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The NI CompactRIO embedded data-logging system is ideal for a variety of industrial and in-vehicle logging applications that require a stand-alone, rugged logging solution. These data loggers combine an embedded real-time controller for stand-alone operation, a rugged chassis, and a variety of I/O modules for connecting with any analog or digital sensor. C Series I/O modules are available for taking measurements from any type of sensor and signal such as accelerometers, microphones, strain gages, load cells, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, thermocouples, thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), current, voltage, and digital encoders.
CompactRIO data loggers are programmed with easy-to-use NI LabVIEW graphical tools that include features such as signal analysis/processing, digital filtering, decision making, and logging. You can also use National Instruments touch panel screens to add a user interface panel for your logger.
Table of Contents
Watch a Three-Minute Video Demonstration of the CompactRIO Embedded Data-Logging System
Benefits of a CompactRIO Embedded Data-Logging System
1. Rugged Form Factor
CompactRIO embedded data loggers are rated for extreme industrial environments:
- 40 to 70 °C (-40 to 158 °F) operating temperature
- Up to 2,300 Vrms isolation (withstand)
- 50 g shock rating
- Class I, Division 2 rating for hazardous locations
2. Mix and Match Sensor Types
A typical data logger includes built-in sensors for fixed-measurement functionality. Using the NI C Series platform, you can build a flexible system to connect to any sensor type. Currently, more than 50 C Series modules are available for different measurements including thermocouple, voltage, RTD, current, resistance, strain, digital (TTL and others), accelerometers, and microphones. Because the modules contain built-in signal conditioning for extended voltage ranges or industrial signal types, you can usually connect wires directly from the C Series modules to your sensors.
Figure 1. With C Series modules, you can mix and match sensor types.
3. Low-Level Customization of Timing and I/O Signals
The CompactRIO embedded data-logging system combines a real-time processor and high-performance field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Each C Series I/O module is connected directly to the FPGA, providing low-level customization of timing and I/O signal processing. The FPGA is connected to the embedded real-time processor via a high-speed PCI bus. This represents a low-cost architecture with open access to low-level hardware resources. LabVIEW contains built-in data transfer mechanisms to pass data from the I/O modules to the FPGA and also from the FPGA to the embedded processor for real-time analysis, postprocessing, logging, and communication to a networked host computer. Using the FPGA hardware embedded in CompactRIO, you can implement custom timing, triggering, and synchronization of I/O signals to customize your data logger and meet unique application requirements.
Figure 2. Onboard FPGA provides direct, immediate control of all I/O signals.
CompactRIO in Action – Case Studies
Portable Real-Time Vibration Monitoring and Data-Logging System
Temperature and Humidity Monitoring System
Real-Time, High-Channel-Count, Networked Logging System
Next Steps
Learn More about CompactRIO
Configure a CompactRIO Data-Logging System
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