What kind of USB DAQ model is best to measure input current?

[Klein]

I'd like to analize pressure transducers performance. This sensor outputs current in a range from 4 to 20mA.  Then, I´d like to monitor these signals:

- 4 input analog voltage;

- 4 input digital voltage

- 4 input current;

I'm very confusing about to choose the right DAQ hardware to perform this type of acquisition. I was thinking about this options to use the acquisition system communicating with computer through USB port:

- CompactDAQ with modules;

- M Series multifunction DAQ for USB

Which is the best price/performance rate for my condiction?

Thanks in advance,

Klein

[Klein]

Did I post on the wrong board (Multifunction DAQ)???

Could anyone give me advices about my doubt?

Thanks a lot!

Klein

[KyleBryson]

Klein,

Try the CompactDAQ Advisor to build a system to support these types of measurement.  If you were to use M Series, you would need the mass termination version to allow you to connect to signal conditioning like SCC to enable the current measurement.  The SCC Advisor will let you build a system with a USB-6251 to look at that option.

If you have detailed questions about those systems, feel free to post them.

Regards,
Kyle

[Brian_Beal]

What voltage, current, and digital voltage are you wanting to measure?

[Klein]

Thanks Kyle,

It seems CompactDAQ is really the best choise, but I will that a look at SCC DAQs.

I need more time to read informations in delail..

Thanks again!

Klein

[Klein]

Hi Brian,

I need to acquire signals from several sensors:

- Pressure Tranducers: 4 ~ 20 mA

- Load Cells: 4 ~ 20 mA

- Thermocouples (type J): 0 ~ 20 mV

- Movement monitor: 0 ~ 32 V

- Linear resistive transducer: 0 ~24 V

+ more: Strain gauges (I don't determine numbers and types)

I guess I need signal conditioners to proper acquire measurements from thermocouples and strain gauges. Correct?

Thanks a lot!

Klein

[Brian_Beal]

Klein-

That is correct.  You will also need them for anything above 10 volts.  Be careful to check the bandwidth of the signal conditioners to make sure they can make the conversion as fast as you need them to.  You can use 250 ohm resistors to get the current measurements.  You may want to consider a dedicated USB temperature device.  They are rather inexpensive, compared with buying a signal conditioner.

Message Edited by Brian Beal on 06-15-2007 05:37 PM