Daq Systems 1 Daq Systems, the Modular Concept …… 1-1
DaqBooks, DaqBoards, and Daq PC-Cards ….. 1-2
Using DBK Cards and Modules for Signal Conditioning …… 1-4
Daq Software …… 1-5
This chapter provides a brief overview of Daq devices.
Users interested in jumping straight to DaqScan information
should skip directly to chapter 2.
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.
• Primary Acquisition Device. This is the main data acquisition device, e.g., a
DaqBook, DaqBoard, DaqLab, DaqScan, 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 35 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 the DBK Option
Cards and User’s Manual (p/n 457-0905).
Note: Only passive DBKs, such as the DBK1 BNC module, the DBK11A screw terminal
card, and the DBK40 BNC analog interface, can be used with a Daq PC-Cards.
Reference Note:
DBK options are discussed in the DBK Option Cards and Modules User’s
Manual (p/n 457-0905). As a part of product support, this manual is
automatically loaded onto your hard drive during software installation. The
default location is the Programs directory, which can be accessed through the
Windows Desktop.
• 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.
A product support option, included on the data acquisition CD, provides a means of
performing post data analysis. More information is included in the software-specific PDF
documents that are installed on your hard-drive as a part of product support.
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++, and VisualBASIC.
Note that third party icon-driven software, such as DASYLab and LabView, can be used
with the Daq devices.
DaqScan/2000 Series 949595 Daq Systems 1-1