Handheld power for signal acquisition and analysis in the field

Citation

(2002), "Handheld power for signal acquisition and analysis in the field", Sensor Review, Vol. 22 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2002.08722dad.010

Handheld power for signal acquisition and analysis in the field

Handheld power for signal acquisition and analysis in the field

Keyword: Data acquisition

Complementing its range of more application focused signal analysis systems, AcSoft introduces a multichannel noise and vibration analyser from Dactron which offers an outstandingly compact versatile solution for general-purpose use in the field (see Plate 11).

Dactron's Photon delivers remarkable performance with a dynamic range of 110dB and a 21kHz real-time rate, yet weighs only 0.2kg. WithaUSB interface to a PC, Photon doesn't even need a power supply, auto-configures in an instant and, back at base, can be plugged straight into a desktop for straightforward processing and documentation of measurements. For convenience in the field, USB connection allows Photon to be located up to five metres from the PC, extendable to 30m by using USB hubs which also provide flexibility to connect multiple analysers to a single PC.

Plate 11 Photon multichannel noise and vibration analyser

Standard features include two inputs with 1CP sensor power, a comprehensive output signal source, and full-feature signal analysis and waveform source software. As test requirements grow, Photon can be configured with up to four inputs, a tachometer, and additional applications. Each add-on is quickly and simply enabled by the input of a software activation code.

Even with four inputs, a 120MHz DSP powers a 21kHz real-time rate, while 32-bit computations ensure the highest accuracy for all spectral calculations. Because Photon performs all measurement and signal processing tasks in real-time, the PC is free to deliver maximum responsiveness and fast graphics, with multi-tasking capability which allows data analysis, report generation, and transmission of data and reports via e-mail, all in parallel with data acquisition. A Windows compatible user interface gives the look and feel of an instrument front panel, while 98/ME/2000 applications provide easy-to-use access to measurement and signal processing capabilities. Photon can also be controlled using Dactron's NET™ technology, enabling remote operation as well as operation by ActiveX containers such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and Excel.

With its impressive combination of power and portability, Photon will find a ready market in signal analysis, modal data acquisition, acoustic analysis, rotating machinery analysis, waveform recording, environmental test, and data export applications.

Designer and manufacturer of signal processing systems and software systems for vibration test applications, Dactron has a worldwide user base in automotive, aerospace, military and other sectors and was acquired in 2001 by the Ling Dynamic Systems group of companies. AcSoft provides full application and service support for Dactron's Photon system in the UK.

Contact: John Shelton, AcSoft Ltd, 8B Wingbury Courtyard, Leighton Road, Wingrave, Aylesbury HP22 4LW, UK. Tel: 01296 682686; Fax: 01296 682860.