Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252

The NI PCI-8252 (NI 8252) is an IEEE 1394a interface device for PCI. This document describes how
to install and configure the necessary hardware and software components to begin using the NI 8252.

What You Need to Get Started

You need the following items to set up and use the NI 8252:

NI 8252 device
IEEE 1394 camera
IEEE 1394a cable
Computer running Microsoft Windows Vista/XP/2000 with at least one available PCI slot
Note Visit ni.com/info and enter rdvisionvista for more information about National
Instruments image acquisition device compatibility with Windows Vista.

NI Vision Acquisition Software 8.2.1 or later, which includes the NI-IMAQdx driver software
Optional software for developing applications:
NI Vision Builder for Automated Inspection
NI Vision Development Module
LabVIEW
LabWindows/CVI
Microsoft Visual Basic

Related Documentation
The following documents contain additional information that you may find helpful:
NI Vision Acquisition Software Release NotesContains information about new functionality,
minimum system requirements, and installation instructions for the NI-IMAQdx driver software.
Measurement & Automation Explorer Help for NI-IMAQdxDescribes how to configure the
NI-IMAQdx driver software, NI image acquisition devices, and cameras using Measurement &
Automation Explorer (MAX).
NI-IMAQdx User ManualContains fundamental programming concepts for the NI-IMAQdx
driver software and terminology for using NI image acquisition devices.

Safety Information
Caution The following paragraphs contain important safety information you must follow when
installing and operating the device.

Do not operate the device in a manner not specified in the documentation. Misuse of the device may
result in a hazard and may compromise the safety protection built into the device. If the device is
damaged, turn it off and do not use it until service-trained personnel can check its safety. If necessary,
return the device to National Instruments for repair.
 Keep away from live circuits. Do not remove equipment covers or shields unless you are trained to do
so. If signal wires are connected to the device, hazardous voltages can exist even when the equipment is
turned off. To avoid a shock hazard, do not perform procedures involving cover or shield removal unless
you are qualified to do so. Disconnect all field power prior to removing covers or shields.

If the device is rated for use with hazardous voltages (>30 Vrms, 42.4 Vpk, or 60 Vdc), it may require a
safety earth-ground connection wire. Refer to the device specifications for maximum voltage ratings.

Because of the danger of introducing additional hazards, do not install unauthorized parts or modify
the device. Use the device only with the chassis, modules, accessories, and cables specified in the
installation instructions. All covers and filler panels must be installed while operating the device.

Do not operate the device in an explosive atmosphere or where flammable gases or fumes may be
present. Operate the device only at or below the pollution degree stated in the specifications. Pollution
consists of any foreign mattersolid, liquid, or gasthat may reduce dielectric strength or surface
resistivity. The following is a description of pollution degrees.
Pollution Degree 1No pollution or only dry, nonconductive pollution occurs. The pollution has
no effect.
Pollution Degree 2Normally only nonconductive pollution occurs. Occasionally, nonconductive
pollution becomes conductive because of condensation.
Pollution Degree 3Conductive pollution or dry, nonconductive pollution occurs. Nonconductive
pollution becomes conductive because of condensation.

Clean the device and accessories by brushing off light dust with a soft, nonmetallic brush. Remove
other contaminants with a stiff, nonmetallic brush. The unit must be completely dry and free from
contaminants before returning it to service.

You must insulate signal connections for the maximum voltage for which the device is rated. Do not
exceed the maximum ratings for the device. Remove power from signal lines before connection to or
disconnection from the device.
Caution National Instruments measurement products may be classified as either Measurement
Category I or II. Operate products at or below the Measurement Category level specified in the
hardware specifications.

Measurement Category1: Measurement circuits are subjected to working voltages2 and transient
stresses (overvoltage) from the circuit to which they are connected during measurement or test.
Measurement Category establishes standardized impulse withstand voltage levels that commonly occur
in electrical distribution systems. The following is a description of Measurement (Installation3)
Categories:
Measurement Category I is for measurements performed on circuits not directly connected to the
electrical distribution system referred to as MAINS4 voltage. This category is for measurements of
voltages from specially protected secondary circuits. Such voltage measurements include signal
levels, special equipment, limited-energy parts of equipment, circuits powered by regulated
low-voltage sources, and electronics.

1 Measurement Categories as defined in electrical safety standard IEC 61010-1.

2 Working voltage is the highest rms value of an AC or DC voltage that can occur across any particular insulation.
3 Measurement Category is also referred to as Installation Category.
4 MAINS is defined as the (hazardous live) electrical supply system to which equipment is designed to be connected for the
purpose of powering the equipment. Suitably rated measuring circuits may be connected to the MAINS for measuring
purposes.

Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252 2 ni.com

 Measurement Category II is for measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the
electrical distribution system. This category refers to local-level electrical distribution, such as that
provided by a standard wall outlet (e.g., 115 V for U.S. or 230 V for Europe). Examples of
Measurement Category II are measurements performed on household appliances, portable tools,
and similar products.
Measurement Category III is for measurements performed in the building installation at the
distribution level. This category refers to measurements on hard-wired equipment such as
equipment in fixed installations, distribution boards, and circuit breakers. Other examples are
wiring, including cables, bus-bars, junction boxes, switches, socket-outlets in the fixed installation,
and stationary motors with permanent connections to fixed installations.

Unpacking
The NI 8252 ships in an antistatic package to prevent electrostatic discharge from damaging device
components. To avoid such damage in handling your device, take the following precautions:
1. Ground yourself using a grounding strap or by touching a grounded object, such as the computer
chassis.
2. Touch the antistatic package to a metal part of the computer chassis before removing the device
from the package.
Caution Never touch the exposed pins of connectors.
3. Remove the device from the package and inspect it for loose components or any other signs of
damage. Notify National Instruments if the device appears damaged in any way. Do not install
a damaged device in the computer.

Store the NI 8252 in the antistatic package when not in use.

Installation
The following instructions are for general installation. Refer to the documentation provided by your
computer manufacturer for specific instructions and warnings. Refer to the Specifications section for
typical power requirements for the NI 8252.
1. Install the NI Vision Acquisition Software before installing the NI 8252. Refer to the NI Vision
Acquisition Software Release Notes for specific installation instructions.
2. Power off and unplug the computer.
Caution To protect yourself and the computer from electrical hazards, the computer must remain
unplugged until the installation is complete.
3. Remove the computer cover to expose the expansion slots.
4. Touch a metal part of the computer to discharge any static electricity that might be on your clothes
or body. Static electricity can damage the device.
5. Choose an unused PCI slot, and remove the corresponding expansion slot cover on the back panel
of the computer.
6. Remove the NI 8252 device from the antistatic package and gently rock the device into the slot.
The connection may be tight, but do not force the device into place.
Note Check that the bracket of your device aligns with the hole in the back panel rail of the
computer chassis.
7. Secure the device mounting bracket to the back panel rail of the computer.

National Instruments Corporation 3 Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252

 8. Replace the computer cover.
9. Connect the IEEE 1394a cable to the camera. Refer to your camera manufacturer documentation
for specific instructions about how to connect the cable to your camera.
10. Connect the IEEE 1394a cable to the IEEE 1394 connector on the NI 8252 front panel.
11. Plug in and power on the computer.

The NI 8252 is now installed and the camera is connected.

Configuring the NI 8252

After you have installed the NI 8252 and powered on the computer, the computer will recognize the
device and assign resources to it. Use Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX), the National
Instruments configuration utility, to configure the NI 8252 for acquisition. Refer to the Measurement &
Automation Explorer Help for NI-IMAQdx for additional information about configuring the NI 8252.
Note Before configuring the device in MAX, ensure that you installed the NI-IMAQdx driver
software.

Specifications
The following specifications apply to the NI PCI-8252 image acquisition device. These specifications
are typical at 25 C unless otherwise specified.

Physical Characteristics
Dimensions ............................................................6.40 cm 12.16 cm
(2.52 in 4.79 in.)
Connector
1394 .......................................................................6-pin, female
Number of 1394 connectors...................................3
PCI .........................................................................32-bit, Universal
Signaling
1394 .......................................................................IEEE 1394a-1995 S100, S200, S400 transfer rates,
OHCI v1.1 software interface. Actual 1394 transfer
rates are system dependent.
PCI .........................................................................Universal, 33 MHz
Power Consumption
Typical....................................................................0 mA at 5 V = 0 mW
0 mA at 3.3 V = 0 mW
40 mA at 12 V = 480 mW (max)
Bus Power
1394 .......................................................................12 V 10%, 12 W total, up to 9.6 W/port with ATX
power connected

Operating Environment
The NI 8252 device is intended for indoor use only.
Ambient temperature range ...................................0 C to 55 C

Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252 4 ni.com

 Operating relative humidity ...................................20% to 80%, noncondensing
Pollution Degree ....................................................2
Measurement Category ..........................................I
Caution Do not use the NI 8252 for connection to signals within Measurement Categories II, III,
or IV.

Approved at altitudes up to 2,000 m.

Storage Environment
Ambient temperature range ...................................20 C to 60 C
Relative humidity...................................................20% to 95%, noncondensing

Safety
This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following standards of safety for electrical
equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use:
IEC 61010-1, EN 61010-1
UL 61010-1, CSA 61010-1
Note For UL and other safety certifications, refer to the product label or visit ni.com/
certification, search by model number or product line, and click the appropriate link
in the Certification column.

Electromagnetic Compatibility
This product is designed to meet the requirements of the following standards of EMC for electrical
equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use:
EN 61326 EMC requirements; Minimum Immunity
EN 55011 Emissions; Group 1, Class A
CE, C-Tick, ICES, and FCC Part 15 Emissions; Class A
Note For EMC compliance, operate this device according to product documentation.

CE Compliance
This product meets the essential requirements of applicable European Directives, as amended for
CE marking, as follows:
73/23/EEC; Low-Voltage Directive (safety)
89/336/EEC; Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC)
Note Refer to the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this product for any additional regulatory
compliance information. To obtain the DoC for this product, visit ni.com/certification,
search by model number or product line, and click the appropriate link in the Certification column.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

EU Customers At the end of their life cycle, all products must be sent to a WEEE recycling center.
For more information about WEEE recycling centers and National Instruments WEEE initiatives,
visit ni.com/environment/weee.htm.

National Instruments Corporation 5 Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252

Where to Go for Support
The National Instruments Web site is your complete resource for technical support. At
ni.com/support you have access to everything from troubleshooting and application development
self-help resources to email and phone assistance from NI Application Engineers.

A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is our claim of compliance with the Council of the European
Communities using the manufacturers declaration of conformity. This system affords the user
protection for electronic compatibility (EMC) and product safety. You can obtain the DoC for your
product by visiting ni.com/certification. If your product supports calibration, you can obtain the
calibration certificate for your product at ni.com/calibration.

National Instruments corporate headquarters is located at 11500 North Mopac Expressway, Austin,
Texas, 78759-3504. National Instruments also has offices located around the world to help address your
support needs. For telephone support in the United States, create your service request at
ni.com/support and follow the calling instructions or dial 512 795 8248. For telephone support
outside the United States, contact your local branch office:

Australia 1800 300 800, Austria 43 662 457990-0, Belgium 32 (0) 2 757 0020,
Brazil 55 11 3262 3599, Canada 800 433 3488, China 86 21 6555 7838,
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New Zealand 0800 553 322, Norway 47 (0) 66 90 76 60, Poland 48 22 3390150,
Portugal 351 210 311 210, Russia 7 495 783 6851, Singapore 1800 226 5886,
Slovenia 386 3 425 42 00, South Africa 27 0 11 805 8197, Spain 34 91 640 0085,
Sweden 46 (0) 8 587 895 00, Switzerland 41 56 2005151, Taiwan 886 02 2377 2222,
Thailand 662 278 6777, Turkey 90 212 279 3031, United Kingdom 44 (0) 1635 523545

Getting Started with the NI PCI-8252 6 ni.com

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