Analog to 1-Bit Digital Signal at a Threshold

Hello!

I am looking to convert an analog signal to a digital signal so I can use the digital triggering function of my NI DAQ (I know some DAQs have analog triggering capabilities but I cannot afford a new fancy DAQ). I would like the digital signal to be low when the analog signal is below 2V (or any threshold) and the digital signal to be high when the analog is 2V or above.

I was thinking I would use an op-amp comparator circuit with a diode before the voltage output to achieve this but I am concerned about how the NI DAQ digital input port will receive this voltage output (especially the linear region if it is not steep enough). I got the idea from this site:

http://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/opamp/op-amp-comparator.html

Can an analog signal into a digital triggering port damage the DAQ? Will this method work for my application? Is there a better way of achieving my goal?

Thanks!
Smacko

 

You rock, Bob! Thank you for your help!!