Model RS-DAQ Instrument Controller
User Manual
Version 1.0
C&L Instruments, Inc.
314 Scout Lane
Hummelstown, PA 17036
Phone: 717-566-3642
Fax: 717-566-3643
E-mail: support@fluorescence.com
Web site: http://www.fluorescence.com
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Overview..............................................................................................................................2
Chapter 2: Setup....................................................................................................................................3
Cable Connections.............................................................................................................................................. 3
Chapter 3: Using the Controller...........................................................................................................4
Overview............................................................................................................................................................4
Power on considerations..................................................................................................................................... 4
Filter Wheels ......................................................................................................................................................4
Filter Wheel Type .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Filter Wheels Modes and Data Acquisition Modes .......................................................................................5
Spin Mode...................................................................................................................................................... 5
Fixed Mode.................................................................................................................................................... 5
Mixed Mode...................................................................................................................................................5
Shutters............................................................................................................................................................... 6
Monitor Output................................................................................................................................................... 6
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller.............................................................................................7
Overview............................................................................................................................................................7
Switching between Panel Control and RS-232 Control Modes.......................................................................... 7
Programming using the Keypad.........................................................................................................................7
Toggling between filter wheel and neutral density positions....................................................................... 12
Using the TTL trigger Input.............................................................................................................................13
Manual Shutter Control.................................................................................................................................... 13
Programming using the RS-232 Interface........................................................................................................13
Control Language and Syntax..................................................................................................................... 13
Acquisition of Fluorescence Data.....................................................................................................................18
Acquisition of Analog Data.............................................................................................................................. 18
Chapter 5: Maintenance and Service.................................................................................................19
System Controller............................................................................................................................................. 19
Power supply.................................................................................................................................................... 19
Service.............................................................................................................................................................. 19
Chapter 6: Agreement, License and Warranty.................................................................................20
Agreement and License.................................................................................................................................... 20
Definitions:..................................................................................................................................................20
Copyright notice..........................................................................................................................................20
Term............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Limited Warranty.............................................................................................................................................21
Limitation of remedies.................................................................................................................................21
United States Federal Government Restricted Rights .................................................................................22
General........................................................................................................................................................ 22
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 1
Chapter 1: Overview
Chapter 1: Overview
Thank you for purchasing the C&L Instruments Model RS-DAQ Instrument Controller.
This controller not only provides microprocessor based control for the C&L Instruments
Dye Fluorometer system and components, but it can also function as a complete
fluorescence and analog data acquisition system.
The Controller can be programmed either by the front panel keypad or by ASCII
commands through the RS-232 port. The unit includes a BNC input for photon counting
photomultiplier tubes having TTL output signals (20 nsec minimum pulse width) and
auxiliary BNC inputs for 8 channels of A/D conversion, 0-5VDC.
Please follow the instructions provided in this manual. Proper care of the RS-DAQ will
insure peak-performance throughout the life of the instrument.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 2
Chapter 2: Setup
Chapter 2: Setup
Cable Connections
There are 9 types of electrical connections to the Model RS-DAQ Controller. The cables
you use will depend upon your system configuration. These are:
1. A power cord from the desktop power supply.
2. A female DB-15 for control of the excitation (illuminator) filter wheel.
3. A female DB-15 for control of the neutral density (illuminator) wheel.
4. A female DB-15 for control of the emission (detector) filter wheel.
5. A female DB-9 for the Monitor output.
6. A female DB-9 for RS-232 communication.
7. A BNC input for TTL signals from the detector photomultiplier.
8. A BNC input for TTL trigger signals to toggle filter wheel filter changes.
9. Eight BNC connectors for input for auxiliary Analog Data input.
Attach the supplied power cable to the connector located on the end of the desktop power
supply. The power supply is of universal type, and should operate from 95-250 VAC and
47-63 Hz. The power supply is supplied with a power cord for operation in either North
America or Europe. In the event that the supplied power cord is incompatible with your
electric utility, you may have to obtain either an adapter or a power cord locally. The
power entry module is a standard IEC type. Attach the low voltage connector to the power
input of the RS-DAQ Controller. This connector is located on the right side of the
controller.
The 15 pin connectors used with the RS-DAQ controller will depend upon your system
configuration. Attach one end of one of the supplied 15 pin molded cables to the
connector located on the back panel of the Instrument Controller labeled EXCITATION.
The other end is attached to a similarly labeled connector on the Model S48D Illuminator.
Attach a second supplied 15 pin molded cable to the connectors marked NEUTRAL
DENSITY on the Illumination Source and the RS-DAQ Controller in a similar fashion. If
your application includes a detector, attach another 15 pin molded cable to the Detector
module and the connector labeled EMISSION on the RS-DAQ Controller.
If your application includes analog inputs, attach BNC cables to the auxiliary inputs on the
RS-DAQ. Input voltages should be restricted to the range of 0-5 VDC.
TTL inputs are provided to trigger filter wheel changes by the RS-DAQ Controller and to
collect data from TTL-output photon counting systems.
The Model RS-DAQ can be used with several illumination and detection components
offered by C&L Instruments. For more information about the RS-DAQ Controller that is
not contained in this manual, please contact C&L Instruments or visit our web site.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 3
Chapter 3: Using the Controller
Chapter 3: Using the Controller
Overview
The Model RS-DAQ Controller is designed to operate the Model S48D Illuminator and
the Model D48 Detector and other hardware devices manufactured by C&L Instruments.
The Illumination source contains an arc lamp assembly, a filter wheel and a neutral
density wheel, motor controllers, a shutter and power supplies. The Detector contains a
filter wheel, motor controller, shutter, power supply and a photon counting
photomultiplier (PMT). The filter wheels are used for wavelength selection and the
neutral density wheel is used to attenuate the light intensity of the illuminator output. The
reader is referred to the manuals provided with the Illumination Source and Detector for
more information about the operation of these instruments.
The RS-DAQ Controller also has complete data acquisition capability. It can collect
photon count data from a photon-counting photomultiplier having a TTL output. It also
can collect analog data using eight separate analog input channels. The data is obtained
from the Controller using the supplied RS-232 interface. This manual describes the
general operation of the RS-DAQ Controller and how it is programmed. To use the RSDAQ as a data acquisition system, contact C&L Instruments to obtain the appropriate
software.
Power on considerations
To use your RS-DAQ Controller safely and as a component of other equipment from C&L
Instruments, a specific sequence should be followed when turning the equipment on and
off. Please follow these steps:
1. Always turn the Illumination System on
any other components. This is a good practice to follow if C&L Instruments, or any
other manufacturer supplies other equipment you plan to use with the Controller. It is
unlikely, but it is possible that the initial illumination of an arc lamp assembly can
damage other components due to electromagnetic discharge.
2. After igniting the arc lamp assembly, all other components can be turned on. The
power switch on the RS-DAQ is located on the right side of the unit.
3. If you are using a computer with your RS-DAQ, it should be turned on last.
before
turning on the Controller, computer or
Filter Wheels
Filter Wheel Type
The Illuminators and Detector manufactured by C&L Instruments utilize filter wheels for
wavelength selection. Your fluorometer may be configured with either one or two filter
wheels. The complete C&L Instruments Dye Fluorometer uses two filter wheels to select
the excitation and emission wavelengths. One is in the excitation path and one is in the
emission path. Depending on the particular type(s) of filter wheels purchased with your
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 4
Chapter 3: Using the Controller
instrument, the filter wheels can contain either four 1-inch diameter filters or eight ½-inch
filters.
Filter Wheels Modes and Data Acquisition Modes
The RS-DAQ Controller allows the user to control the operation of an excitation filter
wheel, an emission filter wheel and a Neutral Density (ND) wheel. The features for each
of the wheels can be controlled separately. Both the excitation and emission filter wheels
can be operated in three different operation modes: Spin, Fixed and Mixed.
When used with accessory data acquisition software provided by C&L Instruments, data
can be acquired with RS-DAQ Controller when the excitation and emission filter wheels
are operated in these three operation modes, as described more detail below (i.e., Fixed,
Spin and Mixed). Although the setting for each filter wheel can be specified separately,
the user can select from 5 data acquisition modes when used in combination. These are
Fixed-Fixed, Spin-Spin, Spin-Fixed, Fixed-Spin and Mixed-Mixed. For further details
about data acquisition with the RS-DAQ Controller, the reader is referred to the software
manuals provided by C&L Instruments.
Spin Mode
In Spin Mode, the filter wheel revolves at a constant velocity. In this mode, the period of
time in which the sample is exposed to a specific wavelength of light is determined by the
speed of revolution. This period of time is referred to as either the
aperture time
. The exposure of the sample to specific excitation wavelengths and the
sampling time
or the
measurement of light emission from the sample are in a constant ordered sequence,
determined by the placement of the individual filters in the filter wheels.
Fixed Mode
In Fixed Mode, the filter wheel is held in a stationary position, permitting light to pass
through one position in the filter wheel. Both filter wheels can be placed in the Fixed
mode for measurement of fluorescence using a single excitation and emission wavelength
pair. Alternately, either the excitation filter wheel or the emission filter wheel can be
placed in the Fixed Mode while the other filter wheel is operated in the Spin Mode. This
setting would be used for either multiwavelength excitation with a single emission
wavelength or multiwavelength emission with a single excitation wavelength. When
either the excitation or emission wheel is operated in the Spin mode, the sampling time is
determined by the speed of revolution.
Mixed Mode
In the Mixed Mode, the excitation and emission filter wheels can each be programmed to
go to any filter position in any sequence. For instance, the excitation filter wheel can be
set to cycle through the filter sequence of 2,1,4 while the emission wheel cycles through
the filter sequence of 3,2,1. In this case, the excitation-emission pairs would be 2-3, 1-2,
and 4-1. The
dwell time
can be specified. The
dwell time
is the duration of time that the
filter wheels remain stationary in one position prior to moving to the next position
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 5
Chapter 3: Using the Controller
programmed in the sequence. This feature provides a programming ring, capable of up to
eight excitation wavelength pair combinations.
Shutters
The C&L Dye Fluorometer contains two shutters, one in the excitation path (within the
Model S48D Illumination Source) and one in the emission path (within the D48 Detection
Module). These shutters can be controlled with the RS-DAQ Controller using the front
panel switches or by download to the Controller using the RS-232 interface. With control
of these shutters, the user can specify that the sample be exposed only during active data
collection and that light be blocked when the filter wheel is repositioning during operation
in the Mixed Mode.
Monitor Output
The RS-DAQ Controller has a Monitor output located on the right side of the unit. This
output can be used to synchronize external events to the operation of the filter wheels.
When either the excitation or emission filter wheel is in the Spin mode, timing signals are
available on the Monitor output jack. This output is a set of TTL pulses indicating the
position of the spinning filter wheel.
When both of the filter wheels are in the Fixed or Mixed mode, these outputs are not
available.
The specifications for this output and further information about the use of this output can
be obtained by contacting C&L Instruments.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 6
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
Overview
The RS-DAQ Controller can be programmed in one of two ways. The unit can be
programmed using either the keypad located on the front panel or by an external computer
using the RS-232 serial interface. This chapter describes how these two methods can be
used to program the Controller.
Switching between Panel Control and RS-232 Control Modes
The RS-DAQ Controller will operate in either one of two programming modes. The
selection between these modes is made by the toggle switch located on the back of the
unit. The two modes are Panel Control mode and RS-232 Control mode.
On the front panel is a button labeled Reset. Pressing the Reset button will reset the
Controller and place the controller in the mode selected by the switch on the back panel.
To change between modes, change the state of the toggle switch on the back panel and
press the Reset button. Changing the state of the toggle switch will not take effect unless
the Reset button is depressed or the unit is powered off and then on. After the Reset
button is pressed, the LCD will display the operating mode of the Controller.
Programming using the Keypad
The keypad allows direct programming control of all functions of the RS-DAQ Controller
using the front panel. When the Controller is first powered on, the display will briefly
display the message:
C&L Instruments
Model RS-DAQ V1
After this message, the display will read either one of the following two prompts
depending on whether the Controller is in the Panel Control or RS-232 Control mode.
Panel Control
>>>Press ENT<<<
or
RS232 Control
>>>Accept COM<<<
To place the Controller in the Panel Control mode, press the Reset button. The LCD
display will indicate the mode of operation. If the Controller is in the RS-232 mode,
follow the instructions discussed above to switch control modes to Panel Control. RS-232
Control is discussed later in this chapter.
In the Panel Control mode, commands are entered using the keypad in menu form and you
are prompted for an appropriate input by the LCD display. Valid entries allow you
advance through the menu sequence. The keypad has the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 7
9
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
and 0, as well as the function keys
HELP
and
ENTER
.
UP ARROW, DOWN ARROW, 2ND, CLEAR
,
If you make a mistake when entering a selection, or if you desire to change a selection,
there are two correction methods. If the selection is one of several choices (multiple
choice), simply press the correct key before you press the
ENTER
key. This will
overwrite the previous selection. If the entry is a multi-digit entry (such as “dwell time”),
then you can delete the last digit entered by pressing the
Each press of the
UP ARROW
will delete one digit. You can then enter the correct
UP ARROW
on the keypad.
value. In many instances, only certain entries are valid and you will not be allowed to
enter invalid choices.
After the prompt of
Panel Control
>>>Press ENT<<<
press
ENTER
to start the programming sequence. The display will read:
ExFilters4/8:
This is the prompt to select the type of filter wheel installed in the excitation source (either
4 position or 8 position). The two valid entry choices are either 4 or 8. Invalid choices
are not allowed. Enter either 4 or 8 and then press
ENTER
.
You are next prompted to enter the offset value for the excitation.
ExOffset:
This is the mechanical offset for the excitation wheel. The value for this offset is fixed for
your particular excitation source and this value should be entered each time the unit is
programmed. Refer to the instructions that were supplied with your excitation source for
this value. A negative value is entered by pressing
Pressing
ENTER
without first keying in a value is equivalent to entering a value of 0.
prior to entering the value.
2ND
After the excitation offset has been entered, similar prompts are displayed for the emission
filter wheel, these are:
Em Filters4/8:
and
EmOffset:
After these values are entered, you are prompted for the offset value of the Neutral
Density wheel.
NdOffset:
Enter the value that was supplied with your excitation source.
You are next prompted to select the operating mode of the filter wheels, starting with the
excitation filter wheel.
1Spin 2Fix 3Mix
Sel EX:
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 8
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
The only valid entries are 1, 2 or 3. This entry determines the operating mode of the
excitation filter wheel. These modes are discussed in a previous section of this chapter.
If either Spin or Fix is selected, you are then prompted for the same selection for the
emission filter wheel.
1Spin 2Fix 3Mix
Sel EM:
If Mix is selected, however, then the Mixed mode is automatically selected for the
emission wheel. This selection is automatic since both the excitation and emission filter
wheels must both operate in the Mixed mode. Further details of the Mixed mode are
discussed below.
If the Spin or Fixed mode is selected for the excitation or emission filter wheel, the user is
prompted to enter the spin aperture time and the fixed wheel position. The prompts for
these entries are:
SpinApTime:
Fix ExFilter:
Fix EmFilter:
The user is prompted for the appropriate entry for the excitation wheel first, followed by
the entry for the emission wheel. The spin aperture time is the duration of time, in
milliseconds, that the filter wheel is in the light path while the filter wheel is spinning.
This speed also determines the rate of data collection when the RS-232 Controller is used
in conjunction with data acquisition software provided by C&L Instruments.
The valid entries for
Fix ExFilter:
and
Fix EmFilter:
can be either 1 to 4 or 1 to 8,
depending on the type of filter wheel (either 4 or 8 position) entered in response to the
earlier prompts. If the excitation and emission filter wheels are different types, then they
cannot be both programmed to spin simultaneously. For this reason, the user is
encouraged to use the same type of filter wheel (either 4 or 8 position) in both the
excitation and emission optics. If the spin mode is selected for both filter wheels after
different types of filter wheels have been entered, the following error message will be
displayed when the Controller attempts to initialize the hardware.
Diff ExEmFilter s
Press CLR
If valid choices of Fixed and Spin are entered for the excitation and emission wheels, the
user is then prompted to select the state of the Neutral Density wheel. This setting
determines the output intensity of the illumination source. This feature is designed for
when the Controller is used with the C&L Instruments Model S48D Illumination Source.
Fix NdPos:
Valid entries are between 1 and 100. An entry of 100 indicates full illumination (i.e.,
100%) and an entry of 1 indicates minimal illumination.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 9
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
After the filter wheel modes and the Neutral Density wheel are programmed, the user is
prompted to select the state of the excitation and emission shutters. These prompts are as
follows.
1 Close 2 Open
ExShutter:
and
1 Close 2 Open
EmShutter:
Select the initial state of the excitation and emission shutters. These commands work
together with the two toggle switches on the front panel that can also be used to control
the shutters. If the shutter is programmed to be closed (choice 1), then the state of the
shutter can also be controlled with the toggle switches on the front panel. If the shutter is
programmed to be initially open, the toggle switches on the front panel are disabled. In
other words, either the panel or the toggle switch can be used to open the shutter, but they
both have to be set to the closed position to close the shutter.
If the Mixed mode is selected, the programming sequence is slightly different from when
either the Spin or Fixed mode is selected.
To enter the Mixed mode, select Mixed when prompted for the mode of the excitation
filter wheel. After this selection, you are prompted to chose between either Internal or
External triggering for the signal used to change the position of the filter wheels.
1IntTri 2ExtTri
Sel:
If internal triggering is selected, you will be prompted for the dwell time of each filter
wheel position. The dwell time is the duration of time that the filter wheel is held in a
programmed stationary position before moving to the next programmed position. This is
discussed in further detail below.
If external triggering is selected, the filter wheel is repositioned to the next programmed
position only when an external TTL signal is received by the TTL input. External
triggering is discussed in more detail in a later section of this chapter.
After the choice between internal and external triggering has been made, the user is
prompted to select how many different positions will be used in the programming loop.
These positions are combinations of excitation, emission and neutral density positions that
are programmed to change in a continuous loop. For instance, the excitation filter
position 3 can be programmed to align with emission filter position 2 while using the
neutral density setting of 80. Another combination can be used and the two different
settings will loop continuously. Up to eight different settings can be programmed to
sequence in this loop fashion.
MixLoop Filters:
Sel:
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 10
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
Valid entries are between 1 and 8. The user is then prompted to enter all the excitation
positions followed by the emission positions. If two Mix Loop Filters are selected, the
prompts will be:
Mix1ExFilter:
Mix2ExFilter:
Mix1EmFilter:
Mix2EmFilter:
Valid entries are either 1 to 4 or 1 to 8, depending on the type of filter wheel programmed
in an earlier prompt. Two different types of filter wheels (i.e., 4-position and 8-position)
can be used in the Mixed mode. Invalid entries are ignored.
After the positions are programmed, the dwell time setting for each position is entered.
This prompt is only given when the Internal Triggering is selected. If two Mix Loop
Filters are selected, the prompts will be:
1Dwell Time:
2Dwell Time:
This is the duration of time in milliseconds that the filter wheel will be stationary before
moving to the next programmed position.
The user is then prompted for the position of the neutral density wheel. If two Mix Loop
Filters are selected, the prompts will be:
Mix1Nd Pos:
Mix2Nd Pos:
Valid entries are between 1 and 100. An entry of 100 indicates full illumination (i.e.,
100%) and an entry of 1 indicates minimal illumination.
The final setting to program the Controller to operate in the mixed mode is the state of the
excitation and emission shutters.
1 Close 2 Open
ExShutter:
and
1 Close 2 Open
EmShutter:
If closed is selected, the shutter will remain closed while the filter changes position. Once
in position, you can use the manual switches on the front panel to open the shutter and
reclose the shutter, if desired. If you select option 2 (open), the shutter will remain closed
while the filter changes position and will then open when the filter is in position. If the
shutter is programmed in the open position, you cannot override that selection with the
front panel shutter switches. In other words, either the panel or the toggle switch can be
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 11
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
used to open the shutter, but they both have to be set to the closed position to close the
shutter.
When you press
ENTER
after selecting a shutter position, the program begins to execute.
The display shows the filter positions and the operating mode. You can stop execution by
pressing the
CLEAR
completed. Pressing the
button. The program will not stop until after the current operation is
CLEAR
button a second time bring up a menu for the user to
chose one of three options.
1Cont 2Set 3Exit
Sel:
Selecting 1 (Continue) will place the Controller back into the last programmed settings.
Selecting 2 (Set) will reset the Controller to the prompts for selecting the control mode for
the filter wheels. Resetting the Controller in this manner will alleviate the user from
having to reprogram the type of filter wheels and the offset values. Selecting 3 (Exit) will
halt the system. After selecting Exit, the Controller must be reset using the Reset button
to resume programming and operation of the controller.
Toggling between filter wheel and neutral density positions
When the excitation wheel is set to the Fixed mode using the front panel control, it is
possible to toggle through all the filter wheel positions and neutral density settings using
the keypad. The front panel will display the current mode and filter wheel positions. For
instance, when the excitation and emission filters wheels are in the Fixed mode and are
both positioned at filter 2, the display will read as follows.
Control Mode:
Ex:Fix2 Em:Fix2
To toggle the excitation filter wheel, use the
The
UP ARROW
will increment the filter wheel position and the
UP ARROW
and
DOWN ARROW
DOWN ARROW
decrement the filter wheel position.
To change the setting of the neutral density wheel, press the
key. The display will
2ND
indicate the current setting of the neutral density wheel. For example, if the neutral
density wheel is set to 2, the display will read as follows after pressing the
2ND
key.
Control Mode: 02
Ex:Fix2 Em:Fix2
To toggle the neutral density setting, use the
The
UP ARROW
ARROW
will decrement the neutral density wheel setting.
will increment the neutral density wheel setting and the
UP ARROW
To return to option of toggling the excitation filter wheel position with the
and
DOWN ARROW
keys, press the
HELP
key.
and
DOWN ARROW
DOWN
UP ARROW
keys.
will
keys.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 12
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
Using the TTL trigger Input
In addition to using the keypad, an external TTL input can be used to trigger the
movement of the filter wheel(s) to the next programmed position when the Controller is in
the Mixed mode. The rising edge of the external TTL input will trigger the change of
filter wheel positions to the next position programmed into the Controller. Note that the
filter wheels require between 60 and 90 milliseconds to reposition after a trigger pulse is
received. Thus, it is best to wait at least 100 milliseconds between trigger pulses.
Manual Shutter Control
The C&L Dye Fluorometer contains two shutters, one in the excitation path (within the
Model S48D Illumination Source) and one in the emission path (within the Detection
Module). The shutter in the illumination source can be used to limit the exposure of the
sample to light. The shutter in the D48 Detector Module can be used to limit the
photomultiplier tube’s exposure to excessive light. If the RS-DAQ Controller is used in
the RS-232 mode with acquisition software provided by C&L Instruments, the shutters
can be controlled through software.
The shutters can also be controlled using the toggle switches located on the front panel of
the RS-DAQ Controller. The switches are labeled EX (for Excitation, i.e. the Illuminator)
and EM (for Emission, i.e. the Detector Module). The up position is closed, the down
position is open.
Programming using the RS-232 Interface
The RS-DAQ controller can be programmed with a computer using the provided RS-232
interface. A standard 9-pin DB-9 connector is supplied on the right side of the Controller
for this purpose. The serial interface is 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit. The data
transfer rate is 57600 baud. If a different baud rate is required, contact C&L Instruments.
If you wish to use the RS-232 capabilities of the Controller with your own software, you
may use these commands to control all the functions of the RS-DAQ Controller. You
may also purchase software from C&L Instruments.
Control Language and Syntax
Note:
1. All Commands start with a space before the command and end with a Carriage-Return.
2. All Commands are case sensitive.
3. The Serial Port's settings are:
Baud Rate: 57600
Data Bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop Bits: 1
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 13
There are 8 system routines, as follows:
InitializeSystem
ResetMotors
ShutDownSystem
WheelIndex
WheelFixed
WheelSpin
ModeWheelDance
ShutterControl
These routines have the following function:
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
InitializeSystem
:
Initializes the hardware
Example:
InitializeSystem()
ResetMotors
:
Software reset of motors
Example:
ResetMotor()
ShutDownSystem
:
Shuts down the hardware
Example:
ShutDownSystem()
WheelIndex:
Indexes the selected wheels.
Syntax: WheelIndex(wheels,ex_offset,em_offset,nd_offset)
wheels:
Wheels can be any of the following, to indicate a single wheel or multiple wheels:
Ex
Em
Nd
ExEm
ExNd
EmNd
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 14
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
ExEmNd
Xx_offset:
xx_offset sets the offset for the respective filter wheel. One unit of offset is equivalent
to 1 part in 2048 positions of revolution. Thus, an offset value of 256 is an offset
equivalent to 45 degrees of arc. Place dummy data into parameters that are not applicable.
Example:
WheelIndex(Ex,10,0,0) :this will index the excitation wheel
:Ex offset of 10
:Em offset dummy data
:Nd offset dummy data
WheelIndex(ExEmNd,1,-2,3) :this will index the excitation, emission, and neutral
density wheels
:Ex offset of 1
:Em offset of -2
:Nd offset of 3
WheelFixed
:
WheelFixed(wheels, Ex 4/8 Filters, Ex Filter Position, Em 4/8 Filters, Em Filter, Nd
Position).
This command moves the selected wheels to a filter position (Ex and Em) or position
(Nd)
Wheels can be any of the following:
Ex
Em
Nd
ExEm
ExNd
EmNd
ExEmNd
Ex 4/8 Filters selects the type of Ex filter wheel
Ex Filter Position selects the Ex filter to move to
Em 4/8 Filters selects the type of Em filter wheel
Em Filter Position selects the Em filter to move to
Nd Position selects the Nd position to move to
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 15
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
Place dummy data into parameters that are not applicable
Example:
WheelFixed(ExEmNd,8,1,4,2,0) :Ex wheel has 8 filters - move to filter 1
:Em wheel has 4 filters - move to filter 2
:move Nd to position 0
WheelFixed(Ex,8,2,0,0,0) :Ex wheel has 8 filters - move to filter 2
:Em dummy data
:Nd dummy data
WheelFixed(Nd,0,0,0,0,1024) :Ex dummy data
:Em dummy data
:move to Nd position 1024
WheelSpin
:
WheelSpin(wheels,number_of_filters,spin_aperture_millisec)
Spins the selected wheels at a constant aperture. Wheels can be any of the following:
Ex
Em
ExEm
number_of filters corresponds to the number of filters in the spin wheel
spin_aperture_millisec corresponds to the spin aperture given in milliseconds
Example:
WheelSpin(Ex,4,10) :spins the 4 filter Ex wheel at 10mSec aperture
WheelSpin(ExEm,8,10) :spins the 8 filter Ex wheel and em wheel at 10msec
aperture
ModeWheelDance
:
Synchronized movement of the filter wheels with a specific dwell time for each filter
position.
ModeWheelDance(ex_numberoffilters,em_numberoffilters,
filterpos1_ex,filterpos2_ex,filterpos3_ex,filterpos4_ex,
filterpos5_ex,filterpos6_ex,filterpos7_ex,filterpos8_ex,
filterpos1_em,filterpos2_em,filterpos3_em,filterpos4_em,
filterpos5_em,filterpos6_em,filterpos7_em,filterpos8_em,
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 16
pos1_nd,pos2_nd,pos3_nd,pos4_nd,pos5_nd,pos6_nd,pos7_nd,pos8_nd,
dwelltimepos1,dwelltimepos2,dwelltimepos3,dwelltimepos4,
dwelltimepos5,dwelltimepos6,dwelltimepos7,dwelltimepos8)
Passing Arguments:
ex_numberoffilters: number of filters in Ex wheel
em_numberoffilters: number of filters in Em wheel
filterposX_ex: position X Ex filter 1-4 for four filter wheel
filterposX_em: position X Em filter 1-4 for four filter wheel
posX_nd: position X Nd position
dwelltimeposX: position X dwelltime in seconds
Example:
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
position X Ex filter 1-8 for eight filter wheel
position X Em filter 1-8 for eight filter wheel
ModeWheelDance(8,4,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,1,2,3,4,1,2,3,4,100,200,300,400,500,600,700,80
0,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1)
: 8 filter Ex wheel, 4 filter Em wheel
pos Ex filter Em filter Nd filter dwell time
1 1 1 100 1
2 2 2 200 1
3 3 3 300 1
4 4 4 400 1
5 5 1 500 1
6 6 2 600 1
7 7 3 700 1
8 8 4 800 1
ModeWheelDance(8,4,1,8,0,0,0,0,0,0,1,2,0,0,0,0,0,0,100,200,0,0,0,0,0,0,2,3,0,0,0,0,0,
0)
: 8 filter ex wheel, 4 filter em wheel
pos Ex filter Em filter Nd filter dwell time
1 1 1 100 2
2 8 4 200 3
loop
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 17
Chapter 4: Programming the Controller
ShutterControl
ShutterControl(ex_open_notclose, em_open_notclose)
ShutterControl opens and closes the shutters.
Example:
:
Passing Arguments:
ex_open_notclose: 0 - close Ex shutter
1 - open Ex shutter
em_open_notclose: 0 - close Em shutter
1 - open Em shutter
ShutterControl(1,0) Open Ex Shutter, Close Em shutter
Acquisition of Fluorescence Data
The RS-DAQ Controller is capable of acquiring fluorescence data. TTL counts from a
photon-counting photomultiplier is input into the controller using the BNC connector
labeled
nanoseconds. The Controller contains eight separate 16-bit pulse counters.
PMT Input
located on the left side panel. The minimum pulse width must be 20
Data from the pulse counters can be transferred to a host computer using the RS-232
interface. When used with accessory data acquisition software provided by C&L
Instruments, fluorescence “counts” supplied to this input can be acquired with RS-DAQ
Controller. For further information about using this feature with your own software,
contact C&L Instruments.
Acquisition of Analog Data
Along with the acquisition of fluorescence data, the C&L Dye Fluorometer is able to
monitor and record external events through acquisition of analog data. Inputs are
provided for acquisition of up to eight analog channels. Data can be acquired within an
input range between 0 and 5 Volts. The Model RS-DAQ Controller is equipped with a 10
bit analog-to-digital converter, providing a resolution of 4.9 mVolt. This feature gives the
user the ability to record events that may be occurring simultaneously with the recording
of fluorescence data. This may include, but is not limited to, the recording of data from
patch clamp instruments, flow meters, and other sensors.
When used with accessory data acquisition software provided by C&L Instruments,
analog data supplied to these inputs data can be acquired with RS-DAQ Controller. For
further information about using this feature with your own software, contact C&L
Instruments.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 18
Chapter 5: Maintenance and Service
Chapter 5: Maintenance and Service
System Controller
The Controller itself has no maintenance requirements.
Power supply
The 5Volt power supply is a universal input desktop supply and does not require service
or maintenance. It is designed for use in controlled office environments only: Ambient
temperature 40°C (max), relative humidity 85% (max). The power plug type is outside
neutral, inside hot. Do not use any other type of power supply. The power supply requires
an external ground. The line cord supplied includes the ground wire connection. Do not
attempt to defeat this feature. If you need to replace the cord (for example if you need a
European style cord), use a suitable type with a ground wire connection.
Service
If you believe your RS-DAQ requires service, contact C&L Instruments to discuss the
return of the Controller. C&L Instruments will provide shipping instructions and a return
authorization RMA number. Units must be shipped prepaid to C&L Instruments. Units
returned to C&L Instruments without prior authorization and an RMA number will be
returned unopened.
If you purchased your RS-DAQ Controller from a Distributor and not directly from C&L
Instruments, contact the Distributor to arrange for service.
You can contact C&L Instruments by telephone or email (support@fluorescence.com).
C&L Instruments, Inc.
314 Scout Lane
Hummelstown, PA 17036
USA
Telephone: 717-566-3642
Fax: 717-566-3643
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 19
Chapter 6: Agreement, License and Warranty
Chapter 6: Agreement, License and Warranty
Agreement and License
C&L Instruments, Inc. (“C&L”) provides this instrument, including its software program,
and licenses the use of the software program, according to the following terms and
conditions.
Definitions
Instrument:
Software:
Product:
You may:
(i) use the software program on a single machine;
(ii) copy the software program into any machine-readable or printed form for backup
purposes in support of your use of the software program on the single machine. (Certain
programs, however, may include mechanisms to limit or inhibit copying. They are
marked "copy protected").
You may not:
(i) modify the software program and/or merge it into another software program for your
use on the single machine without the written consent of C&L;
(ii) transfer the software program and license to another party without the written consent
of C&L.
:
The RS-DAQ Instrument Controller provided and any components
thereof, not including any software programs enclosed.
The computer programs enclosed.
All of the materials provided with this License Agreement, including
the RS-DAQ Instrument Controller or any components thereof and/or
software.
Copyright notice
YOU MAY NOT USE, COPY, MODIFY, OR TRANSFER THE SOFTWARE
PROGRAM, OR ANY COPY, MODIFICATION OR MERGED PORTION, IN WHOLE
OR IN PART, EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED FOR IN THIS LICENSE.
IF YOU TRANSFER POSSESSION OF ANY COPY, MODIFICATION, OR MERGED
PORTION OF THE SOFTWARE PROGRAM TO ANOTHER PARTY, YOUR
LICENSE IS AUTOMATICALLY TERMINATED.
Term
The License Agreement is effective until terminated. You may terminate it at any time by
returning or destroying the Software together with all copies, modifications and merged
portion in any form. It will also terminate upon conditions set forth elsewhere in the
Agreement or if you infringe any C&L copyright or any other intellectual property right or
fail to comply with any term or condition of this Agreement; you agree upon such
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 20
Chapter 6: Agreement, License and Warranty
termination to destroy the software program together with all copies, modifications and
merged portions in any form.
Limited Warranty
C&L warrants that the Instrument and/or components shall be free from defects, not
including consumables, such as lamps and interference filters, for a period of one (1) year,
following date of purchase when used under normal conditions. Optics, including lenses
and heat filters are subject to these limited warranties for thirty (30) days. The neutral
density filter, if provided, is not covered by this warranty.
C&L and Customer must return the Instrument and/or component to C&L, at
customer’s cost, for repair. Return of the instrument for repair must be
preapproved by C&L.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE
SELECTION OF THE PRODUCT TO ACHIEVE YOUR INTENDED RESULTS, AND
FOR THE INSTALLATION, USE AND RESULTS OBTAINED FROM THE
PRODUCT.
All repairs must be made by
OTHER THAN AS STATED ABOVE, THE PRODUCT IS PROVIDED "AS IS"
WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE. C&L DOES
NOT WARRANT THAT THE FUNCTIONS CONTAINED IN THE SOFTWARE OR
THE INSTRUMENT WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS OR THAT THE
OPERATION OF THE INSTRUMENT AND/OR SOFTWARE WILL BE
UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY
AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SOFTWARE IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE
SOFTWARE PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU (AND NOT C&L OR ANY AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE) ASSUME THE ENTIRE COST OF ALL NECESSARY
SERVICING, REPAIR OR CORRECTION.
THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED OR SUITABLE FOR USE IN HUMAN
RESEARCH OR FOR DIAGNOSTIC PURPOSES. C&L DOES NOT
RECOMMEND THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT FOR APPLICATIONS IN
WHICH ERRORS OR OMISSIONS COULD THREATEN LIFE, INJURY OR
SIGNIFICANT LOSS.
Limitation of remedies
IN NO EVENT WILL C&L, ITS DISTRIBUTORS AND DEALERS BE LIABLE TO
YOU FOR ANY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, ANY LOST PROFITS, LOST SAVINGS, OR OTHER INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE SUCH PRODUCT, EVEN IF C&L OR ITS AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES, OR FOR ANY CLAIM BY ANY OTHER PARTY.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 21
Chapter 6: Agreement, License and Warranty
United States Federal Government Restricted Rights
If this Software is acquired by or on behalf of the U.S. Federal government, this provision
applies. Use, duplication or disclosure of this Software is subject to restrictions set forth
in FAR 52 227-19 and DFAR 227 7200-227 7202-1, as applicable. The Software is
“commercial computer software” and is licensed with only “Restricted Rights.”
General
This License Agreement is your proof of license to exercise the rights granted herein and
must be retained by you. You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the
software. You may not sublicense, assign or transfer the license or the software except as
expressly provided in this Agreement. Any attempt otherwise to sublicense, assign or
transfer any of the rights, duties or obligations hereunder is void. Warranty is void if
instrument, components and/or software is subject to abuse, misuse or unauthorized
modification.
Whenever possible, each provision of this License Agreement shall be interpreted in such
a manner as to be valid and effective under applicable law. If any provision is found to be
unlawful, void or for any reason unenforceable, then that provision shall be deemed
severable from this License Agreement and shall not affect the validity and the
enforceability of the remaining portions of this License Agreement. This Agreement will
be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Should you have any questions concerning this agreement, you may contact C&L at 314
Scout Lane, Hummelstown, PA, USA, 717-566-3642.
RS-DAQ Instrument Controller User Manual (version 1.0) Page 22
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