Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Data Acquisition is Controlled By a Protocol

Data Acquisition
September 3rd, 2008


Data acquisition is controlled by a “protocol”, which is simply a graph file that contains a series of output waveforms. It also contains instructions about which input channels to record signals from, how many episodes to acquire, etc. Data acquisition is also done from the same panel. To start with, ‘mode’ is selected as CAL and input as Z or dZ/dt from the box at the upper right corner and ‘Acquire’ button is clicked. Data acquisition is not the means to an end. It only sets the stage for your primary goal of waveform analysis and interpretation.


USB data acquisition cards provide a very attractive solution to many data acquisition applications. Often compact modules are available and these can be connected to virtually any PC very easily. USB data acquisition devices provide a very flexible interface for getting real-world measurements into a computer and for controlling real-world processes with a computer. The power and ease of use of LabVIEW software provides an excellent means for engineering technology students to analyze measurements and implement control schemes.


ADRE SXP data acquisition system consists of the 408 Dynamic Signal Processing instrument (DSPi) and ADRE Sxp software for portable asset management programs where speed and flexibility in data collection are needed. It can operate standalone in test stands or remotely. ADRE Sxp can operate stand-alone in test stands, and with its remote viewing and operating capabilities, offers users large potential savings on unnecessary travel expenses.