How To... Use Modular Data Acquisition Devices Over USB
USB is fast becoming the standard for interfacing measurement data acquisition
to PCs. Plug-&-play saves the time and trouble of opening up your PC,
fitting a card and making sure it's configured correctly, so it's
no wonder it's proving so popular.
Measurement Computing now offers a
wide range of USB
devices under its Measurement Advantage brand. These
robust units, are equally suited for standalone benchtop use, DIN rail
mounting , or mounted in just about any industrial enclosure. Each device
boasts a USB expansion port, so a number of units can be daisy-chained
together. Field wiring connections are made through full-size screw terminals
on the board itself, avoiding the noise susceptibility - and expense - of
cables. There’s
a good range of software drivers and applications included too. So let's
look at a few of the options available.
If you're looking for simultaneous
sampling of analogue inputs, the USB-1616FS is just the ticket. It delivers
sample rates up to 50 kS/s per channel, with continuous module throughputs
of 150 kS/s and 32K sample bursts up to 200 kS/s. You also get 8 bits
of digital I/O and a 32-bit counter.
If it's purely digital I/O you need,
the USB-DIO96H provides 92 bits with high output current. It gives you
4 independent 24-bit digital I/O groups, each divided into two 8-bit ports
and two 4-bit ports, and is based on a discrete emulation of the industry
standard 82C55's
mode zero.
If all you want is mains voltage switching and control, the
USB-PDIS08 offers 8 Form-C relays and 8 isolated digital inputs. The
inputs monitor 24V AC or DC inputs, while the output relays provide 6 Amp
(Form-C, SPDT) outputs at 240V AC or 28V DC.
If temperature measurement
is your primary application, the USB-TEMP is a highly flexible solution.
Its 8 input channels can take measurements from thermocouples, thermistors,
RTDs and semiconductor temperature sensors - simultaneously!
These and
other Measurement
Advantage devices are fully described in our new PC-Based
DAQ catalogue. |
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