When doing counter output, what does "implicit timing" mean?

[josborne]

Hi,

I am trying to generate a simple pulse train (like this example).  But I want the timing to be EXTREMELY accurate.  As accurate as possible given my X-series DAQmx device.

So I was wondering if someone could explain to me what "Implicit Timing" means.  Does that mean that the counter will choose the "best" timebase accordingly? 

Can I just force the counter to use the 100 MHz timebase reference to make sure the timing is as accurate as possible? 

[Mcdan · Accepted solution]

When you specify implicit timing, you are telling DAQmx that the pulse train to generate dictates when the counter should update its output rather than some other mechanism (such as sample clock).  This is not related to specifying what timebase the counter should use as its source during the generation.  DAQmx should choose an appropriate default timebase for you, however you can explicitly set this via the DAQmx Channel Property Node -> Counter Output -> General Properties -> Counter Timebase -> Source property.

Hope that helps,

Dan

[josborne]

Exactly the info I needed!  Kudos have been awarded.

[josborne]

Thanks again, Mcdan.

I have another counter question here if you have the time.