USB-TEMP
User's Guide
Multi-sensor Temperature Measurement
October 2016. Rev 14A
© Measurement Computing Corporation
HM USB-TEMP
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rement Computing Corporation, InstaCal, Universal Library, and the Measurement Computing logo are
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Corporation.
Notice
Measurement Computing Corporation does not authorize any Measurement Computing Corporation product for
use in life support systems and/or devices without prior written consent from Measurement Computing
Corporation. Life support device s/systems are devices or systems that, a) are intended for surgical implantation
into the body, or b) support or sustain life and whose failure to perform can be reasonably expected to result in
injury. Measurement Computing Co rporation products are not designed with the components required, and a re
not subject to the testing require d to ensure a level of reliability suitable for the tr e a tment and diagnosis of
people.
2
Table of Contents
Preface
About this User’s Guide ....................................................................................................................... 5
What you will learn from this user's guide ......................................................................................................... 5
Conventions in this user's guide ......................................................................................................................... 5
Where to find more information ......................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 1
Introducing the USB-TEMP .................................................................................................................. 6
Functional block diagram ................................................................................................................................... 7
Chapter 2
Installing the USB-TEMP ...................................................................................................................... 8
Unpacking........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Installing the software ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Installing the hardware ....................................................................................................................................... 8
Configuring the hardware ................................................................................................................................... 8
Calibrating the hardware..................................................................................................................................... 8
Chapter 3
Sensor Connections ............................................................................................................................. 9
Screw terminal pinout ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Sensor input terminals (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L) ............................................................................................................... 9
Current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4) ..............................................................................................................10
Four-wire, two sensor common terminals (4W01 to 4W67) ............................................................................................10
Two sensor common terminals (IC01 to IC67) ................................................................................................................10
Digital terminals (DIO0 to DIO7) ....................................................................................................................................10
CJC sensors ......................................................................................................................................................................10
Power output terminals (+5V)..........................................................................................................................................10
Ground terminals (GND) .................................................................................................................................................10
Thermocouple connections ............................................................................................................................... 10
Wiring configuration ........................................................................................................................................................11
RTD and thermistor connections ...................................................................................................................... 11
Two-wire configuration ...................................................................................................................................................12
Three-wire configuration .................................................................................................................................................13
Four-wire configuration ...................................................................................................................................................13
Semiconductor sensor measurements ............................................................................................................... 14
Wiring configuration ........................................................................................................................................................14
Digital I/O connections ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Chapter 4
Functional Details ............................................................................................................................... 16
Thermocouple measurements ........................................................................................................................... 16
Cold junction compensation (CJC) ..................................................................................................................................16
Data linearization .............................................................................................................................................................16
Open-thermocouple detection (OTD) ..............................................................................................................................16
RTD and thermistor measurements .................................................................................................................. 17
Data linearization .............................................................................................................................................................17
External components ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Screw terminals................................................................................................................................................................17
USB connector ................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Status LEDs .....................................................................................................................................................................18
3
USB-TEMP User's Guide
Chapter 5
Specifications ...................................................................................................................................... 19
Analog input ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Channel configurations ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Compatible sensors ........................................................................................................................................... 20
Accuracy ........................................................................................................................................................... 21
Thermocouple measurement accuracy .............................................................................................................................21
Semiconductor sensor measurement accuracy .................................................................................................................21
RTD measurement accuracy ............................................................................................................................................22
Thermistor measurement accuracy ..................................................................................................................................22
Throughput rate ................................................................................................................................................ 23
Digital input/output........................................................................................................................................... 23
Memory ............................................................................................................................................................ 23
Microcontroller ................................................................................................................................................. 24
USB +5V voltage ............................................................................................................................................. 24
Power ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
USB specifications ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Current excitation outputs (Ix+) ....................................................................................................................... 25
Environmental .................................................................................................................................................. 25
Mechanical ....................................................................................................................................................... 25
Signal connector ............................................................................................................................................... 25
EU Declaration of Conformity ............................................................................................................ 27
4
About this User’s Guide
What you will learn from this user's guide
This user's guide describes the Measurement Computing USB-TEMP data acquisition device and lists device
specifications.
Conventions in this user's guide
For more information
Text presented in a box signifies additional information related to the subject matter.
Caution! Shaded caution statements present information to help you avoid injuring yourself and others,
damaging your hardware, or losing your data.
bold text Bold text is used for the names of objects on a screen, such as buttons, text boxes, and check boxes.
italic text Italic text is used for the names of manuals and help topic titles, and to emphasize a word or phrase.
Where to find more information
Preface
Additional information about USB-TEMP hardware is available on our website at www.mccdaq.com. You can
also contact Measurement Computing Corporation with specific questions.
Knowledgebase: kb.mccdaq.com
Tech support form: www.mccdaq.com/support/support_form.aspx
Email: techsupport@mccdaq.com
Phone: 508-946-5100 and follow the instructions for reaching Tech Support
For international customers, contact your local distributor. Refer to the International Distributors section on our
website at www.mccdaq.com/International
.
5
Introducing the USB-TEMP
Chapter 1
The USB-TEMP is a USB 2.0 full-speed, temperature measurement module that is supported under popular
Microsoft
ports.
The USB-TEMP provides eight differential input channels that are software programmable for different sensor
categories including thermocouple, RTDs, thermistors and Semiconductor sensors. Eight independent, TTLcompatible digital I/O channels are provided to monitor TTL-level inputs and to communicate with external
devices. The digital I/O channels are software programmable for input or output.
You can take measurements from four sensor categories:
Thermocouple – types J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B
Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurements of 100 Ω platinum RTDs
Thermistors – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurements
Semiconductor temperature sensors – LM35, TMP35 or equivalent
The USB-TEMP provides a 24-bit analog-to-digital (A/D) converter for each pair of differential analog input
channels. Each pair of differential inputs constitutes a channel pair.
You can connect a different category of sensor to each channel pair, but you cannot mix categories among the
channels that constitute a channel pair (although it is permissible to mix thermocouple types).
The USB-TEMP provides two integrated cold junction compensation (CJC) sensors for thermocouple
measurements, and built-in current excitation sources for resistive sensor measurements.
An open thermocouple detection feature lets you detect a broken thermocouple. An on-board microprocessor
automatically linearizes the measurement data according to the sensor category.
The USB-TEMP is a standalone plug-and-play module which draws power from the USB cable. No external
power supply is required. All configurable options are software programmable.
®
Windows® operating systems. The USB-TEMP is fully compatible with both USB 1.1 and USB 2.0
The USB-TEMP is fully software calibrated.
6
USB-TEMP User's Guide Introducing the USB-TEMP
Functional block diagram
USB-TEMP functions are illustrated in the block diagram shown here.
Figure 1. Functional block diagram
7
Chapter 2
Installing the USB-TEMP
Unpacking
As with any electronic device, you should take care while handling to avoid damage from static
electricity. Before removing the board from its packaging, ground yourself using a wrist strap or by simply
touching the computer chassis or other grounded object to eliminate any stored static charge.
Installing the software
Refer to the MCC DAQ Quick Start and the USB-TEMP product page on our website for information about the
available software.
Install the software before you install your device
The driver needed to run the USB-TEMP is installed with the software. Therefore, you need to install the
software package you plan to use before you install the hardware.
Installing the hardware
To connect the USB-TEMP to your system, turn your computer on, and connect the USB cable to a USB port
on your computer or to an external USB hub that is connected to your computer. The USB cable provides power
and communication to the USB-TEMP.
When you connect the USB-TEMP to a computer for the first time, a
the operating system detects the device. When the dialog closes, the installation is complete. The upper
LED blinks when initially connected and then stays on; the lower Power LED turns on when power is applied.
Caution! Do not disconnect the device from the USB bus while the Activity LED is on and the computer is
communicating with the USB-TEMP, or you may lose data and/or your ability to communicate
with the USB-TEMP.
Found New Hardware dialog opens when
Configuring the hardware
All hardware configuration options on the USB-TEMP are programmable with software. Use InstaCal to set the
sensor type for each channel. The configurable options dynamically update according to the selected sensor
category. Configuration options are stored on the USB-TEMP 's isolated microcontroller in EEPROM, which is
non-volatile memory on the USB-TEMP module. Configuration options are loaded on power up.
Default configuration
The factory default configuration is Disabled. The Disabled mode disconnects the analog inputs from the
terminal blocks, internally grounds the A/D inputs, and disables each of the current excitation sources.
Warm up
Allow the USB-TEMP to warm up for 30 minutes before taking measurements. This warm up time minimizes
thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements. For RTD or thermistor measurements,
this warm-up time is also required to stabilize the internal current reference.
Activity
Calibrating the hardware
The USB-TEMP is fully calibrated via software. InstaCal prompts you to run its calibration utility when you
change from one sensor category to another.
Allow the USB-TEMP to operate for at least 30 minutes before calibrating. This warm up time minimizes
thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements.
8
Chapter 3
Sensor Connections
The USB-TEMP supports the following temperature sensor types:
Thermocouple – types J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B
Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurement modes of 100 Ω platinum RTDs.
Thermistors – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurement modes.
Semiconductor temperature sensors – LM36 or equivalent
Sensor selection
The type of sensor you select will depend on your application needs. Review the temperature ranges and
accuracies of each sensor type to determine which is best suited for your application.
Screw terminal pinout
The device screw terminals are identified in Figure 2. Between each bank of screw terminals are two integrated
CJC sensors used for thermocouple measurements.
Figure 2. USB-TEMP screw terminal pin numbers
Use 16 AWG to 30 AWG wire for your signal connections.
Tighten screw terminal connections
When making connections to the screw terminals, be sure to tighten the screw until tight. Simply touching the
top of the screw terminal is not sufficient to make a proper connection.
Sensor input terminals (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L)
You can connect up to eight temperature sensors to the differential sensor inputs (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L).
Supported sensor categories include thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors, or semiconductor sensors.
Do not mix sensor categories within channel pairs. You can mix thermocouple types (J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B)
within channel pairs, however.
9
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
Do not connect two different sensor categories to the same channel pair
The USB-TEMP provides a 24 bit A/D converter for each channel pair. Each channel pair can monitor one
sensor category. To monitor a sensor from a different category, connect the sensor to a different channel pair
(input terminals).
Current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4)
The USB-TEMP has four dedicated pairs of current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4). These terminals
have a built-in precision current source to provide excitation for the resistive sensors used for RTD and
thermistor measurements.
Each current excitation terminal is dedicated to one pair of sensor input channels:
I1+ is the current excitation source for channel 0 and channel 1
I2+ is the current excitation source for channel 2 and channel 3
I3+ is the current excitation source for channel 4 and channel 5
I4+ is the current excitation source for channel 6 and channel 7
Four-wire, two sensor common terminals (4W01 to 4W67)
These terminals are used as the common connection for four-wire configurations with two RTD or thermistor
sensors.
Two sensor common terminals (IC01 to IC67)
These terminals are used as the common connection for two-wire configurations with two RTD or thermistor
sensors.
Digital terminals (DIO0 to DIO7)
You can connect up to eight digital I/O lines to the screw terminals labeled DIO0 to DIO7. Each terminal is
software configurable for input or output.
CJC sensors
The USB-TEMP has two built in high-resolution temperature sensors. One sensor is located on the right side of
the package, and one sensor is located at the left side.
Power output terminals (+5V)
The two +5V output terminals are isolated (500 VDC) from the USB +5V.
Caution! Each +5V terminal is an output. Do not connect to an external power supply or you may damage
the USB-TEMP and possibly the computer.
Ground terminals (GND)
The six ground terminals (GND) provide a common ground for the input channels and DIO bits and are isolated
(500 VDC) from the USB GND.
Thermocouple connections
The USB-TEMP makes fully differential thermocouple measurements without the need of ground-referencing
resistors. A 32-bit floating point value in either a voltage or temperature format is returned by software. An
open thermocouple detection feature is available for each analog input which automatically detects an open or
broken thermocouple.
Use InstaCal to select the thermocouple type (J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B) and one or more sensor input channels
to connect the thermocouple.
10
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
Wiring configuration
Connect the thermocouple to the USB-TEMP using a differential configuration, as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Typical thermocouple connection
The USB-TEMP GND pins are isolated from earth ground, so connecting thermocouple sensors to voltages
referenced to earth ground is permissible as long as the isolation between the GND pins (9, 19, 28, 38) and earth
ground is maintained.
When thermocouples are attached to conductive surfaces, the voltage differential between multiple
thermocouples must remain within ±1.4 V. For best results, we recommend the use of insulated or ungrounded
thermocouples when possible.
Maximum input voltage between analog input and ground
The absolute maximum input voltage between an analog input and the isolated GND pins is ±25 VDC when the
USB-TEMP is powered on, and ±40 VDC when the USB-TEMP is powered off.
If you need to increase the length of your thermocouple, use the same type of thermocouple wires to minimize
the error introduced by thermal EMFs.
RTD and thermistor connections
A resistance temperature detector (RTD) measures temperature by correlating the resistance of the RTD
element with temperature. A thermistor is a thermally-sensitive resistor that is similar to an RTD in that its
resistance changes with temperature — thermistors show a large change in resistance that is proportional to a
small change in temperature. The main difference between RTD and thermistor measurements is the method
used to linearize the sensor data.
RTDs and thermistors are resistive devices that require an excitation current to produce a voltage drop that can
be measured differentially across the sensor. The device has four built-in current excitation sources (±I1 to ±I4)
for measuring resistive type sensors. Each current excitation terminal is dedicated to one channel pair.
The USB-TEMP makes two, three, and four-wire measurements of RTDs (100 Ω platinum type) and
thermistors.
Use InstaCal to select the sensor type and the wiring configuration. Once the resistance value is calculated, the
value is linearized in order to convert it to a temperature value. A 32-bit floating point value in either
temperature or resistance is returned by software.
RTD maximum resistance
Resistance values greater than 660 Ω cannot be measured by the USB-TEMP in the RTD mode. The 660 Ω
resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of the
RTD resistance and the lead resistances.
Thermistor maximum resistance
Resistance values greater than 180 kΩ cannot be measured by the USB-TEMP in the thermistor mode. The
180 kΩ resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of
the thermistor resistance and the lead resistance.
11
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
Two-wire configuration
The easiest way to connect an RTD sensor or thermistor to the USB-TEMP is with a two-wire configuration,
since it requires the fewest connections to the sensor. With this method, the two wires that provide the RTD
sensor with its excitation current also measure the voltage across the sensor.
Since RTDs exhibit a low nominal resistance, measurement accuracy can be affected due to the lead wire
resistance. For example, connecting lead wires that have a resistance of 1 Ω (0.5 Ω each lead) to a 100 Ω
platinum RTD will result in a 1% measurement error.
With a two-wire configuration, you can connect either one sensor per channel pair, or two sensors per channel
pair.
Two-wire, single-sensor
A two-wire single-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4. Two-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration
When you select a two-wire single sensor configuration with InstaCal, connections to C#H and C#L are made
internally.
Two-wire, two sensor
A two-wire, two-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5. Two-wire, two RTD or thermistor sensors measurement configuration
When you select a two-wire, two sensor configuration with InstaCal, connections to C#H (first sensor) and
C#H/C#L (second sensor) are made internally.
When configured for two-wire mode, both sensors must be connected to obtain proper measurements.
12
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
Three-wire configuration
A three-wire configuration compensates for lead-wire resistance by using a single voltage sense connection.
With a three-wire configuration, you can connect only one sensor per channel pair. A three-wire measurement
configuration is shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6. Three-wire RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration
When you select a three-wire sensor configuration with InstaCal, the USB-TEMP measures the lead resistance
on the first channel (C#H/C#L) and measures the sensor itself using the second channel (C#H/C#L). This
configuration compensates for any lead-wire resistance and temperature change in lead-wire resistance.
Connections to C#H for the first channel and C#H/C#L of the second channel are made internally.
Three-wire compensation
For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±I# pins must be of equal
resistance value.
Four-wire configuration
With a four-wire configuration, connect two sets of sense/excitation wires at each end of the RTD or thermistor
sensor. This configuration completely compensates for any lead-wire resistance and temperature change in leadwire resistance.
Connect your sensor with a four-wire configuration when your application requires very high accuracy
measurements. Examples of a four-wire single-sensor measurement configuration are shown in Figure 7 and
Figure 8.
You can configure the USB-TEMP with either a single sensor per channel or two sensors per channel pair.
Four-wire, single-sensor
A four-wire, single-sensor connected to the first channel of a channel pair is shown in Figure 7.
Figure 7. Four-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration
13
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
A four-wire, single-sensor connected to the second channel of a channel pair is shown in Figure 8.
Figure 8. Four-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration
A four-wire, two-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 9.
Figure 9. Four-wire, two RTD or thermistor sensors measurement configuration
When configured for four-wire, two sensor mode, both sensors must be connected to obtain proper
measurements.
Semiconductor sensor measurements
Semiconductor sensors are suitable over a range of approximately -40 °C to 125 °C, where an accuracy of
±2 °C is adequate. The temperature measurement range of a semiconductor sensor is small when compared to
thermocouples and RTDs. However, semiconductor sensors can be accurate, inexpensive and easy to interface
with other electronics for display and control.
The USB-TEMP makes high-resolution measurements of semiconductor sensors, and returns a 32-bit floating
point value in either voltage or temperature.
Use InstaCal to select the sensor type (LM35, TMP35 or equivalent) and the sensor input channel to connect the
sensor.
Wiring configuration
Connect the semiconductor sensor to the USB-TEMP using a single-ended configuration, as shown in Figure
10. The device provides
+5V and GND pins for powering the sensor.
Figure 10. Semiconductor sensor measurement configuration
14
USB-TEMP User's Guide Sensor Connections
Digital I/O connections
You can connect up to eight digital I/O lines to the screw terminals labeled DIO0 to DIO7. You can configure
each digital bit for either input or output. All digital I/O lines are pulled up to +5V with a 47 kΩ resistor
(default). You can request the factory to configure the resistor for pull-down to ground if desired.
When you configure the digital bits for input, you can use the USB-TEMP digital I/O terminals to detect the
state of any TTL-level input. Refer to the schematic shown in Figure 11. If you set the switch to the +5V input,
DIO0 reads TRUE (1). If you move the switch to GND, DIO0 reads FALSE (0).
Figure 11. Schematic showing switch detection by digital channel DIO0
Caution! All ground pins on the USB-TEMP (pins 9, 19, 28, 38) are common and are isolated from earth
ground. If a connection is made to earth ground when using digital I/O and conductive
thermocouples, the thermocouples are no longer isolated. In this case, thermocouples must not be
For more information about digital signal connections
For more information about digital signal connections
For general information about digital signal connections and digital I/O techniques, refer to the Guide to DAQ
Signal Connections (available on our web site at www.mccdaq.com/support/DAQ-Signal-Connections.aspx).
15
Chapter 4
Functional Details
Thermocouple measurements
A thermocouple consists of two dissimilar metals that are joined together at one end. When the junction of the
metals is heated or cooled, a voltage is produced that correlates to temperature.
The USB-TEMP hardware level-shifts the thermocouple’s output voltage into the A/D’s common mode input
range by applying +2.5 V to the thermocouple’s low side at the C#L input. Always connect thermocouple
sensors to the USB-TEMP in a floating fashion. Do not attempt to connect the thermocouple low side C#L to
GND or to a ground referencing resistor.
Cold junction compensation (CJC)
When you connect the thermocouple sensor leads to the sensor input channel, the dissimilar metals at the USBTEMP terminal blocks produce an additional thermocouple junction. This junction creates a small voltage error
term which must be removed from the overall sensor measurement using a cold junction compensation
technique. The measured voltage includes both the thermocouple voltage and the cold junction voltage. To
compensate for the additional cold junction voltage, the USB-TEMP subtracts the cold junction voltage from
the thermocouple voltage.
The USB-TEMP has two high-resolution temperature sensors that are integrated into the design of the USBTEMP. One sensor is located on the right side of the package, and one sensor is located at the left side. The CJC
sensors measure the average temperature at the terminal blocks so that the cold junction voltage can be
calculated. A software algorithm automatically corrects for the additional thermocouples created at the terminal
blocks by subtracting the calculated cold junction voltage from the analog input's thermocouple voltage
measurement.
Increasing the thermocouple length
If you need to increase the length of your thermocouple, use the same type of thermocouple wires to minimize
the error introduced by thermal EMFs.
Data linearization
After the CJC correction is performed on the measurement data, an on-board microcontroller automatically
linearizes the thermocouple measurement data using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
linearization coefficients for the selected thermocouple type.
The measurement data is then output as a 32-bit floating point value in the configured format (voltage or
temperature).
Open-thermocouple detection (OTD)
The USB-TEMP is equipped with an open-thermocouple detection for each analog input channel. With OTD,
any open-circuit or short-circuit condition at the thermocouple sensor is detected by the software. An open
channel is detected by driving the input voltage to a negative value outside the range of any thermocouple
output. The software recognizes this as an invalid reading and flags the appropriate channel. The software
continues to sample all channels when OTD is detected.
Input leakage current
With open-thermocouple detection enabled, 105 nA (max) of input leakage current is injected into the
thermocouple. This current can cause an error voltage to develop across the lead resistance of the thermocouple
that is indistinguishable from the thermocouple voltage you are measuring.
16
USB-TEMP User's Guide Functional Details
1
Screw terminal pins 1 to 26
3
Status LEDs: Activity (top) and Power (bottom)
2
Screw terminal pins 27 to 52
4
USB connector
You can estimate the error voltage with this formula:
error voltage = resistance of the thermocouple × 105 nA
To reduce the error, reduce the length of the thermocouple to lower its resistance, or lower the AWG of the wire
by using a wire with a larger diameter. With open-thermocouple detection disabled, 30 nA max of input leakage
current is injected into the thermocouple.
RTD and thermistor measurements
RTDs and thermistors are resistive devices that require an excitation current to produce a voltage drop that can
be measured differentially across the sensor. The USB-TEMP measures the sensor resistance by forcing a
known excitation current through the sensor and then measuring (differentially) the voltage across the sensor to
determine its resistance.
After the voltage measurement is made, the resistance of the RTD is calculated using Ohms law – the sensor
resistance is calculated by dividing the measured voltage by the current excitation level (±
of the ±
Ix source is stored in local memory.
Once the resistance value is calculated, the value is linearized in order to convert it to a temperature value. The
measurement is returned by software as a 32-bit floating point value in either temperature or resistance.
Data linearization
An on-board microcontroller automatically performs linearization on RTD and thermistor measurements.
Ix) source. The value
RTD measurements are linearized using a Callendar-Van Dusen coefficients algorithm (you select DIN,
SAMA, or ITS-90).
Thermistor measurements are linearized using a Steinhart-Hart linearization algorithm (you supply the
coefficients from the sensor manufacturer's data sheet).
External components
The USB-TEMP has the following external components, as shown in Figure 12.
Screw terminals
Use the screw terminals for connecting temperature sensors and digital I/O lines. These terminals also provide
ground and power output connections. Refer to the "Sensor Connections" chapter on page 9 for information
about the device screw terminals.
Figure 12.External component locations
17
USB-TEMP User's Guide Functional Details
USB connector
The USB connector provides +5V power and communication. No external power supply is required.
Status LEDs
USB-TEMP has two LEDs that indicate the status of power and data. The LEDs are stacked one above the
other.
The
The
Activity LED (top) blinks when data is transferred over the USB bus.
Power LED (bottom) turns on when power is applied.
18
A/D converters
Four dual 24-bit, Sigma-Delta type
Number of channels
8 differential
Input isolation
500 VDC minimum between field wiring and
USB interface
Channel configuration
Software programmable to match sensor type
Differential input
Thermocouple
±0.080 V
Thermistor
0 to 2 V
Semiconductor sensor
0 to 2.5 V
Absolute maximum
±C0x through ±C7x relative to GND (pins
±24 V power on
Input impedance
5 GΩ, min
Input leakage current
Open thermocouple detect disabled
30 nA max
Open thermocouple detect enabled
105 nA max
Normal mode rejection
ratio
fIN = 60 Hz
90 dB min
Common mode rejection
ratio
f
50 Hz/60 Hz
100 dB min
Resolution
24 bits
No missing codes
24 bits
Input coupling
DC
Warm-up time
30 minutes min
Open thermocouple
Automatically enabled when the channel pair is
The maximum open detection time is 3 seconds.
CJC sensor accuracy
15 °C to 35 °C
±0.25 °C typ,±0.5 °C max
0 °C to 70 °C
–1.0 °C to +0.5 °C max
Specifications
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Typical for 25 °C unless otherwise specified.
Specifications in italic text are guaranteed by design.
Analog input
Table 1. Generic analog input specifications
Parameter Condition Specification
Chapter 5
voltage range for the
various sensor
categories
input voltage
detect
RTD 0 to 0.5 V
9, 19, 28, 38)
=
IN
±24 V power off
configured for thermocouple sensor.
19
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
Disabled
Thermocouple
8 differential channels
Semiconductor sensor
8 differential channels
RTD and thermistor
2-wire input configuration with a single sensor per channel pair
4 differential channels
2-wire input configuration with two sensors per channel pair
8 differential channels
3-wire configuration with a single sensor per channel pair
4 differential channels
4-wire input configuration with a single sensor per channel pair
4 differential channels
4-wire input configuration with two sensors per channel pair
8 differential channels
Thermocouple
J: –210 °C to 1200 °C
K: –270 °C to 1372 °C
R: –50 °C to 1768 °C
S: –50 °C to 1768 °C
T: –270 °C to 400 °C
N: –270 °C to 1300 °C
E: –270 °C to 1000 °C
B: 0 °C to 1820 °C
RTD
100 Ω PT (DIN 43760: 0.00385 ohms/ohm/°C)
100 Ω PT (SAMA: 0.003911 ohms/ohm/°C)
100 ΩPT (ITS-90/IEC751:0.0038505 ohms/ohm/°C)
Thermistor
Standard 2,252 Ω through 30,000 Ω
Semiconductor / IC
LM35, TMP35 or equivalent
Channel configurations
Table 2. Channel configuration specifications
Sensor Category Condition Max number of
sensors (all channels
configured alike)
Note 1: Internally, the device has four, dual-channel, fully differential A/Ds providing a total of eight differential
channels. The analog input channels are therefore configured in four channel pairs with CH0/CH1 sensor
inputs, CH2/CH3 sensor inputs, CH4/CH5 sensor inputs, and CH6/CH7 sensor inputs paired together. This
"channel-pairing" requires the analog input channel pairs be configured to monitor the same category of
temperature sensor. Mixing different sensor types of the same category (such as a type J thermocouple on
channel 0 and a type T thermocouple on channel 1) is valid.
Note 2: Channel configuration information is stored in the EEPROM of the isolated microcontroller by the firmware
whenever any item is modified. Modification is performed by commands issued over USB from an external
application, and the configuration is made non-volatile through the use of the EEPROM.
Note 3: The factory default configuration is Disabled. The Disabled mode will disconnect the analog inputs from the
terminal blocks and internally ground all of the A/D inputs. This mode also disables each of the current
excitation sources.
Compatible sensors
Table 3. Compatible sensor type specifications
Parameter Specification
20
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
J
±1.499
±0.507
–210 to 0
±0.643
±0.312
0 to 1200
K
±1.761
±0.538
–210 to 0
±0.691
±0.345
0 to 1372
±1.841
±0.399
250 to 1768.1
R
±2.653
±0.650
–50 to 250
±1.070
±0.358
250 to 1768.1
B
±1.779
±0.581
250 to 700
±0.912
±0.369
700 to 1820
E
±1.471
±0.462
–200 to 0
T
±1.717
±0.514
–200 to 0
±0.713
±0.256
0 to 600
N
±1.969
±0.502
–200 to 0
±0.769
±0.272
0 to 1300
Accuracy
Thermocouple measurement accuracy
Table 4. Thermocouple accuracy specifications, including CJC measurement error
Sensor type Maximum error (°C) Typical error (°C) Temperature range (°C)
S ±2.491 ±0.648 –50 to 250
±0.639 ±0.245 0 to 1000
Note 4: Thermocouple measurement accuracy specifications include linearization, cold-junction compensation and
system noise. These specs are for one year, or 3000 operating hours, whichever comes first, and for operation of
the device between 15 °C and 35 °C. For measurements outside this range, add ±0.5° to the maximum error
shown. There are CJC sensors on each side of the module. The accuracy listed above assumes the screw
terminals are at the same temperature as the CJC sensor. Errors shown do not include inherent thermocouple
error. Please contact your thermocouple supplier for details on the actual thermocouple error.
Note 5: Thermocouples must be connected to the device such that they are floating with respect to GND (pins 9, 19, 28,
38). The GND pins are isolated from earth ground, so connecting thermocouple sensors to voltages referenced
to earth ground is permissible as long as the isolation between the GND pins and earth ground is maintained.
Note 6: When thermocouples are attached to conductive surfaces, the voltage differential between multiple
thermocouples must remain within ±1.4 V. For best results we recommend the use of insulated or ungrounded
thermocouples when possible.
Semiconductor sensor measurement accuracy
Table 5. Semiconductor sensor accuracy specifications
Sensor type Temperature range (°C) Maximum accuracy error (°C)
LM35, TMP35 or equivalent –40 to 150 ±0.50
Note 7: Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. These specs are for one year while operation of the
device is between 15 °C and 35 °C. Please contact your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error
limitations.
21
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
PT100, DIN, US or
–200 to –150
±2.85
±2.59
–150 to –100
±1.24
±0.97
–100 to 0
±0.58
±0.31
0 to 100
±0.38
±0.11
100 to 300
±0.39
±0.12
300 to 600
±0.40
±0.12
Thermistor
2252 Ω
–40 to120
±0.05
3000 Ω
–40 to120
±0.05
5000 Ω
–35 to120
±0.05
10000 Ω
–25 to120
±0.05
30000 Ω
–10 to120
±0.05
–40
76 kΩ
101 kΩ
168 kΩ
240 kΩ (Note 12)
885 kΩ (Note 12)
–35
55 kΩ
73 kΩ
121 kΩ
179 kΩ
649 kΩ (Note 12)
–30
40 kΩ
53 kΩ
88 kΩ
135 kΩ
481 kΩ (Note 12)
–25
29 kΩ
39 kΩ
65 kΩ
103 kΩ
360 kΩ (Note 12)
–20
22 kΩ
29 kΩ
49 kΩ
79 kΩ
271 kΩ (Note 12)
–15
16 kΩ
22 kΩ
36 kΩ
61 kΩ
206 kΩ (Note 12)
–10
12 kΩ
17 kΩ
28 kΩ
48 kΩ
158 kΩ
–5
9.5 kΩ
13 kΩ
21 kΩ
37 kΩ
122 kΩ
0
7.4 kΩ
9.8 kΩ
16 kΩ
29 kΩ
95 kΩ
RTD measurement accuracy
Table 6. RTD measurement accuracy specifications
RTD Sensor
temperature (°C)
ITS-90
Note 8: Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. The sensor linearization is performed using a
Callendar–Van Dusen linearization algorithm. These specs are for one year while operation of the device is
between 15 °C and 35 °C. The specification does not include lead resistance errors for 2-wire RTD connections.
Please contact your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error limitations.
Note 9: Resistance values greater than 660 Ω cannot be measured by the device in the RTD mode. The 660 Ω resistance
limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of the RTD
resistance and the lead resistances.
Note 10: For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±Ix pins must be of equal
value.
Maximum accuracy error (°C)
Ix+ = 210 µA
Typical accuracy error (°C)
Ix+ = 210 µA
Thermistor measurement accuracy
Table 7. Thermistor measurement accuracy specifications
Temperature range (°C) Maximum accuracy error (°C)
= 10 µA
I
x+
Note 11: Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. The sensor linearization is performed using a Steinhart-
Hart linearization algorithm. These specs are for one year while operation of the device is between 15 °C and 35
°C. The specification does not include lead resistance errors for 2-wire thermistor connections. Please contact
your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error limitations. Total thermistor resistance on any given
channel pair must not exceed 180 kΩ. Typical resistance values at various temperatures for supported
thermistors are shown in Table 8.
Table 8. Typical thermistor resistance specifications
Temp
(°C)
Note 12: Resistance values greater than 180 kΩ cannot be measured by the device in the thermistor mode. The 180 kΩ
2252 Ω thermistor 3000 Ω
thermistor
resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of the
thermistor resistance and the lead resistances.
5 kΩ
thermistor
10 kΩ
thermistor
30 kΩ
thermistor
22
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
1
2 Samples/second
2
2 S/s on each channel, 4 S/s total
3
2 S/s on each channel, 6 S/s total
4
2 S/s on each channel, 8 S/s total
5
2 S/s on each channel, 10 S/s total
6
2 S/s on each channel, 12 S/s total
7
2 S/s on each channel, 14 S/s total
8
2 S/s on each channel, 16 S/s total
Digital type
CMOS
Number of I/O
8 (DIO0 through DIO7)
Power on reset is input mode.
Pull-up/pull-down configuration
All pins pulled up to +5 V via 47 kΩ resistors (default). Pull-down to ground
(GND) also available.
Digital I/O transfer rate
Digital input: 50 port reads or single bit reads per second, typ
Digital output:100 port writes or single bit writes per second, typ
Input high voltage
2.0 V min, 5.5 V absolute max
Input low voltage
0.8 V max, –0.5 V absolute min
Output low voltage (IOL = 2.5 mA)
0.7 V max
(IOH = –2.5 mA)
EEPROM
1,024 bytes isolated micro reserved for sensor configuration
Note 13: For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±Ix pins must be of equal
value.
Throughput rate
Table 9. Throughput rate specifications
Number of input channels Maximum throughput
Note 14: The analog inputs are configured to run continuously. Each channel is sampled twice per second. The maximum
latency between when a sample is acquired and the temperature data is provided by the USB unit is
approximately 0.5 seconds.
Digital input/output
Table 10. Digital input/output specifications
Parameter Specification
Configuration Independently configured for input or output.
(software paced)
Output high voltage
Note 15: All ground pins (pins 9, 19, 28, 38) are common and are isolated from earth ground. If a connection is made to
earth ground when using digital I/O and conductive thermocouples, the thermocouples are no longer isolated. In
this case, thermocouples must not be connected to any conductive surfaces that may be referenced to earth
ground.
3.8 V min
Memory
Table 11. Memory specifications
Parameter Specification
256 bytes USB micro for external application use
23
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
Type
Two high-performance 8-bit RISC microcontrollers
USB +5V (VBUS) input voltage
4.75 V min to 5.25 V max
Supply current
USB enumeration
<100 mA
Supply current
(Note 16)
Continuous mode
140 mA typ
+5V output voltage range (pins 21
Connected to self-powered hub. (Note 17)
4.75 V min to
+5V output current (pins 21
Bus-powered and connected to a self-powered hub. (Note 17)
10 mA max
Isolation
Measurement system to PC
500 VDC min
USB device type
USB 2.0 (full-speed)
Device compatibility
USB 1.1, USB 2.0
Device power capability
Self-powered, 100 mA consumption max
USB cable type
A-B cable, UL type AWM 2725 or equivalent. (min 24 AWG VBUS/GND,
min 28 AWG D+/D–)
USB cable length
3 m (9.84 ft) max
Microcontroller
Table 12. Microcontroller specifications
Parameter Specification
USB +5V voltage
Table 13. USB +5V voltage specifications
Parameter Specification
range
Power
Table 14. Power specifications
Parameter Condition Specification
and 47)
and 47)
Note 16: This is the total current requirement for the device which includes up to 10 mA for the status LED.
Note 17: Self-Powered Hub refers to a USB hub with an external power supply. Self-powered hubs allow a connected
USB device to draw up to 500 mA.
Root Port Hubs reside in the PC USB Host Controller. The USB port(s) on your PC are root port hubs. All
externally powered root port hubs (desktop PC) provide up to 500 mA of current for a USB device. Batterypowered root port hubs provide 100 mA or 500 mA, depending upon the manufacturer. A laptop PC that is not
connected to an external power adapter is an example of a battery-powered root port hub.
5.25 V max
USB specifications
Table 15. USB specifications
Parameter Specification
24
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
Configuration
4 dedicated pairs:
±I4: CH6/CH7
Current excitation output ranges
Thermistor: 10 µA typ
RTD: 210 µA typ
Tolerance
±5% typ
Drift
200 ppm/°C
Line regulation
2.1 ppm/V max
Load regulation
0.3 ppm/V typ
Output compliance voltage
3.90 V max
–0.03 V min
Operating temperature range
0 °C to 70 °C
Storage temperature range
–40 °C to 85 °C
Humidity
0% to 90% non-condensing
Dimensions (L × W × H)
128.52 x 88.39 × 35.56 mm (5.06 × 3.48 × 1.43 ft)
User connection length
3 m (9.84 ft) max
Connector type
Screw terminal
Wire gauge range
16 AWG to 30 AWG
Current excitation outputs (Ix+)
Table 16. Current excitation output specifications
Parameter Specification
±I1: CH0/CH1
±I2: CH2/CH3
±I3: CH4/CH5
(relative to GND pins 9, 19, 28, 38)
Note 18: The device has four current excitation outputs, with ±I1 dedicated to the CH0/CH1 analog inputs, ±I2 dedicated
to CH2/CH3, ±I3 dedicated to CH4/CH5, and ±I4 dedicated to CH6/CH7. The excitation output currents should
always be used in this dedicated configuration.
Note 19: The current excitation outputs are automatically configured based on the sensor (thermistor or RTD) selected.
Environmental
Table 17. Environmental specifications
Parameter Specification
Mechanical
Table 18. Mechanical specifications
Parameter Specification
Signal connector
Table 19. Signal connector specifications
Parameter Specification
25
USB-TEMP User's Guide Specifications
Pin
Signal Name
Pin Description
Pin
Signal Name
Pin Description
1
I1+
CH0/CH1 current excitation source
27
I4–
CH6/CH7 current excitation return
2
NC
No connection
28
GND
Ground
3
C0H
CH0 sensor input (+)
29
C7L
CH7 sensor input (–)
4
C0L
CH0 sensor input (–)
30
C7H
CH7 sensor input (+)
6
IC01
CH0/CH1 2-sensor common
32
4W67
CH6/CH7 4-wire, 2 sensor common
7
C1H
CH1 sensor input (+)
33
C6L
CH6 sensor input (–)
8
C1L
CH1 sensor input (–)
34
C6H
CH6 sensor input (+)
9
GND
Ground
35
NC
No connection
10
I1–
CH0/CH1 current excitation return
36
I4+
CH6/CH7 current excitation source
11
I2+
CH2/CH3 current excitation source
37
I3–
CH4/CH5 current excitation return
13
C2H
CH2 sensor input (+)
39
C5L
CH5 sensor input (–)
15
4W23
CH2/CH3 4-wire, 2 sensor common
41
IC45
CH4/CH5 2 sensor common
16
IC23
CH2/CH3 2 sensor common
42
4W45
CH4/CH5 4-wire, 2 sensor common
17
C3H
CH3 sensor input (+)
43
C4L
CH4 sensor input (–)
18
C3L
CH3 sensor input (–)
44
C4H
CH4 sensor input (+)
19
GND
Ground
45
NC
No connection
20
I2–
CH2/CH3 current excitation return
46
I3+
CH4/CH5 current excitation source
21
+5V
Power output
47
+5V
Power output
22
GND
Ground
48
GND
Ground
24
DIO1
DIO channel 1
50
DIO6
DIO channel 6
26
DIO3
DIO channel 3
52
DIO4
DIO channel 4
Table 20. Screw terminal pinout
5 4W01 CH0/CH1 4-wire, 2 sensor common 31 IC67 CH6/CH7 2 sensor common
CJC sensor
12 NC No connection 38 GND Ground
14 C2L CH2 sensor input (–) 40 C5H CH5 sensor input (+)
23 DIO0 DIO channel 0 49 DIO7 DIO channel 7
25 DIO2 DIO channel 2 51 DIO5 DIO channel 5
CJC sensor
26
EU Declaration of Conformity
According to ISO/IEC 17050-1:2010
Manufacturer: Measurement Computing Corporation
Address: 10 Commerce Way
Norton, MA 02766
USA
Product Category: Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use.
Date and Place of Issue: June 2, 2016, Norton, Massachusetts USA
Test Report Number: EMI4193.05 / EMI5215B.08
Measurement Computing Corporation declares under sole responsibility that the product
USB-TEMP
is in conformity with the relevant Union Harmonization Legislation and complies with the essential
requirements of the following applicable European Directives:
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/35/EU
Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
Conformity is assessed in accordance to the following standards:
EMC:
Emissions:
EN 61326-1:2013 (IEC 61326-1:2012), Class A
EN 55011: 2009 + A1:2010 (IEC CISPR 11:2009 + A1:2010), Group 1, Class A
Immunity:
EN 61326-1:2013 (IEC 61326-1:2012), Controlled EM Environments
EN 61000-4-2:2008 (IEC 61000-4-2:2008)
EN 61000-4-3 :2010 (IEC61000-4-3:2010)
Safety:
EN 61010-1 (IEC 61010-1)
Environmental Affairs:
Articles manufactured on or after the Date of Issue of this Declaration of Conformity do not contain any of the
restricted substances in concentrations/applications not permitted by the RoHS Directive.
Carl Haapaoja, Director of Quality Assurance
Measurement Computing Corporation
www.mccdaq.com
NI Hungary Kft
10 Commerce Way
Norton, Massachusetts 02766
(508) 946-5100
Fax: (508) 946-9500
E-mail: info@mccdaq.com
H-4031 Debrecen, Hátar út 1/A, Hungary
Phone: +36 (52) 515400
Fax: +36 (52) 515414
http://hungary.ni.com/debrecen
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