Manual

eDAQ: Designed to efficiently collect

data from vehicle networks and
combine this data with strain, analog,
and digital data for all your data
acquisition needs.
This manual is for use with the SoMat Corporation eDAQ Field Computer System. This information is
subject to change at any time.

SoMat Corporation makes no warranties, expressed or implied, that the information described in this
manual is free from error or is consistent with any particular standard of merchantability, or that it
will meet your requirements for any particular application. These products should not be relied upon
to solve a problem where an incorrect solution could result in injury to a person or loss of property.
SoMat Corporation disclaims all liability for direct or consequential damages resulting from your use
of this information.

eDAQ User’s Guide: © 1995-2002, SoMat Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

TCE software: © 1995-2002, SoMat Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
DataXplorer software: © 1998-2002, SoMat Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

No parts of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form or by any means without prior
written consent of SoMat Corporation.

The SoMat logo is registered trademark of SoMat Corporation. eDAQ is a trademark of SoMat
Corporation. The DataXplorer logo is a registered trademark of SoMat Corporation. All other
product names and trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

For more information, please contact SoMat Corporation or your sales representative.

SoMat Corporation
PO Box 2457
Champaign, IL 61825-2457
Phone: 217-328-5359
Fax: 217-328-6576
Email: info@somat.com
Web: www.somat.com

SoMat Systems (UK) Ltd.

Maxet House, Liverpool Road
Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 1RS
England
Phone: +44 (0)1582 730582
Fax: +44 (0) 1582 730382
Email: info-uk@somat.com
Chapter 1 - Overview of the eDAQ FCS
Overview ........................................................................................................................1
The eDAQ Field Computer System ........................................................................1
Distinctive Features ................................................................................................1
Standard Configuration ..........................................................................................2
Front Features ..........................................................................................................2
Connectors ........................................................................................................2
Status LEDs ........................................................................................................2
Rear Features ..........................................................................................................3
Dimensions ..............................................................................................................3
Support Connections ............................................................................................4
Data Channels Available ..............................................................................................4
Overview ..................................................................................................................4
Low-Level Analog ....................................................................................................4
High-Level Analog ....................................................................................................4
Digital Input/Outputs ..............................................................................................4
Pulse Counters ........................................................................................................5
Low-Level Board ............................................................................................................5
Features ......................................................................................................................5
Specifications ............................................................................................................5
Connectors ..............................................................................................................6
Low-Level Signal Flow through eDAQ ..............................................................6
Outputs ......................................................................................................................7
High-Level Board ..........................................................................................................7
Features ......................................................................................................................7
Connectors ..............................................................................................................7
High-Level Signal Flow through eDAQ ..............................................................7
Vehicle Bus Interface ....................................................................................................8
Overview ..................................................................................................................8
Available Interface Types ........................................................................................9
Vehicle Connection ................................................................................................9
Vehicle Bus Interface Signal Flow ........................................................................9
Main Processor Board ..................................................................................................9
Features ......................................................................................................................9
Specifications ..........................................................................................................10
PCMCIA Slot ................................................................................................................10
Usable PCMCIA Cards ........................................................................................10
The PCMCIA Door ..............................................................................................10
Use of Ethernet ..........................................................................................................10
SoMat TCE for eDAQ Software ..............................................................................11
SoMat DataXplorer Software ..................................................................................11
eDAQ Web Server Interface ....................................................................................11

i
Chapter 2 - Setting up the eDAQ
Overview ......................................................................................................................13
What You Receive ......................................................................................................13
Hardware ................................................................................................................13
Software ..................................................................................................................14
Documentation ......................................................................................................14
Support Equipment ....................................................................................................14
Overview ................................................................................................................14
Power Supply ..........................................................................................................14
Support PC ............................................................................................................14
Installing SoMat TCE ..................................................................................................15
Overview ................................................................................................................15
Installation Procedure ..........................................................................................15
Setting Up the System ................................................................................................16
Before Starting ......................................................................................................16
Setting up the Hardware ....................................................................................16
Setting Up eDAQ–PC Communications ..........................................................17
Changing the eDAQ’s IP Address ......................................................................18
Changing Communications Settings ..................................................................20
Test Setup Files ............................................................................................................20

Chapter 3 - TCE for eDAQ

Overview ......................................................................................................................21
Starting and Quitting ..................................................................................................21
Starting TCE ............................................................................................................21
Quitting TCE ..........................................................................................................21
TCE Main Window ....................................................................................................21
General Description ............................................................................................21
Title Bar ..................................................................................................................22
Main Menus ............................................................................................................22
File ......................................................................................................................22
Test Control ....................................................................................................23
FCS Setup ..........................................................................................................24
Preferences ......................................................................................................24
View ....................................................................................................................25
Window ............................................................................................................25
Help ....................................................................................................................25
TCE Toolbar ............................................................................................................26
Status Bar ................................................................................................................27
Setup Windows ............................................................................................................27
Overview ................................................................................................................27
Test ID Setup ..........................................................................................................27
Hardware Setup ....................................................................................................28
Channels Setup ......................................................................................................29
Transducer Channel Setup ............................................................................29
Computed Channel Setup ............................................................................29
DataMode Setup ....................................................................................................30

ii
 TCE Preferences ..........................................................................................................31
Overview ................................................................................................................31
General Preferences ............................................................................................31
FCS Specific Preferences ....................................................................................32
ID Name Conventions in TCE ................................................................................33
Help System ..................................................................................................................33
Error Messages ............................................................................................................33
Overview ................................................................................................................33
Basic TCE Operation ............................................................................................33
eDAQ Communications ......................................................................................33
eDAQ Control Actions ........................................................................................34
Modal Dialog Boxes ....................................................................................................34

Chapter 4 - DataXplorer
Overview ......................................................................................................................35
Installation ....................................................................................................................35
Starting and Quitting ................................................................................................35
Starting ....................................................................................................................35
Quitting ....................................................................................................................35
DataXplorer Main Window ......................................................................................35
Additional Information ..............................................................................................36

Chapter 5 - Transducer Cables and Wiring

Overview ......................................................................................................................37
Transducer Cable Assemblies ..................................................................................37
Low-Level Analog ..................................................................................................37
High-Level Analog ..................................................................................................37
Vehicle Bus ..............................................................................................................37
Digital I/O ..............................................................................................................37
Wire Colors and Pinouts ....................................................................................37
Low-Level Strain Transducer Wiring ......................................................................38
4-Wire Options ....................................................................................................38
6-Wire Options ....................................................................................................39
Analog Transducer Wiring ........................................................................................40
Digital I/O Device Wiring ..........................................................................................41
Digital Inputs ..........................................................................................................41
Equivalent Circuit ............................................................................................41
Pulse Counter ..................................................................................................41
Preferred Switch Digital Input ......................................................................42
Alternate Switch Digital Input ......................................................................42
Digital Outputs ......................................................................................................43
Equivalent Circuit ............................................................................................43
Use of an Incandescent Bulb ........................................................................43
Use of LED ......................................................................................................43
Shield–Ground Connections ....................................................................................44

iii
Chapter 6 - eDAQ Test Process
Overview ......................................................................................................................45
Phase 1: Plan the Test ................................................................................................45
Phase 2: Prepare the Hardware ..............................................................................46
Phase 3: Set Up Transducer and Computed Channels ......................................46
Phase 4: Set Up DataModes ....................................................................................46
Phase 5: Run the Test ..................................................................................................47
Main Test Phases ....................................................................................................47
Using Buttons, Commands, and Shortcut Keys ..............................................47
Test Control Panel ................................................................................................48
Initialization Process ............................................................................................48
Doing Multiple Test Runs ....................................................................................49
Phase 6: Display and Analyze the Test Data ..........................................................49

Chapter 7 - Transducer Channels

Introduction ..................................................................................................................51
Channel Definitions ..............................................................................................51
Available Channel Types ......................................................................................51
Transducer Channel Setup Window ......................................................................52
Overview ................................................................................................................52
Edit Functions ........................................................................................................52
Display Functions ..................................................................................................52
Calibrate Function ................................................................................................52
Analysis Functions ................................................................................................52
Defining a Channel ......................................................................................................53
Low-Level Channel ....................................................................................................54
Overview ................................................................................................................54
Definition Procedure ............................................................................................54
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................54
A/D Conversion and Digital Filtering: ........................................................55
Output Data Type: ..........................................................................................56
Excitation (Bipolar Voltage) / Bridge: ..........................................................56
Full Scale: ..........................................................................................................57
Prerun Rezero: ................................................................................................57
Calibration Table/Options: ............................................................................57
Display of Output Signal ......................................................................................58
High Level Channel ....................................................................................................58
Overview ................................................................................................................58
Definition Procedure ............................................................................................59

iv
 Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................59
A/D Conversion: ..............................................................................................59
Output Data Type: ..........................................................................................60
Full Scale: ..........................................................................................................60
Prerun Rezero: ................................................................................................60
Signal Conditioner Front End: ......................................................................60
Calibration Table: ............................................................................................60
Display of Output Signal ......................................................................................61
Thermocouple Channel ............................................................................................62
Overview ................................................................................................................62
Definition Procedure ............................................................................................62
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................62
A/D Conversion and Digital Filtering: ........................................................63
Output Data Type: ..........................................................................................63
Full Scale: ..........................................................................................................63
Prerun Rezero: ................................................................................................63
Calibration Table/Options: ............................................................................63
Display of Output Signal ......................................................................................63
Digital Input (BWI) Channel ....................................................................................64
Overview ................................................................................................................64
Before Defining a Channel ..................................................................................64
Definition Procedure ............................................................................................64
Display of Output Signal ......................................................................................65
Pulse Counter Channel ............................................................................................65
Overview ................................................................................................................65
Definition Procedure ............................................................................................65
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................66
Digital Data Sampling: ..................................................................................66
Output Data Type: ..........................................................................................66
Mode: ..................................................................................................................66
Display of Output Signal ......................................................................................68
Vehicle Bus Channel ..................................................................................................68
Overview ................................................................................................................68
Defining a Vehicle Bus Channel ..........................................................................68
Selecting Channels from a Database ................................................................68
Editing the Database in Excel ............................................................................69
Calibrating Channels ..................................................................................................70
General ....................................................................................................................70
TCE Calibration Dialog Box ..............................................................................71
Opening the Dialog Box ................................................................................71
Options ..............................................................................................................71
Recalibrating a Channel ......................................................................................72
Deleting a Calibration ..........................................................................................72
Checking a Calibration ........................................................................................72
Displaying Transducer Output ..................................................................................73
Copying a Definition ..................................................................................................74
Overview ................................................................................................................74
Editing Channel Definitions ......................................................................................75
One Definition ......................................................................................................75
Multiple Definitions ..............................................................................................75
Deleting a Definition ..................................................................................................76

v
Chapter 8 - Computed Channels
Definition and Types ..................................................................................................77
Definition ................................................................................................................77
Types ........................................................................................................................77
Computed Channel Setup Window ........................................................................78
Overview ................................................................................................................78
Data Fields ..............................................................................................................78
Edit Functions ........................................................................................................79
Defining a Computed Channel ................................................................................79
Importance of Definition Order ........................................................................79
Before Starting ......................................................................................................79
Procedure ................................................................................................................79
Desk Calculator Channel ..........................................................................................80
Description ............................................................................................................80
Floating Point Exceptions ....................................................................................80
Defining a Channel ................................................................................................80
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................81
Full Scale Estimate: ..........................................................................................81
Down Sampler Channel ............................................................................................82
Description ............................................................................................................82
Defining a Channel ................................................................................................83
Elapsed Time (Time Channel) ..................................................................................84
Overview ................................................................................................................84
Defining a Channel ................................................................................................84
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................84
Full Scale Estimate: ..........................................................................................85
Integrator Channel ......................................................................................................85
Overview ................................................................................................................85
Defining a Channel ................................................................................................85
Desired Measurement: ..................................................................................86
Full Scale Estimate: ..........................................................................................86
Integration Parameters: ..................................................................................86
Trigger Options: ..............................................................................................86
Up Sampler Channel ..................................................................................................87
Description ............................................................................................................87
Defining a Channel ................................................................................................88
Editing a Definition ....................................................................................................88
Copying a Definition ..................................................................................................89
Deleting a Definition ..................................................................................................89

vi
Chapter 9 - DataModes
Definition and Types ..................................................................................................91
Definition ................................................................................................................91
Types ........................................................................................................................91
DataMode Setup Dialog Box ....................................................................................92
Overview ................................................................................................................92
Data Displayed ......................................................................................................92
Edit Functions ........................................................................................................92
Memory Allocation ..............................................................................................92
Defining a SoMat DataMode ....................................................................................93
Before Starting ......................................................................................................93
Procedure ................................................................................................................93
Use of Triggers ............................................................................................................94
Overview ................................................................................................................94
Triggering Condition ............................................................................................94
Trigger Channel ....................................................................................................94
Basic Trigger Options ..........................................................................................94
Burst History Trigger Options ..........................................................................94
Time History DataMode ..........................................................................................95
Description ............................................................................................................95
Defining a Time History DataMode ..................................................................95
Burst History DataMode ..........................................................................................96
Description ............................................................................................................96
Defining a Burst History DataMode ................................................................96
Time At Level DataMode ..........................................................................................98
Description ............................................................................................................98
Defining a Time At Level DataMode ................................................................98
Peak Valley DataMode ..............................................................................................100
Description ..........................................................................................................100
Defining a Peak Valley DataMode ....................................................................100
Peak Valley Matrix DataMode ................................................................................102
Description ..........................................................................................................102
Defining a Peak Valley Matrix DataMode ......................................................102
Rainflow DataMode ..................................................................................................104
Description ..........................................................................................................104
Defining a Rainflow DataMode ........................................................................104
User Defined Bins ....................................................................................................104
Overview ..............................................................................................................104
Defining Bins ........................................................................................................104
Editing a DataMode Definition ..............................................................................106
Copying a DataMode ..............................................................................................106
Deleting a DataMode ..............................................................................................106

vii
Chapter 10 - Monitoring Tests and Channels
Overview ....................................................................................................................107
Before a Test is Initialized ..................................................................................107
Between Test Runs ..............................................................................................107
During Test Runs ................................................................................................107
Get Test Status ..........................................................................................................107
Overview ..............................................................................................................107
Status Data Displayed ........................................................................................108
Test Run Status: ............................................................................................108
FCS RAM Disk Files: ....................................................................................108
RAM Disk Memory Bytes (%): ..................................................................109
PCMCIA Disk Memory Bytes (%): ............................................................109
Transducer Checks ..................................................................................................109
Overview ..............................................................................................................109
Transducer Checks Dialog Box ......................................................................109
Signal Displays for Transducers ........................................................................110
DVM Display ..............................................................................................................110
Overview ..............................................................................................................110
Types of DVM Displays ......................................................................................110
Opening a DVM Display ....................................................................................111
Display Controls ................................................................................................111
Scope Display ............................................................................................................112
Opening the Scope Display ..............................................................................112
Display Controls ................................................................................................113
Display Preferences ............................................................................................113
Run Time Display ......................................................................................................114
Overview ..............................................................................................................114
Bar Chart Plot ....................................................................................................114
Strip Chart Plot ..................................................................................................115
Digital Readout ....................................................................................................115
Display Preferences ............................................................................................115
Using the Display ................................................................................................116
Display Controls ................................................................................................117
Spectrum Analyzer Display ....................................................................................118
Overview ..............................................................................................................118
Opening the Spectrum Display ........................................................................118
Display Preferences ............................................................................................118
Display Controls ................................................................................................119

viii
Appendix A - Cable Wiring
Cable Hardware ..................................................................................................121
Wiring Standards ......................................................................................................121
Comm 1 — Ethernet (E-ETHERNET xxx) ..................................................121
Digital Input/Output/Pulse Counter Cable Set (EDIO) ..........................122
High-Level Analog Cable/Vehicle Bus Cable (SAC-EHLB1) ......................123
Low-Level Analog Cable Set, 4-Wire Option
(SAC-SLXDUC-4 and SAC-SLXDUC-4-V) ..................................................124
Low-Level Analog Cable Set, 6-Wire Option
(SAC-SLXDUC-6 and SAC-SLXDUC-6-V) ..................................................125
Power Cable (EPWR15) ....................................................................................125

Appendix B - TCE Computed Channels

Desk Calculator ............................................................................................127
Discrete State Mapper ................................................................................127
Down Sampler ..............................................................................................127
Elapsed Time – (Time Channel) ................................................................127
Engineering Scaler ........................................................................................127
Interactive Trigger ........................................................................................127
Integrator ........................................................................................................127
Maximum Value Track ..................................................................................127
Minimum Value Track ....................................................................................127
Pulse Counter ................................................................................................128
Range Track ....................................................................................................128
Smoothing Filter ............................................................................................128
Time Base Shifter ..........................................................................................128
Trigger Generator ........................................................................................128
Up Sampler ....................................................................................................128
Valid Gate Data ............................................................................................128

Appendix C - eDAQ Dimensions

eDAQ Dimensions ....................................................................................................129

ix
Appendix D - Ethernet Communications
Basics of Ethernet Communications ....................................................................131
What is a compatible address? ..............................................................................131
Communications via Ethernet ..............................................................................132
Overview ..............................................................................................................132
Section 1: Using the eDAQ in a network scenario ....................................132
Host computer preparation ......................................................................132
HyperTerminal Communications ..............................................................132
Name Entry ....................................................................................................133
IP Address ......................................................................................................133
Subnet Mask ..................................................................................................133
Gateway ..........................................................................................................133
Section 2: Using the eDAQ with a dedicated computer ..........................134
Section 3: Checking Ethernet Communications ..........................................135

Appendix E - eDAQ Web Interface

Overview ..............................................................................................................137
Using the Web Interface ....................................................................................137
Formatting the PCMCIA Disk ........................................................................138
Changing the IP Address and name ................................................................139
Updating the Firmware ......................................................................................140

x
About this Guide
Scope and Prerequisites
Primary Purpose of Guide
This Manual is intended for engineers, scientists, technicians, and others who want to use the eDAQ Field
Computer System (FCS) to set up and run engineering and product reliability tests. Its primary purpose is
to provide information on using the eDAQ and SoMat Test Control Environment (TCE) software and to
illustrate features.
If more details on concepts introduced are necessary, refer to the TCE Online Help System or contact
SoMat.

Expertise with Windows

You should be familiar with the Windows® operating system before installing and starting TCE. If you are
not, complete the tutorials available in the Windows Help System.

Use of Ethernet
Communications between the eDAQ and the support (host) PC are done via Ethernet instead of using
serial or parallel communications. A detailed description can be found in Appendix D, Ethernet
Communications.

Guide Contents
The contents of the chapters in this Guide are as follows.

Chapter 1 • Overview of the eDAQ FCS

Introduces the eDAQ and the provided TCE and DataXplorer software.
Chapter 2 • Setting Up the eDAQ
Describes setting up the eDAQ and the support PC. It also covers the installation of TCE.

Chapter 3 • TCE for eDAQ

Explains the basic features, functions and operation of TCE.
Chapter 4 • DataXplorer
Introduces the SoMat DataXplorer software.
Chapter 5 • Transducer Cables and Wiring
Presents the wiring of transducers for use with the eDAQ.
Chapter 6 • eDAQ Test Process
Describes the six phases of the test process when using the eDAQ and the actions involved in each
phase.

xi
Chapter 7 • Transducer Channels
Presents procedures and other information to define channels for the transducers using TCE.

Chapter 8 • Computed Channels

Introduces computed channels and presents the procedures and other information in TCE.
Chapter 9 • DataModes
Introduces the various DataModes and explains their setup and use.
Chapter 10 • Monitoring Tests and Channels
Describes how to check the status of a test and the operation of transducers and computed
channels.
Appendix A • Cable Wiring
Provides details on the cables provided with the eDAQ, particularly the connectors, pinout
assignments, and wire color coding.

Appendix B • TCE Computed Channels

Lists a brief description of the computed channels provided with TCE.
Appendix C • eDAQ Dimensions
Contains diagrams showing the dimensions of the eDAQ.
Appendix D • Ethernet Communications
Provides information on establishing communications between the host computer and the eDAQ.
Also provides an overview on the inner workings of Ethernet communications.
Appendix E • eDAQ Web Interface
Provides an overview of the Web Interface and using a Web Browser to change common parameters
and functions of the eDAQ.

xii
Conventions Used
Standard engineering abbreviations are used for this manual. Additionally, the following conventions are
used.

Abbreviations
DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
DVM Digital Value Meter
EASE Engineering Analysis Software Environment
EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
FCS Field Computer System
MB Megabyte
RAM Random Access Memory
SRAM Static Random Access Memory
TCE Test Control Environment

Use of “Select”
The term “select” is used when a particular action can be selected in more than one manner. This includes,
but is not limited to, selection using a mouse or by using one key or a combination of keyboard inputs.

Related Documentation
SoMat EASE Version 3 Operating Manual (Included with purchase of EASE software)
Explains the use of the DataXplorer software provided with TCE. (DataXplorer is a special “viewing
only” version of EASE.)
SoMat TCE for eDAQ Release Notes and Updates to Release Notes
Release notes may be distributed with SoMat TCE. They have information which supersedes all other
documentation sources for TCE operation.
SoMat TCE for eDAQ Online Help System
The Online Help System is the main resource for the use of TCE. It has detailed information for TCE
and can be used for amplification of concepts presented in this Guide.

xiii
 eDAQ Manual — Chapter 1

Chapter 1 - Overview of the eDAQ FCS

Overview
The SoMat eDAQ Field Computer System (FCS) is a microprocessor-based data acquisition system
designed for portable data collection in a variety of test environments.
The basic eDAQ system consists of:
• SoMat eDAQ Field Computer
• SoMat Test Control Environment (TCE) software
• SoMat DataXplorer software
Chapter 2 of this guide explains setting up the eDAQ and requirements for a support PC and power
supply.

The eDAQ Field Computer System

Distinctive Features
The distinctive features of the eDAQ FCS include:
• Up to four eDAQ Low-Level Board units providing a total of 32 analog or strain channels (8 channels
per unit)
• Ten digital I/O and eight pulse counter channels on the Main Processor Board
• Optional High-Level Board unit provides 16 analog channels
• Optional interface to a Vehicle Bus Network
• Small, portable system with built-in signal conditioning
• Windows ®-based software for easy test setup and operation
• Almost all signal conditioner options can be selected via software
• Intelligent online data reduction with access to a library of data analysis modules
• Unattended short- and long-term data acquisition using multiple channels and a variety of transducers
• PCMCIA slot
• Use of Ethernet (10baseT) to communicate with the support (host) PC
• Power circuitry adapted for direct use of vehicle power
• Simplified calibration and setup
• Computed channels (construct data based on other channels)
• Tabular and multiple graphic modes for data display
• Sample rates up to 10,000 samples per second for Low-Level Board transducers, up to 2500 samples
per second for most other transducers
• 16-bit A/D converter
• Digital filtering of data (Low-Level Board)
• Rugged construction: machined aluminum case with gaskets to protect it from moisture, corrosion, and
dust
• Watchdog circuitry switches primary power to backup when a momentary power loss occurs
• Trickle-charged internal battery pack powers the eDAQ when main power voltage is low

Page 1
eDAQ Manual — Chapter 1

Standard Configuration
The basic eDAQ consists of two layers:
• The bottom layer contains the Main Processor Board and a PCMCIA slot. It has ten digital
input/output channels and eight pulse counter channels and handles the communications with the
support PC. The optional 16-channel High-Level Analog Board and optional Vehicle Bus Interface, when
installed, are in this layer.
• The top layer is a Low-Level Analog Board collecting eight channels of low-level analog or strain data.
Up to three more low-level or similar layers can be added to the eDAQ to provide up to 32 channels.

Front Features
Low Level Analog Low Level Analog
(Channels 1–4) (Channels 5–8)

Power
Status Switch PCMCIA
High-Level Analog (16 Channels) LEDs Slot Door
and Vehicle Bus Interface

Figure 1-1: Front Panel of eDAQ

Connectors
The Low-Level Analog Board (upper layer) has two 37-Pin D-sub receptacles, one for channels 1–4, and the
other for channels 5–8. The base (bottom) layer has a 52-Pin HDD-sub receptacle for high-level analog
channels if the optional High-Level Analog Board is installed in the eDAQ; otherwise, the receptacle
opening is covered.

Status LEDs
Three LEDs on the front panel indicate the eDAQ’s operational status:

(Green) Ready
Status

(Red) Internal Fault or

User Alarm

(Yellow) Processor
Activity

Figure 1-2: Status LEDs

Page 2
 eDAQ Manual — Chapter 1

Ready Status (Green) — When lit, indicates the eDAQ is available for use; when not lit, the eDAQ is
unavailable due to processor activity or an internal fault. It lights briefly when you power up the
eDAQ. When the eDAQ completes its bootup process, this LED lights again and stays lit.
Processor Activity (Yellow) — When lit continuously, indicates the eDAQ is busy and unavailable for
new actions, such as during bootup and when starting a test run. After test initialization, this LED
flashes on and off slowly to indicate a test run can be started. After the test run has started, this LED
flashes on and off very quickly to indicate run progress.
Internal Fault or Alarm (Red) — When lit continuously, indicates an eDAQ error or user alarm has
occurred. Use the command Get Test Status in the Test Control menu in SoMat TCE to get a
description of the reason why the LED is lit. This action will normally clear the error or alarm.

Rear Features

Digital Input/Output RS232 or Ethernet 10base2 Power

and Pulse Counter Ethernet 10baseT (SoMat Use Only)

Figure 1-3: Rear Panel of eDAQ

The connectors on the rear panel of the base layer are:

• A 44-pin D connector for ten digital input/output channels and eight pulse counter channels (Digital
I/O)
• A 28-pin D connector for Ethernet 10baseT and serial RS232 communications with the support PC
• A 9-pin D connector for power to the eDAQ (Power)

Dimensions
Basic eDAQ with two layers: 3.31" H × 9.13" W × 10.88" D
(84mm × 232mm × 276mm)
Additional Low-Level Layer: Add 1.23" to height
For more dimensions, see Appendix C, “eDAQ Dimensions.”

Page 3
eDAQ Manual — Chapter 1

Support Connections
The eDAQ comes fully assembled, but two support connections are required for operation:
• Connection to an appropriate power source
The power cable provided with the eDAQ has pigtail ends to facilitate connecting to various power
sources. The specifications for a power supply are found under Power Supply in the section Support
Equipment in Chapter 2.
• Connection to a support PC so the eDAQ can be controlled, test channels set up, tests initialized, and
test data uploaded
The eDAQ is easily connected to its support PC using the Ethernet communications cable provided
with the eDAQ. The requirements for the support PC (e.g. an Ethernet card must be installed) are
specified in subsection Support PC under Support Equipment in Chapter 2.

Data Channels Available

Overview
The following briefly describes the hardware aspects of these data channels. More information on their use
and how they are defined (set up) in TCE is found in Chapter 7, Transducer Channels.

Low-Level Analog
The low-level analog channels are used with analog and strain signals normally less than One Volt (usually in
millivolts). Up to eight low-level channels can be defined for each Low-Level Board installed. The
transducers are connected to the eDAQ via the LoLev (1–4) and LoLev (5–8) connectors on the Low-
Level Board. Specification for the Low-Level Board can be found on page 5.

High-Level Analog
The high-level analog channels are used with analog signals normally greater than 5V. Up to sixteen high-
level channels can be defined. The transducers for these channels are connected to the eDAQ via the
connector labeled HiLev (1–16) Analog/Veh. Bus on the High-Level Board. Specifications for the High-Level
Board can be found on page 8.

Digital Input/Outputs
Ten digital input/outputs are available. Each is configured as either input or output using SoMat TCE. The
transducers are connected to the eDAQ via the 20-wire cable in the Digital I/O cable assembly going to the
Digital I/O connector on the eDAQ’s base (bottom) layer.

The sample rate for the Digital Bitwise input is 0.1 Hz – 2500 Hz (based on a master sample clock rate of
100,000 Hz).
An open circuit is sensed as a logic one (true). Voltages greater than 2.1 Vdc are consideres logic one
(true); less than 0.5 Vdc are logic zero (false).

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Pulse Counters
The eight pulse counter channels available can measure pulse time period, pulse count rate, pulse frequency,
and duty cycle. The transducers are connected to the eDAQ via the 16-wire cable in the Digital I/O cable
assembly going to the Digital I/O connector in the eDAQ’s base (bottom) layer.
The sample rates for the Pulse Counter input is 0.5 Hz – 50,000 Hz (based on a master sample clock rate
of 100,000 Hz).
An open circuit is sensed as a logic one (true). Voltages greater than 2.1 Vdc are consideres logic one
(true); less than 0.5 Vdc are logic zero (false).

Low-Level Board

Features
Each Low-Level Board can collect up to eight channels of strain or analog data. Key features include:
• Simultaneous sample and hold for all low-level channels
• Guard filter on each channel to prevent aliasing of data
• Software selection of quarter, half, or full-bridges
• Either 120Ω or 350Ω internal quarter-bridge completion (determined when the board is built)
• Programmable digital filters
• Excitation options of 5, 10, and 20 V

Specifications
The specifications for each Low-Level Board are as follows:
Sample Rate: 0.1–10,000Hz
ADC Resolution: 16 Bit
Operating Temp.: -20 to 65 °C
Temperature Drift (Worst Case): Gain +/- 30 ppm/°C
Offset +/- 12 ppm/°C
Initial Calibration: >1 LSB
Input Resistance: 1010 Ω for V -exc<Vin<V+exc
Dynamic Range: 70 dB
Common Mode Rejection: 70 dB
Full-Scale Voltage Range: ±3 mV to ±10 V
Offset, Analog Output: 1000 µvolts

Supply Current in Addition to Processor Board Current (at 12 volts):

On state, no transducers 500 mA
Eight 350 full bridges, 5 V excitation 600 mA
Eight 350 full bridges, 10 V excitation 870 mA
Eight 120 quarter bridges, 5 V excitation 650 mA
Eight 120 full bridges, 5 V excitation 830 mA

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Connectors
There are two 37-pin D connectors on each Low-Level Board, labeled LoLev (1-4) and
LoLev (5-8). Both the input transducer connections and the high-level analog outputs are provided via
these connectors.

Low-Level Signal Flow through eDAQ

The eDAQ is connected to transducers or sensors attached to the components being tested to detect
movement, stress, strain, etc. Signal conditioners in the eDAQ derive digital data from the electrical signals
generated by the transducers or sensors. The eDAQ’s microprocessor manipulates and stores the test data
in digital memory until uploaded to the support computer.
The following describes the flow of a low-level analog input signal through the eDAQ. The lettered steps
match circled numbers from the signal flow diagram.

37-Pin Receptacle
on Front Panel

A +
2 + Excitation Programmable Positive
Voltage Excitation
Vex

B
–
1 + Signal In C
C
+ D
B
3 - Signal In
_
A Single-Pole Filter
4 – Excitation
– Programmable Gain
Instrumentation
Fixed 4-Pole
Guard Filter
Vex - Programmable Negative Amplifier (Gains of 1, 10 or 100)
B Voltage Excitation
5 Circuit Common +

D D E Serial F
Data G
Out
Programmable Programmable Analog-to-Digital Digital Signal Bus
Offset Gain (A/D) Converter Processor
To Main
(Gains of 1 to 32) (16 Bit, 10 kHz) Digital Filtering Processor
Data Buffering

Figure 1-4: Low-Level Analog Signal Flow

A Signal conditioners supply both positive and negative excitation to transducers through the
connector.
B The transducer supplies a differential signal to two pins on the input connector of the signal
conditioner:
a. A signal ground (circuit common) is also available on one pin of the input connector.
b. 120Ω or 350Ω completion resistors are available (not in Figure 1-4).
C Each signal passes through an anti-aliasing analog guard filter.
D Each signal passes through an amplification/offset stage where the signal is conditioned for the A/D
conversion. The hardware amplifies and offsets the signal using a programmable gain first stage
amplifier, a set of fine and coarse voltage offset DAC’s, and a programmable gain second stage
amplifier. The amplification/offset values are computed automatically by TCE from the transducer
calibration data and full-scale values.
E Each of the signals is processed through the A/D converter at a 10 KHz rate.

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F Each digital signal passes through a digital filter (selected by the user via TCE) and is downsampled
based on the sample rate specified by the user. The maximum sample rate at the output of the
digital filter is 2,500 Hz.
NOTE: Data can be passed through the digital signal processor without filtering, permitting
a maximum sample rate and data storage of 10,000 samples per second.
G The digital signals are then routed to the main processor for further processing and/or storage.
NOTE: Signals can be combined and modified by using computed channels to create new
channels. The transducer and computed channel data can then be stored in
memory (SRAM or PCMCIA card) with a specified DataMode. Some of the
DataModes available are Time History, Time At Level, Burst History, Peak/Valley,
Peak/Valley Matrix, and Rainflow.

Outputs
Figure 1-5 below is a block diagram of the outputs from a Low-Level Board unit.

Channels ADCs
1–8 1–8
Processor
and Memory
To eDAQ

Conditioned Analog Signals (Out)

Figure 1-5: Low-Level Board Signal Flow with ADC

High-Level Board
Features
• Up to 16 high-level analog channels
• Vehicle Bus Interface (optional)
• One excitation source of ±10 V with 30 mA current output

Connectors
There is a 62-pin D connector labeled HiLev (1-16)/Veh Bus for each High-Level Board. All of the high-level
input transducer connections are provided via this connector.

High-Level Signal Flow through eDAQ

The eDAQ is connected to transducers or sensors producing high-level analog signals via the High-Level
Analog Board. The eDAQ’s microprocessor manipulates and stores the test data in digital memory where it
is held until uploaded to the support computer.
The following describes the high-level signal flow of an input signal through the High-Level Board. The
numbered steps match circled numbers from the signal flow diagram, Figure 1-6 (next page).

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C
Signal A B
IN E F G
Serial
Data
16 Bit Out
Buffer Analog-to-Digital FIFO Bus
Converter Buffer
To Main
GND Processor
Board
Chan 1
Chan 2 D
MUX
Chan 3
Chan 4
Controller
Chan 5
Chan 6
Chan 7
Chan 8
Chan 9
Chan 10
Chan 11
Chan 12
Chan 13
Chan 14
Chan 15
Chan 16

Figure 1-6: High-Level Signal Flow

A The high-level signals can be attenuated by selecting to double the signal range to ±20 V (an option
within TCE).
B The signals are buffered.
C All 16 data channels are multiplexed.
D The Controller sequences the MUX and ADC.
E Each signal is processed through the A/D converter at up 2,500 Hz samples per second per
channel.
F The data samples are stored temporarily in a FIFO buffer.
G The digital signals are then routed to the main processor for further processing and/or storage.
NOTE: Signals can be combined and modified by using computed channels to create new
channels. The transducer and computed channel data can then be stored in
memory (SRAM or PCMCIA card) with a specified DataMode. Some of the
DataModes available are Time History, Time At Level, Burst History, Peak/Valley,
Peak/Valley Matrix, and Rainflow.

Vehicle Bus Interface

Overview
The optional Vehicle Bus Interface (VBI) provides the means to acquire vehicle bus data while collecting
data from other parts of a vehicle. It acts as an interface between the standard vehicle networks and the
eDAQ. It does all of the communications translations and protocol conversions needed by the eDAQ to
communicate with those vehicle networks.

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Available Interface Types

These interface types are available—others are being developed:
CAN J1850 PWM ISO 9141 J1850 VPW
The VBI supports Vector format for CAN databases and complies with Ford Motor Standard Corporate
Protocol (SCP).

Vehicle Connection
The data cable coming from the OBD-II connector in the vehicle is connected to the receptacle labeled
HiLev (1–16) Analog/Veh. Bus on the front panel of the base layer.

Vehicle Bus Interface Signal Flow

Micro- RAM, ROM and

CAN Controller
Bus Interface Buffer Memory

J 1850 PWM
Run Time
Bus Interface
Clock
To Vehicle
Network (OBD-II)
ISO 9141
Bus Interface FIFO
Buffer

J 1850 VPW RAM

Bus Interface

To Main
Processor Board
Figure 1-7: Vehicle Bus Interface Signal Flow
The signals from the vehicle network are first processed through the appropriate interface. The
microcontroller then puts the data into packets for use by TCE and forwards those packets to the main
processor board via a FIFO buffer.

Main Processor Board

Features
Key features of the Main Processor Board (MPB) unit include:
• Processes up to ten digital input/output channels and up to eight pulse counter channels (see Data
Channels Available, page 4)
• PCMCIA slot for use of a hard drive or flash RAM card (see the following section,
PCMCIA Slot)
• Communication with support PC via Ethernet 10baseT (300 Kbytes/second) or serial RS232

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Specifications
The specifications for the MPB are as follows.
Sample Rate: 50–2,500 Hz
Processor: AMD Elan 486
Memory: 4 MB SRAM, 16 MB DRAM, 4 MB flash memory
Operating Temp.: -20 to 65 °C
PCMCIA Write Speed: Up to 700 Kbyte/second
Supply Current (at 12 V): 1 Amp

PCMCIA Slot

Usable PCMCIA Cards

The eDAQ’s PCMCIA slot accommodates Type II and III cards (hard drive or flash memory) in a variety of
densities with write speeds up to 700 Kbytes/second.
NOTE: If the eDAQ will be used where it will be subject to vibration and movement, use a
flash memory PCMCIA card instead of a disk drive card.
The hard drive card can be formatted with either LINUX or DOS for use with the eDAQ. The LINUX
option will provide higher data throughput. Effortless formatting can be performed using the eDAQ Web
server interface. See Appendix E for details on the eDAQ Web Interface.

The PCMCIA Door

To open the door covering the PCMCIA slot, loosen the screws holding the door closed. When done
working with the PCMCIA slot (e.g. swapping out a card), be sure to close the door and fastened the
screws tightly to prevent dust and moisture from entering.

Use of Ethernet
Ethernet 10baseT can be used for communications between the eDAQ and its support PC. Data transfer
rates of up to 800 Kbytes per second are possible using the Ethernet connection. A 10baseT compatible
Ethernet card must be installed in the support PC.
The eDAQ can be connected to its support PC directly (using the “cross over” cable provided) or via a
network (using the optional “hub” cable). Using a network allows having the eDAQ in one room and the
support PC in another room, another building, or even halfway around the world, depending on the size of
your network.
A serial RS232 communications cable is also provided with the eDAQ. This is currently used only for some
eDAQ setup operations and custom applications.

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SoMat TCE for eDAQ Software

The SoMat Test Control Environment (TCE) software provided with the eDAQ is a Windows-based
interface between you, the eDAQ, and the support PC. TCE is used to:
• Set up a test (includes defining the data channels and SoMat DataModes to be used in collecting data)
• Calibrate transducers
• Control a test (includes starting and stopping tests and monitoring transducer and channel outputs
with various displays)
• Upload data from the eDAQ to the support PC
Test parameters set up in TCE are downloaded when the eDAQ is initialized for a test. After the test has
run, the resulting test data is uploaded to the support PC. TCE is the means by which all such interactions
take place.
Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ, describes the TCE main window and the basics of operating TCE. Later
chapters provide information on specific tasks that are done in TCE, such as setting up data channels and
DataModes, controlling and monitoring tests, and so on.

SoMat DataXplorer Software

The SoMat DataXplorer software provided with the eDAQ can be used to display and analyze acquired
test data. DataXplorer can be called (started and used) from within TCE. See Chapter 4, DataXplorer, for
more on this software.

eDAQ Web Server Interface

The eDAQ provides a Web Server interface used for a number of System Configurations and other utility
tasks including: formatting of PCMCIA cards, changing the TCP/IP protocol settings, RS-232 setup, upgrading
the eDAQ firmware in conjunction with new TCE version releases, etc. Note that support for these tasks is
not provided under TCE, so becoming familiar with the eDAQ Web server is necessary. See Appendix E
for more details on using the eDAQ Web Interface.

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Chapter 2 - Setting up the eDAQ

Overview
Setting up the SoMat eDAQ Field Computer System (FCS) consists of installing both hardware and
software. This chapter describes the hardware and software provided with the eDAQ FCS, support
equipment needed, and how to install the software and set up communications between the eDAQ and its
support computer (PC).
The eDAQ is shipped fully assembled. Before the eDAQ can be made operational, it must be connected to
a power source and a support PC, and then communications between the eDAQ and a support PC have to
be established. User maintenance is limited to removing dust and dirt from the eDAQ, especially from the
cable receptacles on the front and back panels.

What You Receive

The first time shipment of the eDAQ should contain the items described below.
NOTE: If any items you ordered did not arrive as expected, contact your system supplier,
nearest SoMat agent, or SoMat Corporation immediately.

Hardware
Hardware provided includes the following items. Part numbers are shown in brackets.
eDAQ FCS: Base layer and one Low-Level Analog Board unit layer, plus these options as ordered:
additional Low-Level Analog Board unit layer, High-Level Analog Board, Thermocouple layer, and/or
Vehicle Bus Interface.
Low-Level Cable Assembly: [SAC-SLXDUC-SAC-n or SLXDUC-n-V; n indicates wiring option ordered]
Two are provided with each Low Level Analog Board unit. Each has a 37-pin D-sub male plug with
five cables coming out of it. All wires end in pigtails.
High-Level Analog Cable Assembly: [SAC-EHLB1] Provided if the optional High-Level Analog Board is
installed in the eDAQ. The connector is a 62-pin HDD-sub male plug with one cable coming out of it.
All wires end in pigtails.
Digital Input/Output (I/O) Cable Assembly: [EDIO] The connector is a 44-Pin HDD-sub male plug
with two cables coming out of it (one for digital I/O signals and the other for pulse counters), both
ending in pigtails.
Ethernet 10baseT / RS232 Cable: [E-Ethernet X/O or E-Ethernet Hub] The connector is a 26-pin
HDD-sub male plug at one end with two cables ending in an RJ45 and a 9-pin D-Sub female plug on
the other. The E-Ethernet Hub is used for network operations, while the E-Ethernet X/O is used for
connection directly to the host computer.
Power Cable: [EPWR15] The connector is a D-sub 15-Pin female plug at one end with two cables coming
out of it. The gray cable is for powering the eDAQ, and will be connected to the main power supply.
The red wire will connect to positive (+), and the black wire will connect to negative (–). A thin black
cable ending in pigtails is also present and is used for remote control of the eDAQ. Use of this cable
is covered in detail later in this chapter.
PCMCIA Storage Card: (Provided if ordered.) Hard drive or flash RAM, as ordered.

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Software
Installation kits on CD-ROM (or floppy disks if requested) are provided for the following software.
SoMat Test Control Environment (TCE) for eDAQ: Used to create test setup files which are used to
run tests, calibrate and verify the operation of transducers, control the eDAQ during test runs, and
upload test data to the support PC.
SoMat DataXplorer: Used to display and analyze acquired test data.

Documentation
For the eDAQ and TCE: This guide and the TCE online help system.
For DataXplorer: SoMat EASE Version 3 Operating Manual and the online help system for DataXplorer.

Support Equipment

Overview
Operation of the eDAQ will require a suitable power supply and a support computer (PC) on which to
run TCE. The following describes the specifications for the power supply and support PC.

Power Supply
A power supply capable of providing voltages between 12V to 18V DC is required. Power consumption will
vary according to eDAQ system configuration and transducers used. A typical eDAQ FCS draws 10–40
watts in steady-state operation (depending on the power consumed by transducers).
NOTE: If operation from a supply voltage greater than 18V is required, an optional power
supply adapter is available from SoMat. Consult Customer Service for additional
information regarding the power supply adapter.

Support PC
The support computer (PC) must meet these requirements in order to run SoMat TCE and DataXplorer
and store test data uploaded from the eDAQ:
• Capable of running Microsoft® Windows® 95/98/2000 or NT (586 or higher processor)
• At least 40 MB of free hard disk space
• CD-ROM, 3.5” floppy drive or Web access (required for updating and installing software)
• 16 MB of RAM (32 MB is recommended)
• Mouse or other pointing device
• Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000 or NT installed and operational
• An Ethernet port card installed

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Installing SoMat TCE

Overview
You should be familiar with the Windows operating system before starting this procedure. If you are not,
complete the tutorial available in the Windows Help System.

Installation Procedure
Use the following procedure to install TCE on the support PC.
1. Start Windows (if it is not already running).
2. Insert the TCE installation CD (or the first installation floppy disk) in the appropriate disk drive.
3. In the Start menu, select Run…
4. In the command line text box of the Run dialog box, type in
d:\setup
where d is the drive letter for the CD-ROM. Press Enter and wait for the eDAQ Test Control
Environment Setup window to appear.
The installation is completed by InstallShield ® Wizard, which will guide you through the process. To
continue the process, select the Next> button at each dialog box (except the software license where you
select the Yes button). To return to a previous action, select the <Back button.
The installation process can be cancelled at any time. Simply select the Cancel button at any installation
dialog box, and InstallShield ® will remove the files installed thus far on your hard drive.
The following steps indicate the actions to be performed at certain points during the installation process.
5. When you are prompted for a destination location, select the default, c:\Program
Files\SoMat\Tce_eDAQ_3.5.5 , unless it is necessary to use a different destination.

To specify another destination, click Browse… , specify the directory to use via the dialog box and
continue the process. To cancel this action, click Cancel.
NOTE: DO NOT install the eDAQ TCE in the directory where the 2500 FCS version of
SoMat TCE is installed (if SoMat TCE for the 2500 FCS is installed on the PC).
6. When prompted to select the Program Folder for the icons, select the default folder SoMat TCE
eDAQ.
NOTE: DO NOT store the eDAQ TCE icons in the 2500 version folder if TCE for the
2500 FCS is installed on the PC.
When the Next> button is selected, the installation program begins copying files to the destination
directory. A progress indicator is located at the bottom of the screen to show the installation progress.
7. At the Setup Complete dialog box, select the Finish button to complete the installation.
SoMat TCE eDAQ will now appear in the Programs menu. See Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ, for more
information on TCE and its use.

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Setting Up the System

Before Starting
Before setting up the eDAQ system, make sure to have the following items:
• SoMat eDAQ Field Computer.
• A support PC with the requirements specified under Support PC on page 14
• SoMat TCE for eDAQ properly installed on the support PC.
• Communications cable for the type of Ethernet connection you will be using between the eDAQ and
the support PC. (See What You Receive on page 13.)
• The eDAQ power cable. Fasten spade or loop connectors to the pigtails to facilitate connecting the
cable to the power supply.
• A suitable power supply for the eDAQ, set to the proper voltage.
• The appropriate transducer and digital cable(s) for the type of data to be collected. (See
What You Receive on page 13.)
Chapter 5, Transducer Cables and Wiring, shows how various transducers and digital devices should be
attached to these cables.

Setting up the Hardware

Follow this procedure for connecting and powering up the eDAQ system and its support PC. Refer to
Figures 1-1 and 1-2 in Chapter 1 as needed to identify the various connectors on the eDAQ.
NOTE: The support PC can be running prior to starting this procedure.
1. Connect the appropriate Ethernet cable between the eDAQ and the support PC.
• If connecting the eDAQ directly to the PC, use the E-ETHERNET X/O (crossover) cable.
• If connecting the eDAQ and PC via a 10baseT network, use the E-ETHERNET HUB cable to connect
the eDAQ to a network hub.
2. Connect the appropriate cable(s) to the eDAQ for the type of transducers or sensors you will be
using.
3. Make sure the power supply for the eDAQ is turned off, then connect the power cable between the
eDAQ and the power supply and, if needed, plug the power supply into an appropriate electrical outlet.
The eDAQ power cable assembly has two cables: a large gray one and a small black one. Use the red
and black pigtails on the large gray cable for the power connections: black to the negative (–) or
ground terminal; red to the positive (+) terminal.
The smaller black cable is for remote control of the eDAQ power. To use it for such, connect a SPST
switch to the cable. If the control wires are not used, make sure they are well insulated. Shorting the
two wires together will turn the eDAQ off.
4. Turn on the power supply.
5. If the status LEDs do not light, press the power switch on the front of the eDAQ to apply power to
the eDAQ.

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The three LEDs around the power switch indicate the operational status of the eDAQ. The green Ready
Status LED (above the switch) lights briefly when you turn on the eDAQ and then goes dark. The yellow
Processor Busy LED (below the switch, left) is lit while the eDAQ boots up. When the bootup is
completed, the yellow LED goes dark and the green LED lights and stays lit.
If the red Internal Fault/User Alarm LED lights (below the switch, right), set up the eDAQ–PC
communications (as explained by the following subsection), then use the Get Test Status command in the
Test Control menu. A message box describing the error or alarm condition will appear. Select OK or press
Enter to close the box.
Proceed to the next part of the setup, “Setting up the eDAQ–PC Communications”, once the eDAQ is up
and running.

Setting Up eDAQ–PC Communications

The Ethernet communications between the eDAQ and the support PC is explained in this section. For
additional guidance in using TCE, see Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ.
1. If the support PC is not already running, boot it up.
If the support PC is already running, it may be necessary to reboot to recognize the Ethernet
connection. Check the documentation for the Ethernet card you are using if there are any problems.
2. Be sure the IP address and Network Mask are set properly in the network settings so the PC can
network with the eDAQ without conflict. It may be necessary to get a new IP address from a network
administrator and change the IP address on the eDAQ (see Changing the eDAQ’s IP Address
(page 18) or Appendix D)
3. Start TCE for eDAQ (see Starting TCE on page 21).
4. Open the TCE Preferences menu and select Communications. The eDAQ Ethernet Communications
dialog box opens. Figure 2-1 shows that dialog box with Ethernet setups already listed.

Figure 2-1: eDAQ Ethernet Communications Dialog Box

For Ethernet communications to occur, the correct IP address for the eDAQ has to be listed in this dialog
box and selected (highlighted).
5. In the Connect Timeout Period (secs) box, specify how much time, in seconds, to allow the support
PC and the eDAQ to establish communications; type in the number.

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6. If there is an IP address listed for the eDAQ and support PC you are using, select it. (Either click on it
or use the up and down arrow keys to move the highlight bar). If the IP address is listed, skip ahead to
step 9.
If the IP address and FCS ID are not listed, complete steps 7 and 8.

7. Select the Add button. The Add Network Node dialog box opens (Figure 2-2).
8. A default IP address was programmed into the eDAQ’s nonvolatile memory before the eDAQ was
shipped from SoMat. This is noted on a tag attached to the eDAQ.

Figure 2-2: Add Network Node Dialog Box

Type the default IP address and FCS ID in the appropriate box and then click OK. (You can change this
information later as needed. See Changing the eDAQ’s IP Address later on this page.
9. At the eDAQ Ethernet Communications dialog box, click on OK .

10. In the TCE File menu select New Setup. This causes the five TCE setup windows to appear in the
TCE work area.
11. Go to the Hardware Setup window (click on it or press F5 and F6 to move between the windows)
and select the Query button.
If the PC can communicate with the eDAQ, a list of the hardware components in the eDAQ appears in
the window.
If the PC cannot communicate, an error message saying so appears. Click OK to clear the message and
then check the communications cable connections and, if necessary, the operation of your Ethernet
card.
When the hardware list appears in the Hardware Setup window, you have completed setting up the
eDAQ system.

Changing the eDAQ’s IP Address

Use the following procedure to change the IP address of the eDAQ if necessary. (See Appendix D or
Appendix E for more details)
1. Turn off the power to the eDAQ if it is on.
2. Remove the Ethernet cable between the eDAQ and PC, then connect the ESR9 RS232 Serial
communications cable to the Comm 1 connector on the eDAQ and the serial port on the PC.
3. Start the Windows HyperTerminal accessory using these settings: 19200 bits per second, 8 data bits, 1
stop, no parity, hardware flow control.
4. Turn on power to the eDAQ and wait for the log-in prompt.
5. Log in using the user name setup.

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6. The name of the eDAQ can be changed at the Set Hostname prompt. The current name will be
presented inside the brackets. Change the name of the eDAQ by typing the new name and pressing
ENTER. To retain the current name, press ENTER.
NOTE: Although the hostname is not currently used by the TCE software, it is a way to
verify the physical eDAQ when using the Web Browser interface to change the IP
address, Subnet Mask and Gateway. This name must not be confused with the FCS
ID, which is set via the TCE FCS setup ID parameters option.
7. The IP address of the eDAQ can be changed at the Set IP Address prompt. The current IP address will
be presented inside the brackets. Change the IP address of the eDAQ by typing the new IP address
and pressing ENTER. To retain the current IP address, simply press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the IP address, use the format shown. The format of
192.168.100.100, where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper
format for the IP address. A prompt will display after an error has been made in the
IP address, followed by a prompt allowing the correct address to be entered.
8. If communications with the eDAQ will be done via a network, the Subnet Mask must be changed. This
can be changed at the Set Netmask prompt. The current Subnet Mask will be presented inside the
brackets. Change the Subnet Mask by typing the new Subnet Mask and pressing ENTER. To retain the
current Subnet Mask, simply press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the Subnet Mask, use the format shown. The format of
255.255.255.0, where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper
format for the Subnet Mask. A prompt will display after an error has been made in
the Subnet Mask, followed by a prompt allowing the correct Subnet Mask to be
entered.
9. The next prompt will be Set Gateway. The current gateway will be presented inside the brackets. If the
gateway requires change, type the new gateway and press ENTER. To retain the current gateway, simply
press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the gateway, use the format shown. The format of 192.168.100.1,
where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper format for the
gateway. A prompt will display after an error has been made entering the gateway,
followed by a prompt allowing the correct gateway to be entered.
10. Once all the information has been entered, a prompt with the new Name, IP address, Subnet Mask and
Gateway information will be displayed to confirm the changes. Following the “Confirm these new
settings” dialog, a y or n must be entered.
Typing y then ENTER will bring up the following dialog: Network settings successfully updated.
Reboot the eDAQ for the new settings to take effect.
Typing n then ENTER will bring bring up the following dialog: Network settings NOT updated.
11. When the changes are complete, power down the eDAQ and exit the HyperTerminal session.
12. Disconnect the serial communications cable from the eDAQ and PC and reinstall the Ethernet cable
between them.
After changing the IP Address of the eDAQ, the eDAQ-to-PC communications settings must be changed in
TCE, as explained by the following.

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Changing Communications Settings

Change the eDAQ-to-PC communications settings as follows. See the preceding communications setup
procedure for guidance.
1. Open the eDAQ Ethernet Communications dialog box (Steps 1–3 under “Setting Up eDAQ–PC
Communications” on page 17).
2. Click the Add button and specify the revised IP in the Add Network Node dialog box.
3. Click on OK in the dialog boxes to close them and save your changes.

Test Setup Files

Once the hardware and communications are setup, test setup files can be created. A test setup file includes
transducer channels, computed channels, SoMat DataModes, and other data to be used in running a test.
NOTE: The version of SoMat TCE provided with the eDAQ is specifically for the eDAQ.
The test setup files created in it cannot be used with the SoMat 2500 Field
Computer System (with which another version of TCE is used), nor can the test
setup files for the 2500 FCS be used with the eDAQ.
For information on test setup files, as well as creating and editing transducer channels, computed channels,
and SoMat DataModes, see Chapters 8, 9, and 10 in this guide.

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Chapter 3 - TCE for eDAQ

Overview
SoMat Test Control Environment (TCE), the Windows-based test control software provided with the
eDAQ, is used to:
• Create and save test setup files specifying (defining) what test data will be acquired with the eDAQ
and how.
• Display the output from transducers and data channels.
• Calibrate transducers.
• Control the eDAQ FCS when doing test runs.
• Upload acquired data to files on the support (host) PC.
This chapter introduces TCE for eDAQ and presents basic user information and usage (starting and
quitting, features of its main window, setting preferences, and so on). Details on using the functions of TCE
for eDAQ are presented in subsequent chapters.

Starting and Quitting

Starting TCE
In the Start menu, open the Programs menu and then select SoMat TCE eDAQ in the SoMat TCE eDAQ
submenu.
You can also make a shortcut icon on the desktop for TCE. Using the TCE icon you can then start TCE.

Quitting TCE
To quit TCE, do one of these actions:
• In the TCE File menu select Exit.

• Click on the Window Close button.

• Press ALT+F4.
• Click on the icon at the upper left end of the main window title bar; select Close from the flyout
menu.

TCE Main Window

General Description
The TCE main window (Figure 3-1) has a title bar, menu bar, toolbar, work area, and status bar. The
following describes these items.

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Figure 3-1: TCE Main Window

Title Bar
The TCE title bar is a standard Windows title bar with the name of the test setup file currently loaded in
TCE shown between square brackets; [No File] indicates no setup file is loaded. Your TCE title bar may
differ from those shown in this guide depending on your version of Windows.

Main Menus
In the menu bar are the names of the TCE main menus. The following describes the commands and options
in those menus. (Have TCE running as you read these descriptions so you can display the menus, submenus,
and dialog boxes.)

File
The File menu contains the options and commands to create, open, and save test setup files and to exit
from TCE. The related shortcut keys are shown in brackets at the end of the descriptions.
New Setup — Used to create a new test setup definition. [ CTRL+N ]
Open Setup… — Loads and opens a previously saved test setup definition. [ CTRL+O ]
Save Setup — Saves the current test setup definition to a file. [ CTRL+S ]
Save Setup As — Allows saving the current test setup definition to a different specified disk file.
Save Setup Listing… — Saves a TCE Setup File listing to a file.
Save Setup Tab Delimited… — Used to generate a tab delimited text file of the Hardware Setup
portion of the current TCE setup file. The file can be used as an input to Microsoft Excel.
NOTE: This option is provided primarily for SoMat internal usage.
Open SIF File — Allows opening a SoMat Information File (*.sif). A standard Windows “open file” dialog
will appear to select these files.
Call EASE / DataXplorer — Used to switch from TCE to either EASE or DataXplorer, which are used
to display the test data acquired (whichever is your display application). [ CTRL+D ]
Exit — Shuts down TCE in a controlled manner.
Recent Setup Files — Displays a list of the last five setup files loaded into TCE. Selecting a file from this
list will load it, replacing the setup file currently in TCE.

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Test Control
The Test Control menu contains the commands used to monitor and control test runs and to upload test
results and setup data to the host PC.
Control Panel… — Opens the TCE Test Control Panel dialog box, which has function buttons used to
perform a test run (e.g. open a test setup file, start and stop the test, etc) and upload the test data to
the support PC. It also shows elapsed run time and how much memory and PCMCIA card space are
available for data storage. See Test Control Panel under Phase 5: Run the Test in Chapter 6.
[ CTRL+0 ]
Get Test Status... — Opens a dialog box that shows the status of the test and data storage conditions
(e.g. whether a test has been initialized and is running and how much memory is available for data
storage). See Get Test Status in Chapter 10. [ CTRL+2 ]
Initialize Test — Starts the process of initializing the eDAQ for a test: the test setup is verified and saved,
the eDAQ RAM disk is purged (if used, the PCMCIA card is also purged), the test setup files are
downloaded to the eDAQ, a data file is created, and the eDAQ is otherwise prepared to run the test.
[ CTRL+I ]
Remote Control — Allows the user to suspend or resume the remote control feature (applies only if
the test was initialized with the remote control feature enabled). [ CTRL+R ]
Prerun Options… — Provides access to three pre-run checks you can do to help ensure the test run
will go as it should:
Rezero Display… — Used to display and re-zero transducer channels for an initialized test. This is
available whenever a test has been initialized but is not running. [ CTRL+Z ]
Transducer Checks… — Opens a dialog box where a variety of checks can be performed on
transducer channels.
Reference Shunt Checks… — Opens a dialog box to check the repeatability of shunt calibrations
from test run to test run.
Start Run… — Starts a run of the test loaded in the eDAQ, whether the test is a first run or a
subsequent run. This command can be used from the time the test is initialized until the test is ended
using the End Test command. [ CTRL+3 ]
Interactive Triggering — Allows the user to interactively control triggers (previously defined using the
Interactive Triggering channel) for control of TCE DataModes or other computed channels.
[ CTRL+4 ]
Run Time Display... — (Usable only while a test is running.) Opens the Run Time Display that shows, on
a real-time basis, the output of the transducer and computed channels being used in the test. See the
section Run Time Display in Chapter 10. [ CTRL+5 ]
Stop Run — Stops the current test run. [ CTRL+6 ]
End Test — Ends the current test. You cannot do another test run with the loaded test after you select
this command, but you can upload data to the support PC. To do another test run after using this
command, reinitialize the eDAQ for that test. [ CTRL+E ]
Auto Range Options… — Opens a dialog box where the minimum and maximum values recorded in
time history channels during the last test run can be used to automatically scale the Full Scale values
in those channels in future test runs.

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Upload Test Data… — Used to upload the test results data (i.e. the .SIF file) stored in the eDAQ to a
specified file on the support PC. [ CTRL+7 ]
Upload Test Setup… — Used to upload the TCE test setup file in the eDAQ to a specified file on the
support PC.
Save AOM File… — Used to generate a disk file containing the calibration parameters needed to relate
high-level outputs from low-level signal conditioners to equivalent engineering unit values.

FCS Setup
The FCS Setup menu is used to set and change basic operating parameters and functions
for the eDAQ.
Set FCS Master Sample Rate … — Allows setting the master sample rate for the eDAQ at either
100,000 Hz or 98,304 Hz.
Set FCS ID Parameters… — Allows assigning a unique unit name to the eDAQ unit.
Set FCS Reset Options… — Controls when and how the system will be reset when an abnormal event
or serious operational error occurs within the eDAQ.
Set FCS Clock… — Used to set the real time clock in the eDAQ.
Set FCS Digital I/O… — Opens a dialog box where each of the ten digital input/output (I/O) bits can be
set individually as an input or output.
Set FCS AOM Invert Option… — Allows the user to set or clear the option for automatically inverting
the low-level analog outputs so the analog output voltage polarity is the same as the engineering
units polarity.
Reset FCS… — Used to do a programmed reset of the eDAQ.
Format FCS RAM Disk… — Used to reformat the RAM disk in the eDAQ. All the files currently in the
RAM disk are erased.
NOTE: Before using this command, make sure any data currently waiting to be saved in the
eDAQ has been uploaded to the support PC.
FCS Diagnostics — Opens a submenu with commands used for diagnosing problems with the eDAQ.
These tools were used in developing the eDAQ and are provided for troubleshooting purposes.

Preferences
The Preferences menu contains the commands used to set various basic aspects of how TCE operates and
displays data, as well as warning messages. (See also “TCE Preferences” on page 31).
Communications — Used to set up Ethernet communications between the eDAQ and its support PC.
General… — Used to specify how TCE displays warning messages, use of channel description text for Y-
axis labels, verification of test control actions, and use of the Auto Range Options when stopping a
test run.
FCS Specific… — This option is used to configure various aspects of TCS specific to the target eDAQ.
Options found in the FCS Specific menu deal with the Master/Slave synchronization mode for use
with multiple eDAQs, enable Min-Max Tracking for Time History DataMode, use of Quick Shunts for
calibrations and checks, the use of Quick Shunts for reference shunts checks, and the option to
request an input from the user when making any references to the Quick Shunt options.

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Remote Test Run Control… — Used to configure various aspects of the Remote Test Run Control
functionality, including the assignment of Digital Input and (optional) Digital Output bits, memory low
alarm levels, and how TCE will deal with enabling or disabling this feature when a test is initialized.
Scope and Spectrum Display… — Opens a dialog box where both the color scheme for scope and
frequency is initially displayed.
Run Time Display… — Used to change the color scheme for the TCE Run Time Display (RTD) and how
the RTD appears when it initially opens.
View
The View menu can be used to display and hide the test setup windows, the toolbar, and the status bar in
the TCE main window. Selecting an item in the menu causes each particular item to be displayed or hidden
(based on whether it was currently displayed or hidden). A check mark will be placed beside any item
currently displayed.

Window
The Window menu provides the standard options for arranging, displaying, and resizing the windows in the
TCE work area.
Cascade, Tile — The standard Windows Cascade and Tile commands.
Arrange Icons — When all windows have been minimized, this command will arrange them along the
bottom edge of the work area.
Close All — Closes all of the windows in the work area.
Next Window — When the windows in the work area are cascaded, this brings the next window to the
front, making it the active window. This cascade sequence also applies when windows are tiled. [ F6 ]
Previous Window — Same as Next Window, but takes you backward in the cascade stack. [ F5 ]
Toggle Maximized — Switches the size of the active window between maximized (full-screen) and its
original size. [ F7 ]
The names of the open windows are listed at the bottom of the menu. A check mark indicates the active
window. To make a window active, click on its name with the mouse or press the number key for the
reference number beside the window’s name.

Help
The Help menu provides access to the TCE Help System and guidance on using the Help System.
Contents — Displays the main subject listing window for TCE Help.
How to Use Help — Explains how to use the Help System.
About TCE… — Displays the version information for TCE.

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TCE Toolbar
The buttons on the TCE toolbar (Figure 3-2) provide quick access to commonly used TCE functions.

Fig 3-2: TCE Toolbar

The following shows the functions assigned to each button.

Create new setup file Initialize test

Open existing setup file Start test run

Save setup file Open Run Time display

Open Hardware window Stop test run

Opens Transducer window Upload test data to PC

Open Computed Channel window End Test

Open DataMode window Upload FCS log to PC

Opens TCE test control panel Call EASE or DataXplorer

Get test status Online Help System

Status Bar
The status bar at the bottom of the main TCE window shows various aspects of the test setup status, as
shown in Figure 3-3.
Communications Mode Test Modified General Information

Figure 3-3: Status Bar Sections

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The following describes the three sections of the Status Bar.

Communications Mode — The type of communications being used between TCE and the eDAQ (i.e.
Ethernet) is shown here. The FCS ID for the eDAQ (as set via the FCS setup menu options) is also
displayed in this section when an eDAQ is connected and powered.
Test Modified — If a test setup was modified since it was loaded into TCE, “Modified” appears in this
section; otherwise, this is blank. TCE alerts allow saving the modified file before exiting TCE, loading
another test setup file, or initializing another test.
General Information — General status information and activity messages are displayed here. It usually
contains a brief description of what TCE is currently doing or the status of an action just completed.

Setup Windows
Overview
Creating a test setup file in TCE is done via the five setup windows appearing when a new or existing setup
file is opened, as in Figure 3-4. The following describes the five setup windows.

Figure 3-4: TCE Main Window with Setup Windows

Test ID Setup
The Test ID Setup window is where you specify a descriptive name for the test, the name(s) of the
person(s) who will or did run the test, and the test date or date the file was created. There is also space
for notes, comments regarding the test, special instructions, and so on.

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Figure 3-5: Test ID Setup Window

Hardware Setup
The Hardware Setup window contains a list of the hardware components installed in the eDAQ used in
creating or editing the setup file. The eDAQ’s unit name and Master Sample Rate are shown in brackets in
the window’s title bar ([SD190] and [100000 Hz] in Figure 3-6). When you first open a new test setup file,
this window is empty.

Figure 3-6: Hardware Setup Window

To acquire a hardware list for a new setup file or to update this window in an existing file, setup
communications with the eDAQ, then press the Query button. The new or updated list then appears in the
window. If the components in the queried eDAQ do not match the list in the current test setup file, TCE
will prompt for user verification before updating the list.
NOTE: To do a hardware query, communication must be made between the eDAQ and
the host PC. (See Setting Up eDAQ–PC Communications in Chapter 2.)
The function of the Config button changes according to the hardware line selected (highlighted) in the
window:
• Select MPB Main Processor line: The Config button opens the MPB Card Config Options dialog box
which has buttons for the following PCMCIA card options — Status, Purge, Test and Format.
• Select Low Level or High Level line (HiLev_1 or LoLev_1): The Config button opens a Card Config
Options dialog box, which has a button for viewing the characterization data for the selected board.

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Channels Setup
The Transducer Channels Setup and Computed Channels Setup windows (Figures 3-7 and 3-8) are used
in setting up data channels for test situations.

Transducer Channel Setup

The Transducer Channel Setup window contains a list of the data channels and their associated
information.

Figure 3-7: Transducer Channel Setup Window

Shown for each channel are the channel’s ID name, the physical channel the transducer is to be connected
to, the transducer type (high-level or low-level), sample rate, calibration date, and specifics about the
transducer.
The buttons at the bottom of the window have these functions:
Ampl — Used primarily for SoMat development to report selected signal conditioner amplifier settings
(e.g. gains, offsets).
Cal — Used to calibrate channels and delete or check calibrations.
Freq, Scope, DVM — Open display windows where you can view the signal from a transducer and
thereby see if the transducer is working properly.
Add — Used to add a new transducer channel.
Del, Edit, Copy — Used to delete, edit, and make multiple copies of the selected channel.
Sort — Used to sort the transducer channels list alphabetically by the Connector ID.
Use of this window in setting up, editing, and using transducer channels is explained in detail in Chapter 7,
Transducer Channels.

Computed Channel Setup

The Computed Channel Setup window contains a list of the computed channels and their associated
information.

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Figure 3-8: Computed Channels Setup Window

Shown for each channel is the channel’s ID name, the module used in creating it, sample rate, and other
specifics about the channels.
The Add , Del , Edit, and Copy buttons have the same functions as those in the Transducer Channel Setup
window (Figure 3-7 ).
Use of this window in setting up, editing, and using computed channels is explained in detail in Chapter 8,
Computed Channels.

DataMode Setup
SoMat DataModes determine how data is processed for subsequent file storage. The DataMode Setup
window contains a list and pertinent information on the DataModes set up. Shown for each DataMode is
its ID name, type, sample rate, the number of channels assigned to it, and other specifics about the
DataMode.

Figure 3-9: DataMode Setup Window

The Add , Del , Edit, and Copy buttons have the same functions as those in the Transducer Channel Setup
window (Page 29).
The Mem button opens a message box showing the amount of raw data memory allocated at the start of
each test run for the DataModes selected (highlighted) in the window.
Use of this window in setting up, editing, and using DataModes is explained in Chapter 9, DataModes.

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TCE Preferences

Overview
The TCE Preferences menu contains the commands used to set various types of preferences in TCE.
This section explains the use of two of the preference commands, General and FCS Specific. Use of
Communications is explained in the “Setting Up eDAQ–PC Communications” procedure under Setting
Up the System in Chapter 2. Use of the Scope and Spectrum Displays and Run Time Display preferences
are explained in Chapter 10. Refer to the TCE help system for details as the use of the Remote Test Run
Control preferences is not discussed in this users guide.

General Preferences
The general preference options used to configure various aspects of TCE, including the display of warning
messages, are in the TCE General Preferences dialog box. To open the dialog box, select General in the
Preferences menu. The following explains the options available.

Figure 3-10: TCE General Preferences Dialog Box

Options:
Descriptions (not IDs) for FCS Data File (Plot) Labels — Select this option if text in the
description boxes in the definition dialog boxes for transducer and computed channels are to be
used for the Y-axis label in data plot graphs. If left unselected, the channel ID name will be used as the
Y-axis labels. When selected, TCE checks for empty or duplicated description boxes, and will display a
warning message if any are found.
NOTE: TCE uses this preference setting when a test is being initialized. Once the test is
initialized, this option is “locked-in” for the duration of the test.
Both the Y-axis plot labels and the text in description boxes are limited to 31 characters. Certain
DataModes (i.e. Rainflow and Peak Valley Matrix) add a prefix to user-defined plot labels automatically.
This can cause such a label to be truncated. For example, a Rainflow range-mean histogram adds the
prefixes “Range” and “Mean.” Thus, text in the description boxes should be limited to 24 characters
when using the Rainflow and Peak Valley Matrix DataModes.
Require User to Verify Test Control Selections — Select this option to have TCE display a prompt to
verify selection of most Test Control menu commands.
Chain Auto Range Options to Stop Test Run — Select this to have TCE display the Auto Range
Options after a test run is stopped. The Auto Range Options present information on how close each
Time History DataMode channel is to Full Scale saturation and provide a means for optimizing Full
Scale settings.

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Warn User if:

Ratio of Calibration Span to Full Scale Span < nn percent — Select this to have TCE display a
warning message when the calibration span is less than nn percent of the full scale span for a
transducer channel or vice-versa. This preference is checked at test setup time and also during the
test initialization process.
Difference between Host PC and FCS Clocks > nnnn minutes — Select this to have TCE display a
warning message when the real time clock in the support PC and the one in the eDAQ differ by
more than nnnn minutes, or the real time clock in the eDAQ is not set. This check is done only
during the test initialization process.
Deviation of Shunt Calibration Volts from Ideal > nn percent — Select this option to have TCE
display a warning message when the measured shunt calibration span (in volts) deviates from the ideal
shunt calibration span (in volts) by nn percent or more. This warning will be issued for both
calibration checks and initial calibration runs.

FCS Specific Preferences

The TCE FCS specific preference options are used to configure various aspects of TCE specific to the
target FCS.
Enable Master Slave Data Synchronization Mode — This option will enable the capability to
synchronize the slave eDAQ to the master eDAQ in a network situation. If this option is not
selected, TCE interacts with the eDAQs in the default (i.e. stand-alone) mode.
Enable Min-Max Tracking for Time History Data Modes — This option tracks the minimum and
maximum values in each input channel for Time History DataModes. This option has to be selected
to use the TCE Auto Range function. For optimum throughput performance by the eDAQ, do not
select this option.
Use Quick Shunts for Calibrations and Checks — Check this option to use the Quick Shunt
calibration mode for primary calibrations and checks on the calibrations (excluding the special
Reference Shunt Checks that can be performed in-between test runs). For optimum calibration
accuracy, this is not recommended.
Use Quick Shunts for Reference Shunt Checks — Check this option to use the Quick Shunt
calibration mode for the Reference Shunt Checks to be performed in-between test runs. This is
generally recommended since the primary purpose of the Reference Shunt Checks is to ensure
nothing catastrophic has happened to a strain sensor during testing.
Always Ask User for the Quick Shunts Options – Check this option to have TCE always ask the user
whether or not the Quick Shunt option is to be used. Primarily, this is provided as a tool to help
users in experimenting with this option. For example, the user could do a set of primary calibrations
with the Quick Shunt option not in use, and then follow up with a set of calibration checks that do
use the option. TCE’s report on the numerical deviations found for the calibration check provides
good information to help the user decide on how much accuracy loss (if any) is typically incurred
when using the Quick Shunt calibration mode.

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ID Name Conventions in TCE

A unique identification (ID) name must be assigned to each transducer channel, computed channel, and
SoMat DataMode in TCE when defining these modules. All ID names must comply with these conventions:
• ID names are case-sensitive and can have up to 12 characters maximum.
• You can use only letters (a–z, A–Z), digits (0–9) and the underline character ( _ ).
• The first character in an ID name must be a letter. This applies to transducer channels, computed
channels, and DataModes.
• You cannot use system-reserved names (sin, cos, log, etc.).

Help System
The TCE online Help System can be accessed via the Help menu or by using the [CTRL+H] shortcut. There
is context-sensitive help for TCE dialog boxes with Help buttons. For general help operation instructions,
use the How to Use Help option in the Help menu.

Error Messages

Overview
There are three basic categories of TCE error messages:
• Basic TCE operation
• eDAQ communications
• eDAQ control interactions
The following describes each of these categories.

Basic TCE Operation

When TCE detects an invalid input (such as assigning the same ID tag to two different transducer
channels), it will notify you of the problem and require changing the input. Since all inputs are done via
dialog boxes, this form of error checking is a regular part of closing the dialog boxes. The message box
presented is titled “TCE Message.” In some situations TCE will let test inconsistencies exist while defining a
test. A warning will appear in such cases, in a message box titled “TCE Warning.”

eDAQ Communications
There are three basic sources of communication errors; a message box titled “TCE Communications Error”
appears when one of these errors occurs:
• Faulty hardware, connections, or cables
• Faulty software
• Side-effects from other problems

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eDAQ Control Actions

TCE determines the status of the eDAQ by examining a set of error flags and status flags. The eDAQ main
processor maintains these flags and reports them when TCE issues a control command to the eDAQ (e.g.
during test interaction, using the Get Test Status command, hardware queries, etc.). These flags are set only
when a serious error is detected or an abnormal operating condition exists in the eDAQ.
A message box (with on-line help access) appears when TCE detects that an eDAQ error or status flag has
been set. Refer to the TCE Help System for more information on this subject.

Modal Dialog Boxes

Modal dialog boxes appear to request or provide data for a task under operation. Unlike normal dialog
boxes, when a Modal Dialog Box is displayed, no other TCE operation can occur (e.g. use the main window
menus) and selecting a button with the keyboard is done differently. To use the keyboard to select a button
in a modal dialog box, hold down the ALT key and press the key corresponding to the underlined letter in
the button name. For example, to select the Help button, you would hold down ALT and press H (cited as
“ALT+H ” in text). Otherwise, keyboard operation is the same.

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Chapter 4 - DataXplorer
Overview
SoMat DataXplorer is a special edition of SoMat EASE (Engineering Analysis Software Environment),
SoMat’s software tool for managing, controlling, and creating graphical analysis of engineering test data.
DataXplorer is an essential adjunct to TCE if EASE is unavailable. DataXplorer can display test data in
various ways and save it in various alternate formats.

Installation
Installing DataXplorer is done in a similar manner as with SoMat TCE for eDAQ.

Starting and Quitting

Starting
To ensure there is a proper working relationship between TCE and DataXplorer, start DataXplorer by
pressing CTRL+D (Call DataXplorer) at the TCE main window.
NOTE: You can also start DataXplorer in the same way as other applications, but then the
working directory will not be the TCE working directory.

Quitting
To quit DataXplorer, do any of these actions.
• In the DataXplorer File menu select Exit.

• Click on the window close ( ) button.

• Press ALT+F4.

DataXplorer Main Window

Figure 4-1 shows the SoMat DataXplorer main window when DataXplorer is started. This window is
similar to EASE version 2 or 3. The version of DataXplorer and log-on name are shown in the title bar.

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Figure 4-1: DataXplorer Main Window

The data plotting functions and certain file and other functions available in EASE are available in
DataXplorer. These functions can be accessed in two ways: select commands in the menus or click on
function buttons in the toolbars.

Additional Information
For more information on using DataXplorer, refer to the EASE Version 3 Operating Manual provided with
DataXplorer and the online help system for DataXplorer.
DataXplorer’s online help system is nearly identical to the online help provided with EASE. The EASE
manual and DataXplorer help system will provide information on the functionality and capabilities of EASE.

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Chapter 5 - Transducer Cables and Wiring

Overview
This chapter describes the transducer cable assemblies used with the SoMat eDAQ FCS and covers the
wiring of strain and analog traducers as well as typical digital input and output devices.

Transducer Cable Assemblies

Low-Level Analog
Four types of low-level analog transducer cable assemblies can be used with the eDAQ. Each has a 37-pin
D-sub male plug for connection to the eDAQ. The number of cables from the connector is dependent on
the part number. All cables end in pigtails.
4-Wire Option (SAC-SLXDUC-4 and SAC-SLXDUC-4V)
These cable assemblies support shunt calibrations where the shunt resistors are installed directly
across excitation and signal leads in the eDAQ unit. Corrections for leadwire resistance must be
considered during shunt calibration. The V suffix indicates there is an eight-wire VOLTAGE OUT cable
to provide four amplified signal outputs.
6-Wire Option (SAC-SLXDUC-6 and SAC-SLXDUC-6V)
These cable assemblies support shunt calibrations where the shunt resistors are installed across the
two extra wires provided; those wires are connected to one leg of the bridge. Leadwire resistance
compensation is not an issue when the shunt calibration is done. The V suffix indicates there is an
eight-wire VOLTAGE OUT cable to provide four amplified signal outputs.

High-Level Analog
A high-level analog transducer cable (SAC-EHLB1) is provided when a High-Level Analog Board is installed
in the eDAQ. It has a 62-Pin HDD-sub male plug with one cable coming out of it. The cable ends in pigtails.

Vehicle Bus
The Vehicle Bus transducer cable (SAC-EHLB1/VB) is provided when a Vehicle Bus interface board is
installed in the eDAQ. It has a 62-Pin HDD-sub male plug with two cables coming out of it. Each of the
cables ends in pigtails.

Digital I/O
The Digital I/O cable assembly (EDIO) has two cables: one for ten digital I/O channels, the other for eight
pulse counter channels. The cables all end in pigtails. The section Digital I/O Device Wiring on page 41
shows the wiring for various digital input and output devices.

Wire Colors and Pinouts

See Appendix A, Cable Wiring for the wire colors and pinouts for the transducer cable assemblies.

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Low-Level Strain Transducer Wiring

4-Wire Options
Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3 are examples of transducer wiring for quarter-, half-, and full-bridge strain gages
with the 4-Wire Option transducer cable. (See also Shield–Ground Connections on page 44).

Quarter-Bridge + EXC (Green)

Strain Gage
To Internal Completion
Cable
Resistor (White)

– Signal (Red)

Common (Shield Drain) NOTE:

Black not used.

Figure 5-1: Quarter-Bridge Strain Gage, 4-Wire Option

Half-Bridge
+ EXC (Red)
Strain Gage

Cable – -Signal (Green)

– EXC (Black)

Common (Shield Drain) NOTE:

White not used

Figure 5-2: Half-Bridge Strain Gage, 4-Wire Option

Full-Bridge + EXC (Red)

Strain Gage
+ Signal (White)
Cable

– EXC (Black)

– Signal (Green)

Common (Shield Drain)

Figure 5-3: Full-Bridge Strain Gage, 4-Wire Option

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6-Wire Options
Figures 5-4, 5-6, 5-7, and 5-8 show examples of wiring for quarter-, half-, and full-bridge strain gages using
the 6-Wire Option transducer cable. Note that with the half- and full-bridges, where the brown calibration
wire is attached depends on the calibration used—upscale or downscale. (See also Shield–Ground
Connections on page 44)

Quarter-Bridge Calibration (Brown)

Strain Gage
+ EXC (Green)

Cable To Internal Completion

Resistor (White)

Calibration (Blue)

– Signal (Red)

Common (Shield Drain) NOTE:

Black not used.

Figure 5-4: Quarter-Bridge Strain Gage, 6-Wire Option, Downscale Calibration

Half-Bridge Calibration (Blue)

Strain Gage
+ EXC (Red)

Cable
– Signal (Green)

Calibration (Brown)

– EXC (Black)

Common (Shield Drain) NOTE:

White not used.

Figure 5-5: Half-Bridge Strain Gage, 6-Wire Option, Downscale Calibration

Half-Bridge
Strain Gage + EXC (Red)

Cable – Signal (Green)

Calibration (Blue)

– EXC (Black)

Calibration (Brown)

Common (Shield Drain) NOTE:

White not used.

Figure 5-6: Half-Bridge Strain Gage, 6-Wire Option, Upscale Calibration

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Full-Bridge Calibration (Brown)

Strain Gage
+ EXC (Red)

+ Signal (White)
Cable

– EXC (Black)

– Signal (Green)

Calibration (Blue)

Common (Shield Drain)

Figure 5-7: Full-Bridge Strain Gage, 6-Wire Option, Downscale Calibration

Full-Bridge
+ EXC (Red)
Strain Gage

+ Signal (White)
Cable

– EXC (Black)

Calibration (Brown)

– Signal (Green)

Calibration (Blue)

Common (Shield Drain)

Figure 5-8: Full-Bridge Strain Gage, 6-Wire Option, Upscale Calibration

Analog Transducer Wiring

Figure 5-9 shows the wiring diagram for a general purpose analog voltage input. In the low-level analog
cable assembly, the wire colors are white for +Signal, green for –Signal. In the high-level cable assembly, the
wire colors are different for each of the 16 analog inputs (see Appendix A, Cable Wiring).

+ Signal (White) NOTE: + EXC (Red) and

– EXC (Black) not used.
+
Cable
V
– Signal (Green)

Common (Shield Drain)

(Remote ground
if possible)

Figure 5-9: Strain/Analog: General Purpose Voltage Input Wiring

See also Shield–Ground Connections on page 44.

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Digital I/O Device Wiring

Digital Inputs
Figures 5-10, 5-11, 5-12, 5-13, 5-14, and 5-15 show the wiring diagrams for various digital input devices.
An equivalent circuit as well as diagrams showing use of a switch closure, encoder, and magnetic pickup
device is included.

Equivalent Circuit
Figure 5-10 shows the equivalent circuit for a digital input line.

+5 V

100K
5K
IN X
(X is 1-10) VSense
IGND

Figure 5-10: Equivalent Circuit for Digital Input Line

An open circuit is sensed as logic one (true). A VSense greater than 2.1 Vdc is logic one (true); less than 0.5
Vdc is logic zero (false).

Pulse Counter

+5 V

10K R
5K
IN X
(X is 1-10) VSense
DGND

Figure 5-11: Equivalent Circuit for Pulse Counter Input Line

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Preferred Switch Digital Input

Whenever possible, a single-pole, double-throw switch (SPDT), wired as shown in Figure 5-12, should be
used for switched inputs.
+5V

INX (X is 1-10)

IGND

Figure 5-12: Preferred Switch Digital Input

This circuit solidly switches the input line to either ground (DGND) or +5 volts and prevents coupling of
the input line to other digital input lines. Moving the switch to the ground side is identified as logic zero
(false).
NOTE: The +5 Volts must be supplied externally for this circuit to work correctly.

Alternate Switch Digital Input

Figure 5-13 shows the circuit wiring for an alternate digital input involving a switch closure function. An
open switch as shown is logic one (true); a closed switch is logic zero (false).

IN X
(X is 1-10)

I GND

Figure 5-13: Alternate Switch Digital Input

This circuit is adequate for most applications. Contact SoMat for a special cable to eliminate coupling if you
observe coupling from another input line.

Digital Outputs
The following shows the equivalent circuit for a digital output and use of an incandescent bulb and a light-
emitting diode (LED) as digital outputs.

Equivalent Circuit
Figure 5-14 shows the equivalent circuit for a digital output line.
+5 V

Controlled
10K By eDAQ

OutX
(X is 1-10)

OGND

Figure 5-14: Equivalent Circuit for Digital Output Line

An output of logic zero closes the switch; a logic one output opens the switch. The switch can handle a
maximum switching voltage of 20 volts. The 10 output lines can handle a cumulative current of up to 250
mA.

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Use of an Incandescent Bulb

Figure 5-15 shows an incandescent bulb (3 watts maximum) used as an indicator in the digital output
circuit.
Light
(3W max)
+
12 V OutX (X is 1-10)

–
OGND

Figure 5-15. Operating a 12-volt Incandescent Bulb

An external 12v DC power supply provides power for the bulb. A three-watt bulb would use up the
current capacity of all 10 lines. The light will be on when the output is set to logic zero.

Use of LED
Figure 5-16 shows the use of a light-emitting diode (LED) as an indicator in the digital output circuit. A
logic zero causes the diode to light.

+5 V

IDiode
RLIMIT = 5
IDiode
OutX (X is 1-10)

Figure 5-16: Operating an externally Powered LED

The total of all diode currents must be less than 250 mA.
NOTE: The +5 Volts must be supplied externally for this circuit to work correctly.

Shield–Ground Connections
Connect the shield drain wire in transducer cables to circuit ground at the eDAQ end of the cables.

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Chapter 6 - eDAQ Test Process

Overview
There are six phases in conducting a test with the SoMat eDAQ FCS. Each phase builds upon the one
preceding it:
Phase 1: Plan the test in advance to ensure the desired data will be acquired.
Phase 2: Prepare the hardware: Connect together all hardware items to be used in the test and
verify they are operating correctly.
Phase 3: Set up transducer and computed channels to establish the test data sources.
Phase 4: Set up DataModes to designate how the test data is to be acquired and stored.
Phase 5: Run the test.
Phase 6: Upload the test data and analyze using EASE or DataXplorer.
Each phase is explained in a section of this chapter.

Phase 1: Plan the Test

Plan the test carefully before configuring the eDAQ FCS for a test. Four important questions to answer
when planning a data acquisition test: Why? What? How? When?
Why do you need this data? The type of problem or objective is important in planning a test. Resolving a
fatigue or durability problem may require an entirely different approach than a performance or usage
application.
What is to be measured? What physical quantities are important to the problem? What information is
required and in what form? Which channels would be best to collect this data?
How should the data be manipulated and stored so the essential data needed for solving the problem is
obtained? TCE offers a wide range of online data reduction methods and DataModes.
When should this data be collected? Recording all data constantly may be unnecessary and/or undesirable.
With TCE you can use gates and triggers so only the required data is collected.
Part of the test plan may be to minimize time in the field. For many jobs, much of the test preparation
work can be done at a desk or lab setting before going to the test site. To facilitate such pre-test
preparation, TCE can store and recall test setup files as needed. For example, if several different tests are to
be run, you can:
• Use TCE to create a setup for each test and save them as a separate file (e.g. setup1, setup2, etc.).
• At the time and location of a test, load the particular test to be run into TCE.
Setting up tests in advance can make running tests as simple as start and stop. You can view the test data
using DataXplorer or EASE.

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Phase 2: Prepare the Hardware

Preparing test hardware involves installing the various gages, sensors, cables, etc. required for the test:
• Attachment of transducers to the components being tested
• Transducer cables to the transducers
• Transducer cables to the appropriate connectors on the eDAQ
• Power cable between the eDAQ and an appropriate power supply
• Communication cable between the eDAQ and support PC

Phase 3: Set Up Transducer and Computed Channels

The eDAQ collects test data primarily from transducers and secondarily from computed channels. A
computed channel is a software (or virtual) channel that either modifies the data from one or more input
channels (transducer or previously-defined computed channels), controls acquisition of data based on the
input channel(s), or derives new data from the input channels.
Setting up your data channels involves the following steps.
1. Set up (define) all the transducer channels you will be using. Chapter 7, Transducer Channels,
presents a general procedure and specifics for the various types of transducer channels.
Transducer channels can be calibrated during the setup, or later while the equipment is in the field.
Calibrating Channels in Chapter 7 explains the process.
2. Set up the computed channels to be used. Chapter 8, Computed Channels, describes the various
types of computed channels and the process of setting them up.
3. Verify all data channels are operating properly using the appropriate channel display (Scope, DVM,
or Run Time Display). See Chapter 10, Monitoring Test and Channels, for information on those
displays and their use.

Phase 4: Set Up DataModes

This phase is used to set up (define) the DataModes to be used based on the type of data required, how it
is to be collected, and the channels you are using.
SoMat DataModes determine how, and in what form, certain channel data is stored in the eDAQ and in the
output data file. A transducer channel or computed channel can be assigned as an input to several
DataModes, and a DataMode can have several input channels.
See Chapter 9, DataModes, for information on the DataModes available and the process of defining a
DataMode.

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Phase 5: Run the Test

Main Test Phases

The six steps in running a test are:
1. Initialize the eDAQ FCS 4. Stop the test run
2. Start the test run 5. End the test session
3. Collect data 6. Upload test data to the support PC
Running a test in TCE can be done in any of four ways:
• Use commands in the TCE Test Control menu
• Use buttons in the TCE toolba.
• Use function keys and CTRL+[key] keypress combinations assigned to test control functions (shortcut
key)
• Use the TCE Test Control Panel

Using Buttons, Commands, and Shortcut Keys

The phases of a test, related Test Control commands, and toolbar buttons are:
Menu Toolbar
Test Phase Command Button Shortcut key

1. Initialize eDAQ FCS Initialize Test CTRL+2

Rezero transducers Rezero Display CTRL+Z
(in Prerun Options submenu)

2. Start the test run Start Run CTRL+3

3. Collect data

Check test status Get Test Status CTRL+1

Use Run Time Run Time Display CTRL+5

Display

4. Stop test run Stop Run CTRL+6

5. End the test session End Test CTRL+E

6. Upload test data to PC Upload Test Data CTRL+7

More information on the commands in the Test Control menu and the TCE toolbar is in Chapter 3 in the
section “TCE Main Window.”
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Test Control Panel

TCE Test Control Panel dialog box (Figure 6-1) is opened by selecting Control Panel in the Test Control
menu. It has a button for each of the six test phases plus one for opening a test setup file. It also shows, by
percent, the amount of SRAM available for data storage and the available space on the card in the PCMCIA
drive. The time of each run is also shown in this dialog box.

Figure 6-1: TCE Test Control Panel

Initialization Process
The initialization process prepares the eDAQ so a test can be run. When selected, the following steps are
performed by TCE. Status messages appear in the lower left of the status bar of the TCE Main Window.
1. Verify the current test setup has been saved to a disk file.
2. Verify there are no internal inconsistencies in the test setup (uncalibrated channels, unresolved ID
references, etc.).
3. Verify the eDAQ real-time clock agrees with the real-time clock in the support PC, within the
tolerance specified in the TCE General Preferences dialog box.
4. Purge the RAM disk in the eDAQ (all traces of the previous test setup and data files are removed).
5. If the PCMCIA storage option is being used, purge the PCMCIA disk. If files are on the disk, you are
prompted to verify the purge.
6. Download the required test setup files to the eDAQ. (Progress boxes showing the names of the files
being downloaded to the eDAQ are displayed.)
7. Based on the setup file specifications, set up the FCS signal conditioner boards’ excitation circuits
(this allows the excitation circuits the maximum amount of time to stabilize before a test run is
started).
8. Create the SIF data file and write some of the header fields.
9. For transducer channels with programmable gains and offsets, check the actual Full Scale limits to
verify the 5% over-range protection is actually provided and the limits are not significantly greater
than 5%. TCE will prompt if there are any unusual situations.

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When the initialization is completed:

• “FCS test initialize completed” appears in the status bar.
• The green Ready Status LED is lit steadily, and the yellow LED blinks slowly on the FCS.
A test run can now be started to collect data.

Doing Multiple Test Runs

The eDAQ will support multiple test runs for an initialized test. You can use the Start Run command or
button to start a new test run anytime after the previous run has been stopped with the Stop Test
command or button. New runs can be started based on the current test initialized until ending the test
with the End Test command or button. Once you end a test in this fashion, it cannot be run again unless
you initialize the eDAQ again with the same test setup file.

Phase 6: Display and Analyze the Test Data

SoMat EASE or DataXplorer can be used to display the acquired test data. EASE can be used to manipulate
the data and do extensive and various analyses.
To access EASE or DataXplorer, do any of these actions:
• Select Call EASE / DataXplorer in the File menu or
• Press CTRL+D or

• Click the Call EASE button ( ) in the TCE toolbar

NOTE: If both EASE and DataXplorer are installed, the one installed last will open unless
the EASEInstallDir= line has been changed in the [SoMat] section of your Win.ini
file to point to the other.
For information on using SoMat EASE, refer to its operating manual. For DataXplorer, see Chapter 4,
DataXplorer, in this guide and the EASE Version 3 Operating Manual provided with it.

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Chapter 7 - Transducer Channels

Introduction
Channel Definitions
To acquire data during a test, a channel definition must be set up in TCE for each transducer data channel
to be used. A channel definition contains information such as the channel’s ID name, type of data in the
channel, engineering units used, output sample rate, and so on.
Each of the defined transducer channels are assigned to a hardware channel (the pins in the eDAQ
connector to which the wires of the transducer are connected). Appendix A, Cable Wiring, shows the
channel/pin assignments for the various transducer cables.

Available Channel Types

Seven types of transducer data channels are currently available in TCE for the eDAQ:
Digital Input — Up to ten digital input/output channels can be defined. The transducers are connected to
the eDAQ via the Digital I/O cable going to the Digital I/O connector on the rear of the eDAQ.
Pulse Counter — Eight channels are available to measure pulse rate, time periods, frequency, and duty
cycle. The transducers are connected to the eDAQ via the Pulse Counter cable going to the Digital
I/O connector on the rear of the eDAQ.
High-Level — These channels are for high-level analog signals normally greater than 1V. Up to sixteen
high-level channels can be defined per high-level board. The transducers are connected to the eDAQ
via the connector labeled HiLev (1–16) Analog/Veh. Bus on the front of the eDAQ.
Low-Level — These channels are for low-level analog and strain signals that normally are less than 1V
(usually millivolts). Up to eight channels can be defined per Low-Level Board in the eDAQ. The
transducers are connected to the eDAQ via the LoLev (1–4) and LoLev (5–8) connectors on the
Low-Level Board.
Simulation FG, Simulation File — These channels generate signals containing known values. They are
used primarily by SoMat engineers in testing and diagnosing the eDAQ FCS. Thus, their use is not
described in this guide. For more information on these channels, refer to the TCE online Help
System.
Vehicle Bus — Up to 128 channels of vehicle bus inputs can be defined. The vehicle bus inputs are
connected to the eDAQ via the connector labeled HiLev (1-16) Analog/Veh.Bus on the front of the
eDAQ.
Isolated Thermocouple - The Isolated Thermocouple layer is used to collect and record temperature
data using thermocouples. Up to eight channels of thermocouple data can be defined per
thermocouple layer. Each layer supports one of the following types: K, T, E, and J. To use two different
types of thermocouples (i.e. K and J), two thermocouple layers must be installed; one to support J
type, and one to support K type thermocouples.

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Transducer Channel Setup Window

Overview
The Transducer Channel Setup window (Figure 7-1) is used to start the process of defining a transducer
channel. Previously defined channels will also be listed. Shown for each defined channel are parameters
from its definition: ID name, connector ID, transducer type, output sample rate, calibration date, and
pertinent specifics about the channel.

Figure 7-1: Transducer Channel Setup Window

Edit Functions
The Add, Del, Edit, and Copy buttons in the bottom right corner of the window activate the editing
functions used with channel definitions. Their uses are explained in these chapter sections:
Add “Defining a Channel” on page 53
Copy “Copying a Definition” on page 74
Edit “Editing Channel Definitions” on page 75
Del “Deleting a Definition” on page 76

Display Functions
The Scope and DVM buttons (center group of buttons) in the dialog box let you view the transducer
output on a real-time basis. See Displaying Transducer Output on page 73.

Calibrate Function
The Cal button allows calibration of one or more channels in this window rather than having to open the
channel definition dialog box(s) and do it there. The current date appears in the Cal Date column of the
channel list when a channel is calibrated. See Calibrating Channels on page 70.

Analysis Functions
The Freq button lets you run the Cumulative Spectrum Analyzer display on the transducer channel
highlighted in the list box. (This display is limited to one channel at a time.)
The Ampl button is used to report selected signal conditioner amplifier settings (e.g. gains, offsets, etc.). This
option is provided primarily for SoMat development usage.

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Defining a Channel
The following is the general procedure for defining (setting up) a transducer channel in TCE.
NOTE: You can also set up a new channel definition by copying an existing one. See
“Copying a Definition” on page 74.
1. Start SoMat TCE if it is not already running.
2. Open the setup file where you want to create the channel. Use New Setup or Open Setup in the File
menu as appropriate, or use the corresponding buttons in the TCE toolbar.
3. If you are setting up a new file (used the New Setup command), go to the Hardware Setup window
and select the Query button to perform a hardware query. A list of the hardware components in the
eDAQ then appears in the window. (This step requires the eDAQ be set up and powered and able to
communicate with the PC on which you are using TCE.)
4. Make the Transducer Channel Setup window active and select the Add button.
5. At the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box (Figure 7-2), select the channel type you want.
Either move the highlight bar to the type and select OK or double-click on the type name.
A unique definition dialog box appears for each channel type. The following dialog box descriptions
are provided in this chapter:
Low-Level Channel (p. 54) High-Level Channel (p. 58)
Digital Input Channel (p. 64) Pulse Counter Channel (p. 65)
Vehicle Bus Channel (p. 68) Thermocouple Channel (p. 62)

Figure 7-2: Select Transducer Channel Type Dialog Box

6. Enter the required information in the channel definition dialog box.
7. To calibrate the channel at this point, select the Calibrate button in the bottom-left corner of the
channel definition dialog box.
When the calibration is completed successfully, the current date appears in the Calibration Date box,
and the parameter boxes related to calibration become unavailable.
8. Click OK or press Enter to save the channel definition.
The new channel appears in the Transducer Channel Setup window list, above the highlighted channel.

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For information on how to change, delete, and copy channel definitions, see these sections:
Copying a Definition (page 74)
Editing Channel Definitions (page 75)
Deleting a Definition (page 76)

Low-Level Channel
Overview
The general procedure for defining a transducer channel is under Defining a Channel on page 53. This
section explains the actions involved with Steps 5–7 of the procedure as they relate to low-level channels.

Definition Procedure
Use the following procedure to define a low-level channel.
1. At the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box select Low-Level. Page 1 of the Low-Level
Transducer Channel definition dialog box then opens.

Figure 7-3: Low-Level Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 1)

Figure 7-3 shows the dialog box with sample data in it. Normally all boxes are blank when adding a
channel. The Connector dialog box will have the ID name for the next hardware (physical) channel
available for the channel type being defined. The output data type will also be set to 32-bit float.
2. Complete the boxes in the dialog box as described below.
Desired Measurement:
ID — Unique identification (ID) name for the channel conforming to TCE ID name conventions.
Description — Allows a brief description (up to 31 characters) of the defined channel (optional).
This text can be specified for use as the Y-axis label in a plot graph of the channel data, instead of the
channel ID name (the default). This is done at the TCE General Preferences dialog box (Figure 7-4). See
the section “ TCE Preferences” in Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ.

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Figure 7-4: TCE General Preferences Dialog Box

Type — Type of measurement the channel is performing (Strain, Load, etc.). Select it from the box list or
type it in. This parameter is used later in the test setup process, so always complete this box.
Units — Unit of measurement (engineering unit) for the channel (Degrees, Volts, etc.). An entry in this box
is required, as it is used later in the test setup process.
Connector — This is the physical attachment of the transducer to the eDAQ FCS. The name LoLev_1.c01
in Figure 7-3 indicates the channel is assigned to the channel 1 pins in the LoLev (1–4) connector.
The ID name of the next available physical channel for the type of channel appears here by default.
Use either the default or select one from the box list.

A/D Conversion and Digital Filtering:

Output Sample Rate — This is the rate at which data is passed on to computed channels or
DataModes. Select the rate from the drop-down list for this box.
To limit the frequency content of the input signal, use a digital filter. SoMat over-samples the input
signal to allow digital signal conditioning (digital filtering).
If you do not use a digital filter, then set the sample rate to at least twice the maximum frequency
content of the signal. This ensures the bandwidth of the input signal is characterized adequately.
Digital Filter Type — This defines the type of digital filter to be used. Select the filter from the drop-list
for this box.
Digital filters ensure aliasing of the input signal does not occur. Always use a digital filter unless you
are absolutely certain of the frequency content of the input signal.
To decide on which digital filter to use, evaluate the filter’s characteristics. For more information on
digital filters and their use, refer to the TCE Help system.
Frequency — The name and function of this parameter box varies according to the type of digital filter
selected:
Filter Selected Box That Appears
Butterworth 8P Break Frequency (3db)
Linear Phase 1.5 Roll Off Start Frequency
None (Not Applicable)
Break Frequency is the frequency at which signal attenuation is -3 dB (the filtered signal voltage is
70.7% of the unfiltered signal voltage at that frequency).
Roll Off Start Frequency is the frequency at which digital filtration action begins.

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TCE sets the value in this box automatically to ensure aliasing does not occur. This is based on the
A/D converter rate and digital filter type. To override this value, select another value.
Output Data Type:
Specify the desired output type (32-Bit Float , 16-Bit Integer, or 8-Bit Integer ). Select it from the list for
this box. Use the 16-Bit integer for optimum throughput performance.
NOTE: Use the 32-bit float option if the channel will be used with the following: Computed
Channels, Desk Calculator, Up Sample, Down Sample, etc.
3. Select the Page 2 button (bottom-right corner of dialog box) to continue to Page 2 of the dialog box.
Figure 7-5 shows the Page 2 dialog box page with sample data in it. Normally all the boxes on Page
2 are blank or have “0” in them when adding a channel.
4. Fill in the parameter boxes as described by the following.
Excitation (Bipolar Voltage) / Bridge:
The excitation boxes define the setup of the transducer excitation circuits. If the transducer requires
excitation, consult the transducer manufacturer’s specifications and/or suggestions for the excitation
settings to be used.

Figure 7-5: Low Level Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 2)

NOTE: If the transducer does not use excitation, ensure the Output Proportional to
Excitation check box is clear.
Excitation Range — Range of voltage to be used for excitation, from negative to positive (5, 10, 20, or
~22 V). For example, selecting 10 from the excitation range provides –5 V to +5 V, which is a range of
10 V.
Output Proportional to Excitation — Select this option if you are using a transducer such as a strain
bridge circuit where the output voltage is linearly proportional to the excitation voltage applied. The
eDAQ will then compensate for small differences between requested and characterized excitation
voltage. For all other transducer types, leave this box unchecked.
Bridge Type — Type of bridge used with the channel. Select it from the drop-down list. If you will not be
using a bridge, select Diff Ampl (differential amplifier) here.
Bridge Resistance — Size of the completion resistor for the bridge, in ohms (typically 120 or 350).

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Do Leadwire Resistance Corrections — The normal transducer cable length averages one meter. If the
transducer cable will be longer than the standard one-meter length, specify the resistance, in ohms, of
the cable wiring.
The online Help System contains the topic “Resistance Table for Standard Tinned Copper Wire.” This
lists the ohms per 100 feet for various wires and is from the National Bureau of Standards Handbook
100, Copper Wire Tables.
Full Scale:
Min and Max — These define the expected upper and lower values of the range of the transducer, in the
specified engineering units.
The eDAQ provides some over-range protection, normally at least 5% on both ends of the full scale
definition. For details on possible variances in this 5% figure, refer to the online Help System.

Prerun Rezero:
Mode — How and when the channel is to be rezeroed before the start of a test run. Select the mode
from the drop-down list. Use the default mode Not Applicable to refrain from zeroing the transducer.
To manually rezero the channel, select Interactive Only.
Value — Engineering value associated with the transducer when the rezero is performed. Enter a value
here when specifying any mode other than Not Applicable in the above Mode box.
Calibration Table/Options:

Figure 7-6: Sample Calibration Entries

This section of the dialog box is used to specify how the transducer is calibrated.
Calibrating transducers with the eDAQ differs from other systems, as it does not depend on the signal
conditioner being used. The calibration is defined only in terms of a line representing the relationship
between the transducer output signal (voltage) and the corresponding engineering units. (If the excitation
signal is used for the transducer, the calibration line is affected by the excitation settings.)
The two value sets in the calibration table are used to define the two points involved in determining
the calibration line (i.e. the linear relationship of engineering units to input signal voltage). In filling in
these value sets, you specify either two points of the line or one point and a slope. Figure 7-6
shows a calibration table set up for a strain transducer.
Mode column — Mode used for the calibration. Select from the list boxes. Refer to the online Help
System for explanations of the available modes.
Depending on the mode selected, you may be prompted during the calibration run to apply the
external transducer signal equivalent to the specified engineering units value. The eDAQ then
measures the signal voltage.
Engineering units column (Strain in Figure 7-6) — The name of the measurement type assigned to
the channel (Type box on Page 1) appears as the title for the second column. Enter the engineering
units value(s) for the calibration point(s).

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NOTE: Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the transducer to ascertain the
engineering units and input signal values to be used for calibration.
Input Signal — If you use the Defined Value mode, enter the input signal level, in volts, for the
specified engineering units value. For other calibration modes, no entry is made here (the boxes are
unavailable); TCE puts the resultant values in these boxes after the channel is calibrated.
Resistor to Shunt Across — Select the desired resistor to shunt across if one of the calibration
steps involves a shunt resistor calibration.
‘6 Wire Shunt’ Option — Select this check box if the 6-wire option is to be used
during calibration.
5. To perform reference shunt calibration checks on a bridge-type transducer, select one of the shunt
resistors in the Reference Shunt box. Refer to the TCE online Help System for more information on
using this option.
6. To calibrate the channel at this time, select the Calibrate button (bottom-left corner of dialog box);
respond to any prompts.
If the calibration is successful, the current date appears in the Calibration Date box, and the boxes
related to the calibration become unavailable (are dimmed or “grayed out”) to prevent change to
these parameters.
The calibration must be deleted to change any of the definition data after the channel is calibrated.
See Deleting a Calibration on page 72.
7. Reference Shunt Calibration checks can be performed between test runs. Select one of the shunt
resistors in the drop down list box to enable this feature. Refer to the online help system for more
details.
8. Select OK to accept the entries and save the definition. This will close the dialog box. The new
channel will appear in the channel list of the Transducer Channel Setup window, above where the
highlight bar was located.
If you want to go back to Page 1 instead of closing the dialog box, select the Page 1 button. You can
also select OK on Page 1 to save the channel definition.

Display of Output Signal

Use the Scope or DVM buttons in the Display Control group box on the dialog box to view the real-time
transducer output. See Displaying Transducer Output on page 73.

High-Level Channel
Overview
The general procedure for defining a transducer channel is under Defining a Channel on page 53. This
section explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of that procedure as they relate to high-level
channels.

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Definition Procedure
Use the following procedure to define a high-level transducer channel.
1. At the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box select High Level. Page 1 of the High Level
Transducer Channel definition dialog box then opens.

Figure 7-7: High Level Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 1)

Figure 7-7 shows the dialog box with sample data. Normally all the boxes are blank when adding a
channel, except Connector, which contains the ID name for the next hardware (physical) channel
available for the type of channel being defined, and the Output Data Type, which is set to 32-Bit Float.
2. Complete the boxes in the dialog box as described below.
Desired Measurement:
ID — Unique identification (ID) name for the channel conforming to TCE ID name conventions.
Description — Allows a brief description (up to 31 characters) of the defined channel (optional).
This text can be specified for use as the Y-axis label in a plot graph of the channel data instead of the
channel ID name (the default). This is done from the TCE General Preferences dialog box (Figure 7-
4). See the section “TCE Preferences” in Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ.
Type — Type of measurement associated with the channel (e.g. Acceleration, Angular Displacement).
Select this from the list or type it in the box. This parameter is used later in the test setup process so
always complete this box.
Units — Unit of measurement (engineering unit) for the channel (Degrees, Volts, etc.). This
parameter is used later in the test setup process so always complete this box.
Connector — This is the hardware (physical) channel to which this channel is assigned. The ID
names of the available channels are sequentially displayed when defining channels. In Figure 7-7 the
name HiLev_1.c01 indicates the TCE channel is assigned to the Channel 1 pins in the High-Level
(HiLev) connector on the eDAQ.
A/D Conversion:
Output Sample Rate — Rate at which data is to be acquired and passed on to computed channels
or DataModes (0.1 to 2,500 Hz). Select the rate from the list for this box.
Set the sample rate to at least twice the maximum frequency content of the signal. This ensures the
bandwidth of the input signal is characterized adequately.

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Output Data Type:

Specify the desired output type (32-Bit Float, 16-Bit Integer, or 8-Bit Integer). Select it from the list
for this box. Use the 16-Bit Integer for optimum throughput performance.
NOTE: Use the 32-bit float option if the channel will be used with the following:
Computed Channels, Desk Calculator, Up Sample, Down Sample, etc.
3. Select the Page 2 button (bottom-right corner of dialog box) to go to Page 2 of the dialog box.
Figure 7-8 shows that dialog box page with sample data in it.
4. Complete the parameter boxes as described by the following.

Figure 7-8: High Level Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 2)

Full Scale:
Min and Max — Lower and upper values of the range within which the transducer signal values are
expected to be, expressed in terms of the engineering units being used.
Prerun Rezero:
Mode — How and when the channel is to be rezeroed before the start of a test run. Select the mode
from the drop-down list. Use the default mode Not Applicable to refrain from zeroing the transducer.
To manually rezero the channel, select Interactive Only.
Value — Engineering value associated with the transducer when the rezero is performed. Enter a value
here when you specify any mode other than Not Applicable in the above Mode box.
Signal Conditioner Front End:
Select the check box in this group box if you want the range of input voltages expanded to ± 20 V to
allow for greater signal values.
Calibration Table:

Figure 7-9: High-Level Channel Calibration Table

In this group box you specify how the transducer is to be calibrated.

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Calibrating transducers with the eDAQ differs from other systems as it is defined in terms of a line
representing the relationship between the transducer output signal (voltage) and corresponding engineering
units. (This line depends on the excitation settings if an excitation signal is used.)
The two value sets in the calibration table are used to define the two steps involved in determining the
calibration line (i.e. linear relationship of engineering units to input signal voltage). Filling in these value sets
specifies either two points on a line or one point and a slope. Figure 7-9 shows a calibration table set up
for a transducer measuring displacement.
Mode column — Mode used for the calibration. Select the mode from the drop-down list boxes. Refer to
the online help system for explanations of the available modes.
Depending on the mode selected, there may be a prompt during the calibration run to apply the
external transducer signal equivalent to the specified engineering units value. The eDAQ then
measures the signal voltage.
Engineering units column (Displacement in Figure 7-9) – The name of the measurement type
assigned to the channel (Type box on Page 1) appears as the title for the second column. Enter the
engineering units value(s) for the calibration point(s).
NOTE: Refer to the specifications from the transducer manufacturer to ascertain the
engineering units and input signal values to be used for calibration.
Input Signal — When using the Defined Value mode, enter the input signal level, in volts, for the
specified engineering units value. For other calibration modes, no entry is made here (the boxes are
unavailable); TCE puts the resultant values in these boxes after the calibration is completed.
5. To calibrate the channel at this time, select the Calibrate button (bottom-left corner of dialog box);
respond to any prompts.
If the calibration is successful, the current date appears in the Calibration Date box, and the boxes
related to the calibration become unavailable (are dimmed or “grayed out”) to prevent change to
these parameters.
The calibration must be deleted to change any of the definition data after the channel is calibrated.
See Deleting a Calibration on page 72.
6. Select OK to accept the entries and save the definition. This will close the dialog box. The new
channel will appear in the channel list of the Transducer Channel Setup window, above where the
highlight bar was located.
If you want to return to Page 1 instead of closing the dialog box, select the Page 1 button. You can also
select OK on Page 1 to save the channel definition.

Display of Output Signal

Use the Scope or DVM buttons in the Display Control group box to view the transducer output on a real-
time basis. See Displaying Transducer Output on page 73.

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Thermocouple Channel

Overview
The general procedure for defining a transducer channel is under Defining a Channel on page 53. This
section explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of the procedure as they relate to
thermocouple channels.

Definition Procedure
Use the following procedure to define a thermocouple transducer channel.
1. From the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box select Isolated Thermocouple. Page 1 of the
Isolated Thermocouple Channel definition dialog box then opens.

Figure 7-10: Isolated Thermocouple Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 1)

Figure 7-10 shows the dialog box with sample data in it. The only box requiring data entry will be
the Description box. Many of the dialog boxes will contain data, as each thermocouple layer is
specific to a thermocouple type. Items such as Type, Units, Full scale values, and calibration are all
predetermined based on the thermocouple type.
2. Complete the boxes in the dialog box as described below.
Desired Measurement:
ID — Unique identification (ID) name for the channel conforming to TCE ID name conventions.
Description — Allows a brief description (up to 31 characters) of the defined channel (optional).
This text can be specified for use as the Y-axis label in a plot graph of the channel data instead of the
channel ID name (the default). This is done at the TCE General Preferences dialog box (Figure 7-4).
See the section “TCE Preferences” in Chapter 3, TCE for eDAQ.
Type — Type of measurement associated with the channel (e.g. Acceleration, Angular Displacement).
Because this is a temperature device, temperature has been preselected. This parameter is used later
in the test setup process so always complete this box.
Units — Unit of measurement (engineering unit) for the channel (Degrees, Volts, etc.). Because
nearly all thermocouple devices are in Celsius, C has been preselected for this entry. This parameter
is used later in the test setup process so always complete this box.
Connector — This is the hardware (physical) channel to which this channel is assigned. The ID
names of the available channels are sequentially displayed when defining channels. In Figure 7-10 the
name IsoTC_1.t01 indicates the TCE channel is assigned to the Channel 1 connector of the Isolated
Thermocouple layer.

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A/D Conversion:
Output Sample Rate — Rate at which data is to be acquired and passed on to computed channels
or DataModes (0.1 to 5 Hz). Select the rate from the list for this box.
Set the sample rate to at least twice the maximum frequency content of the signal. This ensures the
bandwidth of the input signal is characterized adequately.
Output Data Type:
The Output Data Type for all Thermocouple devices are limited to 32-Bit float.
3. Select the Page 2 button (bottom-right corner of dialog box) to go to Page 2 of the dialog box.
Figure 7-11 shows that dialog box page with sample data.
4. Complete the parameter boxes as described by the following.

Figure 7-11: Isolated Thermocouple Transducer Channel Dialog Box (Page 2)

Full Scale:
Min and Max — The minimum and maximum values are predetermined based on the thermocouple type.
However, these can be changed as desired for setting Run Time Display scaling and Histogram
DataMode bounds.
Prerun Rezero:
Mode — How and when the channel is to be rezeroed before the start of a test run. Select the mode
from the drop-down list. Use the default mode Not Applicable to refrain from zeroing the transducer.
To manually rezero the channel, select Interactive Only.
Value — Engineering value associated with the transducer when the rezero is performed. Enter a value
here when you specify any mode other than Not Applicable in the above Mode box.
Calibration Table:
The items in the calibration table are “grayed out”, as the values for calibration have been
predetermined by the choice of thermocouple type. Normally there is no need to modify these
default settings, unless the output is to be in Fahrenheit or another type of temperature unit. Follow
the directions for Deleting a Calibration, then Calibrating a Transducer Channel.

Display of Output Signal

Use the Scope or DVM buttons in the Display Control group box to view the transducer output on a real-
time basis. See Displaying Transducer Output on page 73.

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Digital Input (BWI) Channel

Overview
The general procedure for defining a transducer channel is under Defining a Channel on page 53. This
section explains the actions involved in doing Steps 5–7 of that procedure as they relate to digital input
channels.

Before Defining a Channel

Before you define a digital input channel, you have to specify which of the ten digital I/O bits will be used
for input channels. To do so, do the following.
1. In the TCE FCS Setup menu select Set FCS Digital I/O.
2. At the Set FCS Digital I/O Configuration dialog box that opens (Figure 7-12), put a check mark in
the box for each digit bit to be used as an input channel.

Figure 7-12: Set FCS Digital I/O Configuration Dialog Box

3. Click on the OK button to save the changes made.
It is suggested to place a note in the Comments area of the Test ID Setup window noting which digital bits
are input and which are output. This provides easy access when checking the setting of the Digital I/O
configuration for each test setup.

Definition Procedure
Perform the following procedure to define a digital input transducer channel.
1. Before proceeding, it will be necessary to specify which of the ten digital I/O bits will be input or
output channels. This is described in the preceding subsection.
2. Select Digital Input at the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box. The Bitwise Digital Input
Channels dialog box then opens.
Figure 7-13 shows that dialog box with sample data. Normally all the boxes are blank when adding a
channel except for Connector, which contains the connector ID name MPB.bwi, the only connector name
available for digital I/O channels.

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Figure 7-13: Bitwise Digital Input Channels Dialog Box

3. Complete the boxes as described below.
Connector — This is the physical hardware connection for the channel. MPB.bwi is the only
available option.
Channel ID — Unique identification (ID) name for each digital bit used in the channel, up to 12
characters each. The names must conform to the conventions for TCE ID names. They are used in the
definitions for computed channels and DataModes.
Sample Rate — Rate at which data is to be passed on to computed channels or DataModes
(0.1–2,500 Hz). Select the rate from the list for this box.
4. Select OK to save the definition.
The dialog box closes and the new channel appears in the channel list in the Transducer Channel Setup
window, which is above where the highlight bar was located.

Display of Output Signal

The DVM button lets you display the digital inputs on a real-time basis using the DVM display function. See
“Transducer Checks” in Chapter 10, Monitoring Tests and Channels, for more on using the DVM
display.

Pulse Counter Channel

Overview
The general procedure for defining a transducer channel is under Defining a Channel on page 53. This
section explains the actions involved in doing Steps 5–7 of the procedure as related to defining a pulse
counter channel.

Definition Procedure
Use the following procedure to define a pulse counter transducer channel.
1. Select Pulse Counter at the Select Transducer Channel Type dialog box. The Pulse Counter Channel
dialog box (Page 1) then opens.

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Figure 7-14: Pulse Counter Channel Definition Dialog Box (Page 1)

Figure 7-14 shows the dialog box with sample data entered. Normally all the boxes are blank when adding
a channel except Connector, which will contain the ID name for the next available hardware channel
available; Output Data Type, which is set to 32-Bit Float; and Mode, which is set to Frequency.
2. Fill in the boxes as described below.
Desired Measurement:
The boxes in this group box are identical to those in the dialog boxes for high-level and
low-level channels, except the hardware channels are named MPB.c01 through MPB.c08.
Digital Data Sampling:
Sample Rate – Rate at which the eDAQ samples the pulse counter count registers (5–2,500 Hz).
Select this rate from the list.
NOTE: The sample rate must be the same for all channels if using two or more digital
pulse counter channels on the same digital board.
Output Data Type:
Either 32-Bit Float or 32-Bit Unsigned. Your choice here affects the set of operating modes available from
the Mode group box.
Mode:
The option buttons in this group box are used to select the operating mode for the pulse counter channel.
NOTE: The effective working range of pulse counter transducers for all operating modes
(except the Pulse Rate mode) is nominally 0.5 Hz to 50,000 Hz. At a frequency of
50,000 Hz, 100 counts are accumulated in the counter, resulting in a 1%
measurement accuracy. At frequencies higher than 50,000 Hz, measurement
accuracy rapidly deteriorates, and the Pulse Rate mode should be used.
Time Period — The pulse period in units of microseconds is the fundamental signal. The unsigned
24-bit counter can measure pulse widths from 200 nanoseconds to 3.3 seconds. This is the most
efficient mode from a processing point of view.
Frequency — The pulse frequency in units of Hz is the fundamental signal. The measurement range
is from 0.3 Hz to over 1 MHz. This mode is considerably more demanding computationally than the
Time Period mode.

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Pulse Rate — The number of pulse counts occurring in one sample period, in units of pulses per
second (Hz), is the fundamental signal (e.g. at a 100 Hz sample rate, the period is 10 millisecs). Over
16 million counts can be accumulated per sample period. This mode is useful when a large number of
pulses occur in the sample period. The measurement range is up to 1 MHz.
NOTE: This mode can be used in conjunction with the Integrator computed channel to
track accumulated pulse counts. Refer to the online Help for details.
Duty Cycle — The pulse duty cycle as a dimensionless ratio is the fundamental signal. The
measurement range is from 0.0 to 1.0. In this mode, one 24-bit register is used to measure the total
pulse period (from rising edge to the next rising edge), and a second 24-bit register is used to
measure the “on time” (i.e. the time period between the rising and falling edges). The fundamental
signal is the ratio of the “on time” to the pulse period. This mode is the most demanding,
computationally.
NOTE: To use the Duty Cycle mode, the input signal must be connected to the odd
numbered input connector pins only (e.g. 1,3,5 or 7).
3. Select the Page 2 button (bottom-right corner of dialog box) to continue the definition process. Page
2 of the Pulse Counter Channel definition dialog box appears. Figure 7-15 shows that dialog box
page with sample data in it. Normally all the boxes will be blank or have “0” in them when you are
adding a channel.
4. Fill in the boxes as described below.
The Full Scale and Prerun Rezero group boxes are identical to the same group boxes on the Low
Level and High Level definition dialog boxes. The Calibration Table group box is also identical except
for Input Signal boxes (explained below). Descriptions for these areas and their boxes start on page
71.
An exception regarding the Input Signal boxes:
• If using the Defined Value mode, enter the input signal level in units other than the volts used with a
high or low level channel.
• If the Mode box on Page 1 is set to Frequency, enter this value in hertz (Hz); if set to Time Period, in
microseconds; and if set to Duty Cycle, as a ratio.
5. To calibrate the channel at this time, select the Calibrate button (bottom-left corner of dialog box);
respond to any prompts that appear.
When the calibration is done successfully, the current date appears in the Calibration Date box and
the boxes on this page become unavailable, preventing changes to those parameters.
The calibration must be deleted to change any of the definition data after the channel is calibrated.
See Deleting a Calibration on page 72.

Figure 7-15: Pulse Counter Channel Definition Dialog Box (Page 2)

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6. Select OK to save the definition. The dialog box closes, and the new channel appears in the channel
list in the Transducer Channel Setup window, above where the highlight bar was located.
To return to Page 1 instead of closing the dialog box, select the Page 1 button. Selecting OK from Page 1
will also save the channel definition.

Display of Output Signal

Use the Scope or DVM buttons from the Display Control box to view the real-time transducer output. See
Displaying Transducer Output on page 73.

Vehicle Bus Channel

Overview
The vehicle bus provides a way to collect data directly from the vehicle without the installation of specific
transducers. In many instances, information such as engine RPM, engine temperature, battery voltages, etc.
can be found transmitted on the vehicle bus. By using the eDAQ Vehicle Bus Interface, this information can
be polled and collected in an output file as additional information regarding a particular test.

Defining a Vehicle Bus Channel

To access the vehicle bus, open the Hardware setup page by pressing F1 or selecting the window with the
mouse. Highlight the vehicle bus, then click Config. This will open the Vehicle Bus Hardware Setup window.
Select the type of bus interface from the Hardware window. The eDAQ currently supports CAN J1939,
J1850 PWM, and J1850 VPW.

Figure 7-16: VBB Hardware Interface Setup

Selecting Channels from a Database

Make the Transducer Channel Setup window active by pressing F2 or selecting the window with the mouse.
Click Add to open the Select Transducer Channel Type window. Highlight Vehicle Bus and click OK. This will
open the list of currently defined channels available for data collection. Highlight the channel(s) from which
to collect data, and click OK to complete the procedure. To select multiple, non-contiguous channels, hold
the shift key while selecting each channel individually.

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Figure 7-17: Select Transducer Channel Type

Figure 7-18: Select Vehicle Bus Input Channels

Editing the Database in Excel

The Vehicle Bus database is a tab delimited text file that can be edited and reloaded onto the eDAQ. Each
database resides in the eDAQ and is uploaded to the PC when a hardware query is performed.

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Figure 7-19 Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet

Calibrating Channels

General
In TCE you can calibrate transducer channels either individually or in a group. There are two basic ways to
calibrate transducer channels:
• While defining a channel or editing a channel definition, select the Calibrate button in the channel
definition dialog box.
• At the Transducer Channel Setup window, highlight the channel or set of channels to be calibrated,
then select the Cal button.
When calibrating a set of channels, TCE first calibrates all the channels it can do at the same time (in
parallel). The remaining channels are then calibrated sequentially (serially).
Various prompts appear during a calibration run, depending on the type of channel and calibration mode
chosen. Respond to them accordingly.
When a channel is calibrated, these actions occur:
• The calibration date is shown in the Calibration Date box in the channel definition dialog box and in
the Cal Date column of the channel list in the Transducer Channel Setup window.
• In the channel definition dialog box, the boxes for parameters related to the channel’s calibration
become unavailable, preventing changes to calibration references. To change any of those values, the
calibration must be deleted using the Delete Calibration option in the TCE Calibration dialog box. For
more information, see the following description of the calibration dialog box.

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TCE Calibration Dialog Box

Use the TCE Calibration dialog box to check channels, delete calibrations and do zero adjusts on channels
in the Transducer Channel Setup window (Figure 7-20). The Calibration dialog box is only available when
working with calibrated channels.

Opening the Dialog Box

To access to the TCE Calibration dialog box, do one of the following:
• Select Calibrate from the channel definition dialog box.
• From the Transducer Channel Setup window select the channel(s) to work with, then select the Cal
button.
The calibration dialog box will open. When selecting one channel, the channel’s ID name is in the title bar,
and the calibration date is under Calibration(s) Defined at the top of the box, as shown in Figure 7-20.
When selecting two or more channels, the dialog box is titled TCE Group Calibration, and the number of
channels selected appears under Calibration(s) Defined (i.e. Channels Selected = 5), as shown in
Figure 7-21.

Figure 7-20: TCE Calibration Dialog Box (One Channel)

Figure 7-21: TCE Calibration Dialog Box (Multiple Channels)

Options
The Options group box has four options regarding the calibration.
Check Calibration — Performs a calibration run and displays a graph and numeric data comparing the
original calibration with the one just run. (See “ Checking a Calibration” below.)
NOTE: This option does not include zero adjustments done after the original calibrations.

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Zero Adjust Calibration — Lets you adjust for a small difference between the original zero setting used
in the calibration and the zero setting required for actual measurement (i.e. to compensate for “zero
drift” common with many transducers).
TCE first prompts you to input the engineering value equivalent to the current transducer states. Next, the
FCS measures the current transducer outputs and offsets the calibration lines as required to yield the
specified engineering value. (A tilde [~] is added to the end of the calibration dates whenever the original
[dated] calibration lines have been offset using this zero adjust functionality.)
NOTE: Use this option only when necessary and then only for very small adjustments. It
changes the zero setting permanently. We recommend, if feasible, you delete the
calibration and recalibrate the channel instead of using this option.
Delete Calibration — Deleting the calibration clears the calibration date field. You can then edit
calibration-related fields in the channel definition dialog box and recalibrate the channel. (See
Deleting a Calibration below.)
Shunt Calibration Loop – This option is provided primarily for SoMat development purposes in verifying
the reliability and accuracy of shunt calibrations. It is available only when one or more transducer
channels defined to use shunt calibrations were selected in the transducer channel list. All selected
channels are run through the calibration process as if they were being calibrated anew. This is
repeated the number of times specified in the box that is part of the option. This task has no affect
on any existing calibration.

Recalibrating a Channel
To recalibrate a channel, first delete the current calibration (see the following Deleting a Calibration)
and then use the calibration function button to calibrate the channel again.

Deleting a Calibration
Select the channel(s) from which you want to delete the calibration and then open the TCE Calibration
dialog box (see Opening the Dialog Box on the preceding page).
Select the option Delete Calibration in the Options group box and select OK to complete the deletion. To
cancel the procedure, select Cancel.

Checking a Calibration
Select the channels requiring a calibration check and then open the TCE Calibration dialog box (see
Opening the Dialog Box on page 71). Select the option Check Calibration in the Options group box.
If checking one channel, a TCE Calibration Check window opens (see Figure 7-22). It shows the maximum
deviation found and the defined and measured (checked) calibration values. Select OK to close the display.

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Figure 7-22: TCE Calibration Check Display

If you are checking two or more channels, a summary window showing each channel’s maximum deviations
in both engineering units and percentage of full scale appears instead of the TCE Calibration Check display.
A More Info button in the display lets you view a TCE Calibration Check display for each channel. Select
OK to exit.

Displaying Transducer Output

The Scope and DVM buttons in channel definition dialog boxes allow viewing the real-time transducer
output. The Run Time Display accessed via the TCE Test Control menu will perform the same basic
function. This will allow visualization of the functionality of the transducer if there is an appropriate signal
output.
The DVM Display shows the transducer output in a digital (numeric) format and the signal is continually
sampled. The output from one channel or from several channels can be viewed simultaneously. If the
transducer is not calibrated, the reading is in signal units (e.g. volts for high-Level and low-level
transducers); if it is calibrated, the reading is in the engineering units specified for the channel (you then
have the option to display the reading in signal units also).
The Scope Display is similar to an analog oscilloscope, but differs in that the Scope Display is not updated
until the eDAQ acquires all the data samples and transfers them to the host PC (this delays the data
display).
NOTE: The Scope and DVM options are used during the test setup to verify the operation
and calibration of the transducer channels. The Scope and DVM are not available
when a test is running.
The Run Time Display shows raw signal data from up to 16 transducers, in real-time dynamic graphs or
numeric form. Three display modes are available: Bar Chart Plot, Strip Chart Plot, and Digital Readout.
NOTE: The Run Time Display is only available when a test has been initialized and is
running.
See the sections “ Transducer Checks” and “ Run Time Display” in Chapter 10, Monitoring Test and
Channels for more on using these displays.

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Copying a Definition
The Copy function allows one or more copies of an existing channel definition to be used in defining new
transducer channels. At minimum, the only input required would be to assign an ID name to the new
channel; the other defined data can be changed as needed for the new channel.
Perform the following to add a new channel by copying an existing definition:
1. From the list in the Transducer Channel Setup window, select the channel to be copied.
2. Select the Copy button. The Transducer Copy Setup dialog box opens.

Figure 7-23: Transducer Copy Setup Dialog Box

3. At the Number of Copies box, specify how many copies you want. The number of connectors
available for the transducer type limits the maximum quantity allowable.
4. In the Default IDs Mode group box, select how the ID name of the original channel (the default) is to
be used in the copy process:
All Fields Blanked — The default ID name will not appear in the ID Name field of the new channel
definition dialog box.
All Fields Same as Original — The default ID name will appear in each of the ID boxes for the new
channels. This lets you quickly rename the channel by changing, deleting, and/or adding just a few
characters.
Numeric Increment (Suffix) — TCE automatically names all the new channels by using the default ID
name with a sequence number added to it. For example, three copies of a channel named ustrut
would be named ustrut2, ustrut3, and ustrut4.
NOTE: Using the Numeric Increment (Suffix) option is suggested as this is the fastest
method when making multiple copies of a channel. This function keeps the original
channel name and adds a numeric increment to the end of the channel name for
each copy made (as shown in Figure 7-26).
5. To automatically edit the new channel definition after making one copy, select the Edit Single Copy
Upon Completion option. Page 1 of the channel definition dialog box for the new channel will then
appear after you select OK.
NOTE: This option is not available when making multiple copies of a channel.
6. Select the OK button.
Complete either Step 7a or 7b based on how many copies are being made.
7a. When making multiple copies of a channel, the Edit Transducer ID dialog box will open
(Figure 7-26). Type in or modify the channel ID names for the new channels, and then select OK to
close the box and save the changes.

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Figure 7-24: Edit Transducer ID Dialog Box

The new channels then appear in the Channels List window. You can edit them individually as needed.
See the actions under Step 7b.
7b. When making one copy of a channel (and if you chose in Step 5 to edit the new channel definition),
do the following actions at the channel definition dialog box.
a. If the ID box is empty, type in an ID name, up to 12 characters. If there is an ID name in that box,
edit it as needed.
b. Edit the other boxes as needed.
c. Click OK or press Enter to save the new definition and return to the Transducer Channel Setup
window.

Editing Channel Definitions

Overview
This section explains the functions for editing channel definitions provided by the Edit button in the
Transducer Channel Setup window. Either one or multiple channel definitions can be edited at the same
time.

One Definition
Use the following procedure to change a single transducer channel definition.
1. Select the channel to edit from the channel list in the Transducer Channel Setup window.
Move the highlight bar to the desired channel and select Edit (click Edit or press E) or double-click
on the highlighted channel. The definition dialog box for the channel appears.
2. Change the definition data fields as needed.
3. Click OK or press Enter to save the changes made and return to the Transducer Channel Setup
window.

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Multiple Definitions
TCE lets you change two or more channel definitions if they are all for the same type of transducer. To do
this, complete the following.
1. Select the channels to edit from the channel list in the Transducer Channel Setup window.
For a non-contiguous selection, hold down Ctrl and click on each channel to edit.
For a contiguous selection, either click on the first and drag the mouse pointer as needed to include
all the channels or click on the first channel, then hold down a Shift key and click on the last one.
2. Select the Edit button. The Group Transducer Edit dialog box opens (Figure 7-25).
3. Select the definition data to change and select OK.
A dialog box for the transducer type and data to be changed appears. It has just the applicable boxes
from the original definition dialog box instead of all the boxes. The Group Edit Transducers dialog box
(Figure 7-26) is used to changing Sample Rates and Digital Filters for a group of low-level channels.
4. Change the data as needed and select OK to save the changes.

Figure 7-25: Group Transducer Edit Dialog Box

Figure 7-26: Sample Group Edit Definition Dialog Box

Deleting a Definition
Perform the following to delete transducer channel definitions.
1. Select the channel to edit from the channel list in the Transducer Channel Setup window.
To delete one definition, move the highlight bar to it. To delete two or more definitions at the same
time, select them as described under Multiple Definitions on page 75.
2. Select the Del (Delete) button.
3. At the verification dialog box that appears, select Yes to delete the definition(s). To cancel the delete
process, select No.

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Chapter 8 - Computed Channels

Definition and Types
Definition
A computed channel is a data channel derived from one or more transducer channels or from previously
defined computed channels. For example, a computed channel can be constructed from data using a
mathematical formula or expression, simulate a channel having a higher or lower sample rate, integrate data
samples, etc.

Types
Currently many computed channels are provided with SoMat TCE for eDAQ. They are listed in Appendix B,
TCE Computed Channels. This chapter describes the use of five commonly used ones:
Desk Calculator — Constructs data streams either from arithmetic results (floating point) or logical
results (Boolean) based on a specified mathematical expression or formula. Desk Claculator begins
on page 80.
Down Sampler — Simulates the input channel having a lower sample rate. Samples are extracted from
the input channel data at a rate determined by a specified decrement factor (e.g. one out of every
three input samples goes to the output channel). Down Sampler begins on page 82.
Elapsed Time (Time Channel) — Provides a time base channel for use in other computed channels
and/or storage in SoMat Time History and Peak Valley Slice DataModes. Elapsed Time (Time Channel)
begins on page 84.
Integrator — Generates an output channel that is the integral of the input channel. As long as the
integrator is not reset or suppressed, each output channel sample is the cumulative sum of the
current and all previous input channel samples, multiplied by a user-defined scale factor and added to
a user-defined initial value. Integrator Channel begins on page 85.
Up Sampler — Simulates the input channel having a higher sample rate by repeating (echoing) each
sample in the input channel a certain number of times during the interval between the input samples.
Up Sampler Channel begins on page 87.
Each computed channel is covered in greater detail later in this chapter. Refer to Appendix B, TCE
Computed Channels, and the TCE online Help System for information on other computed channels
available.

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Computed Channel Setup Window

Overview
The Computed Channel Setup window (Figure 8-1) is where you start the processes to define and modify
computed channels used with the eDAQ. The following describes its data fields and options.

Figure 8-1: Computed Channel Setup Window

Data Fields
The Computed Channel Setup window shows the following data for the channels listed:
ID — ID name assigned to the channel.
Module — Channel type name as shown in the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box
(see Figure 8-2).
Rate — Sample rate for the output channel. This may differ from the input channel sample rate based on
the type of computed channel.
For Down Sample, Up Sample, and Pulse Counter channels, this is the rate resulting from applying the
“up” or “down” conversion factor value specified in the channel definition. (see the sections on those
channels for more information).
Computed Channel Specifics — Pertinent information on the channel; what is shown depends on the
type of channel.
Desk Calculator — Mathematical expression or formula specified for the channel.
Down Sample, Up Sample — Name of the input channel and sample rate conversion factor value
separated by “@” (e.g. SG2@10 for channel SG2 and a factor of 10).

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Edit Functions
The Add, Del, Edit, and Copy buttons in the lower right corner of the window activate the editing functions
used with computed channel definitions. Their uses are explained in these chapter sections:
Add “Defining a Computed Channel” (next section)
Edit “Editing a Channel Definition” on page 88
Copy “Copying a Definition” on page 89
Del “Deleting a Definition” on page 89

Defining a Computed Channel

Importance of Definition Order
The order in which the computed channels are defined can be important when defining more than one
channel. These channels are computed in order, as listed in the Computed Channel Setup window. If a
computed channel refers to another computed channel, the reference channel should precede the referring
channel in the channel list; TCE checks the ordering at test initialization time and automatically reorders
the computed channels list as required to ensure no computed channels are referenced before they are
defined.
NOTE: The Add button for any Setup window inserts the new definition above the
highlighted line on the list. To add a channel at the end of the list, highlight the
empty line at the end of the list then select the Add button.

Before Starting
Before starting the defining of a computed channel, ensure that all the transducer input channels to be used
by the computed channel are set up properly. (The input channels can be modified, if desired, after defining
the computed channel.)

Procedure
The following is the general procedure for defining a computed channel.
1. Start TCE if it is not already running.
2. Open the setup file where you want to create the channel.
3. Make the Computed Channel Setup window active.
4. Select the Add button.
5. At the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box that opens, select the channel type and click OK.

Figure 8-2: Select Computed Channel Type Dialog Box

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6. Enter the required information in the setup dialog box that opens.
The definition dialog box that appears is unique for each channel type. The six most commonly used
computed channels are explained later in this chapter. For the remaining computed channels, refer to
the TCE Online Help System.
7. When done with the definition, click OK or press Enter to save it.
The new channel appears above the channel highlighted in the Computed Channel Setup window list.
For information on how you can change, copy, and delete a channel definition, see:
“Editing a Definition” on page 88
“Copying a Definition” on page 89
“Deleting a Definition” on page 89

Desk Calculator Channel

Description
This computed channel is so named because the TCE Desk Calculator function is used to define it. A Desk
Calculator channel constructs either of two types of data results:
Arithmetic (floating point) — Channels can be set up for data storage in any DataMode.
Logical (Boolean) — Channels can be used as trigger conditions for DataModes (i.e. to control the
sampling of data by another channel), and can also be set up for data storage in any DataMode.
The mathematical expression specified for the channel determines the type of results generated.
NOTE: The sample rate for the TCE Desk Calculator computed channel is determined by
the sample rate of the input channel set; therefore, all of the input channels must
have the same sample rate.

Floating Point Exceptions

Floating point exceptions can occur when certain Desk Calculator operators are misused (for example,
taking the square root or logarithm of a negative number). The eDAQ detects these exceptions, and TCE
will display an error message indicating an exception has occurred.
When an exception occurs, the result from the operations involved is usually the best approximation
available (e.g. 0.0 for logarithm of a negative value, FLT_MIN or FLT_MAX for an overflow, etc.) but cannot
be assumed in general. Care must be taken to ensure Desk Calculator expressions will not result in floating
point exceptions.

Defining a Channel
The general procedure for defining a computed channel is described in Defining a Channel on page 79.
That subsection explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of the procedure as related to a
Desk Calculator channel.
1. Select Desk Calc at the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box.
The Desk Calculator Computed Channel definition dialog box opens. Figure 8-3 shows this dialog
box with example data. This dialog box is often referred to as the TCE Desk Calculator because the
calculations done are based on mathematical expression or specified formulas.

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Figure 8-3: Desk Calculator Computed Channel Definition Dialog Box

2. Enter the required information in the Desired Measurement and Full Scale group boxes.
Desired Measurement:
ID — Unique name for the channel conforming to the TCE ID name conventions. This is used in the
definitions for other computed channels and in DataModes.
Description — Brief description of the channel, up to 31 characters (optional).
This text can be specified for use as the Y-axis label in a plot graph of the channel
data instead of the channel ID name (the default). This is done in the TCE General Preferences dialog
box (Figure 8-4). See the section “TCE Preferences” in Chapter 3, SoMat TCE for eDAQ.
Type — Type of measurement associated with the channel (Strain, Load, etc.). Type this in or select it
from the list.

Figure 8-4: TCE General Preferences Dialog Box (Partial)

Units — Engineering unit for the channel (Degrees, Volts, etc.).

Full Scale Estimate:

Min and Max — Values for the lower (Min) and upper (Max) limits of the range within which the
results from the mathematical expression in the Desk Calculator Expression box are expected to fall.
When the channel output will be stored in an integer data mode format, values must be entered in
these boxes; otherwise, entries in them are optional.
The Full Scale Estimate values are also used for Run Time Display scaling and to set the initial
(default) values for histograms specified in the test setup data modes.
NOTE: If histogram bounds in a computed channel are already defined, they do not change
if the Full Scale Estimate values are changed.

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3. Specify, in the Desk Calculator Expression box, the mathematical expression to be applied to the data
in the input channel(s). The syntax for this is modeled after the standard syntax for the C
programming language. All operators and input channel names are case-sensitive.
To enter the expression in the Desk Calculator Expression box, either type it in or select the items
for it from the Constants/Operators and Input Channels list boxes, typing other text as needed.
The Input Channels box lists the ID names of available transducer channels and computed channels.
The Constants/Operators list box has the constants and operators available for use in the
expression. Both list boxes are TCE autolist boxes.
Use either the mouse or keyboard to select items from either list boxes as explained by the
following:
• Double-click on the desired item. To add text to the expression by typing, click at the end of the
expression text.
• Use Tab and Shift+Tab to move among the boxes on the dialog box.
• Move the highlight bar to the item you want (using the cursor movement keys) and press the
spacebar. If the highlight bar is not displayed in the box, press any cursor movement key; it will then
appear.
NOTE: When Tab is pressed to go to the Expression box, the entire expression is
highlighted. To go end of the expression, press the End key, or, to delete the
expression, press the Delete key. When an item is selected from one of the list
boxes, it appears at the end of the expression. To insert a channel or operator
within the expression instead of at the end, click where the channel or operator is
located (an insertion bar appears) and then type in what to add. This click-and-type
method can also be used to edit the expression.
4. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.
Refer to the TCE Help System for more detailed information using the Desk Calculator and the
mathematical expressions.

Down Sampler Channel

Description
The Down Sampler computed channel reduces, by a specified factor, the number of samples taken from the
input channel. For example, with a factor of 4, one out of four input samples will go to the output channel.
Thus, this channel type simulates the input channel having a lower sample rate. This decreases the amount
of memory needed for storing test data and lets you store more data in the memory available.
NOTE: This channel should be used only where data values in the input channel change
slowly and the possibility of losing significant data is minimal.
To set the output channel sample rate, TCE divides the sample rate of the input channel by a specified
decrement (divide) factor value. For example, if the divide factor is 3, the first sample (data point) and then
every third one thereafter would be present in the output channel as shown in Figure 8-5.

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Input
Channel

Down
Sampler
Output
(Factor 3)

Figure 8-5: Down Sampler Input vs. Output

Defining a Channel
The general procedure for defining a computed channel is described in Defining a Computed Channel
on page 79. This subsection explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of that procedure as they
relate to a Down Sampler channel.
To define a Down Sample computed channel, do the following:
1. Select Down Sample in the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box. The Down Sampler Computed
Channel definition dialog box opens. Figure 8-6 shows it with example data.
2. Specify the appropriate data as described below.
ID — Unique identification (ID) name for the output channel that conforms to the TCE ID name
conventions. This ID name is used in the definitions for other computed channels and in DataModes.
Description — Brief description of the output channel, up to 31 characters (optional entry).
You can specify that the text here be used for the Y-axis label in a plot of the channel data, instead of
the channel ID name (the default). See Figure 8-4.
Input Channel ID with Sample Rate — Select the input channel from the channels listed. The
sample rates of the channels are provided for reference.
Factor — Value by which the input channel sample rate is to be divided. For example, a factor of 10
would result in every tenth sample in the input channel (sample 1, 11, 21, 31 and so on) being written
to the output channel.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

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Figure 8-6: Down Sampler Definition Dialog Box

Elapsed Time (Time Channel)

Overview
The Elapsed Time computed channel provides a time base channel for use in other computed channels and
can be stored in Time History and Peak Valley Slice DataModes.

Defining a Channel
The general procedure for defining (creating) a computed channel is in the section Defining a Computed
Channel on page 79. This subsection explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of that
procedure as they relate to an Elapsed Time channel.
To define an Elapsed Time computed channel, do the following.
1. Select Time Channel at the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box. The Elapsed Time Computed
Channel dialog box then opens. Figure 8-7 shows it with example data.

Figure 8-7: Elapsed Time Computed Channel Dialog Box

2. Specify the appropriate data as described below.
Desired Measurement:
Enter the channel ID name, description, type, and engineering units for the channel. See the Desired
Measurement description on page 81 for explanations of these entries.

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Full Scale Estimate:

In the Min and Max boxes, enter the lower and upper limits of the expected range of output values
for the channel. See the Full Scale Estimate description on page 81 for more about the entries to
be made.
Input Channel ID with Sample Rate — Select any channel with the desired sample rate from
the channels listed in the drop-down list for this box. The sample rates of the defined channels are
provided for reference.
Data Type — Data type for the output Time Channel: 32-Bit Float or 32-Bit Unsigned.
NOTE: The limited precision available with the 32-Bit Float data type causes some error in
the time data samples output. This error becomes more significant in long duration
tests.
Time channels are unique as the data type selected here determines the data type used for these
channels in DataModes.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Integrator Channel

Overview
The Integrator computed channel generates an output channel that is the integral of the input channel. As
long as this channel is not reset or suppressed, each output channel sample is the cumulative sum of the
current and all previous input channel samples, multiplied by a user defined scale factor and added to a
user-defined initial value.
A logical channel can be specified as a trigger to reset the Integrator channel or to suppress it
conditionally.

Defining a Channel
The general procedure for defining (creating) a computed channel is in the section Defining a Computed
Channel on page 81. This subsection explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of that
procedure as they relate to an Integrator computed channel.
To define an Integrator computed channel, do the following:
1. Select Integrator at the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box. The Sample Integrator Computed
Channel definition dialog box opens. Figure 8-8 shows that dialog box with example data.

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Figure 8-8: Integrator Channel Definition Dialog Box

2. Specify the appropriate data as described below.

Desired Measurement:
Enter the channel ID name, description, type, and engineering units for the channel. See the Desired
Measurement description on page 81 for explanations of these entries.
Input Channel ID with Sample Rate — Arithmetic input channel to be integrated. Select it from
the channels listed in the list for this box. The sample rates of the defined channels are provided for
reference.

Full Scale Estimate:

In the Min and Max boxes, specify the lower and upper limits of the expected range of output values
for the computed channel. See the Full Scale Estimate description on page 81 for more about the
entries to be made.
Integration Parameters:
Initial Value — Value at which the Integrator channel is to be set before the start of each run and
whenever the channel is reset.
Scale Factor — Value by which each input sample is to be multiplied before it is added to the
previous integration sum. Setting the Scale Factor to the sample period will result in the time integral
of the input channel.
Trigger Options:
A logical trigger channel can be specified for either or both of the following two purposes.
Integrate Only When True — Select this option to have the integration suppressed when the
trigger channel state is False.
Enable Triggered Reset — Select this option to have the integrator value reset (set to the
specified Initial Value) whenever the trigger channel satisfies the condition specified at the Reset
Mode box.
Channel — This selects the channel to be used as the trigger and is selected from the list for this
box.

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Reset Mode — Desired trigger reset mode. Select it from the list for this box. Three trigger reset
modes are available:
When True — Reset whenever the trigger channel state is True.
On False-True Edge — Reset when the of the trigger channel state changes from False to
True.
After True-False Edge — Reset on the sample after the trigger channel changes from True
to False. If the Integrate Only When True option is not selected, then the output sample
after the True to False edge is the sum of the Initial Value and the scaled input sample.
NOTE: When both the Integrate Only When True and the Enable Triggered Reset options
are selected, the Reset Mode is limited to After True-False Edge.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.
For more information, refer to the online TCE Help System.

Up Sampler Channel
Description
The Up Sampler channel simulates the sample rate of the input channel being higher than it actually is. This
enables you to correlate the input channel data to a channel with a higher sample rate on a point-for-point
basis.
Each input channel sample is repeated a number of times during the interval between the first sample and
the next one based on a conversion factor value. For example, with a factor of 3, the sample is repeated
twice after the original, giving three samples per original sample, as shown in Figure 8-10. These added
samples “bridge the gap” between the input samples and, together with the original samples, simulate the
higher sample rate desired.

Input
Channel

Up
Sampler
Output
(Factor 3)

Figure 8-10: Up Sampler Input vs. Output

NOTE: How the Up Sample channel is used affects how much memory will be required to
store test data. If its output will be stored in memory, the amount of memory
required for test data increases in proportion to an increase in the “up” factor. But,
if the output will be used only for intermediate calculations, memory is not
affected.

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Defining a Channel
The general procedure for defining (creating) a computed channel is in the section Defining a Computed
Channel on page 81. This subsection explains the actions involved in completing Steps 5–7 of that
procedure as they relate to an Up Sampler channel.
Perform the following to define an Up Sample computed channel.
1. Select UpSample at the Select Computed Channel Type dialog box. The Upsample Computed Channel
dialog box that opens is identical to the Down Sample dialog box except for its title (Figure 8-6 on
page 84).
2. Specify the appropriate data as described below.
ID — Unique identification (ID) name for the output channel conforming to the TCE ID name
conventions. This ID name is used in the definitions for other computed channels and in SoMat
DataModes.
Description – Brief description of the output channel, up to 31 characters (optional).
You can specify that the text in this box be used for the Y-axis label in a plot of the channel data
instead of the channel ID name (the default). See Figure 8-4.
Input Channel ID with Sample Rate — Select the input channel from the channels in the drop-
down list for this box. The sample rates of the channels are provided for reference.
Factor — Number of output samples for each input sample. A factor of 10 would result in ten
samples (the original input sample plus nine copies of it) being written to the output channel for each
input sample, resulting in a simulated ten-times increase in sample rate.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Editing a Definition
To change the setup definition for an existing computed channel, do the following:
1. In the Computed Channel Setup window, move the highlight bar to the channel definition to be
changed.
2. Either select the Edit button or double-click on the highlighted channel. The setup dialog box for the
channel appears.
3. Change the definition data boxes as necessary.
4. Either click OK, or press Enter to save the changes made and to return to the Computed Channel
Setup window. To cancel the changes made, click on the Cancel button.

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Copying a Definition
The Copy function allows a copy of an existing channel definition to be used in defining a new transducer
channel. At minimum, the only input required would be to assign an ID name to the new channel; the other
defined data can be changed as needed for the new channel.
The following procedure describes how to create a new channel by copying an existing channel definition:
1. Select the channel definition to copy in the Computed Channel Setup window.
2. Select the Copy button. The setup dialog box for the selected channel opens.
3. In the ID box enter a unique ID for the new channel conforming to the conventions for TCE ID
names. This ID name is used in the definitions of other computed channels and in DataModes.
4. Edit the other boxes as necessary.
5. Either click OK or press Enter to save the new definition and return to the Computed Channel
Setup window.

Deleting a Definition
The following procedure describes how to delete one or more computed channel definitions:
1. Move the highlight bar to the channel definition(s) to be deleted in the Computed Channel Setup
window. To select multiple consecutive channels, click the first channel and hold down SHIFT while
clicking the last channel. To select multiple individual channels, hold down CTRL while clicking each
channel to be deleted.
2. Click Del or press D.
3. At the verification dialog box that appears, select Yes to delete the definition (either press Y then
ENTER, or click Yes). To cancel the delete process, click No.

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Chapter 9 - DataModes
Definition and Types
Definition
SoMat DataModes determine how, and in what form, test data will be stored and displayed (i.e. a sequential
or histogram plot). A DataMode definition consists of a list of input channels, a data storage/processing
rate, triggering conditions, and other parameters specific to the DataMode.

Types
SoMat TCE supports several types of SoMat DataModes. Those most commonly used are listed below with
a brief explanation of each. They are covered in greater detail in other sections of this chapter.
Time History — Stores multiple channels of triggered or untriggered time history (sequential) data
streams in the output data file. Time History DataMode begins on page 95.
Burst History — Stores channels of burst-triggered time history data streams in the output data file
when a user-defined triggering event occurs. Burst History DataMode begins on page 96.
Time at Level — Stores Time at Level histograms in the output data file. Two types are available: one
dimensional and multidimensional. Time At Level DataModes begins on page 98.
Peak Valley — Stores multiple channels of peak and valley sequences acquired from triggered or
untriggered time history data streams in the output data file. Peak Valley DataMode begins on page
100.
Peak Valley Matrix — Stores multiple channels of peak valley reversal histograms in the output data file.
Peak Valley Matrix DataMode begins on page 102.
Rainflow — Stores multiple channels of rainflow cycle histograms in the output data file. Rainflow
DataMode begins on page 104.
For information on using the other DataModes, see the TCE online Help System.

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DataMode Setup Dialog Box

Overview
The DataMode Setup window is used to start the processes of defining and modifying DataModes.

Figure 9-1: DataMode Setup Window

Data Displayed
The following are the descriptions for the columns listed in the SoMat DataModes setup screen.
ID — ID name assigned to the DataMode.
Data Mode — DataMode type as selected from the Select DataMode Type dialog box (Figure 9-2 on
page 93).
Rate — Rate at which data samples are input to the DataMode.
Chs — Number of input channels assigned to the DataMode.
Data Mode Specifics — Pertinent information regarding the DataMode (number and type of bins,
hysteresis value, and so on).

Edit Functions
The Add, Del, Edit, and Copy buttons (at the bottom-right corner of the DataMode Setup window) activate
the editing functions within the DataMode definitions. Use of Add is explained in the following section,
Defining a DataMode; for the Del, Edit, and Copy functions see Deleting a DataMode on page 106,
Editing a DataMode Definition on page 106, and Copying a DataMode on page 106.

Memory Allocation
The Mem button displays the total amount of raw eDAQ SIF file memory the eDAQ will allocate for
selected SoMat DataModes at the start of each test run (not included are linked list pointer records,
statistics records, etc.). Memory is allocated for all histogram DataModes and for the Burst History
DataMode which pre-allocates memory for the first Burst record. To see the memory to be allocated for a
DataMode, select the DataMode and then select the Mem button; to see the total memory for all
DataModes, select all of them and select Mem.

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Defining a SoMat DataMode

Before Starting
Before defining a SoMat DataMode, all the transducer and computed data channels the DataMode will use
should be defined. Additional channels can be added at a later time.

Procedure
The general procedure for defining a SoMat DataMode is as follows.
1. Start SoMat TCE if it is not already running.
2. Open the setup file where the DataMode will be created and used. (The input channels for the
DataMode should be defined.)
3. Make the DataMode Setup window the active window.
4. Select the Add button.
NOTE: The new DataMode will be added to the list immediately above the line highlighted
on the list. To add the new DataMode to the end of the list, place the highlight bar
under the last DataMode before selecting Add.
5. At the Select Data Mode Type dialog box (Figure 9-2 ), select the DataMode type. Either place the
highlight bar on the DataMode, select the OK button, or double-click on the DataMode.

Figure 9-2: Select DataMode Type Dialog Box

Most of the names in the Select DataModes box are self-explanatory. The following definitions are for
those DataModes that may not be.
Time@Level 1D = Time at level, one dimensional
Time@Level mD = Time at level, multidimensional
PV Matrix = Peak Valley Matrix
PV Slice = Peak Valley Slice
6. Enter the required information in the DataMode definition dialog box that appears, then either click
on OK or press Enter when done.
A unique dialog box appears for each DataMode type. The use of the dialog box for some DataMode
types are explained later in this chapter. (Refer to the TCE online Help System for DataModes not
covered in this chapter.)
The new DataMode then appears above the highlighted line in the Data Mode Setup window list.

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Use of Triggers

Overview
Each DataMode can further refine data storage through the use of triggers. Triggering controls data storage
by allowing data collection only when specified triggering conditions are met. This provides a means to
eliminate unwanted segments of the input data stream before a DataMode algorithm processes it.

Triggering Condition
The triggering condition is defined by the combined selections for the triggering option and trigger channel
in the DataMode setup box.

Trigger Channel
A trigger channel can be any logical (Boolean) transducer or logical computed channel. The data in the
trigger channel indicates whether the trigger channel’s state is True (1) or False (0).

Basic Trigger Options

The four basic triggering options for DataModes (other than burst history) are the following.
Always On — Triggering is not used. Sampling is continuous.
Trigger — Begin sampling when trigger channel state becomes True and continue sampling regardless of
any future changes in the state of the trigger channel.
Gate — Sample only while the trigger channel state is True.
One Shot — Take one sample when the trigger channel state changes from False to True, or if the trigger
channel state is True on the first sample of any run.

Burst History Trigger Options

For burst histories, two trigger options are available:
When True – Store a burst whenever the trigger channel state is True.
On False-True Edge – Store a burst when the trigger channel state changes from False to True (the
trigger condition must be reset) and if the trigger channel is True on the first sample of any run.

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Time History DataMode

Description
The Time History DataMode stores multiple channels of triggered or untriggered time history (sequential)
data streams in the output data file when triggering occurs and the specific trigger channel is user specified.

Defining a Time History DataMode

The general procedure for defining a DataMode is under Defining a SoMat DataMode on page 93. The
following explains the actions to perform Step 6 of the procedure as related to the Time History
DataMode.
Perform the following to define a Time History DataMode.
1. Select Time History at the Select DataMode Type dialog box. The Time History DataMode definition
dialog box appears. Figure 9-3 is shown with example definition data. The channels highlighted in the
Input Channels list box have been selected as the input channels for the DataMode.
2. Specify the parameters described by the following.
Input Channels — This is a standard Windows multiple-select list box that has all of the available
input channels. Select from that list the channels to be included in the DataMode. You can select up
to 128 input channels for a Time History DataMode.
NOTE: The sample rates of the input channels determine the sample rate for this
DataMode. The sample rate must be the same in all of the input channels (including
the trigger channel if one is defined).

Figure 9-3: Time History Definition Dialog Box

DataMode ID — ID name for the DataMode. This must be unique within the DataMode setup
dialog box for each test.
Triggering Option — Type of triggering to be used. The available triggering options are in the list
for this box. Data will be stored only when the triggering condition specified here occurs. See Basic
Trigger Options on page 94 and the TCE Help System for explanations of the options.
Trigger Channel — ID name of the desired trigger channel. The list for this box has the ID names
of all logical channels currently defined. An undefined logical channel can be specified, but must be
defined before the test is initialized.

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Floats → Data Type — Select the desired data compression mode for storage in the data file (this
applies to 32-Bit Float input channels but not the optional Time channel). The list for this box has the
available format options. Refer to the Help System for more information on these options, their
storage sizes, and resolution.
Time Input Channel (Data Type) — This is the channel is used to provide the time base for the
data. Selecting a channel to be used as the time input channel is optional. The only channels listed in
this box are Elapsed Time (Time Channel) computed channels. Note the data storage mode for the
Time Channel is based on the definition made in the computed channel.
NOTE: If a channel is selected from the Time Input Channel, a maximum of 127 channels
can be selected from the input channel list.
Mass Storage Option — You can store the data on the PCMCIA disk or in SRAM memory. SRAM
is faster, but is very limited in size (less than 4 MB is available). To store data on the PCMCIA disk,
select the Use PCMCIA Disk check box.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Burst History DataMode

Description
The SoMat Burst History DataMode stores channels of burst-triggered time history (sequential) data
streams in the output data file. It records one data burst for each input channel when a specified triggering
event occurs. (The term burst refers to a set or group of contiguous data samples.) This DataMode is
particularly useful in characterizing rare events at high data sampling rates.
A special feature of this DataMode is that a specific number of data points (samples) can be stored before
and after the trigger; this is accomplished by using a circular buffer.

Defining a Burst History DataMode

The general procedure for defining a DataMode is under Defining a SoMat DataMode on page 93. The
following explains the actions in doing Step 6 of the procedure as it relates to a Burst History DataMode.
Perform the following to define a Burst Time History DataMode.
1. Select Burst History at the Select DataMode Type dialog box. The Burst History DataMode definition
dialog box opens. Figure 9-4 shows it with example definition data. The channels highlighted in the
Input Channels list box have been selected as input channels for the DataMode.
2. Specify the following parameters.

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Figure 9-4: Burst History Definition Dialog Box

Input Channels — From the list provided, select the input channels to be included in the
DataMode. This box is a standard multiple-select list box. A maximum of 128 input channels can be
selected.
NOTE: The sample rates of the input channels determine the sample rate for this
DataMode. All the input channels (including the required trigger channel) must have
the same sample rate.
DataMode ID — Unique ID name for the DataMode. This name must be unique within the
DataMode setup window for each test.
Triggering Option — Type of triggering to be used. The list for this box has the available triggering
options. A burst of data is stored when the specified triggering condition occurs.
See Burst History Trigger Options on page 94 and the TCE Help System for explanations of the
options.
Trigger Channel — ID name of the desired trigger channel. The list for this box has the ID names
of all logical channels currently defined. Normally one of these channels is selected for use as a
trigger channel. An undefined logical channel can be specified, but must be defined before the test is
initialized.
Floats → Data Type — Select the desired data compression mode for storage in the data file (this
applies to 32-Bit Float input channels). The list for this box has the available format options. Refer to
the Help System for more on these options, their storage sizes, and resolution.
Pre Trigger Time (secs) — This is the time period, in seconds, before the trigger during which data
samples are to be acquired.
Post Trigger Time — This is the time period, in seconds, after the trigger, during which data
samples are to be acquired.
NOTE: The total number of points stored is the sum of the post-trigger and pre-trigger
time periods multiplied by the sampling rate, plus one (the trigger sample is always
stored). With a 100 Hz sampling rate and 2.5 second pre- and post-trigger periods,
the total number of samples acquired would be 501: ([2.5 + 2.5] × 100) + 1.
Mass Storage Option — Two different options are available for storing the data collected in the
Burst History mode.

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The first mass storage option uses the FCS SRAM memory only. The SIF data file is built “on the fly”
in the SRAM memory. This file can be copied to a PC using the TCE Test Control option Upload Test
Data.
The second mass storage option is the PCMCIA storage mode. In this mode, burst data for each
channel of each Burst History data mode is stored in a file on the PCMCIA memory card. All other
data file components (e.g. the SIF header file information, keywords, etc.) are stored in the SRAM
memory. The TCE Test Control option Upload Test Data can be used to generate a consolidated SIF
data file on the PC after the test has been stopped.
Number of Bursts — Maximum number of bursts to store. When the selected quantity of bursts
have been stored, the DataMode is effectively turned off and data is no longer stored.
Max Bursts Mode — This mode lets you store the most significant burst records based on the
specified quantity at Number of Bursts. Burst significance is based on the maximum deviation from
the value specified in the Reference Value box.
Select the Enable Mode check box to use this mode. Refer to the Help System for more information
on this mode.
NOTE: Using the Max Bursts Mode adds significant processing overhead for this
DataMode.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Time At Level DataMode

Description
The SoMat Time At Level DataModes store Time At Level (TAL) histograms in the output data file. There
are two types of this DataMode:
One-dimensional (1D) — You can specify multiple input channels to generate multiple one-dimensional
TAL data channels.
Multi-dimensional (mD) — You can specify up to six dimensions (input channels) for the one output
histogram.

Defining a Time At Level DataMode

The general procedure for defining a DataMode is under Defining a DataMode on page 93. This
subsection explains the actions involved in completing Step 6 as it relates to defining a Time At Level (TAL)
DataMode.
Perform the following to define a TAL DataMode.
1. Select the particular Time At Level at the Select Data Mode Type dialog box (1D for one-dimensional,
mD for multi-dimensional); the appropriate Time at Level DataMode definition dialog box opens.
Figure 9-5 shows the dialog box for a one-dimensional TAL DataMode with sample definition data.
The dialog box is essentially the same for both Time At Level types except for the box title.

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Figure 9-5: Time at Level (One Dimensional) Definition Dialog Box

2. Specify the following parameters.
Input Channels — This is a standard Windows multiple-select list box with all the available input
channels. Select the channel(s) you want included in the DataMode. With each TAL DataMode, you
can specify a maximum of 128 input channels for a one-dimensional TAL and up to six input channels
(dimensions) for a multidimensional TAL.
NOTE: The sample rates of the input channels determine the sample rate for this
DataMode. All the input channels (including the trigger channel, if defined) must
have the same sample rates.
Data Mode ID — Unique ID name for the DataMode conforming to the TCE ID name conventions.
This name must be unique within the DataMode setup window for each test.
Triggering Option — Type of triggering to be used. The list for this box has the available triggering
options. Data is stored only when the triggering condition specified here occurs. See Basic Trigger
Options on page 94 and the TCE Help System for explanations of the options.
Trigger Channel — ID name of the desired trigger channel. The list for this box has the ID names
of all logical channels currently defined. Normally one of these channels is selected for use as a
trigger channel. An undefined logical channel can be specified, but must be defined before the test is
initialized.
Mass Storage Option — By selecting the PCMCIA storage mode, the histogram data for each
channel of each data mode is maintained in DRAM memory while the test is running and then copied
to a file on the PCMCIA memory card after the test is stopped. All other data file components (e.g.
the SIF header file information, keywords, etc.) are stored in the SRAM memory. When a test run is
stopped, the TCE Test Control option Upload Test Data can be used to generate a consolidated SIF
data file on the PC.
Number of Bins — Number of bins per input channel or per dimension according to the type of
TAL DataMode being defined.
One-Dimensional: This number applies to each of the specified input channels. The maximum number
of bins available is 10,000. TCE adds two more bins to each one dimensional TAL histogram to store
overflows and underflows. If you specify 20 bins, a 22 bin histogram is internally allocated and used.
Multi-Dimensional: Specify the number of bins for each dimension, in the order in which the selected
channels are listed in the Input Channels box; separate the numbers with spaces or commas (or
both). For example, if you selected four input channels, putting “10, 20, 5, 15” in this box would result
in 10 bins for the first channel, 20 for the second, and so on.

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The total number of bins for a Multi-Dimensional Time at Level histogram is computed by the
formula below to determine storage requirements. (The “+2” in the formula and the example
calculation are the two special bins that TCE adds for each dimension to handle histogram underflow
and overflow situations.)
Thus, the calculation for the above multi-dimension example is:
Total Bins = (10+2) × (20+2) × (5+2) × (15+2) = 31,416
At four bytes per bin, at least 123 KB of memory will be needed for storing the histogram data:
4 bytes × 31,416 bins = 125,664 bytes or 122.7 KB
NOTE: Each histogram bin requires four bytes of storage space and can accumulate counts
up to 4,294,967,295.
Bin Type — Two types of bin spacing are listed for this box:
Evenly Divided — The bins for the test data are evenly divided between the histogram bounds.
User Defined — You set the size of each bin. See User Defined Bins on page 104.
3. Select OK to accept and save the entries made. The Histogram Bounds dialog box appears.

Figure 9-6: Histogram Bounds Dialog Box

The default histogram bounds are the Min and Max values specified for the channel (Full Scale
Estimate values from Computed Channel Setup dialog box or Full Scale values from Page 2 of the
Transducer Channel Setup dialog box). These bounds can be overridden by selecting Edit in the lower
left of the dialog box.
If the User Defined bin type was selected, question marks will be in the Min and Max columns
instead of values. Select Edit and set the bin boundaries. The appropriate values will then be in the
Min and Max columns. (See User Defined Bins on pages 104.)
4. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Peak Valley DataMode

Description
SoMat Peak Valley DataModes store multiple channels of peak and valley sequences in an output data file.
Peaks and valleys are acquired from triggered or untriggered time history data streams, using the hysteresis
value specified and the peak valley processing algorithm.

Defining a Peak Valley DataMode

The general procedure for defining a SoMat DataMode is under Defining a SoMat DataMode on page
93. The following explains the actions involved in completing Step 6 of the procedure as it relates to
defining a Peak Valley DataMode.

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Perform the following to define a Peak Valley DataMode.

1. Select Peak Valley from the Select Data Mode Type dialog box. The Peak Valley Data Mode definition
dialog box opens. Figure 9-7 shows the dialog box with sample data.
2. Specify the following parameters.
Input Channels — This multiple-select list box has all of the available input channels. Select from
the channels to be included in the DataMode. You can select up to 128 input channels.
NOTE: The sample rates of the input channels determine the sample rate for this DataMode.
All the input channels (including the trigger channel if one is defined) must have the
same sample rate.
Data Mode ID — Unique ID name for the DataMode, conforming to the TCE ID name
conventions. This name must be unique within the DataMode setup window specified for any
particular test.
Triggering Option — Type of triggering to be used. The list for this box has the available triggering
options. The Peak Valley DataMode processes data samples from the input channel data streams only
when the triggering condition specified here occurs. See Basic Trigger Options on page 94 and the
TCE Help System for explanations of the options.
Trigger Channel — ID name of the desired trigger channel. The list for this box has the ID names
of all logical channels currently defined. Normally one of these channels is selected for use as a
trigger channel. An undefined logical channel can be specified but must be defined before the test is
initialized.
Floats → Data Type — Select the desired data conversion mode for storage in the data file (this
applies to 32-Bit Float input channels). The list for this box has the available format options. Refer to
the Help System for more information on these options, their storage sizes, and resolution.
Hysteresis — Hysteresis level value for the peak valley processing algorithm.
Mass Storage Option — Allows the option of storing the collected data to the PCMCIA disk or in
SRAM memory. SRAM is faster, but is very limited in size (less than 4 MB is available). To store data
on the PCMCIA disk, select the Use PCMCIA Disk check box.
3. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Figure 9-7: Peak Valley Definition Dialog Box

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Peak Valley Matrix DataMode

Description
SoMat Peak Valley Matrix DataModes store multiple channels of peak valley reversal histograms to the
output data file. Peaks and valleys are acquired from triggered or untriggered time history data streams
using the hysteresis value specified, and the peak valley processing algorithm. The resulting peak valley
stream defines the set of peak valley reversals, which are then put into a histogram using the type and size
options specified.

Defining a Peak Valley Matrix DataMode

The general procedure for defining a SoMat DataMode is under Defining a SoMat DataMode on page
95. The following explains the actions in doing Step 6 of the procedure as it relates to a Peak Valley Matrix
DataMode.
Perform the following to define a Peak Valley Matrix DataMode.
1. Select PV Matrix from the Select Data Mode Type dialog box. The Peak Valley Matrix Data Mode
definition dialog box opens. Figure 9-8 shows it with example definition data. The channel
highlighted in the Input Channels list box is the channel selected as the input for the DataMode.
2. Specifying the following parameters.
Input Channels — This multiple-select list box has all of the available input channels. Select the
channels to be included in the DataMode. Up to 128 input channels can be selected.
NOTE: The sample rates in the input channel determine the sample rate for this
DataMode. All of the input channels (including the trigger channel) must have the
same sample rate.
Data Mode ID — Unique ID name for the DataMode, conforming to the TCE ID name
conventions. This name must be unique within the DataMode setup window for each test.
Triggering Option — Type of triggering to be used. The list for this box has the available triggering
options. A Peak Valley Matrix DataMode processes data samples from the input channel data streams
only when the triggering condition specified here occurs. See Basic Trigger Options on page 94 for
more on this.

Figure 9-8: Peak Valley Matrix Definition Dialog Box

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Trigger Channel — ID name of the desired trigger channel. The list for this box has the ID names
of all logical channels currently defined. Normally one of these channels is selected for use as a
trigger channel. An undefined logical channel can be specified but must be defined before the test is
initialized.
Hysteresis — Hysteresis level value for the peak valley processing algorithm.
Mass Storage Option — Allows the option of storing the collected data to the PCMCIA disk or in
SRAM memory. SRAM is faster, but is very limited in size (less than 4 MB is available). To store data
on the PCMCIA disk, select the Use PCMCIA Disk check box.
Number of Bins — Number of bins for the histogram. For range-mean and to-from histograms, the
maximum value is 500 for both histogram dimensions. For Range only, the maximum value is 10,000.
NOTE: TCE adds two more bins to each row and column of a histogram to store
overflows and underflows. If you specified 32 x 32 bins, a 34 x 34 bin histogram is
allocated and used internally.
Each histogram bin requires 4 bytes of storage space and can accumulate counts up to 4,294,967,295.
Bin Type — Two types of bin spacing are available in the box list:
Evenly Divided — The bins for the test data are evenly divided between the histogram bounds.
User Defined — The size of each bin is user defined. See User Defined Bins on page 104.
Mode — Histogram mode to be used:
Range-Mean — Cycle counts are accumulated in bins having a cycle range dimension and a cycle
mean value dimension.
Range Only — Cycle counts are accumulated in bins having only a cycle range dimension.
To-From — Cycle counts accumulate in bins with both to and from dimensions. For the Peak Valley
Matrix DataMode, these to and from designations are straightforward since each
reversal has a start and an end. However, for the Rainflow Cycle DataMode, the to and
from designations can be assigned to either reversal that makes up the full cycle. The
eDAQ is programmed so to and from designations apply to the first reversal (and not
the second reversal) on which the cycle closes.
3. Select OK to save the entries. The Histogram Bounds dialog box opens.

Figure 9-9. Histogram Bounds Dialog Box

The default histogram bounds shown in this dialog box are the Min and Max values specified for the
channels (either Full Scale Estimate values from the Computed Channel Setup dialog box or Full
Scale values from the Page 2 of the Transducer Channel Setup dialog box). These bounds can be
overridden by selecting Edit in the lower left of the dialog box.

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If User Defined bin type has been selected, question marks will be in the Min and Max columns
instead of values. Select the Edit button to set the bin boundaries. The appropriate values will then be
in the Min and Max columns. (See User Defined Bins below.)
4. Select OK or press Enter to save the definition. To cancel the definition, select Cancel.

Rainflow DataMode
Description
The SoMat Rainflow DataMode stores multiple channels of rainflow cycle histograms in the output data file.
Peaks and valleys are acquired from both triggered or untriggered time history data streams using the
hysteresis value specified and the peak valley processing algorithm. The resulting peak valley stream is
processed through the rainflow cycle counting algorithm which yields the set of closed cycles. Finally, the
closed cycles are put into a histogram using the type and size options specified.

Defining a Rainflow DataMode

The procedure, dialog boxes, and parameters to be defined for a Rainflow DataMode are identical to those
for a Peak Valley Matrix DataMode, except Rainflow is selected at the Select Data Mode Type dialog box
and the title bar of the dialog box reads “Rainflow DataMode.”
For explanations of the dialog boxes and parameters, see Defining a Peak Valley Matrix DataMode on
page 102.

User Defined Bins

Overview
The size of the individual bins for Time At Level, Peak Valley Matrix, and Rainflow DataModes can be
specified by the user. This can be done by specifying an upper boundary value for each bin, either manually,
by using the algorithms provided, or by loading a file containing a set of bin boundaries.

Defining Bins
Select the option User Defined in the Bin Type box in the DataMode definition dialog box to allow the bins
to be user defined. When selecting the OK button to save the entries in the dialog box, the User Defined
Histogram Bin Bounds dialog box opens. Figure 9-10 shows the dialog box for a Peak Valley Matrix
DataMode, and Range-Mean histogram mode. The Histogram Min and Max columns will contain question
marks instead of values to indicate the bin sizes have not been defined.

Figure 9-10: User Defined Histogram Bin Bounds Dialog Box

To define the bins, select the channel in which the bins require defining. Each defined channel will require
bin definitions in the DataMode. Select the Edit Bins button. The Edit User Defined Bins dialog box then
opens.

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Figure 9-11: Edit User Defined Bins Dialog Box

In the Upper Bound boxes specify the upper boundary for each bin by typing the appropriate values in the
boxes provided (one for each bin plus underflow). To move down and up the list of bin boxes, use the scroll
bar, cursor up and down keys, or Page Down (PgDn) and Page Up (PgUp) keys.
A set of buttons beside the bin boxes further facilitates defining the bin boundary. These button controls
are detailed as follows.
Default Opts — Opens a dialog box where you select one of the two options for loading default values.

Figure 9-12: User Defined Bins Default Options Dialog Box

Linear — Defines the bin boundaries with equal spacing from the full scale minimum to the full scale
maximum.
Geometric — Defines the bin boundaries with geometric spacing from the full scale minimum to the
full scale maximum, based on the user defined ratio of the size of last bin to the size of the first bin.
For example, if the user specifies this ratio as 0.1, then the first bin will be 10 times larger than the
last bin.
NOTE: The minimum and maximum full scale values used above are taken from the first
channel in the input channel list with valid full scale values defined. If full scale
values are undefined for all selected channels, this option is not available.
Select the mode to use and then select the OK button.
Scale / Offset — Opens a dialog box where the scale and offset values to be applied to all bin boundaries
are specified (Figure 9-13). This is provided primarily to support changes in units and full scale limits.

Figure 9-13. User Defined Bins Default Options Dialog Box

Type in the value(s) to use, then select OK.

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File Load — Used to load a set of bin boundaries from a bin boundary definition (*.ubd) file. Such a
file is normally created by using the File Save button as described below or by the equivalent option
in DataModes (see that chapter on DataModes in the EASE Version 3 Operating Manual).
File Save — Used to save the defined bin boundaries to a boundary definition (*.ubd) file, in the
standard Windows “initialization file” format. TCE verifies the bin boundary definition set is valid
before writing the file.
Once the bin boundaries are specified select the OK button to close the Edit User Defined Bins
dialog box and save your changes.

Editing a DataMode Definition

The following describes how to edit a SoMat DataMode definition:
1. Select the DataMode to be changed by moving the highlight bar to the channel using the arrow keys.
2. Select the Edit button, double-click on the DataMode, or press E. The definition dialog box for the
DataMode then opens.
3. Change the DataMode parameters as needed.
4. Click OK or press Enter to save the changes made. When selected, this will return back to the
DataMode Setup window.

Copying a DataMode
The Copy function provides a way to copy an existing DataMode definition for use in defining a new
DataMode. The minimum requirements for copying a definition would be to assign an ID name using the
naming conventions for TCE. Other definition data can be edited as needed for the new DataMode.
Use the following to create a copy of an existing DataMode.
1. Select the DataMode to copy from the DataMode Setup window.
2. Select the Copy button. The definition dialog box for the selected DataMode will appear with the ID
box empty.
3. In the ID box enter a unique ID name for the new DataMode.
4. Edit the data in the other data boxes as necessary.
5. Either click on OK or press Enter to save the new definition and return to the DataMode Setup
window.

Deleting a DataMode
To delete a DataMode definition, do the following.
1. Move the highlight bar to the channel definition(s) to delete in the DataMode Setup window. To
select multiple consecutive channels, click the first channel and hold down SHIFT while clicking the
last channel. To select multiple individual channels, hold down CTRL while clicking each channel to be
deleted.
2. Click Del or press D.
3. At the verification dialog box that appears, select Yes to delete the definition (either press Y then
ENTER, or click Yes). To cancel the delete process, select No.

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Chapter 10 - Monitoring Tests and Channels

Overview
SoMat TCE can verify the eDAQ’s status and the operation of transducer and computed channels before
starting a test and monitor them during the test. The current status of the test can also be checked using
TCE. This chapter explains how the following functions are used to do these actions.

Before a Test is Initialized

The following TCE display options are available for checking transducer channels prior to starting a test
session:
• DVM and Scope functions in the Transducer Channel Setup window and in the dialog box where you
define a channel
• Freq (Cumulative Spectrum Analyzer) function in the Transducer Channel Setup window
The eDAQ must be powered and communicating with the support PC to use these display functions.

Between Test Runs

After a test has been initialized and before and after each test run, use the Transducer Checks function to
check how the transducers are operating. This function is a command in the Prerun Options menu under
the Test Control menu.

During Test Runs

For monitoring a test and transducers during a test run, there are two commands in the TCE Test Control
menu and corresponding buttons in the TCE toolbar:

Get Test Status — Shows the status of the test and memory available in the eDAQ for data storage.

Run Time Display — Displays the output from transducers in a bar chart, strip chart, or a digital
(numeric) table.

Get Test Status

Overview
Use TCE’s Get Test Status function any time the eDAQ is powered up and connected to the support PC.
The function opens the FCS Test Status dialog box (Figure 10-1), which shows the status of the test
currently set up in the eDAQ, the setup and data file being used, and the space available in SRAM and the
PCMCIA drive within the eDAQ for storing data. The unit name for the eDAQ is inside square brackets in
the box title bar.

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Figure 10-1: Test Status Dialog Box

To open this dialog box, do either of these actions:
• Select Get Test Status in the Test Control menu

• Click on the Test Status button in the TCE toolbar

To close the dialog box, select OK.

Status Data Displayed

The FCS Test Status dialog box provides the following information on the current test, files being used, and
space available for data storage. If eDAQ FCS operating errors have occurred, they are also reported.
Test Run Status:
The three check boxes and run information in this group box indicate the status of the current test.
Test Initialized — An r or a indicates a test has been initialized on the eDAQ.
Run # or Next Run # = — If a test is running, its run number appears here. If no test is running, the run
number for the next test run appears here. If a test was initialized, but not yet run, 1 appears here.
Run Started — An r or a indicates a test is running.
Run Time = — If a test is running, the elapsed time since the start of the run is shown here.
Post Run Tasks — An r or a indicates a test run has been stopped, but a required post-run task has
not been completed.
FCS RAM Disk Files:
This group box shows the test setup and data files currently resident on the eDAQ RAM disk file system:
Setup = — Name of the test setup file being used. (That setup file can be uploaded to the support PC if
the test is not running.)
Data = — Name of the current test data file. (TCE opens the data file and writes the data file header
information when the test is initialized.)

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RAM Disk Memory Bytes (%):

Usage of the data storage space in RAM disk memory and the size of the SIF data file are shown in this
group box.
Total = — Total space available within the eDAQ’s RAM disk memory for storing data.
Unused = — Amount of unused space available in the RAM disk memory for subsequent data storage.
Data File = — Current size of the RAM disk memory component of the SIF file containing the test data.
PCMCIA Disk Memory Bytes (%):
Usage of the data storage space on the PCMCIA memory card and the size of the SIF data files are shown
in this group box.
Total = — Total amount of space available on the PCMCIA memory card for storing data and other files.
Unused = — Amount of unused space available on the PCMCIA memory card for subsequent data
storage.
Data File = — Current size of the PCMCIA disk memory component of the SIF data file.
To close this window, click OK.

Transducer Checks

Overview
The command Transducer Checks in Prerun Options submenu within the Test Control menu provides the
commands for running the TCE DVM and Scope displays and for doing calibration checks after a test has
been initialized. This command is available when a test has been initialized but is not running.

Transducer Checks Dialog Box

The command Transducer Checks opens the Initialized Transducer Check Options dialog box. The following
explains the items in it.

Figure 10-2: Transducer Checks Dialog Box

Transducer Channels — In this list box (a standard Windows multiple-select list box) are the transducer
channels defined for the initialized test. They are listed in the same order as in the Transducer
Channel Setup windows. Select the channel(s) to check.

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Options — Select one of the five different display options available:

Calibration Check — Run a calibration check. The defined calibration is the current transducer
calibration. It may differ in terms of the calibration intercept from the calibration defined at test
initialization time if the transducer re-zero option was used.
DVM Display — Run the TCE DVM display. (See DVM Display on page 110.)
Scope Display — Run the TCE Scope display. (See Scope Display on page 112.)
Spectrum Display — Run the TCE Cumulative Spectrum Analyzer display. (See Spectrum Analyzer
Display on page 118.)
Rezero Offset – TCE reports the difference (in engineering units) between the current transducer
calibration intercept and the intercept defined at test initialization time. This difference is the
cumulative sum of all re-zero offsets imposed since the test was initialized.
Select the Run button or press Enter to execute the option selected.
To close the dialog box, click Quit or press Esc.
The Help button brings up the TCE online Help System.

Signal Displays for Transducers

Transducer signals can be displayed before, or after, a transducer is calibrated. Output from an uncalibrated
transducer is displayed in signal units (volts for low-level transducers, counts for pulse counters, etc.).
Output from a calibrated transducer is initially displayed in the engineering units specified for the channel.
The one-channel DVM and Scope display have an option to display the output in signal units.
In running the DVM and Scope displays, the eDAQ FCS uses the sample rate and, where applicable, the
digital filtering specified for the particular transducer.
NOTE: Ensure the excitation circuitry and level is set up properly before displaying signals
from low-level transducers.
The following sections “DVM Display” and “Scope Display” provide more information about those displays.

DVM Display

Overview
The DVM (Digital Value Meter) Display shows the output from one or several transducer channels in a
digital (numeric) format, either in signal units or the engineering units for the channel(s). The transducer
signal is sampled continually. If the transducer is not calibrated, the reading is in signal units; if it is, the
reading is in the engineering units specified for the channel (the value can be displayed in signal units also).

Types of DVM Displays

Two DVM displays are available. The number of channels selected to display determines the display that
appears.
DVM Display — Shows the output from one channel.

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Figure 10-3: DVM Display, One Channel

Group Transducer DVM Display — (Figure 10-4) Displays the outputs from up to 16 channels at the
same time.

Opening a DVM Display

The DVM displays can be opened in any of these ways:
• At the TCE Transducer Setup window, select the channel(s) to display; then select the DVM button.
(This method cannot be used after a test has been initialized.)

Figure 10-4: Group Transducer DVM Display

• In the Test Control menu, select Prerun Options and in its submenu, select Transducer Checks. At the
Transducer Checks dialog box, select the channel to display, select the DVM Display option, and select
Run.
• From the channel definition dialog box, select the DVM button (this displays just the single channel).
To close the display, select Off (in the upper-right corner) or press the Esc key.

Display Controls
The options provided in a DVM Display dialog box vary according to the type of transducer being checked.
Refer to the TCE Help System for explanations of the various DVM Display options.
Figure 10-5 shows the controls on a one-channel DVM Display for a low-level transducer as they appear
when the display is on hold (stopped) and the display units are in volts.

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Figure 10-5: Controls for One-Channel Analog/Strain DVM Display

To use any of the controls, put the display in Hold mode by selecting Hold (Opts) in the View Mode group
box, make the changes, and then select Scan in the View Mode group box to have the display run again. For
example, to change the display units from the engineering (Eng) units to volts, select Hold under View
Mode, select Volts in the Units group box, and then select Scan in the View Mode group box to restart the
display.
The only controls on the multi-channel DVM display are the Scan and Hold options and the Off button.
To close a DVM Display, click Off.

Scope Display
The Scope Display (Figure 10-6) is similar to an analog oscilloscope but with this major difference: the
Scope Display is not updated until all the data samples have been acquired by the eDAQ FCS and
transferred to the support PC; this delays display of the data.

Opening the Scope Display

The Scope Display can be opened in any of three ways:
• At the Transducer Setup window, move the highlight bar to the channel to view and select the Scope
button. (This method cannot be used after a test has been initialized.)
• In the Test Control menu, select Prerun Options, and in its submenu select Transducer Checks. Then,
at the Transducer Checks dialog box, select the channel to view, select the Scope Display option, and
select Run.
• From the channel definition dialog box, select the Scope button.
To exit the display, click Off (in the upper-right corner) or press Esc.

Figure 10-6: Scope Display

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Display Controls
The options for the Scope Display dialog box vary according to the transducer being checked. Refer to the
TCE Help System for explanations of the various Scope Display options. Figure 10-7 shows the controls
on a Scope Display for a low-level transducer as they appear when the display is on hold (stopped) and the
display units is in volts.
To use any of the controls, put the display in Hold mode (select Hold under View), make the changes you
want, and then select Scan under View to have the display run again.

Figure 10-7: Controls for One-Channel Analog/Strain Scope Display

To close a Scope Display, click Off or press Esc.

Display Preferences
The trace color, screen color, and three initial settings for Scope Displays can be changed. To do so, select
Scope and Spectrum Display in the TCE Preferences menu to open the Scope and Spectrum Preferences
dialog box.

Figure 10-8: Scope Preferences Dialog Box

The following are the preferences you can set:
Trace Color — Select the color for the signal trace.
Screen Color — Selects the background color for the display graph (black or white).
Initial Settings — These three check boxes determine how the data graph is displayed — select them as
desired:
Auto Scale Mode — The Y-axis of the plot graph is scaled automatically, based on the amplitude of
the input signal, so the trace fills the graph vertically. (The Spectrum display always uses this mode.)
Show Grid Lines — Displays grid lines in the plot graph.
Show Prerun Value — Start up with the Prerun Value shown (when applicable). This option does not
apply to the Spectrum display.
Click OK to save the changes and close the dialog box.

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Run Time Display

Overview
The Run Time Display (RTD) shows the raw signals from transducers and computed channels on a real-
time basis, thus giving you the means to see if the transducer and computed channels are functioning
properly. It is available only while a test is running.
Three display modes are provided: Bar Chart Plot, Strip Chart Plot, and Digital Readout. Any one of the
display modes can be selected as the default when the RTD is called. The default mode is set using the Run
Time Display Preferences dialog box (described under Display Preferences on page 115). The following
describes these display modes.
NOTE: The eDAQ keeps track of the minimum and maximum channel data values that
have occurred since the previous update of the Run Time Display. These are
referred to below as the latest minimum and maximum readings.
Bar Chart Plot
The Bar Chart plot (Figure 10-9) continuously shows the latest minimum and maximum readings for up
to 16 channels using solid horizontal bars.

Figure 10-9: Bar Chart Plot, Run Time Display (Partial display)
An arrow head points to the bar when the bar is very thin (such as with the channel Short_Beam in Figure
10-9). Overall minimum and maximum values recorded since the display was started or reset are shown as
a cross-hatched horizontal bar.

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Strip Chart Plot

The Strip Chart plot (Figure 10-10) shows the minimum and maximum readings for each channel as a
sequence of solid vertical bars (one pixel wide) along the X-axis. About 400 minimum/maximum samples
and up to four channels can be displayed at a time.

Figure 10-10: Strip Chart Plot, Run Time Display

NOTE: The X-axis of the strip chart display is not a linear time base.The
processing time required plus a built-in delay determines the display update period.
Actions such as changing the plot mode or placing the display in hold will change
the update period significantly. However, in steady-state operation, the X-axis is
usually a good approximation of a linear time base. In all cases, all channels are read
simultaneously and displayed at the same position on the X-axis.

Digital Readout
The Digital Readout display (Figure 10-11) continuously shows two sets of minimum and maximum
readings in a digital (numeric) format. Up to 16 channels can be displayed at one time. The Last Reading
columns show the latest values read. The Since Reset columns show the overall minimum and maximum
values encountered since the display was started. Selecting the Reset button restarts the tracking of
minimum and maximum values.

Figure 10-11: Digital Readout Mode, Run Time Display

Display Preferences
The Run Time Display Preferences dialog box (Figure 10-12, next page) is used to select the default
Display mode, Trace/Bar color, Screen color and Strip Chart Plot Mode.

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Figure 10-12: Run Time Display Preferences Dialog Box

To open the Run Time Display Preferences dialog box, select Run Time Display in the TCE Preferences
menu.
Any changes made to the Run Time Display Preferences will be used as the default when the run time
display is used during a test.
Display Mode — Selects the preferred display mode for use as the default when the run time display is
opened during a test.
Trace/Bar Color — Selects the color for the signal trace or bar.
Screen Color — Selects the background color (black or white).
Strip Chart Plot Mode — Select how the signal trace and plot is displayed as data is acquired. The three
modes differ in what happens when the signal trace reaches the right edge of the graph.
Normal — The signal trace starts again at the left side of the graph.
Scroll — The signal trace starts scrolling continuously to the left, at the rate at which data is being
received, with the current value at the right edge.
Mixed — The last (right) half of the signal trace moves to the left half of the graph, and the signal
trace continues from the middle of the graph.
Click OK to save these changes and close the dialog box.

Using the Display

The Run Time Display option can be used only while a test is running. Select either of the two following
methods to activate the Run Time Display during a test:
• Select Run Time Display in the Test Control menu

• Click on the Run Time Display button in the TCE toolbar

When the RTD starts, it automatically shows the data from the first set of channels listed in the Display
Channels list box in the Run Time Display Setup dialog box (Figure 10-13, next page). These channels are
determined based on the display mode: four channels for the Strip Chart mode and 16 for the Bar Chart
and Digital Readout modes. (The channels are in the same order as they are in the channel setup windows;
transducer channels are listed first, followed by computed channels.)

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For example, when using the Strip Chart mode, and when seven channels are selected from the Display
Channels list box, the first four channels are displayed in the RTD; but when the Bar Chart or Digital
Readout mode is used, all seven channels are displayed.
To display a different group of channels, click setup in the RTD. From the the Run Time Display Setup dialog
box, select the channel(s) to be displayed and the mode in which to display these channel(s). Click OK to
open the selected RTD.

Figure 10-13: Run Time Display Setup Dialog Box

To quit the RTD function, click Quit in any RTD.

Display Controls
The following controls are common to the display modes:
View — The default setting is Scan (display data continuously). To stop (pause) the display, select the Hold
option. The display will not update while in the hold condition. To restart it, select the Scan option.
Reset — Resets and restarts the display. Existing display data is cleared, and the minimum and maximum
values are reset to 0.
Quit — Closes the display.
For further explanations of other display mode controls, configuration options, and the run time display
algorithm, refer to the TCE Help System (click Help).

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Spectrum Analyzer Display

Overview
The Cumulative Spectrum Analyzer display (Figure 10-14) shows the frequency content of a transducer
signal. The display’s linear X-axis is scaled from 0 Hz to the Nyquist frequency (i.e. half the sample rate). The
log Y-axis is scaled automatically to cover up to six decades. The data points are the approximate sine
amplitude of the signal components at each frequency. The data point at 0 Hz is the DC level of the signal.

Figure 10-14: Spectrum Analyzer Display

Opening the Spectrum Display

The procedure for opening the Spectrum Analyzer Display depends on whether a test has been initialized
or not:
Before the test is initialized:
At the Transducer Channel Setup window select (highlight) the channel to display and then select the
Freq button.
After the test is initialized:
1. Open the Test Control menu, select Prerun Options, and select Transducer Checks.
2. At the Transducer Checks dialog box, select the channel to view, select the Spectrum
Display option, and select Run.
To exit the display, Click Off (in the upper-right corner) or press Esc.

Display Preferences
The display preferences are set at the Scope and Spectrum Preferences dialog box. See Display
Preferences on page 115 for a description of the dialog box.

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Display Controls
The options provided in the Spectrum Analyzer Display dialog box vary according to the type of signal
conditioner being used (low-level or high-level). Figure 10-15 shows the controls on a high-level Spectrum
Display, as they appear when the display is on hold (stopped) and the display units are engineering units.

Figure 10-15: Spectrum Display Controls

To use any of the controls, put the display in Hold mode by selecting Hold (Opts) in the View Mode group
box, make the changes, and then select Scan in the View Mode group box to run the display.
For information on these controls, refer to the TCE Help System (using the Help button provided).

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Appendix A - Cable Wiring

Cable Hardware

To eDAQ Other End

Cable Type Part No. Connector Connector

Digital I/O / Pulse Counter EDIO HDD-sub 44-Pin (M) Pigtails

Comm 1 (Ethernet 10baseT) 1 E-Ethernet Hub HDD-sub 26-Pin (M) RJ-45
Serial RS232 E-Ethernet X/O HDD-sub 26-Pin (M) RJ-45
D-sub 9-pin (F)
High Level Analog SAC-EHLB1 HDD-sub 62-Pin (M) Pigtails
High Level Analog w/ Veh Bus SAC-EHLB1/VB HDD-sub 62-Pin (M) Pigtails
Low Level Analog 2 SAC-SLXDUC-n[-V] 2 D-sub 37-Pin (M) Pigtails
Power / Remote Power EPWR15 D-sub 15-Pin (F) Pigtails

HD = High Density (M) = Male (F) = Female

1 Two different cables are available for Ethernet connection for the eDAQ. These are for either connection directly to
the computer (E-Ethernet X/O) or to an Ethernet Hub (E-Ethernet Hub). Both cables have a HDD-sub 26-Pin (M) for
connection to the eDAQ, a D-sub 9-pin (F) for connection to the comm port of a host computer, and an RJ-45 for
Ethernet connections. Only the wiring is different between the E-Ethernet X/O and E-Ethernet Hub.
2 The part number depends on the type of cables, the cable wiring option ordered (4-wire or 6-wire), voltage out or

no voltage out.

Wiring Standards
The following details the pin assignments at the plug connecting to the eDAQ.
Comm 1 — Ethernet (E-ETHERNET xxx)

RJ-45 Connector— E-ETHERNET X/O E-ETHERNET HUB

Function Pin Wire Color Wire Color

10baseT Receive + 3 White/Orange White/Green

10baseT Receive – 4 Orange Green
10baseT Transmit + 2 White/Green White/Orange
10baseT Transmit – 1 Green Orange

eDAQ 26-pin Plug PC 9-pin Plug

Function Pin Wire Color Pin Wire Color

CTS (CTS) 17 Yellow 7 Yellow

DCD (DCD) 10 Red 4 Red
DSR (DSR) 15 Violet 1 Violet
DTR (DTR) 13 Orange 6 Orange
Receive (RX) 11 Brown 3 Brown
Rcv Intrpt (RI) 18 Blue 9 Blue
RTS (RTS) 16 Green 8 Green
Transmit (TX) 12 Black 2 Black
Ground (Dgnd) 14 White 5 White

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Digital Input/Output/Pulse Counter Cable Set (EDIO)

Function Pin Wire Color Function Pin Wire Color

Pulse Counter Cable Digital I/O Cable

Clock 1 - Return 1 Black Port 1 - Return 23 Black
Clock 1 - Signal 2 White Port 1 - Signal 24 White
Clock 2 - Return 3 Green Port 2 - Return 25 Green
Clock 2 - Signal 4 Red Port 2 - Signal 26 Red
Clock 3 - Return 5 Blue Port 3 - Return 27 Blue
Clock 3 - Signal 6 Orange Port 3 - Signal 28 Orange
Clock 4 - Return 7 Red/Black Port 4 - Return 29 Red/Black
Clock 4 - Signal 8 White/Black Port 4 - Signal 30 White/Black
Clock 5 - Return 9 Green/Black Port 5 - Return 31 Green/Black
Clock 5 - Signal 10 Orange/Black Port 5 - Signal 32 Orange/Black
Clock 6 - Return 11 Black/White Port 6 - Return 33 Black/White
Clock 6 - Signal 12 Blue/Black Port 6 - Signal 34 Blue/Black
Clock 7 - Return 13 Green/White Port 7 - Return 35 Green/White
Clock 7 - Signal 14 Red/White Port 7 - Signal 36 Red/White
Clock 8 - Return 17 Blue/White Port 8 - Return 37 Orange/Red
Clock 8 - Signal 16 Orange/Red Port 8 - Signal 38 Blue/White
Port 9 - Return 39 White/Red
Port 9 - Signal 40 Black/Red
Port 10 - Return 41 Red/Green
Port 10 - Signal 42 Blue/Red

NOTE: When using the EDIO cable, the Function references the physical hardware connections.

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High-Level Analog Cable/Vehicle Bus Cable (SAC-EHLB1)

Function Pin Wire Color Function Pin Wire Color

+ Excitation 61 Red – Excitation 59 Black

Analog Gnd 40 White/Black/Red Analog Gnd 42 White/Red/Black
Analog 1 In 29 White Analog 1 Gnd 49 Green
Analog 2 In 8 Orange Analog 2 Gnd 7 Blue
Analog 3 In 31 Brown Analog 3 Gnd 51 Yellow
Analog 4 In 10 Violet Analog 4 Gnd 9 Grey
Analog 5 In 33 Pink Analog 5 Gnd 53 Tan
Analog 6 In 12 Red/Green Analog 6 Gnd 11 Red/Yellow
Analog 7 In 55 Red/Black Analog 7 Gnd 34 White/Black
Analog 8 In 35 White/Red Analog 8 Gnd 56 White/Green
Analog 9 In 14 White/Yellow Analog 9 Gnd 13 White/Blue
Analog 10 In 57 White/Brown Analog 10 Gnd 36 White/Orange
Analog 11 In 37 White/Grey Analog 11 Gnd 58 White/Violet
Analog 12 In 16 White/Red/Blue Analog 12 Gnd 15 White/Black/Green
Analog 13 In 39 White/Black/Yellow Analog 13 Gnd 60 White/Black/Blue
Analog 14 In 18 White/Black/Brown Analog 14 Gnd 17 White/Black/Orange
Analog 15 In 41 White/Black/Grey Analog 15 Gnd 62 White/Black/Violet
Analog 16 In 20 White/Black/Black Analog 16 Gnd 19 White/Red/Green

NOTE: When using the SAC–EHLB1 cable, the Function references the physical hardware
connections.

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Low-Level Analog Cable Set, 4-Wire Option

(SAC-SLXDUC-4 and SAC-SLXDUC-4-V)
Function Pin Wire Color Function Pin Wire Color

Voltage Out Cable (Not available on SAC-SLXDUC-4)

Ground 1 Shield Drain Voltage Out 3 2 Orange
Voltage Out 1 19 Brown Ground 3 3 White
Ground 1 18 Black Voltage Out 4 20 Yellow
Voltage Out 2 37 Red Ground 4 21 Blue
Ground 2 36 Green

Channel 1/5 Cable

+ Excitation 1 35 Red* + Signal 1 16 White
– Excitation 1 15 Black – Signal 1 33 Green*
Ground 1 17 Shield Drain

Channel 2/6 Cable

+ Excitation 2 13 Red* + Signal 2 31 White
– Excitation 2 30 Black – Signal 2 11 Green*
Ground 2 32 Shield Drain

Channel 3/7 Cable

+ Excitation 3 28 Red* + Signal 3 9 White
– Excitation 3 8 Black – Signal 3 26 Green*
Ground 3 10 Shield Drain

Channel 4/8 Cable

+ Excitation 4 6 Red* + Signal 4 24 White
– Excitation 4 23 Black – Signal 4 4 Green*
Ground 4 25 Shield Drain

NOTE: With a quarter bridge strain transducer, wire colors for + Excitation and – Signal
are reversed: + Excitation is Green, – Signal is Red. See Figure 5-1 in Chapter 5,
“Transducer Cables and Wiring .”

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Low-Level Analog Cable Set, 6-Wire Option

(SAC-SLXDUC-6 and SAC-SLXDUC-6-V)
Function Pin Wire Color Function Pin Wire Color

Voltage Out Cable (Not available on SAC-SLXDUC-6)

Ground 1 Shield Drain Voltage Out 3 2 Orange
Voltage Out 1 19 Brown Ground 3 3 White
Ground 1 18 Black Voltage Out 4 20 Yellow
Voltage Out 2 37 Red Ground 4 21 Blue
Ground 2 36 Green

Channel 1/5 Cable

+ Calibration 1 34 Blue + Signal 1 16 White
– Calibration 1 14 Brown – Signal 1 33 Green*
+ Excitation 1 35 Red* Ground 1 17 Shield Drain
– Excitation 1 15 Black

Channel 2/6 Cable

+ Calibration 2 12 Blue + Signal 2 31 White
– Calibration 2 29 Brown – Signal 2 11 Green*
+ Excitation 2 13 Red* Ground 2 32 Shield Drain
– Excitation 2 30 Black

Channel 3/7 Cable

+ Calibration 3 27 Blue + Signal 3 9 White
– Calibration 3 7 Brown – Signal 3 26 Green*
+ Excitation 3 28 Red* Ground 3 10 Shield Drain
– Excitation 3 8 Black

Channel 4/8 Cable

+ Calibration 4 5 Blue + Signal 4 24 White
– Calibration 4 22 Brown – Signal 4 4 Green*
+ Excitation 4 6 Red* Ground 4 25 Shield Drain
– Excitation 4 23 Black

NOTE: With a quarter bridge strain transducer, wire colors for + Excitation and – Signal
are reversed: + Excitation is Green, – Signal is Red. See Figure 5-4 in Chapter 5,
“Transducer Cables and Wiring .”

Power Cable (EPWR15)

Function Pin Wire Color

Gray Main Power Cable

+ Main Power (+PWR) 1 Red
Main Power Return (RET) 8 Black

Black Remote Control Cable

+ Remote Power (+PWR) 6 Red
Remote Power Return (RET) 14 Black

NOTE: Pin 3 is jumpered to Pin 4

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Appendix B - TCE Computed Channels

Listed below are the computed channels provided with SoMat TCE for eDAQ along with a brief description
of each channel. Five of the most commonly used channels are described in Chapter 8 of this guide. For
more information on the other computed channels, refer to the TCE online Help System.

Desk Calculator
[Chap. 8] Constructs data streams with either arithmetic results (floating point) or logical results (Boolean)
based on a mathematical expression or specified formula.

Discrete State Mapper

Maps the input channel into a discrete state output channel, based on a set of mapping conditions defined
in an ASCII file. Each mapping condition is defined in terms of a minimum input value, a maximum output
value, and the associated output state value.

Down Sampler
[Chap. 8] Simulates the input channel having a lower sample rate. Samples are extracted from the input
channel data at a rate determined by a user-specified decrement factor.

Elapsed Time – (Time Channel)

[Chap. 8] Provides a time base channel for use in other computed channels and/or can be stored in SoMat
Time History and Peak Valley Slice DataModes.

Engineering Scaler
Converts the data type in transducer or computed channels from integer to engineering floating point.

Interactive Trigger
Provides a means to trigger data modes and computed channels directly from TCE.

Integrator
[Chap. 8] Generates an output channel, which is the integral of the input channel. As long as the integrator
is not reset or suppressed, each output channel sample is the cumulative sum of the current and all
previous input channel samples multiplied by a user-defined scale factor and added to a user-defined initial
value.

Maximum Value Track

Generates an output channel tracking the maximum value for the input channel.

Minimum Value Track

Generates an output channel tracking the minimum value for the input channel.

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Pulse Counter
Measures pulse frequencies for inputs at relatively low pulse rates (i.e. 100 Hz or less). It is used primarily
in conjunction with digital inputs from the Bitwise Digital Input lines.

Range Track
Generates an output channel that tracks the maximum range for the input channel.

Smoothing Filter
Generates a smoothed representation of the input channel to an output channel without generating any
phase lead or lag. The filter is a simple “Box Car” filter where each output sample is the linear average of
the specified number of input samples.

Time Base Shifter

Generates an output channel either leading or lagging the selected input channel by a user-defined number
of samples.

Trigger Generator
Generates a trigger channel consisting of an (optional) Initial Delay Period followed by a repetitive cycle of
On periods (i.e. logical True) and Off periods (i.e. logical False). It is typically used as an elapsed time trigger
for SoMat DataModes or other computed channels that support triggering. For example, this computed
channel could be used to store 10 minutes of data for every hour of test time, beginning after the first
sample is taken.

Up Sampler
[Chap. 8] Simulates the input channel having a higher sample rate by repeating (echoing) each sample in the
input channel a certain number of times during the interval between the input samples.

Valid Gate Data

This computed channel is used to generate a logical channel data stream on a sample by sample basis. The
output sample is 1 (TRUE) if, and only if, the data samples for all input channels are marked as valid;
otherwise, the output sample is 0 (FALSE). This computed channel can be used independently or in
conjunction with other logical channels as a Gate trigger for data modes and will eliminate any data
samples marked as invalid.

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Appendix C - eDAQ Dimensions

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 eDAQ Manual — Appendix D

Appendix D - Ethernet Communications

Basics of Ethernet Communications
The following is a very brief and condensed description of how Ethernet communications work. This
example is based on a class C network connection between the eDAQ and the host computer.

What is a compatible address?

A compatible IP address is when both the host computer and eDAQ have the same network address, and a
unique address, or node.
In a class C network, the address is defined in the first three number groupings (seperated by decimal
points). The last number grouping is the actual address, or node, of the eDAQ or computer. From the IP
address of 192.168.100.100, the following information can be derived (The n indicates numbers not
pertaining to information for the definition.):
192.168.100.nnn = Defines the network for the eDAQ or computer
nnn.nnn.nnn.100 = Defines the address (node) of the eDAQ or computer
The subnet mask acts as a filter for the IP addressing, allowing the host computer and eDAQ to
communicate on the same network.
The IP address and subnet mask are added together using Boolean logic. The results for both the eDAQ
and host computer must match for communication to occur.
The following example illustrates a bitwise AND of the IP address (192.168.100.100) and subnet mask
(255.255.255.0) programmed into the eDAQ.

eDAQ Address
11000000. 10101000. 01100100. 01100100 192.168.100.100 eDAQ IP Address
11111111. 11111111. 11111111. 00000000 255.255.255.0 eDAQ subnet mask
11000000. 10101000. 01100100. 00000000 192.168.100.0 Anded eDAQ Address

The following completes the example by performing a bitwise AND of the IP address (192.168.100.90) and
subnet mask (255.255.255.0) of the host computer.
PC Address
11000000. 10101000. 01100100. 01011010 192.168.100.90 PC IP Address
11111111. 11111111. 11111111. 00000000 255.255.255.0 PC subnet mask
11000000. 10101000. 01100100. 00000000 192.168.100.0 Anded PC Address

The results from both the eDAQ and host computer produce the same bitwise AND between the IP
addresses and subnet masks. This allows communication between the eDAQ and host computer. Because of
the 0 in the fourth position of the subnet mask, any compatible address can be used at the host computer,
so long as the network addresses match.

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Communications via Ethernet

Overview
The following instructions are for configuring the eDAQ for Ethernet communications. These instructions
cover communications with a dedicated host computer or communications over a network.
Depending on the method of communication, follow the instructions in either Section 1 or Section 2.
Follow Section 3 to verify the communication settings are properly assigned to the eDAQ.

Section 1: Using the eDAQ in a network scenario

Before using the eDAQ in a network, the IP address and subnet mask must be changed to be compatible
with the network. This procedure may also be necessary if the privileges to change the IP address and
subnet mask on the host computer have been removed. Contact a Network Administrator and obtain the
IP address and subnet mask as the first step of this procedure.
Connect the eDAQ to the COM port of a host computer using the ESR9 cable. Use the fasteners to
prevent poor connections that could interrupt data flow.

Host computer preparation

Open a session of HyperTerminal on the host computer. In most cases, HyperTerminal can be found in the
Start menu under Programs → Accessories → Communications → HyperTerminal.
When prompted for a session name, enter “eDAQ” to distinguish this session from other sessions.
The next screen will prompt for the connection port of the host computer. Select either COM1 or COM2
depending on which the eDAQ is plugged into.
Next are the properties for the COM port. Use the following for the required entries:
Bits Per Second: 19200
Data Bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop Bits: 1
Flow Control: None
Once this dialog box has been completed, click OK. Once all of the connections have been made between
the eDAQ and the host computer and the HyperTerminal session has started, connect the power to the
eDAQ and power it up. The LED’s on the front will indicate the power-up status of the eDAQ as described
in Chapter 1.

HyperTerminal Communications between host computer and eDAQ

After powering up the eDAQ, the HyperTerminal session will begin. A listing of the power-up checks will be
listed as they are performed during this procedure.
NOTE: The eDAQ name and IP address will be listed in this grouping.
To change the eDAQ name and/or IP address, press Enter four times once the AT prompt is displayed at
the end of the power-up process. Type “setup” then press Enter when prompted for a login.

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Name Entry
The name of the eDAQ can be changed at the Set hostname prompt. The current name will be presented
inside the brackets. Change the name of the eDAQ by typing the new name and pressing ENTER. To retain
the current name, press ENTER.
NOTE: Although the hostname is not currently used by the TCE software, it is a way to
verify the physical eDAQ when using the Web Browser interface to change the IP
address, Subnet Mask and Gateway. This name must not be confused with the FCS
ID, which is set via the TCE FCS setup ID parameters option.

IP Address
The IP address of the eDAQ can be changed at the Set IP address prompt. The current IP address will be
presented inside the brackets. Change the IP address of the eDAQ by typing the new IP address and
pressing ENTER. To retain the current IP address, press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the IP address, use the format shown. The format of
192.168.100.100, where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper
format for the IP address. A prompt will be displayed if an error has been made in
the IP address, followed by a prompt allowing the correct address to be entered.

Subnet Mask
If communications with the eDAQ will be done via a network, the Subnet Mask will require changing. This
can be changed at the Set Netmask prompt. The current Subnet Mask will be presented inside the brackets.
Change the Subnet Mask by typing the new Subnet Mask and pressing ENTER. To retain the current Subnet
Mask, press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the Subnet Mask, use the format shown. The format of
255.255.255.0, where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper
format for the Subnet Mask. A prompt will be displayed if an error has been made
in the Subnet Mask, followed by a prompt allowing the correct Subnet Mask to be
entered.

Gateway
The next prompt will be Set Gateway. The current Gateway will be presented inside the brackets. If the
Gateway requires change, type the new gateway and press ENTER. To retain the current gateway, simply
press ENTER.
NOTE: When changing the Gateway, use the format shown. The format of 192.168.100.1,
where the groups are separated by decimal points, is the proper format for the
Gateway. A prompt will be displayed if an error has been made entering the
Gateway, followed by a prompt allowing the correct Gateway to be entered.
Once all of the information has been entered, a prompt with the new Name, IP address, Subnet Mask and
Gateway information will be displayed to confirm the changes. Following the “Confirm these new settings”
dialog, a y or n must be entered.
Typing y then ENTER will bring up the following dialog: Network settings successfully updated.
Reboot the eDAQ for the new settings to take effect.
Typing n then ENTER will bring bring up the following dialog: Network settings NOT updated.
When the changes are complete, power down the eDAQ and exit the HyperTerminal session.

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Disconnect the serial communications cable from the eDAQ and PC and reinstall the Ethernet cable.
After changing the IP Address of the eDAQ, the eDAQ-to-PC communications settings must be changed in
TCE, as explained by the following.
Continue on to Section 3: Checking Ethernet Communications.

Section 2: Using the eDAQ with a dedicated computer

To communicate with an eDAQ directly from a dedicated PC using an Ethernet connection, the IP address
and subnet mask of the eDAQ must be added (or changed) in the support PC’s operating system.
The following example assumes the eDAQ has been shipped with the default IP address of 192.168.100.100
and a Subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. If the eDAQ has been received with a different IP address and Subnet
mask, or if it has been changed by the end user, make sure to use the correct IP address and Subnet mask
during set-up. A tag with this information will be attached to all new eDAQs.
If a tag was not included with the eDAQ, or possibly the IP address or subnet mask is unknown, follow the
procedure in Section 1: Using the eDAQ in a network scenario. This will allow checking and changing the
current IP address and subnet mask programmed into the eDAQ.
Communication using Ethernet can not be performed without knowing the IP address and subnet mask
programmed into the eDAQ.
The IP address of the host computer can be found in the network options of your PC’s operating system.
In most cases, this can be found in the Start menu under Settings → Control Panel → Network. Select the
TCP/IP Properties from the Network window.
NOTE: For Windows 2000, select Settings → Network and Dialup Connections → Local
Area Connection. Click Properties then double-click the Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP).
Change both the IP Address and subnet mask of the support PC as follows: the IP address must have the
same network address (192.168.100.xxx) as the eDAQ to communicate. The node (last three digits) can be
anything (i.e. 110, 90, etc.), just as long as it is not the same as the eDAQ node of 100.
NOTE: DO NOT use the exact same IP address, as this will cause a conflict between the
support PC and eDAQ. However, the subnet mask must exactly match the subnet
mask of the eDAQ.
NOTE: If using Windows 2000, the IP address and subnet mask can be added to the
current listing of IP addresses and subnet masks under Local Area Connections by
clicking Advanced in the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window.
Once the IP address and subnet mask have been added (or changed), restart the PC if prompted to do so.

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Section 3: Checking Ethernet Communications

When using the eDAQ on a network, use the E-Ethernet Hub cable to connect the eDAQ to the Ethernet
hub. When using the eDAQ directly with a host computer, use the E-Ethernet X/O cable to connect the
eDAQ to the host computer. Make sure the eDAQ is off when connecting the cables. DO NOT connect
the eDAQ during the boot process or while powered up.
Power up the eDAQ after connecting it to the hub or host computer. Wait until the eDAQ has properly
booted (as described in Chapter 1) before continuing.
Once the eDAQ has fully powered-up, use Netscape or Internet Explorer to view the eDAQ by entering
the IP address http://192.168.100.100 in your browser address/location bar (or the IP address assigned
during the HyperTerminal session). A welcome page will appear when the connection is complete. This will
verify the communications have been properly set and all is working.

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Appendix E - eDAQ Web Interface

Overview
By using the Web Interface, various maintenance tasks can be performed quickly and easily, without the
need to connect the eDAQ to the computer via the RS232 cable. Although there are numerous items
available, the most frequently used items will be: Formatting of the PCMCIA card, Updating the Firmware,
and Changing the IP Address and Name of the eDAQ.

Using the Web Interface

To use the Web Interface, a connection must be made between the host computer and the eDAQ as
described in Chapter 2. Once the connection is complete, the eDAQ can be accessed using either
Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. Type the IP Address of the eDAQ into the Address Bar
as shown in Figure D-1. This will allow access to the main screen of the eDAQ. To access the complete
selection of options, click on the logo or on Click here to begin… near the bottom of the screen.

Figure D-1: Web Browser

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Formatting the PCMCIA Disk

Click System Setup from the bottom of the page. From the page that opens, locate the section PC Card
Slots. The options located in this section for the PCMCIA card are: Show PC Card Info, Show detailed PC
Card Info, Show PC Card resources used, Eject PC Card, and Initialize/Format ATA PC Card. The option
used most frequently will be the Initialize/Format option.

Figure D-2: PC Card Slot Selections

To format the PCMCIA card, make sure a PCMCIA card has been installed properly into the eDAQ. Click
Initialize/Format ATA PC Card. A window will then open with two options for formatting the card.
These options are Format with DOS VFAT filesystem, and Format with Linux ext2 filesystem.
Formatting the PCMCIA card to the Linux system will provide higher data throughput than DOS VFAT.
Formatting the PCMCIA card to DOS VFAT will allow a PC with a PCMCIA slot to read the data directly
from the PCMCIA card. After clicking the appropriate choice, a window will open, showing the progress of
the formatting procedure. Once the procedure is complete, simply return to the main screen by clicking
Top at the top of the page.

Figure D-3: Initialize/Format ATA PC Card

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NOTE: The eDAQ must be running the TCE software version 3.5.1 or greater to use the
Linux ext2 filesystem format.
The remaining options are self-explanatory, providing information regarding the PC Card.

Changing the IP Address and name

To update the IP address and name of the eDAQ, click System Setup from the bottom of the second
page. From the page that opens, click TCP/IP Setup located near the top of the page. A window will then
open with fields to enter the Hostname, IP Number (Address), Netmask, and Gateway. After
entering the information into the appropriate fields, click Reconfigure TCP/IP to change this information.
A final screen will open verifying the changes have been made (TCP/IP reconfigured successfully), and a
prompt to reboot the eDAQ to complete the changes (Changes will take effect on rebooting the eDAQ).
Rebooting the eDAQ is the final step in changing the IP Address and name of the eDAQ.
To exit without making changes to the eDAQ configuration, click Cancel.

Figure D-4: System Configuration Selections

Figure D-5: TCP/IP Setup Configuration

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Updating the Firmware

The Web Interface is also used to update the Firmware of the eDAQ when new versions of TCE are been
posted on the SoMat Website. Once the TCE software has been downloaded and installed on the host
computer, use the Web Interface to access the eDAQ.
To begin the Firmware update, click System Setup from the bottom of the second page. From the page
that opens, click Upgrade eDAQ MSMPB Flash ROM located near the top of the page.
The next page that opens is used to select the .mpb file used for the upgrade. Click Browse… to locate
the .mpb file specific to the version of TCE. This file should be located in the folder where the current
version TCE is installed.
NOTE: If there is any possibility of an interruption in network communications, or if this is
the first attempt to upgrade a specific eDAQ, make sure Just Testing… has been
selected. If any problems occur during the upgrade, no damage will come to the
firmware when Just Testing… has been selected. If any failures occur during the
upgrade when Really Write FLASH is selected, the eDAQ firmware will be
corrupted and must be returned to SoMat to be reinstalled by a qualified SoMat
Technician.
After locating the .mpb files and choosing either Just Testing… or Really Write FLASH, begin the
upgrade by clicking Go!.

Figure D-6: Upgrade eDAQ MSMPB Flash ROM

A series of dialogs to indicate the progress of the upgrade will be displayed. At the end, a prompt will be
displayed to reboot the eDAQ to finalize the upgrade.
Cycle the power on the eDAQ once the upgrade is complete. Use the Web Interface to access the eDAQ.
At the bottom of every page will be the version of the Firmware installed on the eDAQ (if using versions
3.41 or greater). Use this to verify the current version of firmware, and that the upgrade was completed
successfully.

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