K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

Unit -III Data Acquisition System

Course Outcome: Interpret the characteristics of measuring instrument.

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3.1 Signal conditioning: Need, types of signal conditioning (block diagram of AC and
DC signal conditioners)
3.2 Filter, isolator, amplifier and converter as a signal conditioner (only function)
3.3 Data Acquisition Systems (DAS): Need, types (single channel, multi-channel and
computer based)
3.4 Comparison of types of DAS
3.5 Data loggers: Concept and applications
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3.1 Signal conditioning: Need, types of signal conditioning (block diagram of AC and
DC signal
conditioners)
Signal conditioning circuit in an electronic circuit That manipulates it signal in a way that
prepares If for the next stage of processing gernally signal conditioning circuit taken analog
signal takes by first stage of sensing section, manipulates and send It to the ADC sub system
for further digitization. Signal conditioning circuit is always developed or designed using
electrical isolator, filters, amplifiers, sensors of right choice. In linear operation, such as,
amplification, attenuation integration, differentiation, addition & subs traction, I Signal
conditions conditioning Circuits are used. For Non-linear operation such as modulation, de-
module sampling, camping, Ac signal conditioning There are two types of signal
conditioning circuit,

⚫ DC signal conditioning circuit

⚫ AC Signal conditioning circuit

3.2 Function of important building block of signal conditioning circuit .

3.2.1 The Function of Isolators (in signal Conditioning circuit):-

1. Protecting device.
2. Ensure accurate date signal.
3. If Eliminates ground 2000.

3.2.2. Function of Amplifier in Signal conditioning circuit :–

1. Amplifier increases the amplitude (of voltage or current) of an incoming signal and

2. make a stabilised output, as per the necessity of next stage

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

3.2.3. Function of filter In signal conditioning circuit

Filter is a circuit which process the signal in such a way that, either in suppressed
unwanted signal components or identify it from the signal. And then, remove it from the
main signal, There are low pass filter, and high pass filter. Band pass filter or Band reject
filter.

1. Low pass filter:- It passes (allows) low frequencies and rejects high frequency
2. High pass filter:- It passes (allows) high frequencies and rejects low Frequencies.
3. Band pass filter: – It allows certain band frequencies and rejects other frequencies.
4. Band Reject filter: - It rejects the certain band frequencies and allows other
frequencies.

3.3 Data Acquisition System (DAS) :-

A data acquisition system is used for acquiring, storing, visualizing, and processing
data. This involves collecting the information required to understand electrical or physical
phenomena. Data acquisition systems are principally in the business of measuring physical
phenomena such as: Temperature, Voltage, Current, Strain and Pressure, Shock and
Vibration, Distance and Displacement, RPM, Angle, and Discrete Events, Weight.

Data acquisition is related to the process of collecting input data in digital form as
necessary. DAS is an assembly of various, devices and circuits.It consists of primary sensors,
secondary transducer along with signal conditioning, multiplexing, data conversion data
handling circuits The primary purpose of DAS is systematic, rapid and accurate collection of
data from various location, their subsequent recording and storage .

Importance of Data Acquisition Systems

Data acquisition systems hold significant importance across various fields and industries for
several reasons:

⚫ Accurate Data Collection: The precise and consistent gathering of data from various
sensors and sources is facilitated, resulting in reduced potential for human error and
ensuring the integrity of the collected information.
⚫ Real-Time Monitoring: Systems that acquire data provide real-time insights into
processes. This enables prompt responses to changing conditions, leading to improved
safety and enhanced operational efficiency.

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

This DAS is broadly classified as:-

1. Single Channel DAS and

2. Multichannel DAS

3.3.1 Single channel DAS:-

Figure1: Block diagram of Single channel DAS

Figure 2: Components of DAS

⚫ A single channel input is provided to the electrical Transducer, to convert the received
signal into electrical signal.
⚫ An Electronic transmitter converts it into transmitting format i.e converts the signal
into 4-20 mA.
⚫ In this case, Signal Conditioning circuit is used to remove unwanted signal and
amplify the signal.
⚫ This appropriate signal is applied to analog to digital convertor (ADC) converts
analog signal to Digital signal.
⚫ The Buffer stored the converted digital signal and then provides it to the output device

Saroj Ruturaj Desai, lecturer, Automation and Robotics 3

K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

3.3.2 Multiple channel DAS :-

Figure 3: Multichannel DAS

⚫ As showed in Figure 3, in Multiple channel DAS, number of sensors , are connected

with various process parameters at a time.

⚫ These sensors produce respective electrical output and apply to the electronic
transmitters and signal conditioning ckt, where signal is connected to appropriate 4-
20mA signal and send to the multiplexer.

⚫ Each signal generated from transmitter section is applied as channel signal of

multiplexer. By multiplexing techniques, each channel data is processed to next
operation.

⚫ The output of multiplexer is given to ADC, via sample and told circuit.Sample and
Hold circuit is used to store one signal, while other signal is processed by ADC.

⚫ This will speed up the conversion and increases overall efficiency of the DAS.

3.3.3 Applications of Data Acquisition System

⚫ Improving the efficiency and quality control of manufacturing processes by gathering
real time data from sensors.

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

⚫ Monitoring air quality and water pollution levels to safeguard health and comply with
regulations.

⚫ Collecting data from scientific fields to support analysis and hypothesis testing.

⚫ In hospitals, it is crucial to constantly monitor the vital signs and patient data to
ensure timely medical interventions.

⚫ Assessing vehicle performance, safety, and emissions during research and

development.

⚫ During aircraft and spacecraft testing, the collection of data is crucial to ensure both
safety and optimal performance.

⚫ Monitoring energy consumption in buildings and industries to optimize resource

usage.

⚫ Evaluating the condition of infrastructure like bridges and buildings for safety and
maintenance.

⚫ Tracking vehicle locations, speed, and condition for logistics and safety.

⚫ Ensuring the stability and reliability of electricity generation, distribution, and

consumption is crucial for grid management.

3.3.4 Advantages of Data Acquisition Systems

• In situations where accuracy is of utmost importance, data acquisition systems prove
to possess remarkable precision. These systems are capable of providing measurements
that are exceedingly exact, making them suitable for circumstances that require high
levels of accuracy.
• Real-time monitoring systems allow for the collection and monitoring of data in re-
al-time. This enables quick identification of anomalies and facilitates prompt decision-
making.
• Versatility: Data collection systems have the remarkable ability to be applied in a
wide array of tasks. From scientific research endeavors to industrial process control
operations, these systems demonstrate their adaptability and compatibility with an
extensive range of sensors.
• Data storage often comprises tools for capturing and storing data, enabling users to
reference previous data and observe patterns over time.

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

3.3.5 Disadvantages of Data Acquisition Systems

• Setting up a data acquisition system can be quite expensive as it requires the
purchase of specialized hardware and software. The overall cost can be substantial due
to these necessary components.
• These systems can be difficult to set up and maintain, requiring expertise in both
hardware and software components. The configuration and maintenance processes are
complex due to their intricate nature.
• Compatibility issues arise when ensuring the smooth integration of different sensors
and equipment, posing a potential challenge.
• Data security becomes a concern when sensitive information is stored in these
systems without implementing proper cybersecurity measures to mitigate potential
risks.
• Maintenance requirements are an essential component to ensure optimal system
operation, but they can increase the overall cost and effort of implementation.

3.4 Comparison of Types of DAS

Sr.No Single channel DAS Multichannel DAS

1. A single channel DAS system can A multichannel DAS system can process
only process input from one sensor at input from multiple sensors at once.
a time.
2. It's usually made up of a signal It's made up of a signal chain subsystem
conditioner and an analog to digital that's connected to multiple inputs,
(A/D) converter. usually different sensors.
3. It can only measure and digitize data A multichannel DAQ can use a
from one sensor input channel at a multiplexer to apply individual analog
time. signals to the ADC, which then converts
them to digital signals. The multiplexer
can be set to automatically seek the next
channel to convert while the previous
data is being converted.
4 The systems are suitable for multi-sensor applications require higher
educational/experimental purposes channel count DAQ devices or add-on
expansion modules. In actual process

5 It is simple in construction and It is complex in construction and due

available at low cost more number of devices connected
together its cost is more.

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

3.5 Data logger system:-

Figure 4: Block Diagram of Data Logger

⚫ The Basic blocks of Data logger systems are, input scanners, signal conditioning circuit,
ADC, Recording device and Programmer.

⚫ Various inputs are applied to the data logger System by means of channel. Thus, there
are 8 channels, 16 channels data logger systems available, there are selected sequentially
by the input scanner, one by one. Thus, Input scanner is an automatic sequence switch
which selects each signal, turn by turn.

⚫ Input signals are conditioned for amplification, linearisation, etc. by signal conditioning
circuit.

⚫ These signals are converted into digital form by ADC.

⚫ The digital data along with its appropriate channel number Is recorded on a suitable
recorder.

⚫ The Real Time Clock controls all the logging function as per Real time.

⚫ Programmer gets start command from the clock and sequentially operates, the different
blocks data logger.

⚫ Programmer controls the sequence of operations of various input of the data logger.
Programmer tells scanner, when to step the new channel and gives commands to
converter and recorder, so that real time date get logger in the recorder device.

References:

[1] https://www.slideshare.net/sumeetpatel21/data-acquisitionsystem-40835631

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K-Scheme MEASUREMENTS & AUTOMATION BASICS (313330) 2024

[2] https://www.slideshare.net/amoldude/data-acquisition-system33836067

[3] https://www.slideshare.net/dilip2993/data-logger-84441106

[4]Electronic Instrumentation by K.S.Kalsi, TMH Publication

[5]Electronic Measurements by U.A.Bakshi and V.U. Bakshi Technical Publication

[6]Instrumentation Measurement and Analysis by Nakara Choudhary(TMH)

[7] A Course in Electrical and Electronics Measurements and Instrumentation by AK

Sawhney, Dhanpat Rai Publication

Assignment:

a. State the need of amplifier in signal conditioning circuit

b. List the types of signal conditioning circuit
c. Explain the block diagram of single channel Data Acquisition system.
d. Explain the block diagram of the DC signal conditioning circuit.
e. i) Write the function of Data Logger. ii)Give any two applications of Data Logger.
f. Explain the function of following with respect to signal conditioning circuit:
i) amplifier, ii) isolator, iii) filter

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