The National Instruments Part Number 778989-01, known as the PCI-6542 Digital Waveform Device, is a high-performance PCI card designed for waveform generation and data acquisition. It offers 32 single-ended data channels alongside 4 Programmable Function Interface (PFI) channels, providing critical flexibility for applications that require high-speed data transfer and precise timing synchronization. The device has an output impedance of 50 Ω with a protection range of 0 V to 5 V for generation tasks, while its input impedance is 50 kΩ with a voltage input protection limit of -1 V to 6 V, ensuring robust performance across various use cases.

The PCI-6542 is powered by typical consumption of 1.6 A at +3.3 VDC, 1.2 A at +5 VDC, 0.25 A at +12 VDC, and 0.06 A at -12 VDC, with a maximum power draw of 20.5 W, making it suitable for demanding applications. Its compact dimensions of 12.6 cm by 35.5 cm, along with a weight of 410 g (14.5 oz), facilitate mounting in various system configurations. Connectivity options include an SMB jack I/O for external clock signals and a 68-pin VHDCI connector for digital data channels, enhancing signal management and timing control.

The PCI-6542 operates efficiently within an ambient temperature range of 0 °C to 45 °C and is designed to maintain functionality at altitudes up to 2000 meters above sea level. It adheres to stringent standards for safety and electromagnetic compatibility, making it ideal for measurement, control, and laboratory environments where electrical interference must be minimized. The device is compatible with a variety of application software, including LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Measurement Studio, Microsoft Visual C/C++, and .NET (C# and VB.NET), streamlining system integration and usability.