Description

The NI FP-TB-1 is a terminal block accessory specifically engineered for use with National Instruments’ (NI) FieldPoint distributed I/O system, providing a secure and reliable interface for field wiring connections. Designed to complement NI’s rugged, industrial-grade I/O modules, the NI FP-TB-1 ensures stable signal transmission in harsh environments where vibration, electrical noise, and temperature fluctuations are common. As part of the broader FieldPoint platform, the NI FP-TB-1 supports analog and digital signal conditioning, data acquisition, and control functions across a wide range of automation and monitoring applications.

This terminal block is compatible with multiple FieldPoint chassis types, including the FP-1000, FP-2000, and FP-XP series, allowing seamless integration into both new and legacy systems. The NI FP-TB-1 features screw-terminal connections that accommodate a broad range of wire gauges, enabling robust attachment of sensors, actuators, relays, and other field devices. Its modular design allows for hot-swapping and easy replacement without disrupting the entire I/O system, making the NI FP-TB-1 an essential component for minimizing downtime during maintenance or reconfiguration. By delivering a clean, organized, and electrically sound connection point, the NI FP-TB-1 enhances signal integrity, reduces wiring errors, and improves overall system reliability in industrial control, condition monitoring, and process automation environments.

FP-TB-1 NI

Technical Specifications

Product Model | FP-TB-1
Manufacturer | National Instruments (NI)
Product Type | Terminal Block Accessory
Compatible Chassis | FP-1000, FP-2000, FP-XP Series
Connection Type | Screw terminals
Number of Terminals | 20 positions (10 per module slot)
Wire Gauge Range | 14–28 AWG (0.08–2.0 mm²)
Torque Requirement | 0.22–0.25 N·m (2.0–2.2 lbf·in)
Operating Temperature | -20°C to +70°C
Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C
Material | Flame-retardant polycarbonate (UL 94 V-0)
Mounting Type | Snap-in to FieldPoint I/O module
Current Rating | 5 A per terminal (max)
Voltage Rating | 250 VAC / 300 VDC (max)
Insulation Resistance | >100 MΩ
Approvals | CE, UL, CSA, RoHS compliant

Main Features and Advantages

The NI FP-TB-1 delivers critical value through its modular compatibility and ease of integration within the FieldPoint ecosystem. Designed as a direct-mount terminal block, it snaps securely onto compatible NI I/O modules such as analog input, digital output, and thermocouple modules, eliminating the need for external wiring enclosures or adapter kits. This plug-and-play design significantly reduces installation time and minimizes wiring complexity, making the NI FP-TB-1 ideal for rapid deployment in distributed control systems.

A key advantage of the NI FP-TB-1 is its rugged, industrial-grade construction. Built with high-quality flame-retardant materials and precision-machined terminals, it withstands mechanical stress, thermal cycling, and electromagnetic interference commonly found in factory floors, oil & gas facilities, and power plants. The screw-terminal mechanism ensures firm wire clamping, preventing loosening due to vibration—a common cause of signal loss or intermittent faults in industrial settings. This reliability directly contributes to improved data accuracy and system uptime.

Additionally, the NI FP-TB-1 supports field serviceability and maintenance efficiency. Technicians can remove or replace the terminal block without detaching the I/O module from the chassis, enabling quick troubleshooting and re-wiring under live conditions when necessary. The clear terminal labeling and organized layout simplify wiring verification and reduce human error during commissioning. For system integrators and maintenance teams, the NI FP-TB-1 provides a cost-effective, standardized solution for managing field connections across diverse NI-based automation projects. Its long-term availability and backward compatibility ensure sustained support for existing FieldPoint installations.

Application Field

The NI FP-TB-1 is widely used in industrial and scientific applications that rely on National Instruments’ FieldPoint platform for distributed data acquisition and control. In industrial automation, it serves as the primary interface between programmable automation controllers (PACs) and field devices such as pressure transmitters, flow meters, temperature sensors, and solenoid valves. The NI FP-TB-1 ensures reliable signal termination in manufacturing lines, packaging systems, and robotic cells, where consistent I/O performance is essential for process quality and throughput.

In energy and utilities, the NI FP-TB-1 is deployed in remote monitoring stations for wind turbines, solar farms, and substation control panels. Its ability to maintain secure connections in high-vibration and wide-temperature environments makes it suitable for outdoor and unattended installations. The NI FP-TB-1 also plays a vital role in oil & gas production, where it interfaces with wellhead sensors and pipeline monitoring equipment in hazardous area periphery systems.

The NI FP-TB-1 is equally valuable in test and measurement applications, including engine dynamometers, environmental chambers, and structural health monitoring systems. Researchers and engineers use it to connect transducers and actuators in high-channel-count data acquisition setups, benefiting from its organized wiring and noise-resistant design. In water and wastewater treatment plants, the NI FP-TB-1 supports level, pH, and conductivity monitoring by providing durable terminations for sensor arrays. Across these diverse fields, the NI FP-TB-1 enhances system reliability, simplifies maintenance, and extends the operational life of NI-based control solutions.

Related Products

NI FP-1000 Chassis: Base chassis for FieldPoint I/O modules that accepts the NI FP-TB-1 terminal block for signal termination.
NI FP-AI-110: Analog input module that pairs with the NI FP-TB-1 to measure voltage and current signals from industrial sensors.
NI FP-DI-303: Digital input module compatible with the NI FP-TB-1, used for monitoring discrete field devices.
NI FP-2000 Chassis: Enhanced FieldPoint chassis with Ethernet connectivity, supporting NI FP-TB-1 for networked I/O systems.
NI FP-TB2-1: Dual-density terminal block offering 40 terminals for higher channel count applications.
NI LabVIEW: Software platform used to program and monitor systems utilizing NI FP-TB-1 and FieldPoint I/O.
NI Signal Conditioning Accessories: Additional isolation and filtering modules that can be used in conjunction with the NI FP-TB-1 for improved signal integrity.
NI FP-XP Series: Ruggedized FieldPoint modules designed for extreme environments, all compatible with the NI FP-TB-1.

FP-TB-1 NI

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the NI FP-TB-1, ensure that the FieldPoint chassis is powered down and properly grounded to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Verify that the I/O module intended for use with the NI FP-TB-1 is securely seated in the chassis slot. Strip field wires to the recommended length (6–7 mm) and tin if necessary to prevent stray strands. Use a torque screwdriver set to 0.22–0.25 N·m to ensure proper terminal tightness without damaging the plastic housing.

Maintenance recommendations: The NI FP-TB-1 requires minimal maintenance but should be inspected periodically for loose connections, corrosion, or signs of overheating, especially in high-current applications. If a terminal becomes damaged or difficult to tighten, replace the entire NI FP-TB-1 unit rather than attempting field repairs. During system upgrades or reconfigurations, take advantage of the NI FP-TB-1’s snap-in design to remove and reassign terminal blocks as needed. Store spare NI FP-TB-1 units in anti-static packaging to preserve their integrity over time.