Monitoring multiple data points in complex hardware has been an expensive
proposition, but low-cost solutions are starting to emerge. Simultaneous
sampling is now possible for applications that don’t justify high costs.
Measurement Computing Corp. of Middleboro, MA, has expanded its Personal
Measurement Device with a USB-based data acquisition module that it says cuts
costs to 1/7th the price of competing units. (http://www.measurementcomputing.com/cbicatalog/cbiproduct_new.asp?dept_id=352&pf_id=1572&mscssid=QWRSDQCA91TC9KND8PWAC36MBDD5D2MD The 8-channel module, the PMD-1608FS, costs only $399 in quantities of 4 or
fewer, dropping to $299 for quantities over 100. That makes simultaneous
sampling available to a broader range of customers. “When you’re doing something
like time domain analysis in an internal combustion engine, you want to know
things all at the same time,” says Bob Judd, vice president of strategic
marketing at Measurement Computing.
The unit has simultaneous 16-bit analog inputs with burst rates of up to 200
kilosamples per second, with a continuous rate of 100 ksamples per second. It
has 8 bits of digital I/O and a 32-bit counter. By comparison, a USB-based
module from Austin, Texas-based National Instruments has 12-bit analog input
resolution and a maximum sampling rate of 100 ksamples per second. It also
includes 2 analog outputs, 2 24-bit counter/timers, and 8 digital I/O lines. It
costs from $995-$1495, depending on connectivity. (http://sine.ni.com/apps/we/nioc.vp?cid=11922&lang=US)
The Measurement Computing hardware provides a simpler interface than earlier
PCI modules and boards. Both USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 are supported. The module
measures 3.25 x 3.125 x 1 inch. In applications that require security, cable
locks can be routed through an attachment hole in the case.
The PMD-1608FS comes with a range of software. TracerDAQ
functions as an oscilloscope or strip chart recorder, while InstaCal handles
calibration. The program includes drivers for NI’s LabView software, giving the
unit access to the broad offerings in that family. It’s also compatible with
Matlab and Labtech.
Measurement Computing’s PMD-1608FS offers
simultaneous sampling of eight 16-bit analog inputs, yet it costs only
$399
By experimenting with the photovoltaic reaction in solar cells, researchers at MIT have made a breakthrough in energy efficiency that significantly pushes the boundaries of current commercial cells on the market.
In a world that's going green, industrial operations have a problem: Their processes involve materials that are potentially toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive. If improperly managed, this can precipitate dangerous health and environmental consequences.
With LEDs dropping in price virtually every year, automakers have begun employing them, not only on luxury vehicles, but on entry-level models, as well.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
3 
