Data acquisition is the digitizing and processing of multiple sensor or signal inputs for the purpose of monitoring, analyzing and/or controlling systems and processes. Signal conditioning includes the amplification, filtering, converting, and other processes required to make sensor output suitable for rereading by computer boards.
Data acquisition I/O modules or cards have both input and output functionality. Digital or discrete I/O modules include on-off signals used in communication, user interface, or control.
Sensor multiplexers allow the signal delivered to an instrument to be scanned or switched between multiple sensors. The multi-channel testing of multiple sensors/samples increases sample throughput and the productivity of costly instrumentation.
Sensor transmitters are measurement or signal conditioning packages that provide a standard, calibrated output from a sensor or transducer in the form of a current loop output (e.g., 4-20 mA).
Signal conditioning products provide amplification, filtering, converting, and other processes required to make sensor output suitable for reading by computer boards.
Signal isolators must be used when connecting grounded signal sources to grounded signal followers. If the speed control input of an adjustable frequency drive is grounded, any input signal must be ungrounded.
Universal process controllers constitute a broad area of control devices that may be employed in the monitoring and control of many different process variables, including temperature, pressure, flow and other values.
