USB Data Acquisition Module

Data Translation announces the release of two new low-cost versions for its DT9826 24-bit USB data acquisition module, which is now also available with only four or eight analog inputs instead of 16. Designed for low channel count applications, the DT9826-4 and DT9826-8 models combine high resolution, extensive functionality (counter/timers, tachometer input, etc.) and the advantages of galvanic isolation into a single, low-cost plug-and-play device. The new USB modules are available as a rugged BNC connection box or as a board-level version for OEMs looking to integrate cost-efficient measurement hardware. Like the 16-channel version, the new models feature a separate Sigma-Delta A/D converter for each analog channel and achieve a synchronous sampling rate of up to 41.6 kHz per channel. The multifunction modules provide eight digital inputs, eight digital outputs and two counters/timers (32-bit). An additional tachometer input can measure rotational speeds and also be used for phase measurements between the tachometer input and the A/D samples, achieving a resolution of 82 ns (0.005 degrees) at up to 10,000 rpm. The input and output channels are galvanically isolated (±500 V) to protect the computer, and can be run simultaneously and synchronously. This allows the acquisition of analog and digital I/O signals from all subsystems at once, even at the full sampling rate. The individual channels to be sampled are freely selectable. Despite the extensive functionality, which also includes integrated anti-aliasing filters and software programmable trigger functions, the USB modules need no external power supply.