Advantech PCL-81601 Data Acquisition System Card

The Advantech PCL-81601 is a modular data acquisition card built for industrial measurement and control in demanding environments. It combines a 16-bit ADC with 100 kHz sampling capability, 16 differential analog inputs, 16 digital I/O channels, and two expansion slots for functional modules. The metal-shielded A/D module and DB-37 connector deliver signal integrity critical to noise-sensitive applications.

Technical Specifications

• 16 differential channels, 16-bit resolution


• Maximum sampling rate: 100 kHz


• Conversion time: 8.5 µsec


• Software-programmable gains: 1, 2, 4, 8


• Input ranges (bipolar): ±10 V, ±5 V, ±2.5 V, ±1.25 V


• Input ranges (unipolar): 0–10 V, 0–5 V, 0–2.5 V, 0–1.25 V


• Accuracy: ±0.003% ±1 LSB


• Input impedance: > 10 MΩ


• Overvoltage protection: ±15 V


• Trigger modes: Software, pacer, external


• Data transfer: Software, interrupt (IRQ 2–7), or DMA (channels 1 or 3) Digital I/O


• 16 TTL-compatible input channels (0.8 V max. for logic 0; 2.0 V min. for logic 1)


• 16 TTL-compatible output channels (0.4 V max. @ 16 mA sink; 2.4 V min. @ 800 mA source)


• 20-pin flat cable connectors Timer/Counter


• Intel 8254 programmable pacer clock


• 10 MHz time base


• Maximum rate: 2.5 MHz


• Minimum rate: 0.00023 Hz

Key Features

• Metal-shielded A/D module for enhanced noise rejection


• Flexible input range and gain selection via software


• Two 64-pin piggyback connectors for expansion modules


• Optional PCL-816-DA analog output module (2-channel 16-bit D/A, ±10 V bipolar, 5 µsec settling time)


• DB-37 shielded connector for signal integrity

Typical Applications Multichannel industrial data logging, process control systems, environmental monitoring, laboratory instrumentation, and closed-loop control requiring high-resolution analog acquisition with synchronized digital signaling.

Compatibility & Integration Supported by Windows DLL drivers and ActiveX controls. Compatible with Visual BASIC, Microsoft Visual C++, Borland C++, Delphi, and LabVIEW environments.