Data acquisition devices (DAQs) and controllers are pivotal components in industries, facilitating the measurement and control of processes.
DAQs capture and process real-world signals from sensors, converting them into digital data for analysis. Controllers, on the other hand, conduct desired actions and respond dynamically to changes, based on the information acquired by DAQs.
The synergy between DAQs and controllers is fundamental in creating responsive and adaptive systems, enhancing productivity and reliability across diverse applications.
Creating an efficient DAQ demands thoughtful attention to various elements. For example:
To design a reliable controller, we usually focus on points such as:
While the answers to these questions largely depend on the selection of components, such as sensors, ADCs, DACs, and control modules, the key to high performance usually lies in accounting for the interactions between hardware, circuits, firmware, and software. In the end, a well-balanced consideration of the above factors is indispensable for good design and implementation.
Beyond hardware considerations, software aspects are crucial for DAQs and controllers. When a DAQ or controller isn't stand-alone, interaction with humans or computers is essential for data transmission or command reception. Drivers and HMIs serve as bridges connecting hardware to computers and humans.
I have implemented DAQs and controllers with driver and HMI supports in Python, C#, and LabVIEW. This ensures that users can interact seamlessly with devices, focusing on applications without unnecessary complexity.