Fourier TriLink, MultiLab User Manual

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User Guide

TriLi n k

™

including

MultiLab™ for PC & MAC

MultiLab™ for Pocket PC

MultiLab™ for Palm

Cut the wire with TriLink wireless data logging

Integrating student

computing & science

TriLink

User Guide

Fourier Systems

Second Edition

Second print

Printed in May 2005

III

Contents

Introduction ........................................................................................................9

Chapter 1 TriLink .................................................................................. 11

1.1. General....................................................................................... 11

1.1.1. TriLink: System contents................................................................... 11

1.1.2. External connections......................................................................... 11

1.1.3. Battery ........................................................................................... 12

1.1.4. AC/DC Adaptor ................................................................................ 12

1.1.5. Automatic standby............................................................................ 13

1.1.6. Power saving mode........................................................................... 13

1.2. Stand-Alone Operation .................................................................. 14

1.2.1. Front Panel Layout............................................................................ 14

1.2.2. Working Modes ................................................................................ 14

1. Auto ID .............................................................................................................. 15

2. 8 sensors........................................................................................................... 15

1.2.3. Quick-Start...................................................................................... 15

1.2.4. Load the Last Setup.......................................................................... 16

1.2.5. Internal Clock and Calendar ............................................................... 16

1.2.6. Clear the Memory............................................................................. 16

1.2.7. Choose the Right Setup..................................................................... 17

1.2.8. Programming Rules and Limitations .................................................... 18

1.3. Sensor Calibration ........................................................................ 19

1.3.1. Hardware Offset Calibration ............................................................... 19

1.3.2. TriLink Automatic Zero Calibration ...................................................... 19

1.3.3. pH Temperature Compensation .......................................................... 20

1.3.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration................................................................ 20

1.3.5. Factory Calibration (No calibration required)......................................... 20

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld and MultiLab ................................. 21

2.1. Install the Software ...................................................................... 21

2.1.1. System Requirements ....................................................................... 21

2.1.2. Installation ...................................................................................... 21

2.2. Overview..................................................................................... 22

2.2.1. MultiLab for Palm Layout ................................................................... 22

2.2.2. MultiLab for Palm Window Layout........................................................ 22

2.3. Establish wireless communication ................................................... 23

1. Pairing your Palm with a TriLink ........................................................................ 23

2. Renaming TriLink .............................................................................................. 24

3. Changing the password..................................................................................... 25

2.4. Getting Started ............................................................................ 26

2.4.1. Set up a Recording Session................................................................ 26

1. Connect the sensor you want to use ................................................................. 26

2. Open MultiLab application................................................................................. 26

3. Set up TriLink .................................................................................................... 26

4. Select display .................................................................................................... 27

5. Start collecting data........................................................................................... 28

2.4.2. Download Data ................................................................................ 28

2.4.3. Save Data ....................................................................................... 28

2.4.4. Open a File...................................................................................... 29

2.4.5. Create a New Project ........................................................................ 29

2.5. View the Data .............................................................................. 30

2.5.1. Display Options................................................................................ 30

2.5.2. Data Map ........................................................................................ 30

2.5.3. Graph view...................................................................................... 30

1. The Cursor ........................................................................................................ 31

2. Zooming ............................................................................................................ 32

3. Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 33

4. Selecting what to display on the X-axis ............................................................. 34

5. Formatting the Graph colors.............................................................................. 34

2.5.4. Table Display ................................................................................... 35

2.5.5. Meter display ................................................................................... 35

1. Meter options..................................................................................................... 35

2. Meter types........................................................................................................ 36

2.5.6. Preview the data .............................................................................. 37

2.6. Analyze the Data.......................................................................... 38

2.6.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates.......................................................... 38

2.6.2. Reading the Difference between two Coordinate Values.......................... 38

2.6.3. Working with the Analysis Tools.......................................................... 38

2.6.4. Analysis tools................................................................................... 39

1. Linear fit ............................................................................................................ 39

2. Derivative ..........................................................................................................39

3. Integral ..............................................................................................................39

4. Statistics............................................................................................................ 39

2.7. Export the data ............................................................................ 40

2.7.1. Export to another Palm Handheld device by beaming............................. 40

2.7.2. Export to a desktop computer ............................................................ 40

2.8. Programming TriLink..................................................................... 41

2.8.1. Set up TriLink .................................................................................. 41

2.8.2. Auto detect sensors .......................................................................... 42

2.8.3. Power saving mode........................................................................... 43

2.8.4. Triggering ....................................................................................... 43

2.9. Toolbar buttons............................................................................ 46

2.9.1. Main (upper) toolbar......................................................................... 46

2.9.2. Graph (lower) toolbar ....................................................................... 46

2.9.3. Meter toolbar................................................................................... 47

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC and MultiLab ........................................ 48

3.1. Install the Software ...................................................................... 48

3.1.1. System Requirements ....................................................................... 48

3.1.2. Installation ...................................................................................... 48

3.2. Overview..................................................................................... 49

3.2.1. MultiLab for Pocket PC Layout ............................................................ 49

3.2.2. MultiLab for Pocket PC Window Layout................................................. 49

3.3. Establishing wireless communication ............................................... 50

1. Pairing your Pocket PC with a TriLink ............................................................... 50

2. Renaming TriLink .............................................................................................. 51

3. Changing the password..................................................................................... 52

3.4. Getting Started ............................................................................ 53

3.4.1. Set up a Recording Session................................................................ 53

3.4.2. Download Data ................................................................................ 55

3.4.3. Save Data ....................................................................................... 56

3.4.4. Open a File...................................................................................... 56

3.4.5. Create a New Project ........................................................................ 56

3.5. View the Data .............................................................................. 57

3.5.1. Display Options................................................................................ 57

3.5.2. Data Map ........................................................................................ 57

3.5.3. Graph view...................................................................................... 57

1. The Cursor ........................................................................................................ 58

2. Zooming ............................................................................................................ 59

3. Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 61

4. Selecting what to display on the X-axis ............................................................. 61

5. Formatting the Graph colors.............................................................................. 61

6. Change the graph’s units and its number format............................................... 62

3.5.4. Table Display ................................................................................... 62

3.5.5. Meter display ................................................................................... 63

1. Meter options..................................................................................................... 63

2. Meter types........................................................................................................ 63

3.5.6. Preview the data .............................................................................. 64

3.6. Analyze the Data.......................................................................... 65

3.6.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates.......................................................... 65

3.6.2. Reading the Difference between Two Coordinate Values ......................... 65

3.6.3. Working with the Analysis Tools.......................................................... 65

3.6.4. Analysis tools................................................................................... 66

1. Linear fit ............................................................................................................ 66

2. Derivative ..........................................................................................................66

3. Integral ..............................................................................................................66

4. Statistics............................................................................................................ 66

3.7. Export the data ............................................................................ 67

3.7.1. Export to another Pocket PC by beaming.............................................. 67

3.7.2. Export to a desktop computer ............................................................ 67

3.8. Programming TriLink..................................................................... 68

3.8.1. Set up TriLink .................................................................................. 68

3.8.2. Auto detect sensors .......................................................................... 69

3.8.3. Power saving mode........................................................................... 70

3.8.4. Triggering ....................................................................................... 70

3.8.5. Calibrate sensors.............................................................................. 72

3.9. Toolbar buttons............................................................................ 73

3.9.1. Main toolbar .................................................................................... 73

3.9.2. Graph toolbar .................................................................................. 73

3.9.3. Meter toolbar................................................................................... 73

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer and MultiLab........................... 74

4.1. Install the Software ...................................................................... 74

4.1.1. System Requirements ....................................................................... 74

1. Windows............................................................................................................ 74

2. Mac OS ............................................................................................................. 74

4.1.2. Installation ...................................................................................... 75

1. Windows............................................................................................................ 75

2. Mac OS ............................................................................................................. 76

4.2. Overview..................................................................................... 77

4.2.1. MultiLab On-screen Layout................................................................. 77

4.2.2. MultiLab Window Layout.................................................................... 77

4.2.3. Working with Projects ....................................................................... 78

4.3. Establishing wireless communication ............................................... 79

1. Pairing your Computer with a TriLink................................................................. 79

2. Renaming TriLink .............................................................................................. 80

3. Changing the password..................................................................................... 81

4.4. Getting Started ............................................................................ 82

4.4.1. Set up a Recording Session................................................................ 82

1. Prepare TriLink.................................................................................................. 82

2. Enable Video Recording.................................................................................... 82

3. Setup the TriLink ............................................................................................... 82

4. Start Recording ................................................................................................. 83

4.4.2. Data recording options ...................................................................... 83

1. Single measurement ......................................................................................... 83

2. Replace ............................................................................................................. 83

3. Add.................................................................................................................... 83

4.4.3. Online Video .................................................................................... 83

1. Online video ...................................................................................................... 83

2. Recording.......................................................................................................... 84

3. Replaying an experiment................................................................................... 84

4. Video and audio Properties ............................................................................... 84

4.4.4. Download Data ................................................................................ 85

4.4.5. Save Data ....................................................................................... 85

4.4.6. Open a File...................................................................................... 86

4.4.7. Create a New Project ........................................................................ 86

4.4.8. Import data..................................................................................... 86

4.4.9. Print ............................................................................................... 87

1. Print a graph...................................................................................................... 87

2. Print a table ....................................................................................................... 87

4.5. View the Data .............................................................................. 88

4.5.1. Display Options................................................................................ 88

4.5.2. Graph Display .................................................................................. 88

1. Split graph view ................................................................................................. 89

2. The Cursor ........................................................................................................ 89

3. Zooming ............................................................................................................ 90

4. Panning ............................................................................................................. 91

5. Edit the Graph ................................................................................................... 91

6. Format the graph............................................................................................... 92

7. Change the graph’s units and its number format............................................... 92

8. Add annotations to the graph ............................................................................ 92

9. Add a graph to the project ................................................................................. 93

4.5.3. The Table Display ............................................................................. 94

1. Editing data values ............................................................................................ 94

2. Editing the table................................................................................................. 94

3. Formatting the table .......................................................................................... 95

4. Add a table to the project .................................................................................. 95

4.5.4. Meters ............................................................................................ 95

4.5.5. Data Map ........................................................................................ 96

1. Control the display with the Data Map............................................................... 96

2. Understanding Data Map icons ......................................................................... 97

4.5.6. Export Data to Excel ......................................................................... 97

1. Export file settings............................................................................................. 97

4.5.7. Copy the Graph as a Picture............................................................... 98

4.6. Program TriLink............................................................................ 99

4.6.1. Setup ............................................................................................. 99

1. Quick setup ....................................................................................................... 99

2. Define sensor properties .................................................................................100

3. Presetting the display ...................................................................................... 101

4. Preset the graph’s X-axis ................................................................................ 101

5. Power saving mode......................................................................................... 102

6. Triggering ........................................................................................................ 102

4.6.2. Start Recording...............................................................................104

4.6.3. Stop Recording ...............................................................................104

4.6.4. Clear TriLink’s Memory.....................................................................104

4.6.5. Select TriLink’s operating mode .........................................................104

4.6.6. Calibrating the sensors.....................................................................104

4.6.7. Define a Custom Sensor ...................................................................105

4.6.8. Communication Setup ......................................................................106

4.7. Analyze the data ........................................................................ 107

4.7.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates.........................................................107

4.7.2. Reading the Difference Between two Coordinate Values ........................107

4.7.3. Working with the Analysis Tools.........................................................107

4.7.4. Smoothing .....................................................................................107

4.7.5. Statistics........................................................................................108

VII

4.7.6. Most Common Analysis Functions ......................................................108

1. Linear fit .......................................................................................................... 108

2. Derivative ........................................................................................................ 108

3. Integral ............................................................................................................108

4.7.7. The Analysis Wizard.........................................................................109

1. Using the Analysis Wizard............................................................................... 109

2. Curve fit........................................................................................................... 109

3. Averaging ........................................................................................................ 110

4. Functions......................................................................................................... 111

4.7.8. Available Analysis Tools....................................................................111

1. Curve fit........................................................................................................... 111

2. Averaging ........................................................................................................ 112

3. Functions......................................................................................................... 112

4.7.9. Online Analysis ...............................................................................115

4.7.10. Manual Curve Fitting........................................................................117

4.8. Video Motion Analyzer................................................................. 119

4.8.1. Overview .......................................................................................119

4.8.2. Getting started................................................................................119

1. Video Motion Analyzer basics ......................................................................... 119

2. Saving new movie ........................................................................................... 119

3. Opening a stored movie .................................................................................. 120

4. Saving Video Motion Analyzer project............................................................. 120

5. Opening Video Motion Analyzer project .......................................................... 120

4.8.3. Capturing new movie .......................................................................120

1. From a device attached to your computer ....................................................... 120

2. From an external source through a video board.............................................. 121

4.8.4. Capturing position and time ..............................................................122

1. Scaling ............................................................................................................ 122

2. Set coordinate system..................................................................................... 122

3. Set step ........................................................................................................... 124

4. Mark the video................................................................................................. 124

5. Changing the colors of the marker and the axes ............................................. 126

4.8.5. Analyzing the data...........................................................................127

4.9. Workbook.................................................................................. 128

4.9.1. Working with Workbook ...................................................................128

4.9.2. Opening a Worksheet.......................................................................128

4.9.3. Create Your Own Worksheet .............................................................129

1. Create an HTML document with Word ............................................................ 129

2. Create a configuration file................................................................................ 129

4.10. Special Tools ............................................................................. 131

4.10.1. Predicting.......................................................................................131

4.10.2. The Timing Wizard...........................................................................131

1. Overview ......................................................................................................... 131

2. Working with the Timing Wizard ...................................................................... 131

3. Measuring methods......................................................................................... 132

4. Time schemes and calculations ...................................................................... 135

5. Tips on using the Timing Wizard ..................................................................... 138

4.10.3. Crop Tool .......................................................................................139

1. To trim all data up to a point............................................................................ 139

2. To trim all data outside a selected range......................................................... 139

4.10.4. Capture Tool...................................................................................139

1. Preparing the capture table ............................................................................. 140

2. Capturing data................................................................................................. 141

3. Displaying the captured data on the graph ...................................................... 141

4.11. Toolbar Buttons.......................................................................... 143

VIII

4.11.1. Main (upper) Toolbar .......................................................................143

4.11.2. Graph Toolbar.................................................................................144

4.11.3. Table Toolbar..................................................................................145

4.11.4. Video Motion Analyzer toolbar ...........................................................145

4.11.5. Capture new movie toolbar ...............................................................145

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Guide........................................................... 146

5.1.1. TriLink ...........................................................................................146

5.1.2. MultiLab.........................................................................................147

Chapter 6 Specifications....................................................................... 149

Appendix A: Figures ............................................................................... 150

Appendix B: Adding a code resistor to a custom sensor ............................... 151

Index .......................................................................................... 152

Introduction 9

Introduction

TriLink is the new wireless data logger from Fourier. Based on the MultiLogPRO design, TriLink has gone one step further by integrating Bluetooth wireless technology. TriLink is now able to communicate with all types of current and future PALM, PC, Pocket PC and MAC.

TriLink embodies next generation data logging. Wireless experimentation means students are no longer tied to their PC. Now free from the clutter of cables their work and the class computer arrangement can be organized and flexible. No more “wet” bench tops. Now Science Lab computers can be positioned far away from “wet” experiments while still logging the experiment and gaining the full benefit of Fourier data analysis software – cable free!

The TriLink is ideal for classroom mobility and outdoor experimenting. Data can be turned into graph form, analyzed as well as exported to spreadsheets - all in the palm of the hand. Based on the MultiLogPRO technologies, the TriLink carries all the same benefits plus more: wireless communication, 12 bit resolution and 256K sample memory. The TriLink also works with nearly all of the MultiLog sensors, including leading sensors from other vendors.

TriLink can record data from up to 8 sensors simultaneously; it is capable of recording at rates of up to 21,000 samples per second, and of collecting up to 100,000 samples in its internal memory.

TriLink is the ultimate multi-platform data logger, allowing both field and stand alone operation. TriLink is equipped with a simple keypad and LCD display. TriLink can connect to PC or MAC and run Fourier's MultiLab analysis software. In addition, Bluetooth wireless communication link enables TriLink to interface with PDA devices, such as PALM and Pocket PCs.

A rechargeable battery powers the data logger, which automatically switches to standby mode 5 minutes after the time of the last data recording, the last button was pressed, or the last communication was made with the PC. While on standby, TriLink switches to a low-power state whereby the electronic circuitry and the display are turned off, using less power.

Combining a handheld computer and the MultiLab for handheld computers software, TriLink becomes a complete portable sensor based science laboratory that enables students to collect and visually analyze data.

The TriLink system also comes with the powerful MultiLab for desktop computers software. When the TriLink is connected to a PC, live displays can be viewed at rates of up to 100/s, and automatic downloads can be carried out at higher rates. MultiLab can display the data in graphs, tables or meters, can analyze data with various mathematical tools, and can show live or recorded video movies of actual experiments.

The large variety of sensors with which TriLink is compatible makes the unit a true "digital lab", which can measure scientific phenomena from the fields of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Environmental Sciences.

This manual is divided into five sections:

• The first section is dedicated to the data logger itself. Topics include: Connecting sensors, operation through the data logger buttons, and using the LCD display to take measurements when working offline.

• The second and third sections explain how to operate the TriLink combined with Palm or Pocket PC and MultiLab software. Topics include: How to

10 Introduction

establish wireless connection between TriLink and a handheld computer, how to use MultiLab software to program TriLink, collecting and viewing data, and copying data to a desktop computer or to other handhelds.

• The forth section gives a comprehensive overview of the MultiLab for desktop computer software. Topics include: Working online, how to download data from the data logger to a PC, analyzing the data both graphically and mathematically, using the MultiLab software to program the data logger when working online, and working with the video tool.

• The fifth and last section contains hardware specifications and a comprehensive troubleshooting guide that gives answers to common questions.

Chapter 1 TriLink 11

Chapter 1

TriLink

1.1. General

1.1.1. TriLink: System contents

1. The TriLink data logger

2. Sensors (see your package list)

3. Four sensor cables

4. USB communication cable

5. Web camera (optional)

6. MultiLab software installation CD.

7. An AC-DC adaptor.

1.1.2. External connections

Figure 1: TriLink external connections

12 Chapter 1 TriLink

1. Sensor input (In) sockets marked In-1/8 In-2/7 In-3/6 and In-4/5: These sockets are used to connect the sensors. Normally, all four sockets can be used simultaneously.

To connect a sensor to the TriLink use one of the sensor cables. Plug the stereo plug into the data logger, and the mini-din plug into the sensor arrow facing down.

In order to connect more than 4 sensors at a time, use the splitter cables, which will enable the connection of up to 8 sensors simultaneously. When a splitter cable is connected, it must be connected to the socket in the correct numerical order (e.g. for 5 sensors, connect the splitter cable to In-4/5). One of the two splitter cables is marked with P1 - that is the main input (the lower input number), the second line is marked with P2 - indicating that it is the secondary input (the higher input number). Connect up to four input splitters (DT225) to split the TriLink’s inputs starting with In-4 (the splitters must be connected in order):

In-4 splits into In-4 and In-5 In-3 splits into In-3 and In-6 In-2 splits into In-2 and In-7 In-1 splits into In-1 and In-8

2. PC USB communication socket: Connect the mini USB plug of the USB communication cable to the TriLink and the USB Type A plug to the computer’s USB port (see page 75 for USB driver installation).

3. External DC power supply socket: Plug in an AC/DC 9 - 12V adaptor whenever you want to save battery power, or to charge the battery when necessary. Connecting external power to the TriLink automatically charges the internal battery. The adaptor should meet the required specifications (see section

1.1.4).

1.1.3. Battery

TriLink is equipped with a 2.4V/750mAh NiMH rechargeable battery. Before you start working with TriLink for the first time, charge the unit for 10 to 12 hours while it is turned off.

The battery lifetime is about 8 hours of continuous work. If the data logger’s main battery runs out, the internal 3V Lithium battery backs up

the memory, so no data will be lost.

Note: Battery shelf charge life is about 100 hours. To maximize battery

shelf charge life, always disconnect sensors when not in use. Disconnect TriLink from the computer when not in use. You can continue to operate TriLink by plugging it into the wall.

1.1.4. AC/DC Adaptor

• Output: Capacitor filtered 12 VDC, 300mA

• Female plug, center negative

Chapter 1 TriLink 13

1.1.5. Automatic standby

TriLink switches automatically to standby mode after 5 minutes have passed since the time of the last data recording, the last button was pressed, or the last communication was made with the PC.

While on standby, TriLink switches to a low-power state where the electronic circuitry and the display are turned off and TriLink uses less power.

1.1.6. Power saving mode

When performing long experiments at low rates, of up to 1 per minute, TriLink enables you to work in power saving mode. In this mode TriLink switches to standby mode and ‘wakes up’ for brief periods of time only to execute data logging and then returns to a standby.

This will enable TriLink to work continuously, without recharging the battery, for up to 100 hours instead of 5 hours in normal mode.

To learn how to operate in power saving mode please refer to: Section 4.6.1.5 on page 102 if you are working with MultiLab for desktop computers Section 2.8.3 on page 43 if you are working with MultiLab for Palm Handhelds Section 3.8.3 on page 70 if you are working with MultiLab for Pocket PC

14 Chapter 1 TriLink

1.2. Stand-Alone Operation

Programming TriLink is done via MultiLab. TriLink will save the setup parameters until the next time you program it. The keypad allows you to begin and stop data collection, while the LCD screen displays the recorded values or TriLink's status.

To learn how to set up TriLink please see:

Page 99 if you are working with MultiLab for desktop computers

Page 41 if you are working with MultiLab for Palm Handhelds

Page 68 if you are working with MultiLab for Pocket PC

1.2.1. Front Panel Layout

Figure 2: TriLink front panel

1.2.2. Working Modes

TriLink has two working modes. The default mode is Auto ID and the TriLink is in this mode when turned on for the first time. When using more than 4 sensors (when using VERNIER sensors, or if you’ve defined your own sensor), switch to the 8 sensors mode. You can select the working mode from MultiLab.

TriLink saves the current mode selection and will automatically open in that mode the next time you turn TriLink on.

Chapter 1 TriLink 15

To learn how to select working mode please see:

Page 104 if you are working with MultiLab for desktop computers

Page 42 if you are working with MultiLab for Palm handhelds

Page 69 if you are working with MultiLab for Pocket PC

1. Auto ID

Automatic sensor identification – just plug in the sensors and the TriLink prepares itself to collect data from these sensors.

While in this mode you can work with up to 4 sensors simultaneously.

2. 8 sensors

This mode enables data logging from up to 8 sensors simultaneously. Connect up to four input splitters (DT225) to multiply the TriLink’s inputs starting with In-4 (the splitters must be connected in order):

In-4 splits into In-4 and In-5 In-3 splits into In-3 and In-6 In-2 splits into In-2 and In-7 In-1 splits into In-1 and In-8 In the splitter cable, one of the two wires is marked with P1 (port 1) - that is the main

input (the lower input number). The second wire is marked with P2 - indicating that it is the secondary input (the higher input number).

In this mode there is no automatic sensor identification. Use this mode if you want to work with more than 4 sensors or if you are using

VERNIER sensors.

1.2.3. Quick-Start

Before you first use TriLink, charge the unit for 10 to 12 hours while it is turned off.

1. Turn on TriLink

Press the On/off

button. You will see the initialization screen. TriLink performs brief self-check, loads the last setup you used and momentarily displays its version number and battery level, then its name and then the display will be changed to show the current status.

2. Plug in the sensors

Start with the first input on the left (see on page 11). If TriLink is in Auto ID mode (the default mode) it will identify the sensors you’ve plugged in and display the sensor’s name.

Note: Sensors must be added successively, starting with input-1. If a

single sensor is used it must be connected to In-1. If two sensors are used in an experiment, they must be connected to In-1 and In-2.

16 Chapter 1 TriLink

If the TriLink is in 8 Sensors mode you have to select the sensors manually from MultiLab.

3. Start recording

Press the Run/Stop

button to start recording. TriLink will use the stored setup parameters to collect data (see page 14) The LCD screen will display:

Logging

At rates of up to 10 samples per second TriLink displays the recorded data values.

You can stop recording any time by pressing the Run/Stop

button a second time. Otherwise logging will stop after the selected number of samples where taken. The LCD screen will display the number of the experiment in TriLink’s memory:

_ _ _ LOGGER – RUN _ _ _ Log 01 ended

1.2.4. Load the Last Setup

When you turn TriLink on, once the self testing and selection of the input modes has been completed, it will automatically load the last setup you’ve used.

1.2.5. Internal Clock and Calendar

The internal clock is set the first time you use the Setup command from the MultiLab software to program the TriLink, and is automatically updated to the PC’s time and date each time you connect your TriLink to a PC.

The internal clock and calendar is kept updated even when the TriLink is turned off, but it will be erased if the 2.4V battery is dead. It will be updated the next time TriLink will be connected to a computer or a Palm.

1.2.6. Clear the Memory

TriLink automatically checks the available memory before it begins the recording. If there is not enough memory you will see this message on the display:

_ _ _ LOGGER-RUN _ _ _ Clear = (Run)

Press the Run/Stop button to clear the memory and begin recording.

Chapter 1 TriLink 17

1.2.7. Choose the Right Setup.

1.Sampling rate

The sampling rate should be determined by the frequency of the phenomenon being sampled. If the phenomenon is periodic, sample at a rate of at least twice the expected frequency. For example, sound recordings should be sampled at the highest sampling rate – 20,800/sec, but changes in room temperature can be measured at slower rates such as once per second or even slower, depending on the speed of the expected changes. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS OVERSAMPLING. For extremely smooth graphs, the sampling rate should be about 20 times the expected frequency.

Note: Sampling at a rate slower than the expected rate can cause

"frequency aliasing". In such a case, the graph will show a frequency much lower than expected. In Figure 3 below, the higher frequency sine wave was sampled at 1/3 of its frequency. Connecting the sampled points yielded a graph with a lower, incorrect frequency.

Figure 3: Frequency Aliasing

2.Sampling points

After you have chosen the sampling rate, choosing the number of points will determine the logging period: Samples / Rate = Logging time. You can also choose the duration of an experiment first, and then calculate the number of samples: Samples = Logging time × Rate.

Continuous

In the Continuous mode, TriLink does not save data, and can continue logging indefinitely.

If TriLink is connected to the PC and the MultiLab software is running, the data is automatically transferred to the computer and displayed in a real time graph.

To operate in Continuous mode select RATE equal to or less than 100/s and SAMPLES = Continuous.

18 Chapter 1 TriLink

1.2.8. Programming Rules and Limitations

The following are some rules and limitations you must take into account when programming the TriLink, as TriLink integrates all programming limitations automatically. TriLink will only allow the programming of settings that comply with the rules below.

1.Sampling points:

• Increasing the number of active inputs limits the number of sampling points one can choose. The following condition must be always satisfied: Samples × Active Inputs < Memory.

• TriLink’s memory is sufficient for 170,000 samples.

• When sampling at rates faster than 100 samples per second the

memory can store only four experiments of 32,000 samples each.

• When sampling at rates of 100 samples per second or less, selecting Maximum sampling points will create up to four successive files of 42,500 points each (a total of 170,000 points), depending on the available memory.

2. Sampling rate:

The number of sensors in use limits the maximum sampling rate:

Number of sensors Maximum sampling rate Resolution

1 sensor 20,800 samples per second 10 bit

1 sensor 11,200 samples per second 12 bit

2 sensors 3,400 samples per second 12 bit

3 sensors 2,500 samples per second 12 bit

4 sensors 1,900 samples per second 12 bit

5 sensors 1,600 samples per second 12 bit

6 sensors 1,400 samples per second 12 bit

7 sensors 1,200 samples per second 12 bit

8 sensors 1,050 samples per second 12 bit

3. Continuous sampling

• Continuous sampling is possible up to a maximum sampling rate of 100/s.

Chapter 1 TriLink 19

1.3. Sensor Calibration

In this chapter you will learn how to increase the TriLink system accuracy using calibration. Most of the sensors are linear, i.e. the output level of each sensor changes according to the equation:

baXY +=

Where:

Y – The sensor’s output (voltage level varying from 0 to 5V) X – The sensor’s input a – The sensor’s gain b – The sensor’s offset

The calibration process allows us to control the offset, and in some cases even the gain, of a sensor. The TriLink system offers 4 types of calibration:

1. Hardware offset calibration.

2. TriLink automatic zero calibration.

3. MultiLab “Sensor calibration”.

4. Factory calibration (no manual calibration required).

1.3.1. Hardware Offset Calibration

On some of the sensors there is a screw controlling the sensor offset. To calibrate the sensor, rotate this screw until the sensor shows the correct measured value (obtain the actual "correct value" from another source that is known to be accurate).

1.3.2. TriLink Automatic Zero Calibration

TriLink is able to automatically calibrate the sensor offset for all analog sensors accurately, quickly, and for every new experiment conducted.

The calibration method is very simple. Whenever you plug in a sensor, the data logger checks to see if the selected sensor measures a value within ±2% of its “zero value”. If so, TriLink sets that value as zero.

1) To enable this feature, make sure that the sensors are at their “zero values” when you plug them in. To ensure the most accurate “zero value”: Shorten the Voltage sensor plugs.

2) Leave the Current sensor plugs open.

3) Cover the Light, Photo-Gate, and Microphone sensors.

4) Insert the pH sensor in a pH-7.0 solution.

5) Unload the Force Transducer.

6) Place the Accelerometer on a stationary surface.

7) Place the Temperature probes in ice water.

8) Place the Pressure sensor in a 1 ATM (1013 mb) Chamber.

20 Chapter 1 TriLink

1.3.3. pH Temperature Compensation

To compensate a pH sensor for temperature changes, plug the temperature sensor into Input 1, and the pH sensor in Input 2. TriLink will then display the compensated pH value.

1.3.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration

The sensors can also be calibrated using the Calibrate Sensors option in MultiLab’s Logger menu. Please refer to section 4.6.6 for more on this.

1.3.5. Factory Calibration (No calibration required)

All digital sensors that are essentially "timers" leave the factory fully calibrated, and do not suffer from any accuracy degradation. An example of such a sensor is the Sonic Ranger Distance sensor, which measures the time passed from the transmission of a sound pulse to its echo reception.

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 21

Chapter 2

Working with Palm Handheld and MultiLab

2.1. Install the Software

2.1.1. System Requirements

To work with MultiLab for Palm, your Palm Handheld device should be equipped with the following:

• Approximately 700k of memory

• Palm OS ® 4 or later

• Bluetooth wireless technology

2.1.2. Installation

1. Insert the MultiLab CD to your CD drive

2. Navigate to the Palm folder located on the CD and double click the setup icon

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the MultiLab for Palm application and conduit onto your desktop computer.

4. Perform a HotSync operation to install the MultiLab for Palm application onto your Palm powered device.

22 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

2.2. Overview

2.2.1. MultiLab for Palm Layout

The MultiLab for Palm application is designed to support seven major kinds of activities:

• Establishing wireless communication with TriLink

• Setting up TriLink

• Collecting and displaying online data

• Downloading stored data from TriLink

• Displaying the data in graphs, tables and meters

• Analyzing the data

• Exporting data to a desktop computer or the another Palm

Every time you start a new experiment, MultiLab automatically creates a new project file. All the information you collect and process for a given experiment is stored in a single project file. Each of these files contain all the data sets you collect with the TriLink, the analysis functions you’ve processed, and the MultiLab settings for the experiment.

Note: all data sets in a single project must be with the same sampling

rate.

2.2.2. MultiLab for Palm Window Layout

Graph toolba

Main toolba

Menu ba

Graph Window

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 23

2.3. Establish wireless communication

TriLink uses Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your Palm. To avoid interference between several devices TriLink employs a procedure called "pairing"

that allows any Palm to communicate with only one specific TriLink. Every TriLink has a unique 'name'. The pairing process tells the Palm to address only

a specific 'name'. Before you work with TriLink and a Palm you have to perform this pairing procedure.

MultiLab stores the TriLink's address and will automatically connect to this specific TriLink every time you open MultiLab.

You can always repeat the pairing process if you want to connect to another TriLink. The pairing procedure is protected by a password in order to prevent an

unauthorized person from changing the address.

Make sure no USB cable is connected. MultiLab will not establish Bluetooth connection while the USB cable is connected even if the paring process was successful.

1. Pairing your Palm with a TriLink

1. Turn on TriLink: push the on/off button

on TriLink front panel

2. Open MultiLab application:

a) Navigate to the Programs folder

b) Tap the MultiLab icon

Fourier category

3. Tap the Menu bar or the Menu icon

4. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

5. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap Pair TriLink

Pairing (or bonding) is a concept introduced to create a first time recognition of what devices are allowed to communicate with each other or which devices belong together. Devices can usually not establish a communication session without a first time pairing.

24 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

6. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

7. Tap OK

MultiLab searches for Bluetooth devices and displays a list with all the devices that were found

8. Tap the name of the TriLink you want to connect to, then tap OK

Note: TriLink briefly display its name after turning it on

After pairing is done MultiLab displays the name of the paired TriLink.

9. Tap OK

You are now ready to begin data logging. From now on MultiLab will automatically connect to the paired TriLink.

2. Renaming TriLink

1. Tap the Menu bar or the Menu icon

2. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

3. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap

Rename TriLink

4. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

5. Tap OK

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 25

6. Enter the new name, then tap OK

Note: the name can include up to 11 characters

MultiLab will display the new name. You can always return to factory name by taping

Reset TriLink Name

3. Changing the password

1. Tap the Menu bar or the Menu icon

2. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

3. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap either Rename TriLink or Pair TriLink

Enter the current password (the default password is 1234), then tap Change Password

4. Enter a new password in the New password edit box

5. Confirm the new password in the Confirm password edit box

6. Tap OK

26 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

2.4. Getting Started

2.4.1. Set up a Recording Session

1.Connect the sensor you want to use

2.Open MultiLab application

Tap MultiLab icon from Fourier category

MultiLab opening screen looks like:

3.Set up TriLink

1. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

MultiLab searches for a TriLink connected to the Palm device, then displays the setup dialog:

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 27

Note: If MultiLab does not find a TriLink, it prompts a message saying

that no TriLink was found. Check the connection between the TriLink and the Palm. If no TriLink is connected you can still work offline and open stored data files.

2. If you are working in Auto Detect Mode (the default mode, see if the check box is checked) MultiLab displays the connected sensors, otherwise pick the sensors for each input from the sensors pick list

3. Tap the Rate tab and select number of samples per time unit from the Rate pick list

4. Tap the Samples tab and select the total number of samples from the Samples pick list

5. Tap OK

4.Select display

Tap a display on the main toolbar:

Graph

, Table or Meter

Note: If you begin collecting data from the opening screen MultiLab

prompts a graph view

28 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

5.Start collecting data

Tap Run

on the main toolbar.

If the recording rate is 100 measurements per second or less, MultiLab displays the data in real time, plotting it on the graph as it is being recorded. If the recording rate is higher than 100/s, the data will be downloaded and displayed automatically, once the data recording is finished.

If you are recording at a rate of 500/s or 1,000/s, MultiLab displays an online preview at a rate of 25/s.

You can stop recording anytime by taping Stop

on the main toolbar.

2.4.2. Download Data

Whenever data is received from the TriLink, it is accumulated and displayed automatically by MultiLab. There are two modes of communication: Online and PostExperiment.

Online communication

When TriLink is connected to the Palm and programmed to run at sampling rates of up to 25/s, TriLink transmits each data sample immediately, as it is recorded, to the Palm. The software thus displays the data in real-time in both the graph window and the table window.

When TriLink is connected to the Palm and programmed to run at a sampling rate of 50/s or higher, data is accumulated in TriLink‘s internal memory. This data is not transmitted to the Palm until the recording period has ended, when the data is automatically downloaded to the Palm and displayed.

Off-line data logging

To download data that was recorded offline, or while TriLink was not connected to a Palm handheld devise, connect TriLink to the Palm, run MultiLab, tap the menu bar, tap Logger, then and tap Download. This will initiate the Post-Experiment Data Transfer communication mode. Once the transfer is complete, the data will be displayed automatically in the graph window and in the table window. If there are several experiments stored in the TriLink, the first download will bring up the most recent experiment; the second download will bring up the first (oldest) experiment, the third download will bring up the second experiment, and so on.

To download a particular experiment, choose Selective download from the Logger menu, then select the experiment’s number in the Download dialog box.

2.4.3. Save Data

To save your project tap the menu bar, tap Tools, then tap Save File. This will save all the data sets under one project file.

If you made any changes to a previously saved project, tap Save to update the saved file or tap Save as to save it under another name.

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 29

2.4.4. Open a File

1. Tap the menu bar

2. Tap Tools, then tap Open File

3. Tap the file name to open the project

MultiLab opens the project and in the Data Map view. Use the Data Map to display the desired data set.

2.4.5. Create a New Project

There are two ways to create a new project:

1. Open the MultiLab program, which will open a new file each time

2. Tap the menu bar, tap Tools, then tap Clear All

30 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

2.5. View the Data

2.5.1. Display Options

MultiLab features four views. Three views to display data: Graph view, Table view and Meter view. The fourth view, the Data Map enables you to navigate through the available data sets.

To switch to a certain view tap the corresponding tool on the main tool bar:

– Data Map

– Graph view

– Table view

– Meter view

2.5.2. Data Map

The Data Map displays the list of data sets that were recorded or downloaded in the current session, as well as the lists of all the processed data sets

The items in the Data Map are sorted into three main categories:

• Experiments

• Processed data

To display the complete list of sensors for any individual experiment, tap the plus sign (+) next to it.

To collapse a list under an individual experiment, tap the minus sign (-) next to it.

To display a certain data set tap its name on the list, then tap Show

To hide a data set tap its name on the list, then tap Hide

Showing or hiding a data set with the Data Map applies both to the Graph and Table views.

2.5.3. Graph view

Tap Graph to display the graph. The default graph display is the data set or sets plotted vs. time, but you can change the X-axis to represent any of the individual data sets (see page 34).

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 31

The graph usually displays all the data sets of a given recording, but you can use the Data Map to remove one or more of the sets from the graph (see page 30).

In order to keep the graph clear and simple, only one Y-axis is shown on the graph. To change the Y-axis, pick the desired sensor from the pick list above the axis

You can identify the Y-axis by its color, which matches the plot color.

1. The Cursor

You can display up to two cursors on the graph simultaneously. Use the first cursor to display individual data recording values, to select a curve or to

reveal the hidden Y-axis. Use two cursors to display the difference between two coordinate values or to select

a range of data points.

To display the first cursor:

Tap an individual data point on the graph or tap 1

Cursor on the graph

toolbar. You can drag the cursor with the stylus onto any other point on the plot, or

onto a different plot. For finer cursor movements use the forward

and backward

tools on the graph tool bar.

The coordinate values of the selected point will appear at the bottom of the graph window.

32 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

To display the second cursor:

Tap 2

Cursor on the graph toolbar

MultiLab will now display the difference between the two coordinate values.

To remove the cursors: Tap 1

Cursor a second time.

To remove the 2

cursor:

Tap 2

Cursor a second time.

2. Zooming

1. To zoom into the center of the graph

1. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

2. To reverse the operation, tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

2. To zoom into a specific data point

1. Select the point with the cursor (see above)

2. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar.

3. To zoom into a range

1. Select the range with both cursors

2. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 33

4. To zoom into a specific area

Tap Zoom to selection

on the graph toolbar and drag the stylus diagonally to select the area you want to magnify. Remove the stylus to zoom in to the selected area.

Tap Zoom to selection a second time to disable the zoom tool.

5. Autoscale

Tap Autoscale

on the graph toolbar to view the full data display

6. Manual scaling

1. Tap the menu bar, then tap Tools

2. Tap Format graph, then tap on the Lines tab

3. Pick the axis you want to scale from the Select plot pick list

4. Uncheck the Autoscale check box and enter the new values in the Min and Max edit boxes

5. Tap OK

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

7. The stretch/compress axis tool

Move the stylus onto one of the graph axes. Drag the stylus to stretch or compress the axis scale. Repeat the procedure for the other axis if necessary.

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

3. Scrolling

After applying the zoom tool you can scroll the graph while keeping the zoomed scale.

Tap Scroll right

on the graph toolbar in order to scroll the graph to the right

34 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

Tap scroll left on the graph toolbar in order to scroll the graph to the left

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

4. Selecting what to display on the X-axis

1. Tap the menu bar, then tap Tools

2. Tap Format graph, then tap on the X Axis tab

3. Pick the data you want to display on the X axis from the X-axis pick list

4. Tap OK

5. Formatting the Graph colors

To change the data line’s color:

1. Tap the menu bar, then tap Tools

2. Tap Format graph, then tap on the Lines tab

3. Pick the plot you want to format from the Select plot pick list

4. Tap the color rectangle

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 35

5. Tap the desired color

6. Tap OK

6.Change the graph’s units and its number format

1. Tap the menu bar, then tap Tools

2. Tap Graph Format, then tap on the Units tab

3. Pick the plot you want to format from the Select plot pick list

4. Pick the prefix option you want from the Prefix pick list

5. Pick the desired number of decimal places from the Decimal places pick list

6. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check box

7. Tap OK

2.5.4. Table Display

Tap Table to display the table The data that is displayed in the table always matches the data in the graph. Use the

Data Map (see page 30) then change the displayed data.

2.5.5. Meter display

Tap Meter to switch to meter view

1. Meter options

You can use the meter mode to view data without collecting it or to display data while it is being collected.

36 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

If you switch to meter mode without running TriLink (i.e. without taping Run ), TriLink continuously takes measurements from all active sensors, MultiLab displays it

but the data is not stored. You can display one meter at a time. To select what sensor to display pick it from the

sensors pick list located above the meter

To collect and store data while viewing it in Meter display, simply tap Run

2. Meter types

There are three meter types: Analog

, Digital and Bar .

To select a meter type, tap the corresponding icon on the meter toolbar below the meter

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 37

2.5.6. Preview the data

Prior to collecting data you may wish to preview your data. In Preview you can:

• Ensure that your handheld computer, TriLink and sensors are properly connected

• Verify that a sensor is measuring what you intend it to measure

• Verify that a sensor has reached a stable value

In Preview mode data is not saved To preview data:

1. Setup TriLink as you would normally do (see page 26)

2. Tap the menu bar, then tap Logger

3. Tap Preview

38 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

2.6. Analyze the Data

2.6.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates

Position the cursor (see page 31) on a point to display its coordinates at the bottom of the graph window.

2.6.2. Reading the Difference between two Coordinate Values

Position one cursor on the first point and a second cursor on the second point to display the difference between the two coordinate values at the bottom of the graph window

2.6.3. Working with the Analysis Tools

The analysis tools can only be applied to data sets that are displayed in the graph window.

1. Use the cursors (see page 31) to select the graph and the data range to which you want to apply the analysis.

2. Select the analysis function you wish to use.

The analysis function will be added onto the graph.

To apply an analysis function:

3. Tap the menu bar, then tap Tools

4. Tap Analysis to display the Analysis dialog:

5. If you have not selected a plot with the cursor tap the desired plot in the Select plot list

6. Tap a function in the Function list

7. Tap Apply

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 39

MultiLab will add the analysis function onto the graph.

2.6.4. Analysis tools

1. Linear fit

Use Linear Fit to draw a line of linear least square fit

baxy +=

and to display the line’s equation.

2. Derivative

Use Derivative to construct a graph in which each point is the slope of the 3 consecutive points on the source graph.

3. Integral

Choose Integral construct a graph in which each point is the integral of all the preceding points on the source graph.

4. Statistics

Use the Statistics tool to display statistics of a selected data set or a range of data. The statistics include:

Average – The average of all the numbers in the range

StDev. – The standard deviation

Minimum – The smallest value in the range

Maximum – The largest value in the range

Sum – Adds all the numbers in the range

Area – The area between the graph and the x-axis in the range

Samples – The number of data points in the range

Rate – The recording rate

40 Export the Data

2.7. Export the data

2.7.1. Export to another Palm Handheld device by beaming

After you have created and saved a data files:

1. Tap the Menu bar or the Menu icon

2. Tap Tools, then tap Beam

3. Select the files to beam: tap a file name in the Files list, then tap the down arrow to add the file to the To Beam list. Repeat the procedure with all the files you want to beam

4. Position the Palm powered devices to enable beaming

5. Tap Beam

6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the beaming procedure

2.7.2. Export to a desktop computer

To export data from the handheld computer to a desktop computer:

1. Place your handheld computer in the cradle

2. Press the HotSync button on the cradle

The files will be copied to folder: My Documents\MultiLab Palm. You can import the data to MultiLab or to any other application that accepts tab

delimited text data (e.g. AppleWorks, Excel) To import a data file to MultiLab:

3. Open MultiLab

4. Click File on the menu bar, then click Import Palm data file

5. In the dialog that opens, next to Look in, navigate to the drive and folder that contains the data file

6. Select the file

7. Click Open

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 41

2.8. Programming TriLink

2.8.1. Set up TriLink

1. Establish connection between TriLink and Palm

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. If you are working in Auto Detect Mode (the default mode, see if the check box is checked) MultiLab displays the connected sensors, otherwise pick the sensors for each input from the sensors' pick list

4. Tap the Rate tab and select number of samples per time unit from the Rate pick list

5. Tap the Samples tab and select the total number of samples from the Samples' pick list

42 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

6. Tap OK

Note: When you turn off TriLink, it will save the setup for the next

session.

2.8.2. Auto detect sensors

TriLink has two working modes. The default mode is Auto detect sensors and the TriLink is in this mode when turned on for the first time. When using more than 4 sensors, when using other vendor VERNIER sensors, or if you’ve defined your own sensor, switch to the 8 sensors mode. You can select the working mode from MultiLab for Palm.

TriLink saves the current mode selection and will automatically open in that mode the next time you turn TriLink on.

To enable TriLink’s Auto detect mode:

1. Establish connection between TriLink and Palm

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Sensors tab

4. Tap the Auto detect sensors checkbox to check it

5. Tap OK

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 43

To switch to 8 sensors mode tap the Auto detect sensors checkbox a second time.

2.8.3. Power saving mode

This will enable TriLink to work continuously, without recharging the battery, for up to 100 hours instead of 5 hours in normal mode.

To enable TriLink’s power saving mode:

1. Establish connection between TriLink and Palm

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Rate tab

4. Tap the Power saving mode checkbox to check it

5. Tap OK

Note: the Power saving mode check box is enabled only after selecting

recording rate that is equal to or less then 1 sample every minute.

2.8.4. Triggering

To start the data recording only when a specific time or measurement condition has been met:

1. Establish connection between TriLink and Palm

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Samples tab

4. Tap Triggering

44 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

5. Pick the triggering sensor from the Based on sensor pick list

6. Pick one of the following from the Type pick list:

• None - Trigger is disabled

• Above level - Start logging only once the measured value is HIGHER than the

trigger level.

• Below level - Start logging only once the measured value is LOWER than the trigger level.

Note: The trigger acts on analog measurements only (not on the

distance sensor). The trigger condition must be fulfilled for at least 300µS.

• Control Level - The Control Level trigger allows you to create an automatic sense and control system. This means that you can connect a sensor measuring a certain phenomenon (for example, temperature) and connect a device that will start operating when the recorded data from the sensor falls above or below a pre-defined threshold (for example, a fan that will start operating when the temperature measured by the sensor rises above 30°C). This function requires the use of a splitter cable and a control sensor. The cable divides each input into a sensor cable and a controller cable. After setting the control level and starting the data logging process, the sensor will sample and record the data as usual, but when the measurement from the sensor rises above the predetermined threshold value, the controller cable will send a pulse of 5V to the control sensor, and will continue to do so until the sensor measures a value below the threshold level. When receiving the 5V pulse, the control sensor will close/open a relay capable of switching 110/220V to any load.

• Time delay - This trigger type enables you to set a timer that will start the logging after a predetermined amount of time. After setting the trigger to Timer Delay, click the down arrow on the Level combo-box, and select from the 17 different time options. The timer will start its countdown when you click RUN, and the actual recording will start once the countdown has ended.

Pick the trigger level in the Level pick list

8. Tap OK

Note: When you turn off TriLink, it will save the setup for the next session.

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 45

2.8.5. Calibrate sensors

MultiLab enables you to calibrate any of the linear sensors manually. This two point calibration method sets both the gain (slope) and offset (intercept) of the sensor's conversion function. The calibration procedure affects MultiLab readings only.

1. Tap the menu bar, tap Logger, then tap Calibrate sensors

2. Pick a sensor from the Choose sensor pick list

3. Tap OK

4. Enter a distinct real value in each of the Real Value edit boxes and the corresponding measured values in each of the Measured Value edit boxes (The measured values are the values displayed by MultiLab when measuring the two real values

5. Tap OK

The calibrated sensor parameters will be saved in MultiLab. To reset to the default calibration for any sensor, repeat steps 1 to 3 above and tap

Defaults.

46 Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld

2.9. Toolbar buttons

2.9.1. Main (upper) toolbar

Run

Begin collecting data

Stop

Stop collecting data

Setup

Set up TriLink

Data Map

Display the Data Map

Graph

Display the Graph

Table

Display the Table

Meter

Display a Meter

2.9.2. Graph (lower) toolbar

Zoom in

Zoom in around a selected point or in to a selected range

Zoom out

Reverse the most recent zoom operation

Zoom to selection

Zoom in to a selected area

Auto scale

Display all the data

Cursor

Display or remove the first cursor

Cursor

Display or remove the second cursor

Move right

Move the cursor one point to the right

Move left

Move the cursor one point to the left

Scroll right

Scroll the graph one page to the right

Scroll left

Scroll the graph one page to the left

Chapter 2 Working with Palm Handheld 47

2.9.3. Meter toolbar

Analog

Display an analog meter

Bar

Display a bar meter

Digital

Display a digital meter

48 Install the Software

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

and MultiLab

3.1. Install the Software

3.1.1. System Requirements

To work with MultiLab for Pocket PC, you should be equipped with

 Pocket PC 2003 or higher  Bluetooth wireless technology

3.1.2. Installation

1. Insert the MultiLab CD into your CD drive

2. Navigate to the Pocket PC folder located on the CD and double click the setup icon

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the MultiLab for Pocket PC application on your Pocket PC.

Overview 49

3.2. Overview

3.2.1. MultiLab for Pocket PC Layout

The MultiLab for Pocket PC application is designed to support seven major kinds of activities:

• Establishing wireless communication with TriLink

• Setting up TriLink

• Collecting and displaying online data

• Downloading stored data from TriLink

• Displaying the data in graphs, tables and meters

• Analyzing the data

• Exporting data to a desktop computer or the another Pocket PC

device

Every time you start a new experiment, MultiLab automatically creates a new project file. All the information you collect and process for a given experiment is stored in a single project file. Each of these files contain all the data sets you collected with the TriLink, the analysis functions you’ve processed, and the MultiLab settings for the experiment.

Note: all data sets in a single project must be with the same sampling

rate.

3.2.2. MultiLab for Pocket PC Window Layout

Graph toolba

Main toolba

Menu ba

Graph Window

50 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

3.3. Establishing wireless communication

TriLink uses Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your Pocket PC. To avoid interference between several devices TriLink employs a procedure called "pairing"

that allows any Pocket PC to communicate with only one specific TriLink. Every TriLink has a unique 'name'. The pairing process tells the Pocket PC to

address only a specific 'name'. Before you work with TriLink and a Pocket PC you have to perform this pairing

procedure. MultiLab stores the TriLink's address and will automatically connect to this specific TriLink every time you open MultiLab.

You can always repeat the pairing process if you want to connect to another TriLink. The pairing procedure is protected by a password in order to prevent an

unauthorized person from changing the address.

Make sure no USB cable is connected. MultiLab will not establish Bluetooth connection while the USB cable is connected even if the paring process was successful.

1. Pairing your Pocket PC with a TriLink

1. Turn on TriLink: push the on/off button

on TriLink front panel

2. Open MultiLab application:

a) Navigate to the Programs folder

b) Tap the MultiLab icon

MultiLab prompts to a message saying that TriLink was not found

3. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 51

4. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap Pair TriLink

5. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

6. Tap OK

MultiLab searches for Bluetooth devices and display a list with all the devices that was found

7. Tap the name of the TriLink want to connect to, then tap Pair

Note: TriLink briefly display its name after turning it on

After pairing is done MultiLab displays the name of the paired TriLink.

8. Tap OK

You are now ready to begin data logging. From now on MultiLab will automatically connect to the paired TriLink.

2. Renaming TriLink

1. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

2. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap

Rename TriLink

52 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

3. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

4. Tap OK

5. Enter the new name, then tap OK

Note: the name can include up to 15 characters

MultiLab will display the new name. You can always return to factory name by taping

Reset TriLink Name

3. Changing the password

1. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Comm Setup

2. Select the Bluetooth option in the Connection section, then tap either Rename TriLink or Pair TriLink

Enter the current password (the default password is 1234), then tap Change Password

3. Enter a new password in the New password edit box

4. Confirm the new password in the Confirm password edit box

5. Tap OK

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 53

3.4. Getting Started

3.4.1. Set up a Recording Session

1. Turn on TriLink

Push the on/off button

on TriLink front panel

2. Connect the sensors you want to use

See page 11 for external connection

3. Open MultiLab application

1. Navigate to the Programs folder

2. Tap the MultiLab icon

MultiLab opening screen looks like:

4. Set up TriLink

1. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

MultiLab searches for a TriLink device, then displays the setup dialog:

54 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

Note: If MultiLab does not find a TriLink, it prompts to a message saying

that TriLink was not found. Make sure that the TriLink is on. If no TriLink is connected you can still work offline and open stored data files.

3. Tap the Rate tab and select number of samples per time unit from the Rate pick list

4. Tap the Samples tab and select the total number of samples from the Samples pick list

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 55

5. Tap OK

5. Select display

Tap a display on the main toolbar:

Graph

, Table or Meter

Note: If you begin collecting data from the opening screen MultiLab

prompts to graph view

6. Start collecting data

Tap Run

on the main toolbar.

If the recording rate is 25 measurements per second or less, MultiLab displays the data in real time, plotting it on the graph as it is being recorded. If the recording rate is higher than 25/s, the data will be downloaded and displayed automatically, once the data recording is finished.

You can stop recording anytime by taping Stop

on the main toolbar.

3.4.2. Download Data

Whenever data is received from the TriLink, it is accumulated and displayed automatically by MultiLab. There are two modes of communication: Online and PostExperiment.

Online communication

When TriLink is connected to the Pocket PC and programmed to run at sampling rates of up to 25/s, TriLink transmits each data sample immediately, as it is recorded, to the Pocket PC. The software thus displays the data in real-time in both the graph and table window.

When TriLink is connected to the Pocket PC and programmed to run at a sampling rate of 50/s or higher, data is accumulated in TriLink‘s internal memory. This data is not transmitted to the Pocket PC until the recording period has ended, when the data is automatically downloaded to the Pocket PC and displayed.

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Off-line data logging

To download data that was recorded offline, or while TriLink was not connected to a Pocket PC device, connect TriLink to the Pocket PC, run MultiLab, tap the menu bar, tap Logger, then and tap Download. This will initiate the Post-Experiment Data Transfer communication mode. Once the transfer is complete, the data will be displayed automatically in the graph window and in the table window. If there are several experiments stored in the TriLink, the first download will bring up the most recent experiment; the second download will bring up the first (oldest) experiment, the third download will bring up the second experiment, and so on.

To download a particular experiment, choose Selective download from the Logger menu, then select the experiment’s number in the Download dialog box.

3.4.3. Save Data

To save your project tap the menu bar, tap Tools on the menu bar, then tap Save File. This will save all the data sets under one project file.

If you made any changes to a previously saved project, tap Save to update the saved file or tap Save as to save it under another name.

3.4.4. Open a File

1. Tap Tools on the menu bar, then tap Open File

2. Tap the file name to open the project

MultiLab opens the project and in the Data Map view. Use the Data Map to display the desired data set.

3.4.5. Create a New Project

There are two ways to create a new project:

1. Open the MultiLab program, which will open a new file each time

2. Tap Tools on the menu bar, then tap Clear All

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 57

3.5. View the Data

3.5.1. Display Options

MultiLab features four views. Three views to display data: Graph view, table view and meter view. The fourth view, the Data Map enables you to navigate through the available data sets.

To switch to a certain view tap the corresponding tool on the main tool bar:

– Data Map

– Graph view

– Table view

– Meter view

3.5.2. Data Map

The Data Map displays the list of data sets that were recorded or downloaded in the current session, as well as the lists of all the processed data sets

The items in the Data Map are sorted into three main categories:

• Experiments

• Processed data

To display the complete list of sensors for any individual experiment, tap the plus sign (+) next to it.

To collapse a list under an individual experiment, tap the minus sign (-) next to it.

To display a certain data set tap its name on the list, then tap Show

To hide a data set tap its name on the list, then tap Hide

Showing or hiding a data set with the Data Map applies both to the Graph and Table views.

3.5.3. Graph view

Tap Graph to display the graph. The default graph display is the data set or sets plotted vs. time, but you can change the X-axis to represent any of the individual data sets (see page 61).

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The graph usually displays all the data sets of a given recording, but you can use the Data Map to remove one or more of the sets from the graph (see page 57).

In order to keep the graph clear and simple, only one Y-axis is shown on the graph. To change the Y-axis, pick the desired sensor from the pick list above the axis

You can identify the Y-axis by its color, which matches the plot color.

1. The Cursor

You can display up to two cursors on the graph simultaneously. Use the first cursor to display individual data recording values, to select a curve or to

reveal the hidden Y-axis. Use two cursors to display the difference between two coordinate values or to select

a range of data points.

To display the first cursor:

Tap an individual data point on the graph or tap 1

Cursor on the graph toolbar.

You can drag the cursor with the stylus onto any other point on the plot, or onto a

different plot. For finer cursor movements use the forward

and backward

tools on the graph tool bar. The coordinate values of the selected point will appear at the bottom of the graph

window.

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 59

To display the second cursor:

Tap 2

Cursor on the graph toolbar

MultiLab will now display the difference between the two coordinate values.

To remove the cursors: Tap 1

Cursor a second time.

To remove the 2

cursor:

Tap 2

Cursor a second time.

2. Zooming

1. To zoom into the center of the graph

1. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

2. To reverse the operation, tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

2. To zoom into a specific data point

1. Select the point with the cursor (see above)

2. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar.

3. To zoom into a range

1. Select the range with both cursors

2. Tap Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation tap Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

4. To zoom into a specific area

Tap Zoom to selection

on the graph toolbar and drag the stylus diagonally to select the area you want to magnify. Remove the stylus to zoom in to the selected area.

60 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

Tap Zoom to selection a second time to disable the zoom tool.

5. Autoscale

Tap Autoscale

on the graph toolbar to view the full data display

6. Manual scaling

1. Tap Tools on the menu bar

2. Tap Graph Format, then tap on the Lines tab

3. Pick the axis you want to scale from the Select plot pick list

4. Uncheck the Autoscale check box and enter the new values in the Min and Max edit boxes

5. Tap OK

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

7. The stretch/compress axis tool

Move the stylus onto one of the graph axes. Drag the stylus to stretch or compress the axis scale. Repeat the procedure for the other axis if necessary.

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 61

3. Scrolling

After applying the zoom tool you can scroll the graph while keeping the zoomed scale.

Tap Scroll right

on the graph toolbar in order to scroll the graph to the right

Tap scroll left

on the graph toolbar in order to scroll the graph to the left

To restore auto scaling tap Autoscale

4.Selecting what to display on the X-axis

1. Tap Tools on the menu bar

2. Tap Graph Format, then tap on the X Axis tab

3. Pick the data you want to display on the X axis from the X-axis pick list

4. Tap OK

5. Formatting the Graph colors

To change the data line’s color:

1. Tap Tools on the menu bar

2. Tap Graph Format, then tap on the Lines tab

3. Pick the plot you want to format from the Select plot pick list

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4. Tap the color rectangle

5. Tap the desired color

6. Tap OK

6. Change the graph’s units and its number format

1. Tap Tools on the menu bar

2. Tap Graph Format, then tap on the Units tab

3. Pick the plot you want to format from the Select plot pick list

4. Choose the prefix option you want

5. Select the desired number of decimal places

6. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check box

7. Tap OK

3.5.4. Table Display

Tap Table to display the table

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 63

The data that is displayed in the table always matches the data in the graph. Use the Data Map (see page 57) the change the displayed data.

3.5.5. Meter display

Tap Meter to switch to meter view

1. Meter options

You can use the meter mode to view data without collecting it or to display data while it is being collected.

If you switch to meter mode without running TriLink (i.e. without taping Run

TriLink continuously takes measurements from all active sensors, MultiLab displays it

but the data is not stored. A small camera icon

will be displayed on the bottom

left of the screen. You can display one meter at a time. To select what sensor to display pick it from the

sensors pick list located above the meter

To collect and store data while viewing it in Meter display, simply tap Run

. A

small running man icon

will be displayed on the bottom left of the screen.

2. Meter types

There are three meter types: Analog

, Digital and Bar .

To select a meter type, tap the corresponding icon on the meter toolbar below the meter

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3.5.6. Preview the data

Prior to collecting data you may wish to preview your data. In Preview you can:

• Ensure that your handheld computer, TriLink and sensors are properly connected

• Verify that a sensor is measuring what you intended it to measure

• Verify that a sensor has reached a stable value

In Preview mode data is not saved To preview data:

1. Setup TriLink as you would normally do (see page 26)

2. Tap Logger on the menu bar

3. Tap Preview

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 65

3.6. Analyze the Data

3.6.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates

Position the cursor (see page 58) on a point to display its coordinates at the bottom of the graph window.

3.6.2. Reading the Difference between Two Coordinate Values

Position one cursor on the first point and a second cursor on the second point to display the difference between the two coordinate values at the bottom of the graph window

3.6.3. Working with the Analysis Tools

The analysis tools can only be applied to data sets that are displayed in the graph window.

1. Use the cursors (see page 31) to select the graph and the data range to which you want to apply the analysis.

2. Select the analysis function you wish to use.

The analysis function will be added onto the graph.

To apply an analysis function:

3. Tap Tools on the menu bar, then tap Analysis to display the Analysis dialog:

4. If you have not selected a plot with the cursor tap the desired plot in the Select plot list

5. Tap a function in the Function list

6. Tap Apply

MultiLab will add the analysis function onto the graph.

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3.6.4. Analysis tools

1. Linear fit

Use Linear Fit to draw a line of linear least square fit

baxy +=

and to display the line’s equation.

2. Derivative

Use Derivative to construct a graph in which each point is the slope of the 3 consecutive points on the source graph.

3. Integral

Choose Integral construct a graph in which each point is the integral of all the preceding points on the source graph.

4. Statistics

Use the Statistics tool to display statistics of a selected data set or a range of data. The statistics include:

Average – The average of all the numbers in the range

StDev. – The standard deviation

Minimum – The smallest value in the range

Maximum – The largest value in the range

Sum – Adds all the numbers in the range

Area – The area between the graph and the x-axis in the range

Samples – The number of data points in the range

Rate – The recording rate

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 67

3.7. Export the data

3.7.1. Export to another Pocket PC by beaming

After you have created and saved a data file:

1. Position the Pocket PC devices to enable beaming

2. Navigate to the My Document folder and then to the MultiLab Data folder

3. Tap and hold the file name you want to beam to display a popup menu

4. Tap Beam File…

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the beaming procedure

3.7.2. Export to a desktop computer

To export data from the handheld computer to a desktop computer:

1. Connect the Pocket PC to the desktop computer

2. Open ActiveSync program

3. Click Explore

4. Copy the files you want to your desktop computer

5. Double click a file name to open it with MultiLab for desktop computers

68 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

3.8. Programming TriLink

3.8.1. Set up TriLink

1. Establish connection between TriLink and the Pocket PC

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

4. Tap the Rate tab and select number of samples per time unit from the Rate pick list

5. Tap the Samples tab and select the total number of samples from the Samples' pick list

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 69

6. Tap OK

Note: When you turn off TriLink, it will save the setup for the next

session.

3.8.2. Auto detect sensors

TriLink saves the current mode selection and will automatically open in that mode the next time you turn TriLink on.

To enable TriLink’s Auto detect mode:

1. Establish a connection between TriLink and the Pocket PC

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Sensors tab

4. Tap the Auto detect sensors checkbox to check it

5. Tap OK

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To switch to 8 sensors mode tap the Auto detect sensors checkbox a second time.

3.8.3. Power saving mode

This will enable TriLink to work continuously, without recharging the battery, for up to 100 hours instead of 5 hours in normal mode.

To enable TriLink’s power saving mode:

1. Establish connection between TriLink and the Pocket PC

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Rate tab

4. Tap the Power saving mode checkbox to check it

5. Tap OK

Note: the Power saving mode check box is enabled only after selecting

recording rate that is equal to or less then 1 sample every minute.

3.8.4. Triggering

To start the data recording only when a specific time or measurement condition has been met:

1. Establish connection between TriLink and the Pocket PC

2. Tap Setup

on the main toolbar

3. Tap the Samples tab

4. Tap Triggering

Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 71

5. Pick the triggering sensor from the Based on sensor pick list

6. Pick one of the following from the Type pick list:

• None - Trigger is disabled

• Above level - Start logging only once the measured value is HIGHER than the

trigger level.

• Below level - Start logging only once the measured value is LOWER than the trigger level.

Note: The trigger acts on analog measurements only (not on the

distance sensor). The trigger condition must be fulfilled for at least 300µS.

Pick the trigger level in the Level pick list

8. Tap OK

72 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC

Note: When you turn off TriLink, it will save the setup for the next

session.

3.8.5. Calibrate sensors

1. Tap Logger on the menu bar, then tap Calibrate sensors

2. Pick a sensor from the Choose sensor pick list

3. Tap OK

5. Tap OK

The calibrated sensor parameters will be saved in MultiLab. To reset to the default calibration for any sensor, repeat steps 1 to 3 above and tap

Restore defaults.

Chapter 4 Chapter 3 Working with Pocket PC 73

3.9. Toolbar buttons

3.9.1. Main toolbar

Run

Begin collecting data

Stop

Stop collecting data

Setup

Set up TriLink

Data Map

Display the Data Map

Graph

Display the Graph

Table

Display the Table

Meter

Display a Meter

3.9.2. Graph toolbar

Zoom in

Zoom in around a selected point or in to a selected range

Zoom out

Reverse the most recent zoom operation

Zoom to selection

Zoom in to a selected area

Auto scale

Display all the data

Cursor

Display or remove the first cursor

Cursor

Display or remove the second cursor

Move right

Move the cursor one point to the right

Move left

Move the cursor one point to the left

Scroll right

Scroll the graph one page to the right

Scroll left

Scroll the graph one page to the left

3.9.3. Meter toolbar

Analog

Display an analog meter

Bar

Display a bar meter

Digital

Display a digital meter

74 Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop

computer and MultiLab

4.1. Install the Software

4.1.1. System Requirements

To work with MultiLab, your system should be equipped with the following:

1. Windows

Software

 Windows 98, ME, 2000 and XP  Internet Explorer 5.0 or later (you can install Internet Explorer 5 when

you install MultiLab, since it ships with the product)

 Bluetooth wireless technology

Hardware

 Pentium II 600MHz or higher (Pentium 4, 1.6GHz or higher is needed

for video motion analysis recordings)

 32 MB RAM (64 MB recommended)  10 MB available disk space for the MultiLab application (50 MB to

install the supporting applications)

 Free serial or USB port  To work with the video window your system should be equipped with a

video camera, a free USB port and a compatible camera driver (installation includes camera driver for the supplied Web camera)

 To be able to record and play voice comments your system should be

equipped with a sound card, a microphone and a speaker

2. Mac OS

Software

• Mac OS 9 or Mac OS X

• Web browser

Hardware

• PowerPC Macintosh G3 300MHz or higher

• 64 MB RAM

• 15MB available disk space

• USB port

• Recommended requirements for video recordings:

PowerPC G4 processor, 500 MHZ or higher, 256 MB RAM, 15 MB free disk space, USB port, camera

• To be able to record and play voice comments your system should be

equipped with a microphone

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer 75

4.1.2. Installation

1. Windows

Warning: Do not connect the supplied Web camera to the pc before you

install the MultiLab software

Uninstalling MultiLab

Before installing your new version of MultiLab, uninstall any older versions of the program.

Note: Uninstalling removes program files only – project files and

worksheets you created or modified in MultiLab will remain on your system and there is no need to create backups

To uninstall the software:

1. From the Start menu select Settings then click Control Panel,

2. Double click Add or Remove Programs

3. Click the Install/Uninstall tab, if your Windows version includes it

4. From the list of program that you can remove select MultiLab

5. Click Change/Remove

6. Select the Remove option, then click Next

7. At the prompt, click OK to confirm that you want to remove MultiLab

8. When uninstall is complete the installation program prompts you to restart the computer, select Yes, I want to restart, then click Finish

To install MultiLab

1. Close all programs

2. Insert the CD labeled MultiLab into your CD-ROM drive

3. Installation will begin automatically. Simply follow the on-screen instructions

to continue

The installation program then prompts you to install MultiLab

4. Click Next to start the installation

5. Follow the on-screen instructions. In the customer information dialog make

sure that the install for all users option is selected

The installation program prompts you to install the driver for the supplied Web camera: D-Link Ver. 2.10

6. Click Next to start the installation

7. After camera driver installation is completed the installation program prompts

you to restart the computer, select Yes, I want to restart, then click Finish

Note: if you are reinstalling MultiLab after removing an older version, the

camera driver is already installed on your system. In this case the installation program prompts you to confirm the removal of the driver. Click Cancel to keep the camera driver on your system.

8. The installation program prompts you to restart the computer a second time (after MultiLab installation is complete), select Yes, I want to restart, then click Finish

Note to Windows XP or 2000 users: MultiLab needs to modify its folder when running. Ask your system administrator for permission to gain access to all files in MultiLab folder

76 Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer

In case auto run is not working, open My Computer and click on the CD drive folder (d: drive in most cases) and double-click on the setup icon, then proceed as above.

Note: when you plug in the supplied Web camera for the first time Windows will

automatically detect the new device and open the Found New Hardware

Wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions. When asked, select the Install software automatically option (there is no need to insert the installation CD).

Windows will automatically detect and install the necessary software

To install the USB driver

(needed in case you connect TriLink to the computer via a USB port)

Windows XP

1. Connect the TriLink to a USB port on your PC and turn the TriLink on.

Windows will automatically detect the new device and open the Found New Hardware Wizard

2. Select the No, not this time to prevent Windows from searching for software

on the Internet, then click Next

3. Insert the CD labeled MultiLab into your CD drive

Windows will automatically detect and copy the necessary files to your system

4. Click Finish

Windows will open the Found New Hardware Wizard for the second time

5. Click Next to complete the installation

Windows will automatically install the necessary components on your system

6. Click Finish

Older versions of Windows

1. Insert the CD labeled MultiLab into your CD drive. If Installation begins

automatically (and you have already installed MultiLab), click Cancel to stop installation.

2. Connect the TriLink to a USB port on your PC and turn the TriLink on.

Windows will automatically detect the new device and open the Found New Hardware Wizard.

3. Select Specify the location of the driver, then click Next.

4. Select Search for the best driver for your device, then check the

Removable Media checkbox, and then click Next.

Windows will automatically detect and copy the necessary files to your system

7. Click Finish

Windows will open the Found New Hardware Wizard for the second time

8. Click Next to complete the installation

Windows will automatically install the necessary components on your system

9. Click Finish

2. Mac OS

1. Insert the CD into your CD drive.

2. Open the CD drive folder and double-click the MultiLab Installer icon, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer 77

4.2. Overview

4.2.1. MultiLab On-screen Layout

MultiLab is a comprehensive program that provides you with everything you need in order to collect data from the TriLink, display the data in graphs, meters and tables, analyze it with sophisticated analysis tools and view online or recorded video movies of the actual experiment.

MultiLab connects to TriLink either with USB cable or with Bluetooth wireless communication technology.

The program includes four windows: Graph window, table window, video window and a navigation window called the Data Map. You can display all four windows simultaneously or any combination of the four.

The most commonly used tools and commands are displayed on three toolbars. Tools that relate to all aspects of the program and tools that control the TriLink are located in the main (upper) toolbar. Tools specific to the graphs are located on the graph toolbar and tools specific to the tables are located on the table toolbar.

Another useful feature is the Workbook. A Workbook is a Lab activity that gives the student a step-by-step preview of the activity and then automatically configures the MultiLab program as well as setting up the TriLink so that the student can begin collecting the data. You can open an existing Workbook or create a new one from the Workbook menu

4.2.2. MultiLab Window Layout

Figure 4: MultiLab window layout

Data map

Graph window

Information bar

Video window

Table window

Table toolba

Main toolbar

Graph toolbar

78 Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer

4.2.3. Working with Projects

Every time you start a new experiment, MultiLab automatically creates a new project file. All the information you collect and process for a given experiment is stored in a single project file. Each of these files contains all the data sets you collected with the TriLink, the analysis functions you’ve processed, the video files you’ve recorded, specific graphs and tables you’ve created, and the MultiLab settings for the experiment.

Note: all data sets in a single project must be with the same sampling

rate.

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer 79

4.3. Establishing wireless communication

TriLink uses either Bluetooth wireless technology or USB cable connection to connect to your computer. To use Bluetooth technology your computer must be equipped with Bluetooth capabilities.

To avoid interference between several devices TriLink employs a procedure called "pairing"

that allows any computer to communicate with only one specific TriLink.

Every TriLink has a unique 'name'. The pairing process tells the computer to address only a specific 'name'.

Before you work with TriLink and a computer you have to perform this pairing procedure. MultiLab stores the TriLink's address and will automatically connect to this specific TriLink every time you open MultiLab.

You can always repeat the pairing process if you want to connect to another TriLink. The pairing procedure is protected by a password in order to prevent an

unauthorized person from changing the address.

Make sure no USB cable is connected. MultiLab will not establish Bluetooth connection while the USB cable is connected even if the paring process was successful.

1. Pairing your Computer with a TriLink

1. Turn on TriLink: push the on/off button

on TriLink front panel

2. Open MultiLab application: click the MultiLab icon

on the

desktop

MultiLab prompts to a message saying that TriLink was not found

3. Click Logger on the menu bar, then click Bluetooth Setup

4. Click Pair TriLink

80 Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer

5. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

6. Click OK

MultiLab searches for Bluetooth devices and displays a list with all the devices that were found

7. Click the name of the TriLink you want to connect to, then click Pair

Note: TriLink briefly display its name after turning it on

After pairing is done MultiLab displays the name of the paired TriLink.

8. Click OK

You are now ready to begin data logging. From now on MultiLab will automatically connect to the paired TriLink.

2. Renaming TriLink

1. Click Logger on the menu bar, then click Bluetooth Setup

2. Click Rename TriLink

3. Enter your password (the default password is 1234)

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer 81

4. Click OK

5. Enter the new name, then click OK

Note: the name can include up to 15 characters

MultiLab will display the new name. You can always return to the factory name by clicking Reset TriLink Name

3. Changing the password

1. Click Logger on the menu bar, then click Bluetooth Setup

2. Click either Rename TriLink or Pair TriLink

Enter the current password (the default password is 1234), then click Change Password

3. Enter a new password in the New password edit box

4. Confirm the new password in the Confirm password edit box

5. Click OK

82 Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer

4.4. Getting Started

4.4.1. Set up a Recording Session

1. Prepare TriLink

1. Connect TriLink to the PC

Connection via a USB port (to use Bluetooth wireless connection see page 79):

a) Connect the mini USB plug of the USB communication cable to the

USB input at the bottom of TriLink (see page 11)

b) Connect the USB plug of the USB communication cable to a free

USB input at the back of your computer

2. Turn on TriLink

3. Plug in any external sensors

4. Open the MultiLab software

2. Enable Video Recording

Warning: Do not plug in the supplied Web camera to the PC before you

install the MultiLab software (See page 74 for installation instructions)

To display the video window and enable online video and video recording:

1. Connect the video camera to the PC

Note: when you plug in the supplied Web camera for the first time Windows will

automatically detect the new device and open the Found New Hardware

Wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions. When asked, select the Install software automatically option (there is no need to insert the installation CD).

Windows will automatically detect and install the necessary software

2. Click Video on the menu bar, then click Enable video

MultiLab will remember the video settings until the next time you change them.

3. Click Video

on the main toolbar to display the video window

4. Point the camera to the experiment setup

3. Setup the TriLink

1. Click Setup Wizard

on the main toolbar

2. Follow the instructions in the Setup Wizard (see page 99)

Chapter 4 Working with a desktop computer 83

4. Start Recording

Click Run

on the toolbar to start recording.

If the recording rate is 100 measurements per second or less, MultiLab automatically opens a graph window displaying the data in real time, plotting it on the graph as it is being recorded. If the recording rate is higher than 100/s, the data will be downloaded and displayed automatically, once the data recording is finished.

If you are recording at a rate of 500/s or 1,000/s, MultiLab displays an online preview at a rate of 25/s.

You can stop recording anytime by clicking Stop

on the toolbar.

4.4.2. Data recording options

To set the behavior of the data display when you start a new recording session, click

on the down arrow next to the Run button

, and select one of the following:

1.Single measurement

MultiLab will open a new project file every time you start a new recording session.

2. Replace

MultiLab will display the new data set in place of the old one. The project’s old data sets will still be available in the same project file. They will be listed in the Data Map and you can add them to the display at any time

3. Add

MultiLab will add the new data set to the graph in addition to the old ones.

Note: A maximum of 8 data sets can be displayed on the graph at the

same time.

4.4.3. Online Video

MultiLab enables you to view online video of your experiment along with the data display, as well as to record video movies of the experiment and to replay them simultaneously with the data graph. You can also add voice comments to the video recordings.

To work with the video window your system should be equipped with a video camera. To be able to record and play voice comments your system should be equipped with

a sound card, a microphone and a speaker.

1. Online video

The online video will start playing automatically when you open the video window.

Click Video

on the main toolbar to display the video window.

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2. Recording

c) From the Video menu select Enable video

d) Click Record

on the right-hand side of the toolbar to start

video recording

e) Click Run

to start data recording

f) Once the data logging has finished, click Stop Video Recording

g) Click Replay

to replay both the data graphing process and the

video recording simultaneously

(Note: Saving the file will automatically save the video as well.)

3.Replaying an experiment

To simultaneously replay the video and the data graphing process of a saved file:

1. Open the file (see page 86)

2. Display the data on the graph (see page 96).

3. Click Replay

4.Video and audio Properties

To set the video properties click Video on the menu bar, then click Video properties to open the video properties dialog box:

Figure 5: Video properties dialog box

1. Changing Video Quality

The video default quality is Normal, click another option to select either higher quality (12KBps) or lower quality (3KBps).Changing the video quality not only affects the image quality, but the recorded file space and the computer’s performance as well. A higher video quality means more disk space is used, which can slow down the computer’s performance.

2. Audio Visual Options

The default option is Audio_video. That means that both video and audio are enabled and you can record voice comments along with the video. If you plan to

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record video only, select the Video only option. If you plan to record voice comments only select the Audio only option.

4.4.4. Download Data

Whenever data is received from the TriLink, it is accumulated and displayed automatically by MultiLab. There are two modes of communication: Online and PostExperiment.

Online communication

When TriLink is connected to the PC and programmed to run at sampling rates of up to 100/s, TriLink transmits each data sample immediately, as it is recorded, to the PC. The software thus displays the data in real-time in both the graph window and the table window.

When TriLink is connected to the PC and programmed to run at a sampling rate of 500/s or 1000/s, TriLink transmits every twentieth or fortieth data sample online. This means MultiLab displays data at a rate of 25/s, while the full data is accumulated in TriLink‘s internal memory. Once the recording has ended, the full data is automatically downloaded to the PC and displayed.

When TriLink is connected to the PC and programmed to run at a sampling rate of 11,200/s or 20,800/s, data is accumulated in TriLink‘s internal memory. This data is not transmitted to the PC until the recording period has ended, when the data is automatically downloaded to the PC and displayed.

Off-line data logging

To download data that was recorded offline, or while TriLink was not connected to a PC, connect TriLink to the computer, run the MultiLab program and click Download

on the toolbar. This will initiate the Post-Experiment Data Transfer communication mode. Once the transfer is complete, the data will be displayed automatically in the graph window and in the table window. If there are several experiments stored in the TriLink, the first download will bring up the most recent experiment; the second download will bring up the earliest file, the third download will bring up the second earliest file, and so on.

To download a particular experiment, choose Selective download from the Logger menu, then select the experiment’s number in the Download dialog box.

Click Cancel in the Download progress window at any time to stop downloading the data.

4.4.5. Save Data

Click Save on the main toolbar to save your project. This will save all the data sets, graphs, tables and video movies under one project file.

Saving the project will also save any special formatting and scaling you did. If you made any changes to a previously saved project, click Save to update the

saved file or select Save as… from the file menu to save it under another name.

Note:

To delete a specific data set, a graph or a table from the project, use the Data Map (see page 96)

To remove unwanted data from a specific data set, apply the crop tool (see page 139).

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4.4.6. Open a File

1. Click Open on the main toolbar

2. Navigate to the folder in which the project is stored

3. Double click the file name to open the project

MultiLab opens the project and displays the first graph on the graph list. If the project does not include saved graphs, the file opens with an empty graph window. Use the Data Map (see page 96) to display the desired data set.

4.4.7. Create a New Project

There are three ways to create a new project:

1. Open the MultiLab program, which will open a new file each time

2. When working in Single Measurement mode, a new project is opened every time you click on the Run button to start a new recording

3. Any time you click New button

on the toolbar

4.4.8. Import data

Any file that is in comma separated values text format (CSV) can be imported into MultiLab

To import a CSV file:

1. Click File on the menu bar, then click Import CSV file

2. In the dialog that opens, next to Look in, navigate to the drive and folder that contains the CSV file

3. Select the file

4. Click Open

Tips: To create a text file in a spreadsheet:

5. Open a new spreadsheet

6. Enter your data according to the following rules:

a) The first row should contain headers. Each header

includes the name of the data set and units in brackets, e.g. Distance (m)

b) The first column should be the time. The time interval

between successive rows must match the time intervals accepted by MultiLab. You can export MultiLab files to Excel to learn about these time formats

See for example the table below:

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7. On the File menu, click Save As

8. In the File name box, type a name for the workbook

9. In the Save as type list, click the CSV format

10. Click Save

To import files that were previously exported from MultiLab open MultiLab and import the file as described above as they are already in CSV format.

4.4.9. Print

1.Print a graph

1. Click Print

on the main toolbar

2. Select the Graph 1 option (when in split graph mode you can choose between Graph 1 and Graph 2)

3. Click Print to open the print dialog box

4. Click OK

MultiLab will print exactly what you see in the graph display.

2. Print a table

1. Click Print

on the main toolbar

2. Select the Table option

3. If you want to print only a specific range, uncheck the Print all data check box and type the desired row numbers into the To and From edit boxes

4. Click Print to open the print dialog box

5. Click OK

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4.5. View the Data

4.5.1. Display Options

The MultiLab program’s screen consists of four parts: the graph window, table window, video window and Data Map window. You can display all four parts simultaneously (the default view) or any combination of the four.

The graph window is the main window by default and is and displayed in the center of the application window. To specify another window as the main window:

1. Click View on the menu bar, then click View selection to open the View selection dialog box:

Figure 6: View selection dialog box

2. Check the checkbox next to any window you’d like to include in the view

3. Click the window display type you want

4. Click OK

In addition to these sections, you have the option to display an on-screen meter for each of the sensors (see page 95).

4.5.2. Graph Display

Click Graph to display or hide the graph. The default graph display is the data set or sets plotted vs. time, but you can change the X-axis to represent any of the individual data sets (see page 91).

The graph usually displays all the data sets of a given recording, but you can use the Data Map to remove one or more of the sets from the graph (see page 96).

In order to keep the graph clear and simple, only two Y-axes are shown on the graph at once. If there are three curves in the graph, one of the Y-axes is hidden. To make this axis visible, select the corresponding plot with the cursor (see section 2 below).

You can identify the Y-axis by its color, which matches the plot color.

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1. Split graph view

MultiLab enables you to display your data in two separate graphs within the graph window.

1. Click Split graph

on the graph toolbar to split the graph window

into two separate graphs

2. Click Edit graph

on the graph toolbar to open the Edit graph

dialog box

3. Choose which data sets to display on each of the graphs (or use the Data Map to do so – see page 96)

4. To return to the single graph display, click Split graph

a second

time

2. The Cursor

You can display up to two cursors on the graph simultaneously. Use the first cursor to display individual data recording values, to select a curve or to

reveal the hidden Y-axis. Use two cursors to display the difference between two coordinate values or to select

a range of data points.

To display the first cursor:

Double click on an individual data point or click Cursor

on the graph toolbar. You can drag the cursor with the mouse onto any other point on the plot, or onto a different plot. For finer cursor movements use the forward and backward keys on the keyboard.

The coordinate values of the selected point will appear in the information bar at the bottom of the graph window.

To display the second cursor:

Double click again anywhere on the graph area or click 2

Cursor .

The information bar will now display the difference between the two coordinate values.

To remove the cursors: Double click anywhere on the graph area, or click 1

Cursor a second time.

To remove the 2

cursor:

Click 2

Cursor a second time.

To display the cursors in split graph mode:

To display the cursors on the upper graph, use the same method as for single graph mode.

To display the cursors on the lower graph, you must first remove them from the upper graph and then double click anywhere on the lower graph to display the first cursor. Double click a second time to display the second cursor, and double click a third time to remove the cursors.

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3. Zooming

1. To zoom into the center of the graph

1. Click Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

2. To reverse the operation, click Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

2. To zoom into a specific data point

1. Select the point with the cursor (see above)

2. Click Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation click Zoom out

on the graph toolbar.

3. To zoom into a range

1. Select the range with both cursors

2. Click Zoom in

on the graph toolbar

3. To reverse the operation click Zoom out

on the graph toolbar

4. To zoom into a specific area

Click Zoom to selection

on the graph toolbar and drag the cursor diagonally to select the area you want to magnify. Release the mouse button to zoom in to the selected area.

Click Zoom to selection a second time to disable the zoom tool.

5. Autoscale

Click Autoscale

on the graph toolbar to view the full data display, or double click

on an axis to autoscale that axis alone.

6. Manual scaling

1. Click Graph properties

on the graph toolbar to open the Graph

properties dialog box

2. Select the Scale tab, and choose the axis you want to scale in the Select axis drop list

3. Uncheck the Autoscale check box and enter the new values in the edit box

4. Click OK

To manually scale a specific axis, right click on the axis to open its Properties dialog box.

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To restore auto scaling click Autoscale .

7. The stretch/compress axis tool

Move the cursor onto one of the graph axes. The cursor icon changes to the double arrow symbol (

↔), indicating that you can stretch or compress the axis scale. Drag

the cursor to the desired location. Repeat the procedure for the other axis if necessary.

Double click on the axis to restore auto scaling.

4. Panning

Use the pan tool after zooming in to see any part of the graph that is outside the zoomed area.

To do this, click Pan

on the graph toolbar, then click anywhere on the graph and

drag the mouse to view another area. Click Pan a second time to disable the Pan tool.

5. Edit the Graph

Use the Edit graph dialog box to select which data sets to display on the graph’s Y-axis and to change the X-axis from time, to one of the data sets.

1. Click Edit graph

on the graph toolbar to open the Edit graph

dialog box:

Figure 7: Edit graph dialog box

2. To select a data set to display on the Y-axis, click on the data set’s name in the Y-axis list. To display more than one curve, click on the data sets you want

3. A list entry that begins with an Experiment (Exp.) number denotes a recorded data set. A list entry that begins with an input number denotes the next recording and will be displayed on the graph the next time you start a recording

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4. To deselect a data set, click on it a second time

5. To select a data set for display on the X-axis, click on the data set’s name in the X-axis list. You can only select one data set at a time for the X-axis

6. Type in the title of the graph in the Graph title edit box (optional)

7. Click OK

6.Format the graph

You can change the data line’s color, style and width. You can also add markers that represent the data points on the graph and format their style and color.

The color of the Y-axis matches the corresponding plot’s color and will automatically change with any change made to the color of the corresponding plot.

1. Click Graph properties

on the graph toolbar to open the Graph

properties dialog box

2. Select the Lines tab, and then select the plot or axis you want to format in the Select plot drop list

3. From here you can format the line’s color, style and width, as well as the markers’ color and style. To remove the line or the marker, uncheck the corresponding Visible check box

4. Click OK

5. To restore the default formatting, click Restore default

7. Change the graph’s units and its number format

1. Click Graph properties

on the graph toolbar to open the graph

properties dialog box

2. Select the Units tab, and then select the plot or axis you want to format in the select plot drop list

3. Choose the prefix option you want

4. Select the desired number of decimal places

5. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check box

6. Click OK

8.Add annotations to the graph

You can add annotations to the graph. An annotation is always connected to a certain data point.

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To view annotations:

Click Graph on the menu bar, then select Show annotation (this option is usually selected by default)

To add an annotation:

1. Place a cursor on the desired point

2. Click Add new annotation

on the graph toolbar to display the

new annotation caption edit box

3. Type in the text, then click OK

To move an annotation:

1. Click Move annotation

on the graph toolbar

2. Click on the annotation you want to move, then drag it to the new position

3. Click Move annotation

a second time to exit the move

annotation mode

To edit an annotation:

1. Place a cursor at the point where the annotation is connected

2. Click Graph on the menu bar, then click Edit annotation

3. Edit your annotation, then click OK

To delete an annotation:

1. Place a cursor at the point where the annotation is connected

2. Click Graph on the menu bar, then click Delete annotation

To hide all annotations:

Click Graph on the menu bar, then click Show annotation to uncheck it

9.Add a graph to the project

MultiLab displays new data in the graph window every time you start a new recording. You can always display previous data using the Edit graph dialog box or by double-clicking on the data’s icon in the Data Map. If you want to save a graph

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that you created to your project, or to update a saved graph with changes you made, use the Add to project tool:

Click Add to project

on the graph toolbar.

4.5.3. The Table Display

Click Table to display or to remove the table window. When you start a new recording, MultiLab displays the new data on the table. To add or remove columns from the table, use the Edit table tool (see below).

1. Editing data values

You can change the value of any data point. When any value is changed, MultiLab automatically creates a copy of the data set and leaves the original data unchanged. To do this:

1. Select a data cell by clicking on it

2. Type in the new value

3. Press Enter on the keyboard to accept (you can also press Tab or the arrow keys to accept and move to the next cell)

2. Editing the table

To add or remove data sets from the table:

1. Click Edit table

on the table toolbar to open the Edit table dialog

box:

Figure 8: Edit table dialog box

To add columns to the table:

2. Select one or more of the data sets from the Available Columns list

3. Click Add

To remove columns from the table:

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4. Select one or more of the data sets from the Current Columns list

5. Click Remove

6. Click OK

3.Formatting the table

1. Changing column width

Drag the boundary on the right side of the column heading until the column is the desired width.

2. Changing row height

Drag the boundary below the row heading until the row is the desired height.

3. Formatting the fonts

1. Click Table properties

on the table toolbar

2. Select the Font tab

3. Format the font, as well as the font’s style and size

4. Click OK

4. Changing units and number format

1. Click Table properties

on the table toolbar

2. Select the Units tab, and then select the plot you want to format from the select plot drop list

3. Choose the prefix option you want

4. Select the desired number of decimal places

5. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check box

6. Click OK

4. Add a table to the project

MultiLab displays new data in the table window every time you start a new recording. You can always display previously recorded data using the Edit table dialog. If you want to save a table that you created to your project, or to update a saved table with changes you made, use the Add to project tool:

Click Add to project

on the table toolbar.

4.5.4. Meters

MultiLab enables you to view data in meters format on the screen (one meter for each sensor), with up to four meters showing at once. The meters can display live data while MultiLab is recording, or saved data when a saved file is replayed.

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When a cursor is displayed, the meter shows the measured values that correspond to the time of the point at which the cursor is positioned.

There are three meter types: Analog, bar and digital. The meter’s scaling automatically matches the graph’s scaling.

To set up the meters:

1. Click Meter Setup

on the main toolbar

2. Select the meter type, and the data set to be displayed

3. A list entry that begins with a graph number denotes a displayed data set. A list entry that begins with an input number denotes the next recording, and will be displayed on the meter the next time you start a recording

4. Repeat this procedure for up to four meters

5. To remove the meters click Meter Setup

, and click Remove all

4.5.5. Data Map

Click Data Map to display or remove the Data Map. The data map is a separate window that displays the list of data sets that were

recorded or downloaded in the current session, as well as the lists of all the saved graphs and tables. Use the Data Map to navigate through the available data sets and to keep track of the data that is being displayed in the graph window.

1. Control the display with the Data Map

The items in the Data Map are sorted into three main categories:

• Data sets (including analysis functions)

• Saved graphs

• Saved tables

Double click on a category to bring up the full list. Double click a second time to collapse the list. You can also use the plus (+) and minus (-) signs next to the icons to expand or collapse the categories.

The Data sets list expands to sub-categories of experiments and functions. To display the complete list of measurements, or the complete list of analysis functions performed on the measurements for any individual experiment, double click the experiment’s icon or click the plus sign (+) next to it.

To collapse a list under an individual experiment, double click the experiment’s icon or click the minus sign (-) next to it.

To display a data set or a saved graph in the graph window, or to display a table in the table window, double click its icon. Double click a second time to remove it.

You can also use a shortcut menu to display or remove a data set from the graph. Simply right-click an icon, then click display on graph #1 or display on graph #2.

To delete an individual item from the Data Map and from the project, right-click on its icon and click Delete. To permanently delete the item, click Save

on the main

toolbar.

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To remove all data sets from the Data Map, right-click the Data sets icon and click

Clear All Data.

2.Understanding Data Map icons

Data sets list

Functions – includes all the analysis functions of the project

Individual function – currently not on display

Individual function – currently displayed on graph 1

Individual function – currently displayed on graph 2

Individual function – currently displayed both on graphs 1 and 2

Function Experiment – includes all recorded data of the experiment

Individual data set – currently not on display

Individual data set – currently displayed on graph 1

Individual data set – currently displayed on graph 2

Individual data set – currently displayed both on graphs 1 and 2

Data recorded without video Data recorded with video List of saved graphs

Saved graph – data sets vs. time Saved graph – data sets vs. data set

Graph currently not on display

Graph currently displayed on graph 1

Graph currently displayed on graph 2

Graph currently displayed both on graphs 1 and 2

List of saved tables

Saved table

Table not currently displayed

Table currently displayed

4.5.6. Export Data to Excel

Click Export to Excel on the graph toolbar to export the displayed data to Excel. MultiLab will then open a new Excel workbook displaying the data.

1.Export file settings

If MultiLab fails to export the data properly, try to change the export file settings:

1. Click File on the menu bar, then click Export file settings

2. Check the Ignore regional settings check box

3. Click OK

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4.5.7. Copy the Graph as a Picture

You can copy the graph to the clipboard as a picture and then paste it to other Windows programs such as Word or PowerPoint:

1. In the Graph menu, click Copy graph

2. Open the destination file

3. In the destination file, right click and select Paste

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4.6. Program TriLink

4.6.1. Setup

1. Quick setup

Use the Setup wizard to guide you through the setup process.

1. Click Setup wizard

on the main toolbar to open the setup

wizard:

Figure 9: Setup wizard step 1 of 3

The first step is to assign sensors to each input. If you are working with TriLink in Auto ID mode, the sensors are selected automatically as you plug them in to the TriLink. Otherwise, you can manually select the sensors you are using from the corresponding input drop lists.

2. Click Next to move to the second step:

Figure 10: Setup wizard step 2 of 3

Fourier TriLink, MultiLab User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual