NI Data Logging – Any Sensor, Any Project
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NI C Series hardware includes more than 40 measurement modules and several different chassis for deployment.
For years, modular systems have combined the customization of a homegrown solution with the quality and reliability of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, but the data logger is evolving yet again. With modular systems, you can take advantage of user-defined channel mixes, but the next evolution of data-logging technology involves user-defined deployment options as well. NI C Series data loggers combine rugged, modular hardware for both measurements and deployments with flexible graphical software, providing a wide range of capabilities to a variety of applications. With more than 40 hot-swappable modules to measure virtually any sensor, USB or Ethernet connectivity options, and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification for hazardous locations, a C Series data logger can work for any sensor and any project.
Data-Logging Applications
For structural monitoring applications, C Series data loggers are rugged enough to mount directly to a building, bridge, fuselage, or roadway and can simultaneously measure up to 32 strain gage channels in a single node. In addition to strain gages, load cells, thermocouples, and torque sensors, you can add DC-powered linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs) to the same system for a complete set of structural measurements. High-speed measurement modules for tachometers, proximity probes, accelerometers, and power quality – combined with the NI Sound and Vibration Assistant – make vibration and acoustical data-logging applications portable and easy to set up. You can configure or reconfigure in-vehicle data loggers in the field or on the track using DC power, rugged shock and vibration specifications, and small packaging. With quick connector options available, such as BNC or mass-connect D-Sub and RJ50, hardware setup is both simple and reliable for lasting performance. The C Series product line includes more than 40 modules for general-purpose data logging with sensors such as thermocouples, RTDs, pressure transducers, microphones, load cells, and more. You can combine these modules to form a mixed-sensor, general-purpose data logger with a custom user interface.
Analysis, Visualization, and File Storage
For analysis, visualization, and file storage, the combination of NI LabVIEW and LabVIEW SignalExpress provides both configuration-based software that can measure data within three clicks and fully customizable software that can implement any application-specific analysis algorithm or storage method including a database, ASCII text, binary, or open standard binary such as test data management streaming (TDMS). LabVIEW SignalExpress LE, a free limited edition evaluation CD, is included with every NI-DAQmx device, and LabVIEW SignalExpress is bundled with the LabVIEW Full and Professional development systems.
Learn more about C Series hardware for data-logging applications.
This article first appeared in Q1 2008 Instrumentation Newsletter.
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