width.................. 100 ns
Bus Interface
USB specification................................ USB full-speed (12 Mb/s)
External Voltage
+5 V output
Voltage............................................ 4.00 V min, 5.25 V max
Current ............................................ 230 mA max
Hazardous Locations
The USB-6501 is not certified for use in hazardous locations.
Environmental
The USB-6501 device is intended for indoor use only.
Operating temperature
(IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2)..... 0 to 55 °C
Operating humidity
(IEC 60068-2-56) ............................. 10 to 90% RH, noncondensing
Maximum altitude............................... 2,000 m (at 25 °C ambient
temperature)
Storage temperature
(IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2)... -40 to 85 °C
Storage relative humidity
(IEC 60068-2-56) ............................. 5 to 90%, noncondensing
Pollution degree (IEC 60664) .............. 2
Power Requirements
USB
4.5 to 5.25 VDC............................... 80 mA typical, 500 mA max
USB Suspend .................................. 500 µA max, all DIO
lines disconnected
Physical Characteristics
Dimensions
Without connectors ........................ 6.35 by 8.51 by 2.31 cm
(2.50 by 3.35 by 0.91 in.)
BUY ONLINE
at
ni.com
or
CALL 800 813 3693 (U.S.)
3
Low-Cost Digital I/O Device for USB
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Emissions ............................................ EN 55011 Class A at 10 m
FCC Part 15A above 1 GHz
Immunity.............................................. Industrial levels per
EN 61326:1997 + A2:2001,
Table 1
EMC/EMI............................................. CE, C-Tick, and FCC Part 15
(Class A) Compliant
Note:
For EMC compliance, operate this device with shielded cabling.
You must insulate signal connections for the maximum voltage for which
the device is rated. Do not exceed the maximum ratings for the device.
Do not install wiring while the device is live with electrical signals. Do
not remove or add connector blocks when power is connected to the
system. Avoid contact between your body and the connector block signal
when hot swapping modules. Remove power from signal lines before
connecting them to or disconnecting them from the device.
Operate the device at or below Measurement Category I
1
.
Measurement circuits are subjected to working voltages
2
and transient
stresses (overvoltage) from the circuit to which they are connected
during measurement or test. Measurement categories establish
standard impulse withstand voltage levels that commonly occur in
electrical distribution systems. The following is a description of
measurement categories:
• Measurement Category I is for measurements performed on circuits
not directly connected to the electrical distribution system referred to
as MAINS
3
voltage. This category is for measurements of voltages
from specially protected secondary circuits. Such voltage
measurements include signal levels, special equipment, limited-
energy parts of equipment, circuits powered by regulated low-voltage
sources, and electronics.
Category as defined in electrical safety standard IEC 61010-1. Measurement
Category is also referred to as Installation Category.
2
Working Voltage is the highest rms value of an AC or DC voltage that can occur across any
particular insulation.
3
MAINS is defined as a hazardous live electrical supply system that powers equipment.
Suitably rated measuring circuits may be connected to the MAINS for measuring purposes.
1
Measurement
CE Compliance
This product meets the essential requirements of applicable European
Directives, as amended for CE marking, as follows:
Low-Voltage Directive (safety) ........... 73/23/EEC
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Directive (EMC)............................... 89/336/EEC
Note:
Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this product for
any additional regulatory compliance information. To obtain the DoC for
this product, visit
ni.com/certification,
search by model number or
product line, and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.
Safety Guidelines
Caution:
Operate the hardware only as described in these operating
instructions.
The following section contains important safety information that you
must follow when installing and using the USB-6501.
Do not operate the USB-6501 in a manner not specified in this document.
Misuse of the device can result in a hazard. You can compromise the
safety protection built into the device if the device is damaged in any
way. If the device is damaged, contact National Instruments for repair.
Do not substitute parts or modify the device except as described in this
document. Use the device only with the chassis, modules, accessories,
and cables specified in the installation instructions. You must have all
covers and filler panels installed during operation of the device.
Do not operate the device in an explosive atmosphere or where there
may be flammable gases or fumes. If you must operate the device in
such an environment, it must be in a suitably rated enclosure.
If you need to clean the device, use a dry cloth. Make sure that the
device is completely dry and free from contaminants before returning it
to service. Operate the device only at or below Pollution Degree 2.
Pollution is foreign matter in a solid, liquid, or gaseous state that can
reduce dielectric strength or surface resistivity. The following is a
description of pollution degrees:
• Pollution Degree 1 means no pollution or only dry, nonconductive
pollution occurs. The pollution has no influence.
• Pollution Degree 2 means that only nonconductive pollution occurs in
most cases. Occasionally, however, a temporary conductivity caused
by condensation must be expected.
• Pollution Degree 3 means that conductive pollution occurs, or dry,
nonconductive pollution occurs that becomes conductive due to
condensation.
• Measurement Category II is for measurements performed on circuits
directly connected to the electrical distribution system. This category
refers to local-level electrical distribution, such as that provided by a
standard wall outlet (for example, 115 V for U.S. or 230 V for Europe).
Examples of Measurement Category II are measurements performed
on household appliances, portable tools, and similar E Series devices.
• Measurement Category III is for measurements performed in the
building installation at the distribution level. This category refers to
measurements on hard-wired equipment such as equipment in fixed
installations, distribution boards, and circuit breakers. Other examples
are wiring, including cables, bus-bars, junction boxes, switches,
socket-outlets in the fixed installation, and stationary motors with
permanent connections to fixed installations.
• Measurement Category IV is for measurements performed at the
primary electrical supply installation (<1,000 V). Examples include
electricity meters and measurements on primary overcurrent
protection devices and on ripple control units.
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4
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NI has the services and support to meet
your needs around the globe and through
the application life cycle – from planning
and development through deployment
and ongoing maintenance. We offer
services and service levels to meet
customer requirements in research,
design, validation, and manufacturing.
Visit
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Local Sales and Technical Support
In offices worldwide, our staff is local to the country, giving you access
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ni.com/support.
We also offer service programs that provide automatic upgrades to
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schedule instructor-led courses in cities worldwide, or we can hold a
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Hardware Services
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Trained NI technicians install the software and hardware and configure
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purchased with FIS. To use FIS, simply configure your system online
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Professional Services
Our Professional Services Team is composed of NI applications engineers,
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Calibration Services
NI recognizes the need to maintain properly calibrated devices for
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laboratories. Visit
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OEM Support
We offer design-in consulting and product integration assistance if you
want to use our products for OEM applications. For information about
special pricing and services for OEM customers, visit
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Repair and Extended Warranty
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and advance replacement services are also available. We offer
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National Instruments • info@ni.com
*351483A-01*
351483A-01
2007-8562-301-101-D
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®
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