Measurement Computing Daq PC-Card - Manual (Page 29)

DaqBook / DaqBoard [ISA] / Daq PC-Card User’s Manual 10-18-00 2-7
Tips on Setting up a Data Acquisition System
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 you will need to follow to setup a system that will
best meet your specific application needs.
1. The end use of the data can affect how you set up and program you acquisition system. Prior to
creating the system you should determine channel assignments, and lay out the whole system. 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 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 your 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 Daq device, and the computer. Label your
transducers, cables, and connectors to prevent later confusion.
4. When configuring your Daq device(s) consider the following:
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The DaqBook and DaqBoard (ISA type) have internal jumpers and switches that you must set
manually to match your application.
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Some DaqBook models are partially configured in software.
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Daq PC-Card 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.
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You may need to refer to other documentation, such as Quick Starts, Installation Guides, and
pertinent DBK documentation.
5. 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. Perform all hardware configurations before connecting signal and power.
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.
10. After software is loaded, remember to set the software parameters as needed for your application. The
software must recognize all the hardware in the system. Measurement units and ranges should be
checked to verify that they meet your application requirements.
11. Remember to set all channels to the proper mode for your DBK or other signal source.
12. After your system is up and running, verify proper data acquisition and data storage.
13. Verify system accuracy; adjust ranges or calibrate as needed.