IMC DataWorks Introduces Ultra-Compact Universal Data Acquisition System with Automatic Sensor Recognition

DETROIT--April 23, 2004--imc DataWorks, LLC, a world leader in measurement engineering, introduces DAX-2408, the ultra-compact universal data acquisition system, tailored for applications in transportation engineering and testing, featuring a revolutionary new "Plug & Measure" system that renders complex measurement devices obsolete, announced Paul Nylander, Ph. D., application manager of imc DataWorks.

DAX-2408 combines CAN Bus based distributed acquisition and the newest technology of universal amplifiers. Practically any physical test quantities can be directly connected. In addition to four counter/encoder channels, 16 digital inputs and 8 digital/relay outputs, each universal measurement channel has its own all-purpose input amplifier, which supports voltage, current, and temperature, as well as strain gauge measurement bridges without the need for individual or external conditioning modules for each type of sensor.

"Plug & Measure", imc DataWorks' new measurement concept now included in DAX-2408 Measurement System, features TEDS (Transducer Electronic Data Sheet) automatic sensor recognition as per IEEE P1451 for smart sensors and a sensor database integrated into the operating software.

"Beyond industry standards, DAX-2408 is able to read sensor data returned by a smart sensor together with the TEDS information, and configure itself automatically. No longer is it necessary to sort out channel numbers and signal conditioners. TEDS contains sensor data and configuration requirements, such as calibration data, input type, sampling rate, trigger configuration, etc. all based on a channel name. Combined with the TEDS memory clip from imc DataWorks, any sensor can now be TEDS enabled," noted Nylander.

DAX-2408 is a robust data acquisition device for tough, mobile testing, while still delivering laboratory quality measurements, testing control and flexibility. Applications can be mobile or stationary, in lab settings, on test benches, in vehicles, plants or industrial installations, wherever flexible, multi-channel measurements are required, regardless of mechanical or temperature stress.

Live operation and configuration of the DAX-2408 is easily achieved with any standard PC via TCP/IP - Ethernet wired or wireless. Measurements can be continuously transferred at rates up to the aggregate sampling rate of 400 kHz, displayed, and saved on the PC's hard drive.

In PC-less, stand-alone operation, DAX-2408 becomes an intelligent data logger, saving data internally on a standard PCMCIA flash card. For in-vehicle applications in summer, winter or long-term fleet testing, DAX-2408 comes with a number of indispensable features such as:

-- PC-less black-box operation with low power consumption (approx. 10 Watt)

-- Wide range DC power adapter, with battery-buffered uninterruptible power supply (UPS)

-- Self-start capability, and soft shut-down on power loss

-- Rugged enclosure with high shock tolerance

-- Connection for any external modem for remote operation (via PPP)

-- Extended temperature range including condensation protection (optional)

-- External terminal for display of measured data and status messages without PC (optional)

"The included operating software lets the user intuitively configure the measurement, without requiring any special programming skills. "Plug & Measure" makes the instrument extremely simple to operate and dependable for critical testing," stated Nylander.

imc DataWorks is the North American partner of IMC Messysteme, located in Berlin, Germany. As early as 1989, IMC led the measurement technology industry by introducing the world's first MS-Windows signal analysis software. Since the commercial success of that pioneering concept, IMC has continued to introduce innovative new products in measurement devices and software for instrumentation, such as IMC CRONOS PL, micro-MUSYCS, IMC CRONOS, CANSAS, FAMOS and IMC-COM. All IMC products run under the MS-Windows operating system, now the world standard. In addition to its serial product line, IMC offers custom-designed solutions, particularly in the fields of test stations and parameter identification. IMC currently employs 90 engineers, focusing on existing and new product innovation with emphasis on model-based measuring technology. For additional information, contact imc DataWorks at (608) 231-6123 or visit www.imcDataWorks.com.