NI USB-TC01 (Device Only) — 1-Channel Temperature Input Device
Short overview (long-tail friendly):
The NI USB-TC01, 781314-01 is a compact single-channel USB thermocouple interface for
J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B types with integrated cold-junction compensation (CJC),
20-bit resolution, and a software-timed sample rate up to 4 S/s. Designed for
slow / low-frequency temperature logging, bench R&D trending, and single-probe monitoring on a PC via USB.
This module is part of the broader family of
Data Acquisition and Control Systems
used in laboratory automation, testing, and industrial monitoring. It also belongs to
Test and Measurement Equipment
commonly applied in temperature calibration, validation, and prototype diagnostics.
Key use cases
- USB K-type/J-type single-probe temperature monitoring
- Slow process warm-up/cool-down trend logging (≤ 1 Hz bandwidth)
- Benchtop fixtures, environmental chambers, calibration rigs
- Ad-hoc measurements in labs and service workflows
Highlights
- Integrated CJC & open-thermocouple detection
- 20-bit ADC resolution for stable low-frequency reads
- USB 2.0 (bus-powered); plug-and-log with NI software
- Supports J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B thermocouples
SEO long-tail examples
usb thermocouple reader single channel • slow temperature logger pc • usb k-type thermometer for lab •
1-channel thermocouple usb device with cjc • low frequency temperature trending 1 hz •
data acquisition and control systems • test and measurement equipment
Technical Specifications
| Manufacturer / Brand | NI (National Instruments) |
|---|---|
| Model | USB-TC01 (Device Only) |
| MPN | 781314-01 |
| Input Channels | 1 thermocouple channel |
| Supported TC Types | J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B |
| Resolution | 20-bit ADC |
| Sample Rate | Up to 4 samples/second (software-timed) |
| Input Range | ±73.125 mV (typical, thermocouple scaled) |
| Input Bandwidth | ~1 Hz (low-frequency measurements) |
| CJC | Integrated cold-junction compensation |
| Open TC Detection | Yes |
| Interface / Power | USB 2.0, bus-powered |
| Software | NI InstantDAQ, NI-DAQmx-based applications |
| Typical Applications | Slow temperature trending, single-probe logging, benchtop R&D |
| Form Factor | Compact USB module with subminiature TC connector |
What’s Included
- NI USB-TC01 module (Device Only)
- Quick start resources (download)
- Thermocouple probe not included
Software & Integration
Works out-of-the-box with NI InstantDAQ for quick logging and with NI-DAQmx for custom measurement applications.
For broader context on data acquisition and instrumentation, see:
Data Acquisition & Control and
Electronic Test & Instrumentation.
Comparison with Similar USB Thermocouple Devices
| Model (MPN) | Ch. | TC Types | Resolution | Max Rate | CJC / Open-TC | Software / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NI USB-TC01 (781314-01) | 1 | J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B | 20-bit | 4 S/s | Yes / Yes | NI InstantDAQ & NI-DAQmx; USB 2.0 | Single-probe USB thermocouple logging within NI stack |
| MCC USB-2001-TC | 1 | J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B | 20-bit | 4 S/s | Yes / Yes | MCC DAQ apps; Win/macOS/Linux options | Cost-effective 1-ch alternative with broad OS support |
| OMEGA OM-EL-USB-TC | 1 | J, K, (kit-dependent S, T) | — | Standalone (interval) | Internal CJC | Standalone USB data logger (internal memory) | Untethered field logging without live PC streaming |
| OMEGA OMB-DAQ-USB-2401 | 4 | J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B + V | — | — | Yes / — | PC-tethered DAQ; isolation; multi-channel | Four-channel thermocouple/voltage acquisition |
| Pico TC-08 | 8 | Multiple TC types (mini-TC) | — | — | Yes / — | PicoLog software | High channel-count USB thermocouple logging |
Why Choose NI USB-TC01?
- Low-frequency stability for slow temperature changes (trend plots, soak tests)
- Simple PC integration with NI’s software ecosystem
- Built-in CJC and open-TC detection for reliable readings
- Compact, bus-powered form factor for quick setups
FAQ
- Does the USB-TC01 support K-type thermocouples?
- Yes. It supports J, K, T, E, N, R, S, and B types.
- Is this the Device Only version?
- Yes. No thermocouple probe is included; use your preferred TC type.
- What sampling rate should I expect?
- Software-timed up to 4 samples per second; suitable for slow/low-frequency logging.
- Do I need external power?
- No. The module is bus-powered over USB 2.0.
NI USB-TC01 Specifications (781314-01)
The NI USB-TC01 1-channel thermocouple USB device with CJC is a precision USB thermocouple reader designed for slow temperature logging and low-frequency temperature trending. It supports J, K, T, E, N, R, S, and B thermocouple types and provides 20-bit ADC resolution with a software-timed sample rate up to 4 S/s.
Furthermore, the compact design includes integrated cold-junction compensation (CJC) and open-thermocouple detection, ensuring stable and reliable readings. This makes it ideal for bench R&D, calibration rigs, and environmental chamber testing.
| Manufacturer / Brand | NI (National Instruments) |
|---|---|
| Model | USB-TC01 (Device Only) |
| MPN | 781314-01 |
| Input Channels | 1 thermocouple input channel |
| Supported Thermocouple Types | J, K, T, E, N, R, S, B |
| ADC Resolution | 20-bit |
| Sampling Rate | Up to 4 samples per second (software-timed) |
| Input Range | ±73.125 mV (typical, thermocouple scaled) |
| Input Bandwidth | ~1 Hz (low-frequency measurements) |
| Cold-Junction Compensation (CJC) | Integrated for thermal accuracy |
| Open Thermocouple Detection | Yes |
| Interface / Power | USB 2.0 (bus-powered) |
| Software Support | NI InstantDAQ, NI-DAQmx, LabVIEW |
| Typical Applications | Slow process trending, single-probe logging, benchtop R&D |
Repair, Rental, and Sell Options for NI USB-TC01
If your NI USB-TC01 1-Channel Thermocouple USB Device is not performing as expected, you can easily order a professional repair service from SOHO ProLab. Our technicians specialize in National Instruments modules and provide fast turnaround with full functional testing and calibration.
Moreover, if you need temporary access to a USB thermocouple reader single channel for testing or short-term projects, you can rent this device directly from us. Renting is a convenient way to keep your lab productive without long-term investment.
Alternatively, if you have a working or surplus NI USB-TC01 (781314-01) unit that you no longer need, you can sell it to SOHO ProLab. We purchase used National Instruments modules and provide fair market value offers along with prepaid shipping labels.
Whether you need repair, rental, or resale services, SOHO ProLab makes it simple to maintain your thermocouple measurement equipment and minimize downtime.
NI USB-TC01 Reviews and User Feedback
Users often praise the NI USB-TC01 thermocouple USB device for its plug-and-log simplicity and high measurement stability. Transitioning from setup to actual temperature monitoring is quick and smooth, especially with NI InstantDAQ software. As a result, the device is frequently chosen for labs that need dependable single-probe data acquisition.
Moreover, engineers highlight the integrated CJC and 20-bit resolution as valuable advantages for low-frequency applications. The USB bus-powered design also eliminates the need for external adapters, making it a portable and efficient tool for quick temperature diagnostics.
Pros
- Simple plug-and-play setup through USB 2.0
- High accuracy with integrated cold-junction compensation
- Ideal for slow temperature logging and trend monitoring
- Bus-powered — no external power supply required
- Seamless integration with NI InstantDAQ and NI-DAQmx
Cons
- Limited to 1 channel — not suitable for multi-sensor setups
- Maximum sampling rate of 4 S/s — not for fast transients
- Requires NI software for full functionality
In conclusion, the NI USB-TC01 (781314-01) stands out as a reliable usb k-type thermometer for lab and R&D applications. It’s best suited for users who prioritize accuracy, stability, and simple USB connectivity over high-speed or multi-channel acquisition.
For more details, see the official NI USB-TC01 specifications and NI USB-TC01 User Guide (PDF) .
