Ever since Meilhaus Electronic first introduced their new software driver system for the DAQ and control boards in mid-2007, all new designs are devoted to cross-platform compatibility. No matter whether for PCI, compactPCI/PXI, USB, Ethernet, or now for the new PCIexpress bus: The DAQ and control boards, which are available in various versions for different platforms, are completely compatible regarding port pin-outs, functionality and software. Now for the first time the widely-used ME-FoXX ME-46xx models (isolated 16-bit universal DAQ boards), the ME-630 model (a relay and universal digital board), and the ME-8200 model (a high-drive opto-digital board) are also available with x2 PCIexpress interfaces.

The multifunctional 16-bit ME-FoXX ME-46xx DAQ and control board offers 16-bit analog[] inputs and outputs, digital I/Os and counters. Featuring opto-isolation on all channels and numerous options and extras, the board is ideal for many industrial and lab applications. Alongside the new model for PCIexpress, the board is also available as PCI, compactPCI/PXI versions and can be combined with the ME-Synapse (an adapter for the compactPCI models) for USB or Ethernet/LAN connectivity.

The ME-630 board is “digitally multi-talented”, combining relays, opto-digital channels and TTL digital channels on one board. This board now also comes in the PCIexpress version in addition to the classic PCI, compactPCI/PXI variants and can be combined with the ME-Synapse (an adapter for the compactPCI models) as USB or Ethernet/LAN interface. In addition, Meilhaus Electronic offers a “native” USB version called the MEphisto Switch.

Where opto-isolated digital channels are required with a higher level than the usual 24V, the ME-8200 board is the right choice. Its opto-I/Os work with a level of 50V with an isolation up to 500V and a load of up to 700mA. Additional TTL digital I/Os add to the board’s functionality. Besides the versions for PCIexpress, PCI, compactPCI/PXI and together with the ME-Synapse for USB or Ethernet/LAN, there is also a “native” USB version called the MEphisto Opto.

All models are supported by the new ME iDS -The Meilhaus Electronic intelligent Driver System for Windows and Linux[]. This allows programming of the boards in C, Visual Basic, Delphi, Python, VEE Pro and LabVIEW programming environments. The free software package ME-PowerLab² is included with every DAQ and control board designed by Meilhaus Electronic. It includes such features as a data logger, an oscilloscope, signal generator, logic analyzer and can be used with all ME DAQ boards without additional programming.

“With the ME-iDS, the ME-PowerLab² and the PCIexpress interface we are keeping our products up-to-date and easier to use” says Peter Omlor, head of R&D at Meilhaus Electronic. “We will continue to deliver the quality products, our customers have learned to expect from us”.