Dear all,
I would like to build a measurement setup which is able to sample 80-120 signals simultaneously with a sampling rate of 50kHz per channel (a lower sampling rate may be acceptable). Some of the signals shall be monitored in real-time (strip chart). The main problem is that the sensors are to be mounted in a case which is approx. 15 meters away from a PC. To make matters worse, once the sensors are mounted, the case is closed and the signals will not be physically accessible. The case is exposed to mechanical disturbances.
The signals are not critical. It is acceptable that the whole system can freeze (one in a few days) as long as it can be booted up again without having to open the case.
I've been thinking about two possible configurations:
Configuration A:
DAQ board in the case connected through a 15m. wire (USB/Ethernnet?) to a PC with screen and keyboard.
Q1: I've read in the internet that USB is only specified to 5m but may be one or two USB repeaters can do the job?
Configuration B:
DAQ board connected to an embedded PC in the case connected with a 15m. wire Ethernet(?) to another PC with screen and keyboard.
Q2: Will it be possible to stream data from the embedded PC to another PC. Does Labview need to be installed in both PCs?
Other questions:
Q3: If I would like to sample 80 signals, one NI should be sufficient (ie. 6255 or 6225). If I would like to sample 120 signals I would need to boards. Are there any issues connecting two boards and sampling the signals synchronously?
Q4: Independently on whether 80 or 120 signals are sampled, which configuration would you recommend, A or B? Perhaps you know a more suitable configuration?
I really appreciate any input.
Thank you in advance,
Enrique
