Measurement Computing DaqBoard 1000 Series - Manual (Page 45)

Using DBK Cards and Modules for Signal Conditioning
The DBK signal-conditioning cards and module are designed for use with DaqBooks, LogBooks, and
various types of data acquisition boards, i.e., ISA, PCI, and compact-PCI types. The DBKs perform best
when used with an acquisition device that can dynamically select channel, gain, and range. DBK cards and
modules with dynamic channel and gain/range selection allow for high channel-to-channel scan rates with
a variety of transducers.
Note: Only passive DBKs, such as the DBK1 BNC module, the DBK11A screw terminal card, and the
DBK40 BNC analog interface, can be used with Daq PC-Cards.
DBK output signals can be bipolar, e.g., -5 to +5 V, or unipolar, e.g., 0 to 10 V. The user can select a
range of relevant values to correspond to the lowest signal (e.g., -5 or 0 V) and the highest signal (e.g., 5 or
10 V) signal. This type of range selection guarantees the highest resolution in 12-bit or 16-bit conversion.
DBK modules share the same footprint as the DaqBook and a typical notebook PCs; allowing for
convenient stacking. The majority of these modules have their own power supply; however, several
options exist for packaging and powering the DBKs.
Reference Note:
DBK options are detailed in the DBK Option Cards and Modules User’s Manual
(p/n 457-0905). As a part of product support, this manual is automatically loaded onto your
hard drive during software installation. The default location is the Programs directory, which
can be accessed through the Windows Desktop.
Daq Software
The Daq devices have software options capable of handling most applications. Three types of software are
available:
• ready-to-use graphical programs, e.g., DaqView, DaqViewXL, and post acquisition data analysis
programs such as PostView, DIAdem, and eZ-PostView
• drivers for third-party, icon-driven software such as DASYLab and LabView
• various language drivers to aid custom programming using API
Ready-to-use programs are convenient for fill-in-the-blank applications that do not require programming
for basic data acquisition and display:
• DaqView is a Windows-based program for basic set-up and data acquisition. DaqView lets you
select desired channels, gains, transducer types (including thermocouples), and a host of other
parameters with a click of a PC’s mouse. DaqView lets you stream data to disk and display data
in numerical or graphical formats. PostView is a post-acquisition waveform-display program
within DaqView.
• DaqViewXL allows you to interface directly with Microsoft Excel to enhance data handling and
display. Within Excel you have a full-featured Daq control panel and all the data display
capabilities of Excel.
• Post acquisition data analysis programs, e.g., PostView, DIAdem, and eZ-PostView, typically
allow you to view and edit post-acquisition data.
• The Daq Configuration control panel allows for interface configuration, testing, and
troubleshooting.
Each Daq system comes with an Application Programming Interface (API). API-language drivers include
C/C++ and Visual Basic. The latest software is a 32-bit version API.
DaqBoard/1000 and /2000 Series User’s Manual 889094 Daq Systems and Device Overviews 1-23