LabJack T8

The LabJack T8 is the new flagshipT-Seriesdevice adding powerful features including:

  • 8x isolated analog inputs (AIN) with simultaneous sampling.
  • 1 kV AIN isolation channel-to-channel and channel-to-ground.
  • Top performance for thermocouples, load cells, bridge circuits, and more.
  • 8x 24-bit ?? ADCs (up to 40k samples/s/ch).
  • 10+ AIN voltage ranges: 11V, to 0.18V.
  • 2 analog outputs (16-bit, 0-10V) with 20 mA drive.
  • 20 digital I/O similar to the T7.
  • Lua scripts are faster with 5x the code space than the T7.
  • 3.3V fixed voltage outputs for excitation.
  • Supported by LJM. LabJack’s free, 3rd generation, cross-platform driver/library/API for simplifying device communication.
  • Industrial temperature range (-40 to +85C).
  • USB Ethernet.
  • Built-in Power over Ethernet (PoE), or power through USB connection.

Measurement and Automation

LabJack makes USB, Ethernet, and WiFi based measurement and automation devices which provide analog and digital inputs and outputs.

Connect the physical world to your computer.

MasTec stocks LabJack and has many sites using it.

LabJack has certainly made a name for itself in the world DAQ market place. LabJack DAQ is quite unique, Advanced features.

Jabjack Histoy

PRODUCTS

LabJack T8

The LabJack T8 is the new flagshipT-Seriesdevice adding powerful features including:

  • 8x isolated analog inputs (AIN) with simultaneous sampling.
  • 1 kV AIN isolation channel-to-channel and channel-to-ground.
  • Top performance for thermocouples, load cells, bridge circuits, and more.
  • 8x 24-bit ?? ADCs (up to 40k samples/s/ch).
  • 10+ AIN voltage ranges: 11V, to 0.18V.
  • 2 analog outputs (16-bit, 0-10V) with 20 mA drive.
  • 20 digital I/O similar to the T7.
  • Lua scripts are faster with 5x the code space than the T7.
  • 3.3V fixed voltage outputs for excitation.
  • Supported by LJM. LabJack’s free, 3rd generation, cross-platform driver/library/API for simplifying device communication.
  • Industrial temperature range (-40 to +85C).
  • USB Ethernet.
  • Built-in Power over Ethernet (PoE), or power through USB connection.

Hardware Overview

Isolated, Simultaneous, High Speed Analog & Digital Measurements

The LabJack T8 is Labjack’s 2022 new flagship device, capable of collecting signals from virtually any kind of sensor.
With instrumentation amplified inputs, software selectable gain settings, many digital I/O features, and a Modbus TCP front-end, the T8 is their most versatile multifunction DAQ platform. Common applications include sampling large industrial signals requiring electrical isolation and/or precision timing including EV battery testing, industrial control and monitoring, automated testing, and prototype development.
Additionally, T8 devices are capable of stand-alone operation by running Lua scripts and include 5x more space for Lua scripts than other T-Series devices.

Multifunction DAQ with WiFi, Ethernet, and USB

Choose the T7 family for ultimate flexibility. With 16-bit to 24-bit analog inputs, the option to use USB, Ethernet, or WiFi, and numerous built-in firmware features, the T7 can help you accomplish nearly any data acquisition need.

It’s great for acquiring signals from virtually any kind of sensor, and can serve that sensor data out through any of its 3 communication interfaces. With instrumentation amplified inputs, software selectable gain settings, dozens of digital I/O features, and a Modbus TCP front-end, the T7 is our most versatile multifunction DAQ platform. Common applications include laboratory research, industrial control and monitoring, automated testing, and prototype development. Additionally, T7 devices are capable of stand-alone operation by runningLua scripts.

  • USB, Ethernet, and WiFi connectivity
  • Fully compatible with Modbus TCP
  • 14 analog inputs
  • 16+ bits of resolution
  • T7-Pro: Up to 22-bit resolution
  • 10V, 1V, 0.1V, and 0.01V ranges
  • 100k samples/s max stream rate
  • Expand to 84 channels with Mux80
  • Optional NIST traceable Calibration Certificate.
  • AIN-EF: Hardware scaling & processing
  • 2 analog outputs
  • 23 digital I/O
  • Up to 12 timer and counter features
  • Run Lua scripts in hardware
Analog Input
  • 14 Analog Inputs built in (16-24 Bits Depending on Speed & Device Type)
  • Expand to84 analog inputs with Mux80add-on
  • T7: 16-bit high-speed ADC (up to 100k samples/s)
  • T7-Pro: 24-bit low-speed ADC (resolution as low as1uV noise-free)
  • Software Configurable Resolution Settings
  • Single-Ended Inputs (14) or Differential Inputs (7)
  • Analog input ranges: 10V, 1V, 0.1V and 0.01V
  • All analog input features are software programmable by configuring theAnalog Input Registers
  • High speed sampling configurable by usingStream Mode. Speeds up to 100kS/s
  • Low Latency Sampling and Control (less than 1ms) is made easy withCommand-ResponseModbus messages
  • Easy integration with sensors like thermocouples, load cells, bridges, and more …
Analog Output
  • 2 analog outputs (12-bit, 0-5V)
  • Waveform generation via Stream Out
  • IntegratedLJTick-DACsupport for multiple +/-10V outputs
Digital I/O
  • 23 Digital I/O
  • Supports SPI, I2C, and more… (Master Only)
  • 5 PWM Outputs with individual phase control
  • 5 Pulse Outputs with configurable number, frequency, and width
  • 2 Frequency Inputs returning both frequency and period
  • 2 Pulse Width Inputs measuring time spent high and low as well as duty cycle
  • 2 Line-to-Line Inputs measuring the time between edges on 2 different lines
  • 4 High-Speed Counters
  • 6 Software Counters with debounce capabilities
  • 3 Pairs of Quadrature Inputs
  • Many of these DIO Extended Features share pins and cannot be used at the same time. See theDIO Extended Featuressection of the T7’s datasheet
Fixed Current Outputs
  • 200 A
  • 10 A
Communication Options
  • USB
  • Ethernet
  • 802.11b/g WiFi (T7-Pro only)
Other Highlights
  • Capable of stand-alone operation by runningLua Scripts
  • Built-In CJC Temperature Sensor for easy thermocouple temperature readings
  • Watchdog system
  • Field Upgradable Firmware
  • Programmable Startup Defaults
  • Industrial temperature range (-40 to +85C)
  • For more information please visit thehardware overviewsection of theT7’s datasheet
Further Reading

More technical specifications about the T7 can be found inAppendix Aof the T7’s Datasheet.

T7-Pro vs. T7

The T7-Pro has the following additional features:

  • 802.11b/g WiFi connectivity.

  • Low-Speed and High-Resolution (24-bit) sigma-delta ADC.

  • Battery Backed RTC for stand-alone data logging.

  • Factory Installed microSD card for stand-alone data logging.

OEM Versions

The T7 and T7-Pro come in standard and OEM versions. The OEM versions are intended to be embedded in another device. They are missing the enclosure and most connectors, as it is easier to install connectors than it is to remove them. LabJack can customize the boards to add or remove hardware before shipping, for an additional fee. More information on OEM versions can be found in theOEM Versionssection of the T7 Datasheet.

  • Each purchase includeslifetime support
  • Actively monitored and highly informativeforumswhere users can share ideas, ask questions, and get answers from both peers and our technical support staff
  • Free applicationsto configure, test, and log data to file
  • Free examples: Python, C/C++, LabVIEW[1], C#[1], Delphi[1], Java, MATLAB[1], VB.NET[1]and more
  • Modbus TCP Use any platform that supports TCP/IP, no driver required
  • The free, cross-platform LabJackLJM Library Extends/wraps the Modbus protocol for convenience
  • Expansion boards and accessories Add10V DACs,4-20 mA inputs, terminal boards,relay boardsandmore…
  • This all sounds like what I need, butwhy LabJack?

[1]Windows-only. SeeLJM library examples pagefor details.

Multifunction DAQ with Ethernet and USB

Choose the T4 for low cost Ethernet connectivity and the same software API as our flagship T7 device. The T4 has 4 dedicated high voltage (10V, 12-bit resolution) as well as up to 8 configurable low voltage analog inputs (0-2.5V, 12-bit resolution). The T4 also has numerous built-in firmware features to help users accomplish most data acquisition needs.

The T4 is our lowest cost devices with Ethernet connectivity. They are also capable of stand-alone operation by running Lua scripts.

Product Variations:

OEM Versions
The T4-OEM includes the board only without the enclosure and without most through-hole components. See the OEM Versions section of the T4 datasheet for more details.

  • USB and Ethernet connectivity
  • Fully compatible with Modbus TCP
  • Up to 12 analog inputs
  • 12-bit resolution
  • 4 dedicated 10V analog inputs
  • Up to 8 0-2.5V analog inputs
  • 50 ksamples/s max speed
  • AIN-EF: Hardware scaling & processing.
  • 2 analog outputs.
  • Up to 16 digital I/O
  • Up to 10 timer and counter features
  • Run Lua scripts in hardwarea
High Voltage Analog Inputs

The first 4 I/O lines on the LabJack T4 are dedicated high voltage analog inputs. Their voltage range is 10V with 12 bits of resolution. For more details, look in the T4 datasheet.

Flexible I/O:

The 8 I/O lines marked as FIO4-FIO7 and EIO0-EIO3 are flexible I/O lines. This means they can be individually configured as digital input, digital output, or analog input lines. When configured as digital I/O, they can be used as general purpose 3.3V logic lines, can be configured for the timers/counters sub-system, or can be used as SPI, I2C, or other digital communication protocol lines. When configured as analog inputs, they are 0-2.5V analog inputs with up to 12 bits of resolution.

Digital I/O:

The T4 has 8 dedicated digital I/O lines marked as EIO4-EIO7 and CIO0-CIO3. These lines can be configured as general purpose 3.3V logic lines, as timers/counters, or as SPI, I2C, or other digital communication protocol lines.

Analog Outputs:

The LabJack T4 has 2 analog outputs (DAC0 and DAC1). Each analog output can be set between 0 and 5V with 10 bits of resolution.

Timers:

The T4 has multiple hardware timers that provide options such as PWM output, pulse/period timing, pulse counting, and quadrature input.

Counters:

The T4 has multiple hardware counters that can be used for detecting pin toggles.

High Voltage Analog Inputs
  • 4 dedicated high voltage analog inputs (10V, 12-bit resolution)
  • Configurable resolution settings
Flexible I/O:
  • 8 configurable low voltage analog inputs (0-2.5V, 12-bit resolution) that can function as digital I/O lines
Digital I/O:
  • 8 dedicated digital I/O lines (EIO4-EIO7 and CIO0-CIO3)
Analog Outputs:
  • 2 Analog Outputs (10-bit, 0-5 volts)
  • Additional analog outputs are possible via the LJTick-DAC
  • Each purchase includeslifetime support
  • Actively monitored and highly informativeforumswhere users can share ideas, ask questions, and get answers from both peers and our technical support staff
  • Free applicationsto configure, test, and log data to file
  • Free examples: Python, C/C++, LabVIEW[1], C#[1], Delphi[1], Java, MATLAB[1], VB.NET[1]and more
  • Modbus TCP Use any platform that supports TCP/IP, no driver required
  • The free, cross-platform LabJackLJM Library Extends/wraps the Modbus protocol for convenience
  • Expansion boards and accessories Add10V DACs,4-20 mA inputs, terminal boards,relay boardsandmore…
  • This all sounds like what I need, butwhy LabJack?

[1]Windows-only. SeeLJM library examples pagefor details.

USB Multifunction DAQ

The U3 family devices are versatile for measurement and control within simple analog and digital systems. With the option to configure I/O as either analog or digital, you have flexibility when choosing sensors for your application. Common applications include hobbyist projects, educational programs, industrial control and monitoring, and prototype development.

  • USB Connectivity
  • Up to 16 analog inputs
  • 12-bit resolutio
  • Some 0-2.4V range and some 10V range
  • 50 ksample/s max stream rate
  • 2 analog outputs
  • Up to 20 digital I/O
  • 2 timers and 2 counters

Flexible I/O:

The first 16 I/O lines (FIO and EIO ports) on the LabJack U3-LV can be individually configured as digital input, digital output, or analog input. In addition, up to 2 of these lines can be configured as timers, and up to 2 of these lines can be configured as counters. On the U3-HV, the first 4 flexible I/O are replaced with dedicated high-voltage analog inputs.

The first 8 flexible I/O lines (FIO0-FIO7) appear on built-in screw terminals. The other 8 flexible I/O lines (EIO0-EIO7) are available on the DB15 connector.

For more information, seeSection 2.5 – Flexible I/O (FIO/EIO)of theU3 Datasheet.

Analog Inputs:

The LabJack U3 has up to 16analog inputsavailable on the flexible I/O lines. Single-ended measurements can be taken of any line compared to ground, or differential measurements can be taken of any line to any other line.

Analog input resolution is 12-bits. The range of single-ended low-voltage analog inputs on the U3-LV is typically 0-2.4 volts or 0-3.6 volts, and the range of differential analog inputs is typically 2.4 volts (pseudobipolar only). For valid measurements, the voltage on every analog input pin, with respect to ground, must be within -0.3 to +3.6 volts.

On the U3-HV, the first 4 flexible I/O are replaced with dedicated high-voltage analog inputs. The input range of these channels is 10 volts or -10/+20 volts. The remaining 12 flexible I/O are still available as described above, so the U3-HV has 4 high-voltage analog inputs and up to 12 low-voltage analog inputs.

Command/response (software timed) analog input reads typically take 0.6-4.0 ms depending on number of channels and communication configuration. Hardware timed input streaming has a maximum rate that varies with resolution from 2.5 ksamples/s at 12-bits to 50 ksamples/s at about 10-bits.

For more information see theU3 Datasheet. For analog input information seeSection 2.6 – AINandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSections 3.1 – Command/ResponseandSections 3.2 – Stream Mode.

Analog Outputs:

The LabJack U3 has 2analog outputs(DAC0 and DAC1) that are available on the screw terminals. Each analog output can be set to a voltage between 0 and 5 volts with 10-bits of resolution.

The analog outputs are updated in command/response mode, with a typical update time of 0.6-4.0 ms depending on communication configuration. The analog outputs have filters with a 3 dB cutoff around 16 Hz, limiting the frequency of output waveforms to less than that.

For more information see theU3 Datasheet. For analog output information seeSection 2.7 – DACandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSection 3.1 – Command/Response.

Digital I/O:

The LabJack U3 has up to 20digital I/Ochannels. 16 are available from the flexible I/O lines, and 4 dedicated digital I/O (CIO0-CIO3) are available on the DB15 connector. Each digital line can be individually configured as input, output-high, or output-low. The digital I/O use 3.3 volt logic and are 5 volt tolerant.

Command/response (software timed) reads/writes typically take 0.6-4.0 ms depending on communication configuration. The first 16 digital inputs can also be read in a hardware timed input stream where all 16 inputs count as a single stream channel.

For more information see theU3 Datasheet. For digital I/O information seeSection 2.8 – Digital I/OandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSection 3.1 – Command/ResponseandSections 3.2 – Stream Mode.

Timers:

Up to 2 flexible I/O lines can be configured as timers. The timers are very flexible, providing options such as PWM output, pulse/period timing, pulse counting, and quadrature input.

For more information see theU3 Datasheet. For timers information seeSection 2.9 – Timers/CountersandAppendix A.

Counters:

Up to 2 flexible I/O lines can be configured as 32-bitcounters.

For more information see theU3 Datasheet. For counters information seeSection 2.9 – Timers/CountersandAppendix A.

I/O Protection:

All I/O lines on the U3 are protected against minor overvoltages. The FIO lines can withstand continuous voltages of up to 10 volts, while the EIO/CIO lines withstand continuous voltages of up to 6 volts.

High Channel Count Applications:

By using USB hubs, many LabJacks can be interfaced to a single PC, providing an inexpensive solution for high channel count applications.

LV (Low-Voltage) Version:

  • 16 Flexible I/O (Digital Input, Digital Output, or Analog Input)
  • Up to 2 Timers (Pulse Timing, PWM Output, Quadrature Input, …)
  • Up to 2 Counters (32-Bits Each)
  • 4 Additional Digital I/O
  • Up to 16 12-bit Analog Inputs (0-2.4 V or 0-3.6 V, SE or Diff.)
  • 2 Analog Outputs (10-Bit, 0-5 volts)
  • Supports SPI, I2C, and Asynchronous Serial Protocols (Master Only)
  • Supports Software or Hardware Timed Acquisition
  • Maximum Input Stream Rate of 2.5-50 kHz (Depending on Resolution)
  • Capable of Command/Response Times Less Than 1 Millisecond
  • Built-In Screw Terminals for Some Signals
  • OEM Version Available
  • USB 2.0/1.1 Full Speed Interface
  • Powered by USB Cable
  • Drivers Available for Windows, Linux, Mac and Pocket PC
  • Examples Available for C/C++, VB, LabVIEW, Java, and More
  • Includes USB Cable and Screwdriver
  • Free Firmware Upgrades
  • Money Back Guarantee
  • Enclosure Size Approximately 3″ x 4.5″ x 1.2″ (75mm x 115mm x 30mm)
  • Rated for Industrial Temperature Range (-40 to +85 Degrees C)

HV (High-Voltage) Version:

Same features as the LV version except:

  • First 4 Flexible I/O are Changed to Dedicated HV Analog Inputs.
  • 4 HV Inputs have 10 Volt or -10/+20 Volt Range.
  • 12 LV Inputs (Flexible I/O) Still Available, for 16 Total Analog Inputs.

For more technical specifications look at theU3’s datasheet.

U3-HV vs U3-LV

U3-LV U3-HV
# Low-voltage AINs: 16 12
# High-voltage AINs: 0 4
# DIOs: 20 16

The U3-HV has the following differences versus the U3-LV:

  • First 4 flexible I/O are changed to dedicated HV analog inputs.
  • 4 HV inputs have 10 volt or -10/+20 volt range.
  • 12 LV inputs (flexible I/O) still available, for 16 total analog inputs.

OEM Versions

The U3-LV-OEM or U3-HV-OEM includes the board only without the enclosure and without most through-hole components. See Section2.12 of the U3 Datasheetfor more information.

Technical Specifications:

  • 14 Analog Inputs (16-18+ Bits Depending on Speed)
  • U6-Pro Adds 24-bit Low-Speed ADC for 22-Bit Effective Resolution
  • Single-Ended Inputs (14) or Differential Inputs (7)
  • Instrumentation Amplifier Inputs
  • Software Programmable Gains of x1, x10, x100 and x1000
  • Analog Input Ranges of 10, 1, 0.1 and 0.01 Volts
  • Built-In CJC Temperature Sensor
  • 2 Fixed Current Outputs (200/10 ?A)
  • 2 Analog Outputs (12-Bit, ~0-5 Volts)
  • 20 Digital I/O
  • Up to 2 Counters (32 Bits Each)
  • Up to 4 Timers (Pulse Timing, PWM Output, Quadrature Input, …)
  • Supports SPI, I2C, and Asynchronous Serial Protocols (Master Only)
  • Supports Software or Hardware Timed Acquisition (Hi-Speed Converter Only)
  • Maximum Input Stream Rate of 50 kHz (Depending on Resolution)
  • Capable of Command/Response Times Less Than 1 Millisecond
  • Built-In Screw Terminals for Some Signals
  • USB 2.0/1.1 Full Speed Interface
  • Powered by USB Cable
  • Drivers Available for Windows, Linux and Mac.
  • Examples Available for C/C++, VB, LabVIEW, Python, and More
  • Includes USB Cable and Screwdriver
  • Free Firmware Upgrades
  • Money Back Guarantee
  • Enclosure Size Approximately 3″ x 7″ x 1″ (75mm x 185mm x 30mm)
  • Rated for Industrial Temperature Range (-40 to +85 Degrees C)

For more technical specifications look at theU6’s datasheet.

Optional Accessories:

TheCB15is a simple screw terminal breakout for the DB15 connector.

TheRB12provides a convenient interface for the U3 to industry standard digital I/O modules, allowing electricians, engineers, and other qualified individuals, to interface a LabJack with high voltages/currents. The RB12 relay board connects to the DB15 connector on the LabJack, using the 12 EIO/CIO lines to control up to 12 I/O modules. Output or input types of digital I/O modules can be used. The RB12 is designed to accept G4 series digital I/O modules from Opto22, and compatible modules from other manufacturers such as the G5 series from Grayhill. Output modules are available with voltage ratings up to 200 VDC or 280 VAC, and current ratings up to 3.5 amps.

TheLJTick-Divider (LJTD)signal-conditioning module is designed to divide 2 single-ended higher voltage analog signals down to 0-2.5 volt signals.

TheLJTick-DAC (LJTDAC)provides a pair of 14-bit analog outputs with a range of 10 volts. Plugs into any digital I/O block, and thus up to 10 of these can be used per device to add 20 analog outputs.

TheLJTick-InAmp (LJTIA)signal-conditioning module provides two instrumentation amplifiers ideal for low-level signals such as bridge circuits (e.g. strain gauges) and thermocouples. Each amplifier converts a differential input to single-ended.

TheLJTick-RelayDriver (LJTRD)allows 2 digital I/O lines to each control a relay or other moderate load up to 50V/200mA.

TheLJTick-CurrentShunt (LJTCS)signal-conditioning module is designed to convert a 4-20 mA current loop input signal into a 0.47-2.36 volt signal.

TheLJTick-Proto (LJTP)consists of an 8×8 grid of holes for prototyping custom signal-conditioning modules.

Satisfaction Guaranteed:

Everything we sell has a 30-day money back guarantee. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with a product, contact us to arrange your choice of a refund or replacement. In addition, the LabJack U3 is covered by a 1-year limited warranty.

Technical Support:

All LabJacks include lifetime technical support. Support resources include forum, FAQs, email, and telephone.

Drivers and Examples:

LabJack provides drivers for the three major operating systems and examples for most common programming languages. For more information see the U3software optionspage.

Firmware:

Be sure to keep an eye on theU3 Firmwarepage for the latest U3 firmware.

USB Multifunction DAQ

The U6 family is great for acquiring signals from thermocouples, strain gages, bridge circuits, encoders, and much more. With instrumentation amplified inputs, and software selectable gain settings, the U6 provides a cost effective method to measure analog signals which can’t be resolved by traditional 12-bit DAQ products. Common applications include laboratory research, industrial control and monitoring, and prototype development.

  • USB Connectivity
  • 14 high quality analog inputs
  • 16+ bits of resolution
  • U6-Pro: Up to 22-bit resolution
  • 10V, 1V, 0.1V, and 0.01V ranges
  • 50 ksamples/s max stream rate
  • Expand to 84 channels with Mux80
  • Optional NIST traceable Calibration Certificate.
  • 2 analog outputs.
  • 20 digital I/O
  • 4 timers and 2 counters

Analog Inputs:

The LabJack U6 has 14 externalanalog inputs(AIN0-AIN13). AIN0-AIN3 are available on screw terminals and also on the DB37 connector. All 14 analog inputs are available on the DB37 connector.

The maximum input range is 10 volts, with software selectable gains of x1, x10, and x100. Each analog input can be measured single-ended, or differentially in even/odd pairs. Analog input resolution is 16 bits at max speed (~20 ?s conversion time), increasing to 18+ bits at slower speeds (seeSection 3.1 – Command/ResponseandSection 3.2 – Stream Mode). Input impedance is at least 1 G?, with typical input bias currents of only 20 nA.

Command/response (software timed) analog input reads typically take 1-4 ms depending on number of channels and communication configuration. Hardware timed input streaming (supported with hi-speed converter only) has a maximum rate that varies with resolution from 4 ksamples/s at 18 bits to 50 ksamples/s at 16 bits.

For more information see theU6 Datasheet. The U6-Pro has all the features of the normal U6 with the addition of an auxiliary low-speed high-resolution (24-bit) sigma-delta ADC. Analog input resolution varies from 19.5 bits (RMS or Effective) at max speed (4 ms conversion time), to 22 bits at slower speeds (160 ms conversion time).

For more information about the analog inputs seeSection 2.6 – AINandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSection 3.1 – Command/ResponseandSection 3.2 – Stream Mode.

Temperature Sensor:

The LabJack U6 has a temperature sensor located very close to the AIN0-AIN3 screw-terminals. Accuracy is 2 degrees C (max). This sensor is particularly useful for thermocouple cold junction compensation (CJC).

Fixed Current Outputs:

The LabJack U6 has 2 fixed current outputs of 10 ?A and 200 ?A. These are useful for measuring resistance (resistors, thermistors, RTDs).

Analog Outputs:

The LabJack U6 has 2analog outputs(DAC0 and DAC1) that are available both on screw terminals and the DB37 connector. Each analog output can be set to a voltage between about 0 and 5 volts with 12-bits of resolution. The analog outputs are based on a true voltage reference.

The analog outputs are updated in command/response mode, with a typical update time of 1-4 ms depending on communication configuration.

For more information see theU6 Datasheet. For more information about the analog outputs seeSection 2.7 – DACandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSection 3.1 – Command/Response.

Digital I/O:

The LabJack U6 has 20digital I/Ochannels which can be individually configured as input, output-high, or output-low.

The first 4 FIO are available on screw terminals and the DB37 connector. All 8 FIO and 3 MIO are available on the DB37 connector, and 8 EIO and 4 CIO are available on the DB15 connector. Note that on the U6, CIO0-CIO2 are the same as MIO0-MIO2.

Command/response (software timed) reads/writes typically take 1-4 ms depending on communication configuration. The digital inputs can also be read in a hardware timed input stream where up to 16 inputs count as a single stream channel.

For more information see theU6 Datasheet. For more information about the digital I/O seeSection 2.8 – Digital I/OandAppendix A. For data rate information seeSection 3.1 – Command/ResponseandSection 3.2 – Stream Mode.

Timers:

Up to 4 digital I/O can be configured as timers. The timers are very flexible, providing options such as PWM output, pulse timing, pulse counting, and quadrature input.

For more information about the timers seeSection 2.9 – Timers/CountersandAppendix Aof theU6 Datasheet.

Counters:

Up to 2 digital I/O can be configured as 32-bitcounters. Since counting is one possible mode of the timers above, the U6 has up to 6 counting inputs.

For more information about the counters seeSection 2.9 – Timers/CountersandAppendix Aof theU6 Datasheet.

I/O Protection:

All I/O lines on the U6 are protected against minor overvoltages. The AIN lines can withstand continuous overvoltage of 20 volts, the FIO lines can withstand up to 10 volts, while the EIO/CIO/MIO lines can withstand up to 6 volts.

High Channel Count Applications:

By using USB hubs, many LabJacks can be interfaced to a single PC, providing an inexpensive solution for high channel count applications.

U6 vs U6-Pro

The U6-Pro has the following additional features:

  • Low-Speed and High-Resolution (24-bit) sigma-delta ADC giving access to resolution indices9 through 12.

OEM Versions

The U6 and U6-Pro come in standard and OEM versions. The OEM versions are intended to be embedded in another device. They are missing the enclosure and most connectors, as it is easier to install connectors than it is to remove them. LabJack can customize the boards to add or remove hardware before shipping for an additional fee. More information on OEM versions can be found in theOEM versionssection of the U6 datasheet.

Optional Accessories:

TheCB15is a simple screw terminal breakout for the DB15 connector.

TheCB37 (Rev. 2.1)is a simple screw terminal breakout for the DB37 connector.

TheEB37experiment board also provides screw terminals for the DB37 connector, and in addition provides a solderless breadboard and useful power supplies.

TheRB12provides a convenient interface for the U6 to industry standard digital I/O modules, allowing electricians, engineers, and other qualified individuals, to interface a LabJack with high voltages/currents. The RB12 relay board connects to the DB15 connector on the LabJack, using the 12 EIO/CIO lines to control up to 12 I/O modules. Output or input types of digital I/O modules can be used. The RB12 is designed to accept G4 series digital I/O modules from Opto22, and compatible modules from other manufacturers such as the G5 series from Grayhill. Output modules are available with voltage ratings up to 200 VDC or 280 VAC, and current ratings up to 3.5 amps.

TheLJTick-Divider (LJTD)signal-conditioning module is designed to divide 2 single-ended higher voltage analog signals down to 0-2.5 volt signals.

TheLJTick-DAC (LJTDAC)provides a pair of 14-bit analog outputs with a range of 10 volts. Plugs into any digital I/O block, and thus up to 10 of these can be used per device to add 20 analog outputs.

TheLJTick-InAmp (LJTIA)signal-conditioning module provides two instrumentation amplifiers ideal for low-level signals such as bridge circuits (e.g. strain gauges) and thermocouples. Each amplifier converts a differential input to single-ended.

TheLJTick-RelayDriver (LJTRD)allows 2 digital I/O lines to each control a relay or other moderate load up to 50V/200mA.

TheLJTick-CurrentShunt (LJTCS)signal-conditioning module is designed to convert a 4-20 mA current loop input signal into a 0.47-2.36 volt signal.

TheLJTick-Proto (LJTP)consists of an 8×8 grid of holes for prototyping custom signal-conditioning modules.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Everything we sell has a 30-day money back guarantee. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with a product, contact us to arrange your choice of a refund or replacement. In addition, the LabJack U6 is covered by a 1-year limited warranty.

Technical Support

All LabJacks include lifetime technical support. Support resources include forum, FAQs, email, and telephone.

Drivers and Examples:

LabJack provides drivers for the three major operating systems, and examples for most common programming languages. For more information see the U6software optionspage.

Firmware:

Be sure to keep an eye on theU6 Firmwarepage for the latest U6 firmware.

BLOG: Standalone Operation: One of the key advantages of T-Series Lua Scripting

Flexibilty

  • Software integrates easily with LabVIEW, C++, MATLAB, Python, Java, .NET, Delphi, Visual Basic, VB6, VBA and more.
  • Easily expand I/O or add new kinds of sensors on-the-fly. We provide inexpensive signal conditioning modules.
  • Incorporate LabJack DAQ hardware using our OEM options for your embedded designs
  • USB, Ethernet & WiFi Options make connecting fast, familar and easy
  • Control valves, motors, lights, pumps, etc – using one of many digital I/O control options.

Have confidence in your measurements. Every device is individually tested and calibrated.

New features and updates are readily available through field-programmable firmware. Multiple protection mechanisms on every I/O to help prevent electrical damage.

Product Comparison

U3-LV
U3-HV
U6
U6-Pro
T4
T7
T7-Pro
Voltage Range[1] 0-2.4V 10V[1] 10V 10V 10V[4] 10V 10V
Analog Inputs 16 16 14 14 12 14 14
Effective Resolution[2] 12 bits 12 bits 16 bits 22 bits 12 bits 16 bits 22 bits
Digital I/O 20 16 20 20 16 23 23
Logic Level 3.3V 3.3V 3.3V 3.3V 3.3V 3.3V 3.3V
Analog Outputs 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
Counters Up to 2 Up to 2 Up to 2 Up to 2 Up to 10 Up to 10 Up to 10
USB Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
LJTick Compatible Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Internal Temp Sensor Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Thermocouple Ready[3] No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Ethernet No No No No Yes Yes Yes
Modbus TCP No No No No Yes Yes Yes
Scripting No No No No Yes Yes Yes
Wireless No No No No No No Yes
Real-time Clock No No No No No No Yes
OEM Version Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Recommended [5] Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

[1] Can be configured for
-10V to +20V range.
[2] According to actual measured data, see related Noise and
Resolution (App Note)
[3] If not thermocouple ready, can purchase an amplifier like
the LJTick-InAmp, see related Thermocouples (App Note)
[4] The T4 has 4 high voltage (10V) and up to 8 low voltage
(0-2.5V) analog input lines
[5] The U12, UE9, and UE9-Pro are older devices and are not recommended
for most new applications. Consider using the T4, T7, U3, or
U6