Practical Interfacing in the Laboratory
Using a PC for Instrumentation, Data Analysis and Control

How to interface a PC to sense, analyze and display experimental results in the laboratory.

Stephen E. Derenzo (Author)

9780521815277, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 29 May 2003

628 pages, 370 b/w illus. 54 tables
25.6 x 18 x 3.4 cm, 1.43 kg

'… having copies in both the library and the laboratory is highly recommended.' IEE Review

This text describes in practical terms how to use a desk-top computer to monitor and control laboratory experiments. The author clearly explains how to design electronic circuits and write computer programs to sense, analyse and display real-world quantities, including displacement, temperature, force, sound, light, and biomedical potentials. The book includes numerous laboratory exercises and appendices that provide practical information on microcomputer architecture and interfacing, including complete circuit diagrams and component lists. Topics include analog amplification and signal processing, digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion, electronic sensors and actuators, digital and analog interfacing circuits, and programming. Only a very basic knowledge of electronics is assumed, making it ideal for college-level laboratory courses and for practising engineers and scientists.

Preface
1. Digital tools
2. Analog tools
3. Analog-digital conversion and sampling
4. Sensors and actuators
5. Data analysis and control
Appendix A. Grounding and shielding
Appendix B. Experimental uncertainties
Appendix C. C programming hints
Appendix D. Numerical methods and C functions
Appendix E. Summary of data translation DT3010 PCI plug-in board
Appendix F. Using the digital oscilloscope to record waveforms
Appendix G. Electrical hazards and safety
Appendix H. Standard resistor and capacitor values
Appendix I. Ascii character codes
Appendix J. Glossary
Index.

Subject Areas: Electronics engineering [TJF]