Measurement Computing LogBook Series User Manual
Page 16

1-6 An Introduction to LogBook
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LogBook User’s Manual
The following components are represented in the previous block diagrams. Certain items apply only to
LogBook/360, as noted.
Removable PC-Card. A 12-520 MB capacity holds the software, operating system, user
configurations and the acquired data. The PC-Card is at the center of LogBook operations.
A PC-Card [pre-programmed by LogView] ensures an unattached LogBook comes up properly.
Power Supply. The internal power supply accepts an input of 10 to 45 VDC and supplies filtered
regulated voltages to its internal circuits and to accessories connected via P1/2/3. An external
AC to-DC adapter for all standard voltages is included with the system.
System Controller. A microprocessor chip is used within LogBook with either 4 MB (standard) of
RAM or 16 MB (optional). A field-upgradeable 512 KB Flash memory is used to store the system
startup code, self-diagnostics, and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) configuration. The
FPGA controls every LogBook operation, including real-time control. By using Internal flash
memory instead of EPROMs, field upgrades of virtually all functions [including FPGA circuitry] are
possible. Most software will be read from the disk drive.
Analog Input via P1. 16 main channels that can each accommodate 16 sub-channels via
multiplexing for a total of 256 analog input channels. Fault protection and buffer circuits prevent
overloads and cross-channel noise due to impedance mismatch.
A/D Converter. The A/D converter uses 16-bit resolution @ 100 kHz sample rate.
Digital I/O. 16 high-speed digital inputs via P3, three 8-bit TTL programmable I/O ports via P2,
three TTL inputs via P1. Note that LogBook/360 has P1, P2, and P3 connectors on the motherboard
that are connected [by ribbon cable] to secondary P1, P2, and P3 connectors [located on the chassis
front panel]. LogBook/300’s P1, P2, and P3 are located on the rear panel.
LBK2 Analog Output (optional): This option provides four channels of analog output,
16-bit @ 100 kHz @ ±10 VDC.
LogBook/360 only, Interconnect Board, Card Drawer (for three DBK cards), and
three Terminal Panels.
Computer/Control/I/O – Includes: PARALLEL PORT (ECP Mode), SERIAL PORT (for RS-232
or RS-422/485), TERMINAL PORT (for LBK1 LogBook Remote Terminal option). In addition, for
LogBook/360 only, there is a COM Expansion Card with two serial ports (SERIAL AUX and
SERIAL GPS). These two ports are for connecting auxiliary serial devices, such as a Global
Positioning System.
The Use of PC-Cards with LogBook
After the initial setup, you can interact with LogBook via PC-Cards. A safe-swap LED (inside the PC-Card
access door) lights when it is safe to change PC-Cards. You can also interact with LogBook using the
LBK1 Remote Terminal Panel option (discussed in the LBK chapter). The LBK1 option provides limited
LogBook control without use of the LogView program. As can be seen from the following PC-Card
Compatibility information, some PC-Cards should be avoided in regard to use with LogBook.
Note: during operation, LogView is the primary system interface for control and configuration.
PC-Card Compatibility with LogBook Operation
To work properly, the LogBook requires compatible PC-Card memory. You can purchase 100%
compatible cards through your LogBook sales representative. If you prefer to buy your card from another
source, make sure it is an ATA-style memory card. Also, make sure the card's memory capacity is sufficient
for your purpose.
You can change PC-Cards to load setup files, replace full cards, or transport data to an unattached PC.
When the PC-Card door is opened, a detector starts a preparatory routine to clean up files on the installed
disk. Within a few seconds, a green LED indicates it is safe to swap PC-Cards. Swapping should be done
quickly to prevent gaps in the recorded data. 4 MB RAM provides about
10 seconds at 100 kHz and 1.75 minutes at 10 kHz. 16 MB RAM provides over a minute at 100 kHz and
about 12 minutes at 10 kHz for one-channel scans.