Ultra-Accurate... By Design
How is USB changing data acquisition?
USB data acquisition modules have opened up a new era of data acquisition. Users can quickly and easily get up and running by simply plugging a module into a PC. Because USB devices work directly with most laptops, even the most sophisticated data acquisition applications come out of the lab and into the field.
Why choose USB?
Opening up a computer and adding a peripheral device can be a scary proposition, requiring a certain amount of computer knowledge. USB is the solution for any PC user who has ever dreamed about an instant, no-hassle way to connect a new device to their computer.
What is USB 2.0?
The first specification for the USB, version 1.1, featured 12 Mb/s (megabits per second) data throughput, which is fine for moderate-speed applications, including most data acquisition uses, but not fast enough to support video, imaging, and highest-speed data acquisition applications. This technical limitation was addressed with a new version of the USB specification. USB 2.0 exceeds the previous version’s speed barrier with 40 times the bandwidth: 480 Mb/s.
What's the difference between USB 2.0 and USB 1.1?
USB 2.0 is both forward and backward compatible with USB 1.1, resulting in a seamless transition process for the end user. In fact, USB 2.0 uses the same cables and connectors as USB 1.1.
Why is isolation so important?
Because ground loops can cause spikes it is very important that the function module be isolated. Without isolation spikes can damage a PC, and can cause instability in the operating system.
How did you overcome the power limitations of the USB? Any other limitations?
To provide a full-featured data acquisition card, Data Translation created a high-powered device to tie directly to the USB port that will perform at high-speed throughput, and enable high performance. Perhaps other USB manufacturers find power limitations on the USB but we don’t.
What are the advantages of USB over PCMCIA cards?
Plug and play support in the operating system. Too much inconsistency in the PCMCIA card and socket services to allow for stability. PCMCIA is good when it works, but when there are conflicts, troubleshooting can be difficult.
What are my expansion options?
Data Translation's USB modules are designed to connect directly to the PC USB connector, and powered USB hubs allow users to add additional data acquisition cards as needed.
How flexible is USB?
With USB you can address up to 127 function modules. And because it's a small module and fully portable the DT9800 Series is easy to transport to and from different PC’s. Additionally, hot swapping capabilities allow you to plug and unplug the module while the PC is on: no rebooting is required.
What makes Data Translation's USB products different from other USB data acquisition modules?
Data Translation's DT9800 Series was the first of its kind to provide high-performance and high speed data acquisition in a USB module. Other USB data acquisition products either require an external power source, or have extremely restrictive throughput limitations, but Data Translation's full line of USB data acquisition modules provides you with the most advantages of any USB data acquisition module on the market.