NI PXI-4204 - Legacy SC DAQ PXI Module

NI PXI-4204 - Legacy SC DAQ PXI Module

The NI PXI-4204 is a versatile, high-performance source measure unit (SMU) designed specifically for demanding test and measurement applications in the power industry, petrochemical sector, and general automation environments. This instrument combines precision voltage and current sourcing with accurate measurement capabilities, making it ideal for advanced characterization, device testing, and process control tasks.

At its core, the NI PXI-4204 offers dual channels capable of sourcing and measuring voltage up to ±20 V and current up to ±100 mA, with a resolution reaching 100 fA and 100 nV respectively. Its fast settling time and low noise floor ensure reliable data acquisition in even the most sensitive environments. The unit boasts excellent linearity and offset stability, supported by a 16-bit DAC and 18-bit ADC, enabling engineers to capture subtle changes in device behavior or system parameters. The PXI-4204 is built for durability, featuring a robust design compliant with PXI specifications for shock and vibration, ensuring reliable operation in harsh industrial settings.

In practical applications, the NI PXI-4204 shines in scenarios requiring precise source-measure feedback loops, such as semiconductor device characterization, battery testing, and sensor calibration. In the power industry, it plays a critical role in testing power electronics components, validating energy meters, and ensuring the integrity of control systems. Within the petrochemical sector, the PXI-4204 facilitates accurate measurement and control of instrumentation linked to flow meters, pressure sensors, and safety interlocks. Its flexibility and precision also make it a valuable asset in general automation, where it can seamlessly integrate into test systems monitoring manufacturing processes or validating electrical components.

When compared to other NI automation products, the PXI-4204’s unique advantage lies in its combination of source-measure precision and PXI modularity. For instance, while the NI PXI-6229 excels in multifunction data acquisition with analog I/O and counters, it lacks the dedicated SMU capability that makes the PXI-4204 indispensable for device-level testing. Similarly, the NI PXI-6514 offers digital I/O lines but does not provide the high-resolution voltage and current sourcing necessary for precision characterization. The NI PXI-2542 and PXI-2532, which serve as matrix and switching modules respectively, complement the PXI-4204 by enabling complex routing and multiplexing but cannot replace its core measurement functions.

Alongside the NI PXI-4204, NI offers a broad portfolio of PXI and PCI instruments such as the NI PCI-6031E for high-speed analog input, the NI USB-4432 for portable audio and vibration measurements, the NI PXIe-4496 for high-density simultaneous sampling, and the NI PXI-6624 for timing and synchronization. These products can be combined to build comprehensive automated test systems tailored to specific industry needs. The NI SCXI-1162HV and SCXI-1125 chassis provide additional signal conditioning options, while the NI PXI-2813 and PXI-2811 offer precision switching capabilities that pair well with the PXI-4204 in complex test setups.

In summary, the application of PXI-4204 in the power industry, petrochemical, and general automation sectors underscores its value as a precision SMU with robust PXI integration. Its fine resolution and dual-channel output enable thorough testing and validation of critical components and systems. When integrated with complementary NI automation products like the NI PCI-6220, NI USB-6353, and NI PXI-2501, the PXI-4204 becomes a central element of scalable, high-performance test and measurement solutions. Whether used for R&D, production test, or process monitoring, the NI PXI-4204 delivers reliability, accuracy, and flexibility essential for modern industrial applications.