Chapter 3
Signal Connections
© National Instruments Corporation
3-7
AT-MIO-16 User Manual
Differential Connection Considerations (DIFF Configuration)
Differential connections are those in which each AT-MIO-16 analog input signal has its own
reference signal or signal return path. These connections are available when the AT-MIO-16 is
configured in the DIFF mode. Each input signal is tied to the positive input of the
instrumentation amplifier. The reference signal, or return, is tied to the negative input of the
instrumentation amplifier.
When the AT-MIO-16 is configured for DIFF input, each signal uses two of the multiplexer
inputs–one for the signal and one for its reference signal. Therefore, only eight analog input
channels are available when using the DIFF configuration. Use the DIFF input configuration
when any of the following conditions are present:
•
Input signals are low level (less than 1 V).
•
Leads connecting the signals to the AT-MIO-16 are greater than 15 ft.
•
Any of the input signals requires a separate ground-reference point or return signal.
•
The signal leads travel through noisy environments.
Differential signal connections reduce picked-up noise, increase common-mode signal and noise
rejection, and cause input signals to float within the common-mode limits of the input
instrumentation amplifier.