Measurement Computing Daq PC-Card - Manual (Page 23)

DaqBook / DaqBoard [ISA] / Daq PC-Card User’s Manual 10-18-00 2-1
Overview 2
Daq Systems, the Modular Concept …… 2-1
DaqBooks, DaqBoards, and Daq PC-Cards …… 2-3
Using DBK Cards and Modules for Signal Conditioning ……2-4
Daq Software ……2-6
Tips on Setting Up a Data Acquisition System ……2-7
Daq Systems, the Modular Concept
Daq equipment and software form a modular, interrelated family of products that provide great flexibility in
data acquisition system design. This flexibility allows for the development of custom systems that are
unique to the user, and which can be optimized for his or her specific application needs. With the Daq
product line, system expansion or redesign can typically be accomplished with relative ease. The following
table shows the relation among the three main categories of Daq-related products:
•
Primary Acquisition Device. This is the main data acquisition device, e.g., a DaqBook, DaqBoard,
or Daq PC-Card. These devices provide a vital data conversion and communications link between
the data source of transducers and signal conditioners and the data processor of the host computer.
•
DBK Option Cards and Modules. Over 30 DBK cards and modules (the number is constantly
growing) provide various types of signal conditioning and system expansion. Note that certain DBK
modules exist for the purpose of supplying power to other members of the acquisition system. The
DBK options are discussed in a separate chapter that is included [in pdf format] on your installation
CD.
•
Software. DaqView out-of-the-box software provides a graphical user interface with easy to read
spreadsheet formats for viewing channel data, as well as a choice of analog, digital, and bar-graph
meters. Waveform analysis can be performed, when applicable. Post data analysis can be performed
with the DIAdem program. More information is included in the software-specific chapters (also
included on your install CD). Note that, in addition to the included out-of-the-box software, Daq
products can be controlled via user-written custom programs through Applications Program Interface
(API). Several languages are supported, e.g., C/C++, VisualBASIC, Delphi. See the separate
programmer’s manual (1008-0901) for program-related information.