NI CFP-AO-200

Technical Specifications​

Channels: 8 single-ended current outputs

Output ranges: 0 to 20 mA and 4 to 20 mA, software programmable

Overrange: approximately 0 to 20.5 mA or 3.5 to 20.5 mA depending on configuration

Resolution: 12 bits, about 4.88 µA per bit at 20 mA

Absolute accuracy: 0.1 percent typical, 0.3 percent maximum of full scale

Output type: current source, external loop power required

Loop power: 5 to 24 VDC

Internal drop: 3 V typical

Load resistance: up to 1 kΩ with 24 V loop supply, up to 100 Ω with 5 V loop supply

Update rate: 200 updates per second total module capability

Slew rate: 0.4 mA/µs

Isolation: 2300 Vrms transient channel-to-backplane; no isolation between output channels

Protection: open-circuit detection and short-circuit protection

Indicators: green POWER and READY LEDs, red open-loop/fault LED per channel or global fault according to configuration

Backplane power: 350 mW from FieldPoint network module

Operating temperature: -40 to 70 °C

Storage temperature: -55 to 100 °C

Humidity: 10 to 90 percent RH, non-condensing

Functional Features​

Software-selectable 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA output. Open-loop detection alerts the controller to broken wiring or transmitter faults. Short-circuit protection prevents damage during grounding errors. Hot configuration and replacement are supported in compatible FieldPoint networks. Wide temperature range suits outdoor enclosures and harsh cabinets.

Application Scenarios​

Flow control valve positioning, pressure transmitter setpoint driving, variable-speed drive command, level control actuators, environmental chamber conditioning, remote SCADA analog control, test rig current-source simulation.

Performance Parameters​

Full-scale accuracy is maintained with proper loop supply and load resistance. Maximum load must satisfy: load ohms ≤ (loop supply voltage − 3 V internal drop) ÷ 0.0205 A. Use 24 V loop supply for long cable runs and 1 kΩ loads. Reduce update demands if all eight channels require simultaneous high-speed refreshing.

Material Composition​

Industrial printed circuit board with 12-bit DACs, current-source output drivers and protection ICs. FieldPoint housing uses molded industrial plastic with DIN-rail clips. Terminal contacts use plated copper alloy.

Structural Characteristics​

The module plugs into a Compact FieldPoint network base or bank. Eight current-output terminals connect field loops. Network side receives power and communication from the FieldPoint controller. LEDs provide power, ready and fault status.

Working Principle​

The FieldPoint controller sends a digital output value over the network. The module DAC produces a corresponding current-setpoint. The output driver sources current from the external loop supply through the field instrument. Loop current is regulated against the selected 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA range. Fault circuits detect open loads and overloads and report status through LEDs and network diagnostics.

Installation Requirements​

Mount on a DIN rail inside a sealed enclosure for outdoor use. Connect the FieldPoint network module first, then insert CFP-AO-200. Wire each loop with twisted pair and proper shielding. Provide 5-24 VDC external loop power per channel load. Separate analog output cables from high-voltage AC and switching-power wiring.

Usage Precautions​

Confirm load resistance before using 5 V loop supply because only low-resistance loads are supported. Do not connect loop power with reversed polarity. Verify 4-20 mA zero/span calibration in the controller. Replace the module only after confirming network and loop isolation if hot-swap is enabled. Maintain ambient temperature within -40 to 70 °C and avoid condensation.