Integration checklist for sensors and valves on an NI cDAQ test stand (NI 9205 / 9213 / 9476)

Checked against NI datasheets (Nov 2026) while planning a student engine on a university stand: - NI 9205: 32 single-ended or 16 differential inputs, ranges +/-10, +/-5, +/-1, +/-0.2 V, 250 kS/s aggregate (shared across channels). Wiring your signals differentially to avoid ground loops between your supply and the facility uses two inputs each, so ask the facility how many modules exist and how their own channels are wired. - Pressure and flow sensors: order an amplified voltage output (e.g. 0-5 V) that runs on a wide supply (8-30 V). Avoid ratiometric 0.5-4.5 V parts if the stand excites at 10 V; they need a regulated 5 V. Current-loop (4-20 mA) sensors need a precision shunt at the DAQ, so ask whether the facility accepts current at all. - NI 9213: reads J, K, T, E, N, B, R, S (datasheet p. 6); 75 S/s for all 16 channels in high-speed mode. It has push-in spring terminals for bare wire, 26-16 AWG (p. 10), so probes with miniature plugs need adapters or extension wire of the same thermocouple type to the terminal. - NI 9476: 24 V sourcing outputs, 250 mA per channel max, "Current limiting None" (p. 5). Any solenoid coil over about 6 W needs an interposing relay on your own supply, with flyback suppression. - Fast sensors (accelerometers, measurement microphones) usually need IEPE constant-current power. A plain multifunction USB DAQ does not supply it: add an IEPE conditioner or choose voltage-output sensors, and trigger your recorder from the facility sequence. - Variable-reluctance sensors (e.g. Validyne) need a carrier demodulator; a DC-powered one with 0-5 V out drops straight into this setup.