Measurement Computing DataShuttle - Manual (Page 9)

DataShuttle and DynaRes 11-13-01 Introduction & Installation of the DataShuttle 1-1
Introduction & Installation of the DataShuttle 1
Introduction
Thank you for selecting the DataShuttle for your project.
Our primary objective is to provide you with data acquisition systems that are easy to install, operate, and
maintain. We also strive to furnish the performance you need at the lowest overall cost. The benefits for you
are increased productivity, data you can count on, and, of course, meeting your budget.
We manufacture the DataShuttle as an enhancement product that readily plugs into the parallel port
of an IBM, or compatible, desktop or portable computer.
The product’s high noise rejection, input protection to withstand as much as 50 Volts, and guaranteed long
term stability make it ideal both for the laboratory and for harsh industrial environments. With its parallel
port interface, built-in terminal panel, and compact, light size, the DataShuttle is also completely portable,
providing for a quick and easy set-up in both in-house labs and remote test sites.
Using the DataShuttle together with our graphical interface application software (such as DASYLab ®
or QuickLog™), you can easily and very quickly implement a broad spectrum of research and commercial
tasks, in a variety of settings. You can, for example,
• Display, and log data to disk for later analysis,
• Measure temperature, pressure, flow and most other analog inputs from sensors and instruments,
• Capture maximums, minimums, averages, or differences of measurements,
• Monitor and control processes,
• Set alarm limits on any input,
• Control devices at preset levels (fans, pumps, heaters, etc.),
• Control devices from digital input (from switches or TTL signals), and
• Gather data unattended.
You can use the system interactively, operating controls or modifying your setup while the system is
running.
General Information
Development System
People who write their own software (rather than using an off-the-shelf application) can employ the
Analog Connection Windows Development System™ hardware driver. This can address all features
of the unit from within a program they design and code for their specific purpose.
Expandability
All DataShuttles have eight differential analog input channels and 8 digital input/output lines. You can add
one DataShuttle at a time to your computer, for as many as 15 units with a total of 120 analog input
channels and 120 digital I/Os.
Ranges/ Units of Measure
The six input ranges of the DataShuttle span from 50 milliVolts through 10 Volts DC, making it capable of
accepting data from almost any sensor. In addition, You can install a resistor, making the DataShuttle
capable of DC current measurements.
Its high accuracy makes the DataShuttle ideal for precise evaluations in the laboratory or field.