Multi-purpose waveform generator sends and receives

Citation

(2003), "Multi-purpose waveform generator sends and receives", Sensor Review, Vol. 23 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2003.08723baf.003

Multi-purpose waveform generator sends and receives

Multi-purpose waveform generator sends and receives

Keywords: Waveform, Simulation

WaveLAB, from add2 Ltd of Armitage, Staffs, is a general purpose signal interface module that can both capture and simulate the analogue waveforms present within a wide range of electrical circuits (Plate 2).

The concept started life as a plug-in PC card for generating arbitrary waveforms representing the power profile of a CNC machine during a typical cutting cycle. In this application, the waveform generator was used to develop tool wear and condition monitoring systems for use on mass production transfer lines throughout the automotive industry. It is now available as a multi-purpose unit, competitively priced to complement any fully equipped test and development laboratory.

Plate 2 The WaveLAB general purpose signal interface module

Packaged as a robust free-standing module, about the size of a paperback book, WaveLAB provides a smart solution for the recording or simulation of irregular waveforms. The unit is equipped with a USB connection, enabling test or service engineers to connect the module to most types of computer. Used with a laptop, for example, it provides a convenient and portable data acquisition facility that will record real-world electrical signals directly into an Excel spreadsheet. Alternatively, it can also transmit a pre-defined waveform, as described by numbers held in Excel.

This in-built flexibility allows WaveLAB to be configured for a wide range of control and monitoring applications, wherever physical values are changing. Potential uses include the performance of vehicle braking systems, flue gas analysis and factory automation including industrial ovens and furnace controls linked to feed systems.

As well as its USB-to-host connection, WaveLAB can communicate with external systems by a variety of methods including SPI, high or low-speed CAN, LIN, RS232 and RS485. Other facilities include four ADC channels and two DAC channels of 16 bit resolution and a further four DAC channels of 8, 10 and 12 bit resolution. An option allows the ADC capacity to be increased to 34 channels. In addition, 24 digital I/O lines are provided with an option for a further 40 digital outputs.

The current WaveLAB module is supplied with basic OCX-DLL software. Continuing development is underway, however, to extend arbitrary waveform capture and replay facilities and to enable WaveLAB to operate autonomously, even acting as a node on a CANbus.

For further information, please contact: Brian Cooper, Business Development Manager, add2 Ltd, Hawkesyard Hall, Armitage Park, Armitage, Staffordshire, WS15 1PU, UK. Tel: +44(0)1889 574400; Fax: +44(0)1889 576748; E-mail: bcooper@add2.co.uk; Web site: http://www.add2.co.uk

For photographs and general press enquiries, please contact: Mike Ottewell, MJO Associates, Tel: 01283 845603; E-mail: Mike-ottewell@lineone.net