User`s guide

PCI-2513 User's Guide Functional Details
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Set pre-trigger > 0 when using counter as trigger source
When using a counter for a trigger source, you should use a pre-trigger with a value of at least 1. Since all
counters start at zero with the first scan, there is no valid reference in regard to rising or falling edge. Setting a
pre-trigger to 1 or more ensures that a valid reference value is present, and that the first trigger will be
legitimate.
Stop trigger modes
You can use any of the software trigger modes explained previously to stop an acquisition.
For example, you can program an acquisition to begin on one event—such as a voltage level—and then stop on
another event—such as a digital pattern.
Pre-triggering and post-triggering modes
The PCI-2513 supports four modes of pre-triggering and post-triggering, providing a wide-variety of options to
accommodate any measurement requirement.
When using pre-trigger, you must use software-based triggering to initiate an acquisition.
No pre-trigger, post-trigger stop event
In this simple mode, data acquisition starts when the trigger is received, and the acquisition stops when the stop-
trigger event is received.
Fixed pre-trigger with post-trigger stop event
In this mode, you set the number of pre-trigger readings to acquire. The acquisition continues until a stop-
trigger event occurs.
No pre-trigger, infinite post-trigger
In this mode, no pre-trigger data is acquired. Instead, data is acquired beginning with the trigger event, and is
terminated when you issue a command to halt the acquisition.
Fixed pre-trigger with infinite post-trigger
You set the amount of pre-trigger data to acquire. Then, the system continues to acquire data until the program
issues a command to halt acquisition.
Counter inputs
Four 32-bit counters are built into the PCI-2513. Each counter accepts frequency inputs up to 20 MHz.
PCI-2513 counter channels can be configured as standard counters or as multi-axis quadrature encoders.
The counters can concurrently monitor time periods, frequencies, pulses, and other event driven incremental
occurrences directly from pulse-generators, limit switches, proximity switches, and magnetic pick-ups.
Counter inputs can be read asynchronously under program control, or synchronously as part of an analog or
digital scan group.