Data acquisition is the process of sampling signals that measure real world physical conditions and converting the resulting samples into digital numeric values that can be manipulated by a computer.
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Data acquisition (DAQ) is the process of measuring an electrical or physical phenomenon such as voltage, current, temperature, pressure, or sound with a computer. A DAQ system consists of sensors, DAQ measurement hardware, as well as a computer with programmable software. Compared to typical dimension systems, PC-based DAQ systems exploit the processing power, efficiency, display screen, and also connection capabilities of industry-standard computers giving a much more powerful, versatile, and also affordable measurement remedy.
What Is a Sensor?
The measurement of a physical phenomenon, such as the temperature level of a space, the strength of a light source, or the force applied to an object, starts with a sensing unit. A sensor, additionally called a transducer, converts a physical sensation right into a quantifiable electric signal. Relying on the sort of sensing unit, its electric result can be a voltage, existing, resistance, or another electric attribute that varies gradually. Some sensors might call for additional components and also circuitry to correctly generate a signal that can accurately as well as safely be read by a DAQ device.
What Is a DAQ Device?
DAQ hardware serves as the interface in between a computer and also signals from the outdoors. It primarily works as a gadget that digitizes inbound analog signals to ensure that a computer can translate them. The three vital elements of a DAQ gadget used for measuring a signal are the signal conditioning circuitry, analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and computer bus. Several DAQ gadgets consist of various other functions for automating dimension systems and also procedures. As an example, digital-to-analog converters (DACs) output analog signals, electronic I/O lines input and output electronic signals, as well as counter/timers matter and also produce electronic pulses.
What Is a Computer’s Role in a DAQ System?
A computer system with programmable software application controls the operation of the DAQ device as well as is utilized for handling, visualizing, as well as keeping measurement information. Different types of computers are utilized in common sorts of applications. A desktop computer may be made use of in a lab for its processing power, a laptop computer might be utilized in the field for its transportability, or an industrial computer system could be utilized in a factory for its durability.
