Measurement Computing DaqBoard-ISA - Manual (Page 35)

Daq Systems 02-13-02 DBK Basics, pg. 7
Tips on Setting up a Data Acquisition System
A successful installation involves setting up equipment and setting software parameters. In addition to this
manual, you may need to consult your Daq device or LogBook user’s manual.
DBKs should be configured before connections are made and power is applied. This sequence can prevent
equipment damage and will help ensure proper operation on startup. Many DBKs have on-board jumpers
and/or DIP switches that are used for setting channels and other variables. You will need to refer to the
individual DBK document modules to ensure that the DBKs are properly configured for you application.
Prior to designing or setting up a custom data acquisition system, you should review the following tips.
After reviewing the material you can write out the steps to setup a system that will best meet your specific
application needs.
1. The end use of the acquisition data should be used to determine how you set up and program your
acquisition system. Prior to creating the system you should understand its layout and know how you
are going to assign the channels. If you can answer the following questions you are off to a good start.
If not, you need to find the answers.
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What engineering units, ranges, sampling rates, etc. are best for your data?
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Will the data be charted graphically, statistically processed, or exported to other programs?
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How will the data be used?
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How will the data be saved?
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What are your system’ power requirements? Using several DBKs or transducers that
require excitation current may require an extra power supply, e.g., a DBK32A.
2. Assign channel numbers.
3. Plan the location of transducers, cable runs, DBKs, the acquisition device [LogBook or Daq device],
and the computer. Label your transducers, cables, and connectors to prevent later confusion.
4. When configuring your LogBook or Daq device(s) consider the following:
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LogBook calibration is typically performed automatically through LogView software;
however, some DBKs may require manual calibration.
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The DaqBook and DaqBoard (ISA type) have internal jumpers and switches that you
must set manually to match your application.
•
Some DaqBook models are partially configured in software.
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Daq PC-Cards are configured entirely in software.
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DaqBoard/2000 Series boards are PCI type boards. They have no jumpers or switches and
are configured entirely through software.
•
cPCI DaqBoard/2000c Series boards are compact PCI (cPCI) type boards. They have no
jumpers or switches and are configured entirely through software.
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You may need to refer to other documentation, such as Quick Starts, Installation Guides,
User’s Manuals, and pertinent DBK document modules.
5. Perform all hardware configurations before connecting signal and power. Remember to configure all
the DBK cards and modules for your application. Several jumpers and DIP switches may need to be
set (channel, gain, filters, signal mode, etc).
6. Setting up channel parameters often requires both hardware and software setup.
7. Route and connect all signal and power cables while all power is turned OFF.
8. To minimize electrical noise, route all signal lines away from any RF or high-voltage devices.
9. Follow your device’s specific installation instructions. For certain devices software should be installed
first; for others, hardware should be installed prior to software installation.