New Embedded PCI Express-based Analog I/O Cards Released

ACCES I/O Products has released two new embedded PCI Express-based families of high performance, low-cost analog I/O cards – the mPCIe-AIO Family and the M.2-AIO Family, designed for use in harsh and rugged environments such as military and defense. 

These new 16-bit and 12-bit ADC cards start with the flagship models, the mPCIe-AIO16-16FDS and the M.2- AIO16-16FDS (NVME compatible).

ACCES’ mPCIe and M.2 high-speed, 16-bit multifunction analog input/output cards are designed for precision measurement, analysis, monitoring, and control in embedded applications found in rugged military environments. Each design can sample inputs at speeds up to 2Msps for the board’s 16 single-ended or 8 differential analog input channels (1MHz acquired simultaneously on each of two analog input paths). Standard features include four 16-bit analog outputs and two high-current digital I/O lines — all contained on the ultra-small mPCIe F1 or M.2 2260/2280 embedded form factors. These products also include models with slower A/D speeds, optional analog outputs, and lower performance 12-bit modules, for less demanding applications.

Each form factor offers over a dozen models. The cards feature seven software-selectable per-channel analog voltage input ranges, including 4-20mA current inputs (factory option). This channel-by-channel programmable gain feature enables measurement of an assortment of large and small signals in one scan—all under software control at up to 1MHz. Two simultaneously sampling ADCs provide unique benefits in multi-channel vibration and transient analysis, and the 4 kSample FIFO+DMA-driven data is optimum where high data rates must be sustained for short—or long— periods of time.

The four analog outputs each have five software selectable ranges and can drive up to 10mA. The flagship FDS models add hardware-paced 8 kSample FIFO+DMA-driven Streaming Waveform Playback on one, two, three, or all four DACs, at any aggregate rate up to 1Msps.

The two pulled-up digital I/O pins can be used independently as simple input or output, external ADC trigger, ADC start conversion, DAC trigger (LDAC), watchdog status output, and more.

Key features of the mPCIe-AIO and M.2-AIO Families include:

• PCI Express Mini Card (mPCIe) Type F1 or M.2 Type B/M 2260/2280, with latching I/O connector
• 2× 16-bit, bipolar, differential, A/D converters sampling at up to 1MHZ, simultaneously (2Msps)
• Software selectable as 16+0, 8+4, or 0+8 (single-ended + differential inputs)
• Seven channel-by-channel Programmable differential input ranges from ±0.3125V up to ±12V
• A/D starts via software, external input, or periodic timer
• A/D “scan start” mode optimizes inter-channel timing, reducing skew
• High Impedance, 16-channel input: 500 MΩ
• 4 kSample FIFO+DMA for efficient, robust data streaming
• Two digital I/O with flexible secondary functions
• Four 16-bit analog outputs with optional 8 kSample FIFO+DMA Waveform Streaming
• 5 per-channel programmable ranges: 0-5V, 0-10V, ±2.5V, ±5V, ±10V
• Outputs drive ±10mA
• Onboard watchdog with status output
• RoHS compliant standard

All ACCES mPCIe and M.2 cards offer high retention latching connectors for shock and vibration mitigation as well as an optional extended operating temperature of -40°C to +85°C. 

The small size (mPCIe Type F1: 30mm x 50.95mm and M.2 2260/2280: 22mm x 60mm/80mm) allows for maximum performance in applications where space is a valuable resource. The mPCIe form factor has proven itself over time and the newer M.2 form factor provides an even smaller footprint for embedded applications where compact size is critical. 

Both product families share the same register map and I/O pinout, making moving to either design a straightforward change. This M.2 card is compatible with standard NVME sockets, common on all modern motherboards.