High-accuracy strain measurements with 24-bit resolution

Featuring simultaneous 24-bit A/D converters and a high sampling rate of up to 52 kS/s per channel, the new data acquisition module is ideal for high-accuracy measurements using dynamic sensors. The module runs on USB power so that no external power supply is needed for most configurations.

The DT9838 provides four channels, each with its own separate 24-bit Delta-Sigma A/D converter with integrated anti-aliasing filter. In addition to allowing the direct connection of full-bridge and half-bridge strain gages with integrated half-bridge completion, the module also offers quarter-bridge support with external bridge-adapters. The built-in bridge excitation supports remote sensing and can be programmed from 0 to 10 V in 167 µV steps. Sensor scaling and offset null can be performed in software and each channel can be configured for voltage measurements up to ±250 mV.

For each input channel a 100 kΩ shunt calibration resistor can be activated by software. The module also includes flexible external and internal trigger functions, and a tachometer input that can be synchronized with the analog data stream. A sync bus connector is provided for synchronizing data acquisition on up to four DT9838 or DT9837A modules. This allows implementing a high-performance strain- and bridge-based USB measurement system with 16 analog inputs. The module is available installed in a compact metal connection box with RJ50 connectors and optional screw terminal adapters. A board-level OEM version can be supplied for integration of the data acquisition hardware into custom systems.

The DT9838 ships with a comprehensive software package that is compatible with Windows 7 (32/64 Bit), XP and Vista. The VIBpoint Framework application is also supported; this software spectrum analyzer allows real-time data acquisition and analysis and provides powerful single-channel and two-channel FFT functionality.