Are buffers in software or on hardware?

[davey31415]

Are buffers based in the LV software or on the hardware DAQ devices? 

If on the hardware, how can I determine if and how much buffer is available on the device?  I'm hoping it is on the spec or data sheets somewhere?

Thanks,

Dave

[smercurio_fc]

For cards that have them, the buffers are in hardware. There is a DAQmx property that will tell you the size of the buffer : http://digital.ni.com/public.nsf/allkb/0C639C970487D4D2862572F200043B97.

[davey31415]

Thanks.  Is there a such thing as a "software buffer" then or are they always in the hardware? 

Dave

[Dennis_Knutson]

The sizeable buffer for an acquisition is in your computer's memory. You can read about them in the DAQmx Help. Just do a search for 'Buffers'.

[smercurio_fc]

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davey31415 wrote:

Thanks.  Is there a such thing as a "software buffer" then or are they always in the hardware? 

Dave

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There are different kinds of buffers. There are FIFO buffers (hardware), input buffers, output buffers, waveform buffers, etc. Waveform buffers are usually in software and streamed to the device. If you provide some details as to what your specific issue is, then a more specific answer can be provided.

[davey31415]

I'm just looking for clarification on what buffers exist in the LV software and on the DAQ hardware in general.  I've seen the term "buffer" before when working with LV and I often end up thinking "wait, what is this buffer exactly?"  Next time I am confused by one I'll address it specifically.  Thanks.