Measurement Computing LogBook Series - Manual (Page 20)

1-10 An Introduction to LogBook 969591 LogBook User’s Manual
Due to the file size and relative transfer time, insert first-time PC-Cards into the PC’s card
socket rather than LogBook’s. Downloading via the PC’s socket takes only a few seconds;
however, using LogBook’s socket and a communications channel will take much longer
(about 7 minutes at 9600 bps).
Regarding the logbook.sys file and Power Loss. After LogBook is started, it can store data to a
PC-Card that does not have the
logbook.sys
file. However, in this case if LogBook loses power it will
not be able to restart! LogBook will restart when powered-on with a PC-Card that does have the
logbook.sys
file.
Because LogBook needs the
logbook.sys
file to become operational after loosing power
(due to an outage or being turned off), keep the
logbook.sys
file on all PC-Cards that will
be used for data storage
.
Communications
Protocols
LogBook uses only standard, supported, widely available communication channels to minimize device-
driver development. The messages transmitted over these channels are also standard: human-readable
ASCII for commands and status, and standard file-transfer protocols (such as X-modem) for block data
transfers. The messages and protocols are independent of the choice of communication channel, except
when a channel explicitly requires a different protocol (such as FTP over TCP/IP). The use of such
standards makes LogBook easier to use and extend.
To implement these standards, LogBook includes a command parser and conversion software to convert
measured voltages into physical measurements such as temperature, force, or acceleration. This software is
used for monitoring transducer measurements, both at the PC and the LBK1. LogBook can return all data
as physical quantities and/or raw voltage measurements.
Large blocks of raw or converted data (such as entire acquisitions or a set of consecutive scans) are
transferred as binary files, using file-transfer protocols. Smaller blocks (such as individual readings or
scans) are transferred in readable ASCII.
Parallel Port – ECP Mode
LogBook includes an ECP parallel port for high-speed local communication with a PC in the ECP mode
(the only supported protocol is ECP). Your PC mode may need to be changed in its BIOS or in the
Window Settings—consult your PC’s documentation or the PC’s manufacturer as needed.
Serial Port
LogBook includes an RS-232 (RS-422/485 optional, call factory for availability) serial port supporting both
point-to-point and multi-drop remote communication.
Other Communication Channels
The serial communication protocols are standard so non-PC hosts can communicate with LogBook. The
use of printable ASCII for commands and status and the use of standard file-transfer protocols make it
practical to add additional ports such as USB, IEEE 488, TCP/IP. Consult factory for availability of these
communication options.