A U-I/O card improves on traditional I/O cards by enabling configuration of each I/O channel on each U-I/O card to operate according to a desired signal type (e.g., AI, AO, DI, or DO). Thus, each I/O channel of a given U-I/O card may be coupled to any type of field device. The U-I/O card thus simplifies I/O network design, wiring, configuration, commissioning, redesign, and rewiring. The U-I/O card also improves space efficiency in marshalling cabinets and eliminates inefficient use of I/O cards relative to traditional I/O cards.