usb 6008 or 6009 for measuring current sensors

[bayank]

Hi all,

I have 5 bike generators I'll be running for alternative energy demo soon, and have found current sensors (hall effect) that output 50 mv per amp measured. I expect at most 20A from the generators, so the sensors would output up to 1V. What I want to know is if the USB-6008 or USB-6009 would be suitable for monitoring 5 DC sensors and the one AC sensor coming from a power inverter. I want to be sure the DAQs have enough inputs, and would be okay working with the sensors I have to display watts produced in labview. Not sure if I should get the 6008 or 6009, the only difference i can see is the input resolution and sampling rate. Help making a decision please? Link to the current sensor datasheet: http://www.gmw.com/magnetic_sensors/sentron/csa/documents/AN_106-Spec-May-2009v1.pdf

[Sarah_Y]

Hi bayank,

Based on the set up you described, I think either the 6008 or the 6009 will work for your application.  You were correct, the difference between the cards is the resolution and sampling rate/data throughput.  You didn't mention how fast you need to sample for your application, but it sounds to me like the slower sampling rate would not be an issue.  Both cards have 8 analog inputs and 12 bidirectional digital lines which meet your need to measure 5 DC sensors and one AC sensor.  The sensors that you have are within the ranges for these cards and should be easy to read using LabVIEW.  As long as you do not need more than 10 kS/s, I would recommend the 6008 over the 6009.

[SnowMule]

Another +1 for the 6008. 

Should be OK for measuring the signals.  Differential measurements would be the "right" way to do it, as that gives you more ranges in the DAQ, but RSE will measure that voltage (just won't be as accurate).  The 6009 gives you anohter bit of resolution, so that may help if you're on a budget and want the accuracy.