How to control solenoid valves from computer

[Buddika80]

Hi,

I need to control a solenoid (optical shutter) that needs to close according to user specified time period (this could be 10 mins or 20 mins). Then need to have another user defined option to open up the shutter. I need to do this in between several other labview prgrams.   I am going to use relay circuit and daq usb card to do this job using DAQmx ASST. But I am not sure how to do the hardware connection to the solenoid, relay and DAQ card? I am new to labview so any help in this regard would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Viper]

I like to use this IO board with this relay board. They have LabView drivers and have very high current drive. I use them to power mechanical RF Coax Switches. The USB port powers the IO board and you need a power supply that is gang connected to the relay board to drive your solenoids.

Norm

[Petrm]

Hello,

I use to control two 12 VDC solenoids with two MOSFETs IRF640. Analog outputs A01 and A02 from the NI PCIe card are connected to each IRF gate and solenoid valves are connected to each IRF drain. It works in Measurement and Automation Explorer fine, but the solenoids open and close simultaneously. I want them to close and open alternatively and write a program in Labview for this. Which function should I use? Thanks for help.