Every hardware product manufactured by Measurement Computing Corp. is warranted against defects in materials or
workmanship for the life of the product, to the original purchaser. Any products found to be defective will be
repaired or replaced promptly.
LIFETIME HARSH ENVIRONMENT WARRANTY
TM
Any Measurement Computing Corp. product which is damaged due to misuse may be replaced for only 50% of the
current price. I/O boards face some harsh environments, some harsher than the boards are designed to withstand.
When that happens, just return the board with an order for its replacement at only 50% of the list price. Measurement
Computing Corp. does not need to pro fit from your misfortune. By the way, we will honor this warranty for any other
manufacture’s board that we have a replacement for!
30 DAY MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE
Any Measurement Computing Corp. product may be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund of the
price paid for the product being returned. If you are not satisfied, or chose the wrong product by mistake, you do not
have to keep it. Please call for a RMA number first. No credits or returns accepted without a copy of the original
invoice. Some software products are subject to a repackaging fee.
These warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular application. The remedies provided herein are the buyer’s sole and
exclusive remedies. Neither Measurement Computing Corp., nor its employees shall be liable for any direct or
indirect, special, incidental or consequential damage arising from the use of its products, even if Measurement
Computing Corp. has been notified in advance of the possibility of such damages.
MEGA-FIFO, the CIO prefix to data acquisition board model numbers, the PCM prefix to data acquisition bo ard
model numbers, PCM-DAS08, PCM-D24C3, PCM-DAC02, PCM-COM422, PCM-COM485, PCM-DMM,
PCM-DAS16D/12, PCM-DAS16S/12, PCM-DAS16D/16, PCM-DAS16S/16, PCI-DAS6402/16, Universal Library,
InstaCal, Harsh Environment Warranty and Measurement Computing Corp. are registered trademarks of
Measurement Computing Corp.
IBM, PC, and PC/AT are trademarks of International Business Machines Corp. Windows is a trademark of
Microsoft Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Information furnished by Measurement Computing Corp. is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no
responsibility is assumed by Measurement Computing Corp. neither for its use; nor for any infringements of patents
or other rights of third parties, which may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under
any patent or copyrights of Measurement Computing Corp.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
form by any means, electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written
permission of Measurement Computing Corp.
Notice
Measurement Computing Corp. does not authorize any Measurement Computing Corp. product for
use in life support systems and/or devices without the written approval of the President of
Measurement Computing Corp. Life support devices/systems are devices or systems which, a) are
intended for surgical implantation into the body, or b) support or sustain life and whose failure to
perform can be reasonably expected to result in injury. Measurement Computing Corp. products
are not designed with the components required, and are not subject to the testing required to
ensure a level of reliability suitable for the treatment and diagnosis of people.
HM CIO-EXP-GP.lwp
Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION
2 SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
3 GENERAL CONFIGURATION
The CIO-EXP-GP is an eight-channel, signal conditioning accessory designed for use with the DAS08
and DAS16 family of data acquisition boards. It can condition signals from bridge sensors, RTDs or
thermocouples on a per-channel basis. It converts the sensor's output to a voltage suitable for conversion
by a DAS08/DAS16 or other analog to digital conversion board.
This manual is organized into sections that explain the CIO-EXP-GP on a sensor by sensor basis. The
CIO-EXP-GP is complex, and the information on bridge sensors may confuse those interested in RTDs
only, and vice-versa. Here are the sections of this manual:
Software InstallationAll users should review this section regardless of the
application.
General Configuration:All users should review this section regardless of the
application.
Configuration for Voltage Measurement: Users interested in voltage measurement applications
should review this section.
Configuration for ThermocouplesUsers interested in temperature measurement
applications using thermocouples should review this
section.
Configuration for RTD MeasurementUsers interested in temperature measurement
applications using RTDs should review this section.
Configuration for Resistance Measurement: Users interested in resistance or strain gauge
measurement applications should review this section.
Please carefully read the installation and general configuration sections, and each of the sections
pertaining to the sensors you intend to use. There are optional resistors, jumpers, switches, and other
connections to be made on the CIO-EXP-GP. Failure to set up the channels correctly for the sensor in
use will result in inaccurate or invalid measurements.
2SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
Software is not included with the CIO-EXP-GP, but each of the data acquisition boards with which it is
intended to be used includes software called InstaCal™ that may be used to aid installation, verify
operation and perform calibration of the CIO-EXP-GP. The disk or CD labeled InstaCal contains this
software package. If you ordered the Universal Library™, you should load InstaCal from that CD or
disk set.
The board has a variety of switches and jumpers to set before installing the board in your computer.
InstaCal will show you all available options, how to configure the various switches and jumpers to match
your application requirements, and will create a configuration file that your application software (and the
Universal Library) will refer to so the software you use will automatically have access to the exact
configuration of the board.
Please refer to the Software Installation Manual regarding the installation and operation of InstaCal. Use
InstaCal along with the following hard copy information to set the hardware configuration of the board.
1
3GENERAL CONFIGURATION
3.1A/D Board Type Select Jumper
The CIO-EXP-GP can be used with either DAS08 or DAS16 family boards because the signal
assignments of the 37-pin connectors match those of the DAS08 and may be adapted to those of the
DAS16 with a C-EXP2DAS16-10 cable. Select the A/D board type via the JB10 jumper.
Jumper JB10 on the ,CIO-EXP-GP located near the 37-pin connector, selects the
A/D board family as DAS08 or DAS16.
Figure 3-1 shows the jumper set to use the CIO-EXP-GP with a CIO-DAS08
family board.
'$6
DAS Family Select
3.2Setting The Output Channel
Jumpers labeled “CH SEL” located near the 37-pin connector select the A/D board channel that the
output from the active sensor will be connected to.
'$6
Figure 3-1
37-Pin
CONNECTORS
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
9
8
7
P1 & P2
MUX ADDR 3
MUX ADDR 2
MUX ADDR 1
OUTPUT CHA NNEL
SELECT JUMPER
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
AMP
GAIN
1 OR 2.5
INPUT 0
INPUT 1
INPUT 2
INPUT 3
INPUT 4
INPUT 5
8-CHANNEL MULT I P LE XER
INPUT 6
INPUT 7
Figure 3-2. Output Channel Select Jumper
2
There are three groups of 16-position jumpers. One jumper group determines the signal output channel,
one jumper group determines the excitation voltage output channel and one determines the Cold Junction
Compensation (CJC) output channel. Signal output is always used, CJC output is used only with
thermocouples and excitation output may be used with bridge sensors.
There are 16 jumper locations for each function. Each corresponds to one of the 16 pins on the 37 pin
connector. When the CIO-EXP-GP is connected to a DAS08, only the first 8 channels (labeled 0-7) can
be used. When the CIO-EXP-GP is connected to a DAS16, all 16 jumper positions can be used. In each
case, the jumper corresponds to a channel number on the A/D board.
If the jumper setting does not agree with the selection made in InstaCal setup, InstaCal and the Universal
Library will not be able to make readings from the CIO-EXP-GP. Figure 3-3 is a diagram of the Channel
Select jumper. There are two other groups of output jumpers similar to this group.
The top group (shown here) is marked CH SEL
1234567
0
8 9 10 111214 15
13
(Channel Select), the center jumper group is
VEXC SEL (excitation voltage select) and the
bottom group is marked CJC SEL (Cold Junction
Compensation Select).
CH SEL
CHANNEL 0 SELECTED
FOR SENSOR OUTPUT
Figure 3-3. Output Channel Select Jumper
Place the jumper on the pin which corresponds to the A/D board's input channel. Each jumper set must
select a unique A/D channel. For example, if you are using the excitation or CJC outputs in addition to
the signal output, each should be set to a different channel number.
One individual channel must be selected for each bank of 8 EXP channels. For example, if you are using
several CIO-EXP-GP boards, the jumper setting for each board must be unique. If you select channel 0
for the first board, do not use this channel for any of the other boards.
3.3Configuring the A/D Board
3.3.1DAS08 Family Setup
The input mode of the A/D board must be single-ended to be compatible with the CIO-EXP outputs.
Some of the boards in the DAS08 series have differential inputs that can be converted to single-ended
inputs. See the information shipped with your A/D board for conversion to single-ended inputs.
3.3.2DAS16 Family Setup
The input mode of the A/D board must be single-ended to be compatible with the CIO-EXP outputs.
Most of the DAS16 series is switch selectable for either 8 differential or 16 single ended inputs. When
used with the CIO-EXP, set the switch to 16 channel, single-ended mode.
3.3.3All A/D Boards
If you are using an A/D board with switch - selectable ranges, consider the application and determine the
best fit for range vs. expected voltage. For example, when measuring resistance such that the output of
the EXP board is expected to be in the range of 3 to 4.5 Volts, a unipolar 5V range would be the best
choice.
3
If the range on your A/D board is fully programmable, the software you use for measurement will
determine the range.
3.4CONNECTING THE CIO-EXP-GP TO THE A/D BOARD
3.4.1Connecting to a DAS08 Series A/D Board
A CIO-DAS08 series board may be connected directly through a C37FF series cable from the P1
connector on the CIO-EXP-GP to the A/D analog connector. The JB10 jumper should be left in the
DAS08 position as set at the factory.
3.4.2Connecting to a DAS16 Series A/D Board
Connection to a DAS16 series board requires a special 37-conductor cable (CEXP2DAS16-10) since pin
relationship of CIO-EXP and DAS16 signals is not 1:1.
Install the CEXP2DAS16-10 cable connector labeled “MUX” into the P1 connector of the CIO-EXP-GP
board and the other end into the DAS16 series board’s analog connector.
3.4.3Other A/D Boards
For other boards, use the connector diagram in
Figure 3-4 to construct a cable, or call us and
discuss the possibility of a custom
manufactured cable.
The signals from the CIO-EXP-GP are
voltages from each channel and an analog
ground. There should be no voltage between
the analog ground and the power ground.
The MUX address lines control the setting of
the channel multiplexer. When all are low, the
mux is set to channel 0. The lines are binary
coded. MUXADDR1 is the LSB and
MUXADDR3 is the MSB.
A jumper (CH SEL) selects which output
channel is read by the DAS08 or DAS16
board.
OUTPUT 0
OUTPUT 1
OUTPUT 2
OUTPUT 3
OUTPUT 4
OUTPUT 5
OUTPUT 6
OUTPUT 7
+5 VOLTS FROM PC
POWER GROUND
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
NC
Figure 3-4. 37-Pin Connectors
4
3.5Powering The CIO-EXP-GP
The CIO-EXP-GP can be powered through the 37-pin cable, the power screw terminal or the Molex
connector. The power that can be carried through the 37-pin connector is limited so we recommend
using this source only when a single CIO-EXP-GP is used.
The power required to run a CIO-EXP-GP is dependent on the board configuration. Remember that
additional power will be drawn when the CIO-EXP-GP is configured for resistance measurement (bridge
configuration) due to the current required for each bridge.
3.5.1Power Source Switch
One of the switches on the eight-position DIP switch (S17) near
the output channel jumpers controls the source of the +5 volts
power to the board. Shown in Figure 3-5 it is the 3rd switch
from the left.
When positioned down, (ON, +5 COMP), the +5V power is
drawn from the personal computer through the signal cable.
When positioned up (OFF, REM) , +5V power is taken from
the optional external 5V power connector (the Molex connector
labeled P19) or the +5V screw terminal connection.
REM
X1
S17
0.5V
1V
2V
10V
4V
+5 COMP
X2.5
GND
Figure 3-5. Power Source Switch
3.5.2Powering with the 37-Pin Connector
You can power the CIO-EXP-GP via the 37-pin cable. No more than one CIO-EXP-GP should be
powered using the 37-pin cable.
This option is not available when using some A/D boards. If the A/D board you are using supplies +5V
at pin 29 (or at pin 1 when using the C-EXP2DAS16 signal cable), you can power the CIO-EXP-GP
through the 37 pin connector by setting the power select switch on S17 to “+5 COMP”.
3.5.3Powering with the Molex Connector
The CIO-EXP-GP can be powered off the PC's power supply by connecting the optional external 5V
power connector (the Molex connector labeled P19) to the PC’s power supply through a C-MOLEX-10
cable. This cable has the same Molex connector that is used inside the PC and so can be connected
directly to the PC's power supply through one of the spare connectors. The cable is keyed, so it should
not be forced. When inserted properly it will slide easily and snap in place.
3.5.4Powering Through the Power Screw Terminals:
A set of screw terminals labeled “+5V REM” and “REM GND” are located below the 37-pin connectors
P1 and P2. You can power the CIO-EXP-GP from a +5V (±5%) power supply capable of at least 400
mA. For this option, set the power select switch on S17 to “REM”.
CAUTION:
Connect the ground of the power supply to the ground of the personal computer with a
heavy gauge wire. If you do not strap the two grounds together, a voltage between these grounds will
5
affect measurements. If the potential exceeds the protection range of the input circuits, the board may be
SENSE
(
)
C
S
NS
damaged.
At this time, ignore the other screw terminals located next to the power and ground terminals. They are
needed only with certain sensors and will be explained in those sections.
3.6Daisy-Chaining CIO-EXP-GP Boards
Connect one CIO-EXP-GP to another using a C37FF-# ribbon cable. Connect from P2 on the ‘upstream’
board to P1 on the ‘downstream’ board. Make sure each of the boards in the chain have a unique channel
selected (CH SEL jumper is set to a different number on each board).
3.7Connecting a Test Voltage
Make your initial test of the CIO-EXP-GP with a voltage
signal of between -5 and 5V. If you use an AC signal
source, keep the frequency below 70Hz to avoid
attenuation by the CIO-EXP-GP’s low pass filter.
Each input circuit has eight screw terminals associated
with it. These terminals are shown in the diagram to the
right.
To connect a voltage signal to the input circuit you use
three screw terminals as follows:
+SENSE Connect to + voltage
−
SENSE Jumper to −P
−
P Connect to Ground
There is not enough room on the board for the full name
next to each terminal so the eight screw terminals
associated with each input circuit are labeled on the
CIO-EXP-GP as follows:
+PExcitation voltage
−
SENSELow side of input
−
SENSEHardwired to the other −SENSE, same function
−
IEXCExcitation current return
−
PExcitation voltage return, common with −IEXC
+SENSEHigh side of input
+SENSEHardwired to other +SENSE, same function
+IEXCExcitation current
SHORTING WIRE
−
+P EXCITATION. VOLTS
+P
VOLTS IN OR COMMON
−
−
E
E
−
EXCITATION CURRENT
INSTALLED
−
IEX
+ VOLTS IN
+ VOLTS IN
−
P
+ SENSE
+ SENSE
CH0
Figure 3-6. Input Screw Terminals
+EXCITATION CURRENT
(+)IEXC
The use of the terminals is dependent on the type of sensor you have connected to the input circuit, and
the nomenclature on the terminals has been chosen to make the most sense for bridge and RTD sensors.
For voltage and thermocouple sensors the names on the terminals are not typical. Please refer to the
section on the measurement you are making in order to learn how to use the terminals.
6
3.8Verifying the Installation
For verification of the installation, leave any switches or jumpers not mentioned above in their default
positions. Each of the gain switches (CH0 through CH7 and S17-7) should be off (toward the upper edge
of the board) for a gain of X1 (unity gain). The channel configuration switches (labeled “IN CONFIG”
should be left in the default position (the switches labeled “4” in the ON position and those labeled “3”
in the OFF position - the label is printed on the board, not the switch).
To verify the installation, use the InstaCal program installed on your computer. This software came with
your A/D board if you bought the board from the same manufacturer as the CIO-EXP-GP. If your A/D
board is not from the same manufacturer but is compatible, please call technical support and request a
copy of InstaCal.
Use InstaCal's TEST option to verify that a signal present at one of the CIO-EXP-GP inputs can be read.
You will not need to set any jumpers other than those previously mentioned, and should not set any
switches or install any passive components until you have verified the installation.
When using an AC signal source, keep the frequency below 70Hz to avoid attenuation by the low pass
filter.
7
4CONFIGURATION FOR VOLTAGE MEASUREMENT
The CIO-EXP-GP is an amplification, signal conditioning and multiplexing accessory for DAS boards.
The inputs are suitable for connecting a low frequency voltage to the DAS board so it can be measured.
The CIO-EXP-GP is a one-of-eight multiplexer which means that for every channel in your DAS board,
you can multiplex eight different signals to it. You can expand the number of inputs of your DAS board
by eight for every CIO-EXP-GP board, up to the number of inputs on the DAS board. For example, a
DAS08 has 8 inputs. Eight times eight is sixty four. Using CIO-EXP-GP boards you can bring 64 inputs
into the PC with one DAS08 in one slot.
It is unlikely that you purchase a CIO-EXP-GP to measure voltages. The CIO-EXP-GP has a 70Hz low
pass filter and quite a bit of elaborate circuitry designed for bridges, TCs, and RTD sensors. For
applications requiring only voltage measurements, a CIO-EXP16 or CIO-EXP32 would be less expensive
and do the same job.
Possibly you have one or two voltages to measure in addition to bridge or RTD sensors and would like to
connect those signals to the CIO-EXP-GP.
4.1Channel Selection
The General Configuration section describes the channel selection, setting the jumper and verifying the
installation and operation of the CIO-EXP-GP with your data acquisition board. Configure your boards
as described in that section before continuing with this section.
4.2Powering the CIO-EXP-GP
The General Configuration section describes the power selection options, setting the power select switch
and verifying the installation and operation of the CIO-EXP-GP with your data acquisition board.
Configure your boards as described in that section before continuing with this section.
4.3Determining The Appropriate Gain
To accurately measure a voltage, the full scale of the signal should be matched to the full range of the
input circuit. (Most DAS boards have an input range of ±5V, which is the native range of the analog to
digital converter at the heart of the board. Some DAS boards include amplification on the input circuit to
allow the signal to be amplified to make better use of the resolution of the A/D.) For example, an input
signal which varies between 0 and 1 volt would only be using 1/10th of a ±5V A/D converter's
resolution. By switching the input signal of the DAS board to unipolar (no negative voltage) and
amplifying the input signal by 5, the entire range of the A/D converter is used and a higher resolution
measurement may be made. By adding this gain and selecting this range, the resolution on a 12-bit A/D
improves from 2.4 millivolts per bit to 0.24 millivolts per bit. If you needed to measure a change of 1
millivolt, you would need an amplification of 10.
In order to match your signals with the input range of the A/D board, you should do a similar calculation
and set switches on the CIO-EXP-GP for the required gain. Remember to make sure that the settings in
InstaCal match the switches on the DAS and CIO-EXP-GP boards.
If you are measuring signals greater than the maximum full scale range of the A/D, see the section on
attenuation.
8
To choose a switch-selectable amplification, here are the calculations you need to perform:
Divide the full range selected for the A/D board by the full range of the signal to be measured to
determine the maximum gain of the CIO-EXP board. For best resolution, use the highest gain possible
up to the calculated maximum gain.
For example, if the A/D board is to be used at a range of ±5V, the full range of the board is 10. If your
signal ranges between -0.5 volts and 0.5 volts, the full range of the signal is 1 volt. Divide 10 by 1 for a
result of 10. That is the maximum gain you can use.
If your signal is unipolar and ranges less than 0 to 5V, you would likely choose the 5V unipolar range for
the A/D board (if available). Given an input signal ranging from 0 to 0.5 volts, the full range of the
signal is 1/2 volt. Divide 5 (the full range of the A/D) by 0.5 (the full range of the signal for a result of
10. That is the maximum gain you can use.
4.4Setting the Gain
Gain (amplification) allows you to boost your signal to take full advantage of the resolution of the A/D
converter. However, when amplifying a signal, any noise is amplified as well.
Amplification for ALL channels (board output gain) is switch selectable (S17) for X1 or X2.5.
Input amplification for EACH CHANNEL is switch selectable (GAIN switches CH0 through CH7) for
X1, X10, X100 or X1000. A user-specified gain may be set by supplying a precision resistor at position
RX### and setting the “U” option on the CH ## GAIN switch to ON.
4.4.1Setting Board Gain
There is a switch on DIP switch block S17
labeled X1 and X2.5. Sliding this switch down
amplifies the output of the multiplexers by 2.5.
The factory default position (up) has a gain of 1
(unity). Refer to Figure 4-1.
The X2.5 gain switch is useful in some voltage
and bridge measurements. If you desire a
voltage gain of 2.5, 25, 250 or 2500, set this
switch down.
Figure 4-1. Board Output Gain Switch Location
For voltage measurements, a gain of 2500 is very high and will reduce your signal to noise ratio.
The effect of this switch is multiplicative with respect to the individual channel gains. For example, if
you have set an input channel gain to X100 and the board output gain to X2.5, the signal is amplified by
250 before it reaches the A/D board.
GND
X1
X2.5
REM
S17
0.5V
1V
2V
4V
+5 COMP
10V
9
4.4.2Setting Channel Gain
Select a gain (higher than unity) by moving the switch for
that gain down. All other switches should be left in the
UP position.
.
A custom gain may be selected on the CIO-EXP-GP by
installing a precision resistor and setting the switch
marked “U” (User) in the down position. See Table 4-1
following for board positions and some sample gain
values.
Figure 4-2. Input Channel Gain Select Switches
Table 4-1. Resistor Positions for User-Selected Gains
CH4
U
X10
CH0
Resistor PositionChannelResistor PositionChannel
X100
N
O
X1000
GAIN FOR CHANNELS 0 and 4
SET FOR A GAIN OF 10.
SLIDER DOWN SELECTS GAIN
ALL OTHERS TO BE OFF (UP)
The equation for selecting the USER gain resistor is:
= [40000 / (Gain − 1)] − 40
R
USER
Amplifying a signal on one channel will not affect the reading on another channel.
4.5Attenuation
If your signal is in a range greater than the full scale range of the A/D, you must either set the A/D for a
higher full scale range (if available) or divide (attenuate) the signal until the result is less than or equal to
the A/D’s full scale range. This section describes signal attenuation.
10
INPUT
A voltage divider is constructed from a pair of
precision resistors selected according to the
Ra
equation:
Volts In
OUT
Attenuation = (Ra + Rb) / Rb
See Figure 4-3 at right for the schematic of a
Rb
Volts Divided
voltage divider.
PC GROUND
PC GROUND
Figure 4-3. Voltage Divider
For example, if your signal is 0 to 10V, it must be attenuated to 5V max. for an attenuation of 2:1 or
simply 2.
Using 10k resistors: 2 = (10K + 10K) /10K.
For any attenuation, pick a suitable resistor for Rb. Then use this formula to calculate Ra:
Ra = (A−1) x Rb
You will need to construct the voltage divider remote from the CIO-EXP-GP board.
4.6Setting the Input Configuration
Channel Configuration Switch - Voltages
A channel configuration switch is associated with each
channel (Figure 4-5). The switches are used to configure the
input circuits for voltage inputs, thermocouple inputs, 2, 3, or
4-wire RTDs and bridges.
For voltage measurements on a particular channel, set the
switches labeled “4” to the ON (
channel
.
down)
Set the switches labeled “3” in the OFF (
position for that
position
up)
.
4
IN CONFIG
4
N
O
3
4
3
3
4
3
N
O
CH0
CHANNEL CONFIGURATION SWITCHES SET
VOLTAGE, THERMOCOUPLES, OR 2/4-WIRE RTDs
BOTH 4s ARE ON (DOWN), BOTH 3s ARE OFF (UP)
Figure 4-5. Channel Configuration Switches
4.7Connecting Voltage Signals
Voltage signals can be single ended or differential, and the full scale may have to be matched to the range
of the CIO-EXP-GP and DAS board combination via amplification or attenuation. To connect a voltage
and make an accurate measurement, each of these issues must be addressed (see section 4.3).
CH4
11
SENSE
(
)
C
S
NS
Each input circuit has eight screw terminals associated
with it. These terminals are shown in Figure 4-4 to the
right.
SHORTING WIRE
−
VOLTS IN OR COMMON
+P EXCITATION. VOLTS
−EXCITATION CURRENT
+EXCITATION CURRENT
To connect a voltage signal to the input circuit you
+ VOLTS IN
need only use three screw terminals. These are:
INSTALLED
+ VOLTS IN
+SENSE Signal high, or CH HI on a DAS board
−
SENSE Signal low, or CH LO on a DAS board.
Must be jumpered to −P for single-ended
−
P Low Level Ground (LLGND)
−
+P
−
E
E
−
−
P
IEX
+ SENSE
+ SENSE
(+)IEXC
H
Figure 4-4. Input Screw Terminals
4.7.1Single-Ended Inputs
A single-ended input has two wires connected to the CIO-EXP-GP; a signal high and a Low Level
Ground (LLGND). The LLGND signal
selected by installing a jumper between the signal low (−SENSE) and ground (−P). The -SENSE
terminal is then connected to the signal ground and the +SENSE terminal is connected to the signal.
must be the same ground the PC is on.
Single-ended mode is
4.7.2Floating Differential
A floating differential input has two wires from the signal source and a 10K ground reference resistor
installed at the CIO-EXP-GP input. The two signals from the signal source are Signal High and Signal
Low. The reference resistor is connected between the CIO-EXP-GP “−SENSE” and “-P” pins and the
Signal Low is connected to the -SENSE terminal. The +SENSE terminal is connected to the Signal High.
A floating differential hookup is handy when the signal source is floating with respect to ground, such as
a battery. The floating differential input will reject up to 10V of EMI energy on the signal wires.
CAUTION: Is the signal source really floating? Check it with a voltmeter before risking the
CIO-EXP-GP and PC.
4.7.3Fully Differential
A differential signal has three wires from the signal source. The signals are Signal High, Signal Low and
Signal Ground (LLGND). Signal High is connected to the +SENSE terminal and Signal Low is
connected to the -SENSE terminal. The ground reference must be connected to the -P terminal.
A differential connection allows you to connect the CIO-EXP-GP to a signal source with a ground that is
different than the PC ground, but less than 10V difference, and still make a true measurement of the
signal. For example, a laboratory instrument with its own wall plug. Sometimes there is a voltage
between wall outlet grounds.
12
4.8Verifying the Installation
To verify the installation, use the InstaCal program installed on your computer. This software came with
your A/D board if you bought the board from the same manufacturer as the CIO-EXP-GP. If your A/D
board is not from the same manufacturer but is compatible, please call technical support and request a
copy of InstaCal.
Use InstaCal's TEST option to verify that a signal present at one of the CIO-EXP-GP inputs can be read.
When using an AC signal source, keep the frequency below 70Hz to avoid attenuation by the low pass
filter.
13
5CONFIGURATION FOR THERMOCOUPLE MEASUREMENT
Thermocouples are temperature sensors constructed of wires of two dissimilar metals fused together at a
point. This junction of two metals produces a voltage that varies relative to temperature. Thermocouple
voltages require several manipulations in order to be useful. These are:
1. A very low voltage is produced and so must be amplified by a factor of between 100 and 1,000.
2. The voltage produced by the thermocouple is not linear with respect to temperature, so it must be
linearized. Linearization in this case is calculated by software after the voltage is acquired.
3. A voltage-producing junction is also created at the screw terminal where the thermocouple is
connected to the CIO-EXP-GP. The temperature at this “cold junction” must be measured and the
voltage calculated and subtracted from the total measured from the thermocouple. This is also calculated
by software. The circuit that measures this temperature is the Cold Junction Compensation (CJC) circuit.
4. Thermocouples are subject to EMI and RFI noise due to the very low level of the voltage and the large
amplification factor. These affects can be reduced through averaging and filtering. There is a 70Hz low
pass filter on the CIO-EXP-GP. Averaging may be done in software.
Thermocouples are not as accurate as RTDs or other precision temperature sensors, but they are much
less expensive. Sometimes, an attempt is made to make a measurement beyond the accuracy of the
thermocouple such as measuring 1/10th of a degree over the full scale. Read the accuracy and
repeatability specification of the thermocouple, and consider the effects of linearization on the reading
before choosing thermocouples.
The CIO-EXP-GP is not the optimum choice for thermocouple-only applications. The CIO-EXP32 and
EXP16 are less expensive and just as accurate for thermocouple measurements. The CIO-EXP-GP has
extra circuitry devoted to bridge and RTD sensors.
5.1Selecting The Output Channel
The General Configuration section describes the channel selection, setting the jumper and verifying the
installation and operation of the CIO-EXP-GP with your data acquisition board. Configure your boards
as described in that section before continuing with this section.
5.2Selecting The CJC Output Channel
There is a set of jumpers near the 37-pin connectors labeled “CJC SEL”, which stands for cold junction
compensation select. These jumpers connect the on-board measurement of the cold junction temperature
to one of the A/D board channels for use in temperature calculations.
The CJC temperature reference is universally used by software to compensate for the voltage induced at
the cold junction (the screw terminal). The software package you are using will determine which channel
you need to set this jumper on. The default is channel 7 (the channel used by default by the Universal
Library). If you are not using the Universal Library, check your software documentation before selecting
a channel. Failure to supply the CJC reference by installing the jumper on the correct channel will result
in inaccurate temperature calculations by the software.
14
The jumper for the CJC channel select (Figure 5-1)
CH4
C
0
1234567
89
10 11 1214 15
13
looks just like the jumper for output channel
selection.
Set this jumper according to the instructions for the
software package you are using.
CJC SEL
CHANNE L 4 SELECTED
FOR COLD JUNCTION SENSOR OUTPUT
Figure 5-1. CJC Channel Select Jumper Pad
The CJC uses one analog input channel of the A/D board. The channel selected must be unique (the CJC
SEL jumper must not be set to the same number as that for CH SEL jumper or VEXC SEL jumper on this
board or any other EXP board that may be daisy-chained to this board).
5.3Input Configuration
For thermocouple measurement, the channel input configuration switches must be set for two wire
measurement. Also, a ground reference should be established and open thermocouple detection should
be enabled. These options are selected by setting some switches and closing some solder pads on the
underside of the CIO-EXP-GP.
5.3.1Setting the Input Configuration
A channel configuration switch is associated with each
channel. The switch is used to configure the input circuit
for two or four wire measurements. When measuring
thermocouples, two wire measurement should be used.
Set the two switches labeled “4” on each IN CONFIG
Channel Configuration switch to the ON (
down)
position for
each channel used for thermocouple measurement. (See
Figure 5-2 on the right.)
4
IN CONFIG
4
N
O
3
4
3
3
4
3
Set the two switches labeled “3” on each IN CONFIG switch
for thermocouple channels to the OFF (up) position.
N
O
CH0
HANNEL CONFIGURATION SWITCH SET FOR THERMOCOUPLES
BOTH 4s ARE ON (DOWN), BOTH 3s ARE OFF (UP)
Figure 5-2. Channel Configuration Switches
5.3.2Enabling Open Thermocouple Detection (OTD)
Open thermocouple detection (OTD) is enabled for a channel by installing a resistor and closing the 'TC'
pad with a solder bridge (see Figures 5-3 and 5-4). There are locations marked “TC” for each channel for
this purpose.
OTD provides the high side of the thermocouple signal with a reference to −50mVDC at very low
current. If a thermocouple opens, it ceases to produce a voltage. If that happens, the OTD voltage drives
the signal on that channel to full minus. Most software is set up to alarm for an open thermocouple when
a temperature falls to full scale minus value. The CIO-EXP-GP will accurately measure thermocouples
without the 'TC' pad closed but you must close it and install a 100K resistor to have OTD.
15
Table 5-1. 100K ohm Resistors to be Installed for OTD:
Please solder the pads with the solder provided. It has a water soluble flux which should be washed off.
If you use another type of solder or do not wash off the flux it may affect your readings.
EXCITATION VOLAGE (+)
EXCITATION. VOLTS (+)
- THERMOCOUPLE LEAD
EXCITATION CURRENT (-)
+ THERMOCOUPLE LEAD
EXCITATION CURRENT (+)
SENSE LOW (-)
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION VOLTS (-)
SENSE HIGH (+)
SENSE HIGH (+)
80Hz Low
Pass Filter
10K
GAIN SW
AMP
100K
TO CHANNEL
MULTIPLEXOR
-TC PULL
50 mV
GND REF
Figure 5-3. OTD and Ground Reference Jumper Pads - Schematic
NOTE: If you want to change the use of the input circuit to an RTD or bridge sensor, remove the solder
that closes the TC pad (and the G pad also).
The CIO-EXP-GP inputs are fully differential which helps reject noise on thermocouple wires. If
thermocouples connected to the CIO-EXP-GP inputs are to work properly, the 'G' pad must be closed on
any channel used for thermocouple measurement (see Figures 5-3 and 5-4). The 'G' pad provides a
reference from ground to the analog low input via a 10K resistor. Only enough current passes through
the resistor to provide a reference to ground. The analog high and low inputs are still able to float within
the common mode range.
NOTE: If you want to change the use of the input circuit to an RTD or bridge sensor, remove the solder
that closes the G pad (and the TC pad also).
5.4Determining the Appropriate Gain
The voltage from a thermocouple must be amplified in order to take advantage of the A/D board's full
resolution. Without amplification, you would not get much resolution from thermocouples, as you can
see in the tables below. Typical gain settings for use with thermocouples are between X10 and X250.
Tables 5-3 and 5-4 below may be used to help determine the appropriate gain to use for the temperature
range and thermocouple type in use.
Table 5-3. Resolution vs Thermocouple Gain Settings for a ±5V, 12 bit A/D
Type
µV/°C
40T
62E
−200
−200
Max °CMin °COutput
°C/bit
@X10
°C/bit
@X100
°C/bit
@X250
°C/bit
@X1000
0.040.190.484.78750051J
0.060.240.616.11,250-20040K
0.060.240.616.1350
0.030.160.393900
0.351.43.4934.91,45007S
0.351.43.4934.91,45007R
A J-type thermocouple outputs 51mV per degree centigrade at 20°C. At a gain of 100, a 12 bit A/D on
the ±5V range resolves to 0.00002442 volts per bit (24.42µV/bit). With an output of 51mV/°C, that
represents about 0.5°C/bit. Look under the gain of 100 for a J-type and you will find 0.48°C/bit.
The table below shows the thermocouple output voltage at maximum temperature amplified by four
possible gain values. Where the output voltage exceeds 5V, the reading is clipped.
Table 5-4. Voltage Output @ Maximum Temperature
Type
@Max
Tem
0.511,25050.6mVK
0.6990068.8E
17
Vout at Max TempMax °COutput
X1000X250X100X10
4.20.4275042.3mVJ
4.51.80.1835017.8mVT
3.81.50.151,45015mVS
4.21.70.171,45016.7R
4210.6
5112.75.1
18
6917.26.9
15
17
Voltages which exceed the ±5V range are in bold italics in the table above. Table 5-5 shows the
temperature at which the reading is clipped (the maximum readable temperature for thermocouple types
at a given gain).
Table 5-5. Maximum Readable Temperatures with A/D on ±5V Range
From these tables, you can determine that if you want to use a J-type thermocouple to make a reading of
700 degrees, the gain should be set at 100. This yields a resolution of 0.48 degrees C per bit.
5.5Setting the Gain
Once you have determined the gain required for your application, set the gain of the CIO-EXP-GP using
the following guide.
Amplification for ALL channels (board output gain) is switch selectable (S17) for X1 or X2.5.
Input amplification for EACH CHANNEL is switch selectable (CH0 through CH7) for X1, X10, X100 or
X1000. A user-specified gain may be set by supplying a precision resistor at position RX### and setting
the “U” option on switch CH ## to ON.
5.5.1Setting the Board Gain
Output Gain Switch
There is a switch on DIP switch block S17 (Figure 5-5) labeled
X1 and X2.5. Sliding this switch down amplifies the output of
the multiplexers by 2.5. The factory default position (up) has a
gain of 1 (unity).
The X2.5 gain switch is useful in some thermocouple
measurements. If you desire a voltage gain of 2.5, 25 or 250, set
this switch down. Recommended gains for thermocouples are
between X10 and X200.
Figure 5-5. Output Gain Switch Location
The effect of this switch is multiplicative with respect to the individual channel gains. For example, if
you have set an input channel gain to X100 and the board output gain to X2.5, the signal is amplified by
250 before it reaches the A/D board.
REM
X1
S17
0.5V
1V
2V
4V
+5 COMP
10V
X2.5
GND
5.5.2Setting the Channel Gain
18
There is a gain switch for each channel (Figure 5-6). Set the input channel gain to match the expected
voltage output of the bridge you are measuring to the input range of the A/D board as described above.
Channel Gain Switches
There is a set of DIP gain switches for each input
circuit labeled GAIN (Figure 5-6). There are four,
two-position switches for each channel. The gain
switches are labeled U, X10, X100, and X1000.
Select a gain (higher than unity) by moving the
switch for that gain down. All other switches should
be left in the UP position.
A custom gain may be selected on the CIO-EXP-GP
by installing a precision resistor and setting the
switch marked “U” (User) in the down position. See
Table 5-2 below for positions and some sample gain
values.
CH4
U
X10
N
O
X1000
X100
GAIN FOR CHANNELS 0 and 4
SET FOR A GAIN OF 10.
SLIDER DOWN SELECTS GAIN
Your channel is now configured to make thermocouple measurements. To verify the installation, use the
InstaCal program installed on your computer. This software came with your A/D board if you bought the
board from the same manufacturer as the CIO-EXP-GP. Use the CALIBRATE option to calibrate the
CJC and verify the operation of the channel. Use the TEST option to make a measurement in
engineering units.
19
6CONFIGURATION FOR RTD MEASUREMENTS
An RTD is a temperature sensor that consist of a resistive element, usually a length of wire encased in a
sheath. Various wire materials are used with platinum being the most common. There are three types of
hookups: two-wire, three-wire, and four-wire. An excellent source of information on RTDs and how to
select one for your application may be found in the OMEGA Engineering catalog.
6.1Channel Selection
The General Configuration section describes the channel selection, setting the jumper and verifying the
installation and operation of the CIO-EXP-GP with your data acquisition board. Configure your boards
as described in that section before continuing with this section.
6.2VEXC JUMPER Select
There is a set of jumpers near the 37-pin connectors labeled “VEXC SEL”, which stands for channel
excitation voltage select. These jumpers connect the on-board excitation voltage to one of the A/D board
channels so that it may be measured. Measurement Computing Corp. does not use a measurement of the
excitation voltage in any of its software. You do not need to set this jumper if you are using the
CIO-EXP-GP with Measurement Computing Corp. software, or with packages such as Labtech Notebook
which use the Universal Library. Use this jumper only with software from other manufacturers that
specifically require it.
6.3CJC Jumper Selection
There is a set of jumpers near the 37 pin connector labeled “CJC SEL”, which stands for cold junction
compensation select. Remove this jumper. There is no cold junction compensation used with bridge
sensors.
6.4Powering the CIO-EXP-GP
The General Configuration section describes the power selection options for powering the CIO-EXP-GP
itself. Configure your boards as described in Powering the CIO-EXP-GP in the General Configuration
section before continuing with this section.
6.5Determining the Appropriate Gain
To accurately measure a voltage, the full scale of the signal should be matched to the full range of the
input circuit. (Most DAS boards have an input range of ±5V, which is the native range of the analog to
digital converter at the heart of the board. Some DAS boards include amplification on the input circuit to
allow the signal to be amplified to make better use of the resolution of the A/D.) For example, an input
signal which varies between 0 and 1 volt would only be using 1/10th of a ±5V A/D converter's
resolution. By switching the input signal of the DAS board to unipolar (no negative voltage) and
amplifying the sign wave signal by 5, the entire range of the A/D converter is used and a higher
resolution measurement may be made. By adding this gain and selecting this range, the resolution on a
20
12-bit A/D improves from 2.4 millivolts per bit to 0.24 millivolts per bit. If you needed to measure a
change of 1 millivolt, you would need an amplification of 10.
In order to match your signals with the input range of the A/D board, you should do a similar calculation
and set switches on the CIO-EXP-GP for the required gain. Remember to make sure that the settings in
InstaCal match the switches on the DAS and CIO-EXP-GP boards.
When using RTD’s, the expected output from the sensor should be calculated and the gain of the
CIO-EXP-GP set accordingly.
To select the best gain for RTD type, base resistance and temperature range, consider that RTD
resistance changes with temperature, but the magnitude of the change also changes with temperature.
RTD type determines the ‘slope’ of the ohms vs. temperature curve. The most popular type has an
‘alpha’ of .00385, known as the European standard. Its value is .00385 ohms per ohm per °C.
The Universal Library and InstaCal support six different RTD types. Please call if you do not see the
RTD you are interested in listed here.
Material
‘alpha’
Platinum0.00392 American standard
Platinum0.00391
Platinum0.00385 European standard (Most popular, OMEGA’s standard also)
Copper0.00427
Nickel/Iron 0.00581
Nickel/Iron 0.00527
To determine which gain to use, you must know the maximum temperature the RTD will be used to
measure, and thus the maximum resistance value of the RTD. Here is a table for platinum:
For 100 ohm RTD, alpha = .00385:
Temp (°C
)Resistance (ohms)
-20018.49
-10060.25
0100.00
100138.50
200175.84
300212.02
400247.04
At a temperature of 400°C, the maximum resistance is 247.04 ohms
The equation for the voltage out of the CIO-EXP-GP (the voltage your DAS board will convert into a
number) is:
= I
V
OUT
EXC
* R
* GAIN
RTD
Normally, the CIO-EXP-GP supplies 1 mA of excitation current. The choices for standard gains are 1,
10, 25 and 100. (Higher gains are possible but are not generally practical for RTD applications.)
Thus, if you want to measure temperature in the range of -200 to 400°C with the RTD listed above, the
maximum voltage output would be:
V = 0.001 * 247.04 = 0.24704
21
If gain is set to X10, the DAS board will see 2.474 volts. This is ideal for a DAS board with a 2.5V
unipolar range.
If the gain were set to X25, the output would be 6.185 volts. The DAS board would have to be set in the
0 to 10 volt range.
If you are limiting your range of interest to -200 to 100°C, a common range, the calculations are:
V = 0.001 * 138.50 = 0.1385. Gain of 10 = 1.385V. Gain of 25 = 3.4625V. In this case, a gain of X25
and a DAS range of 0 to 10 volts would be best. A 12-bit A/D converter would be using 69% of its range
of 4096 counts, or a total of 2836 counts. The converter would be able to resolve to 0.035 degrees C.
That is more than enough converter resolution even though you are not using the full range of the DAS
board in this example.
If your DAS board has 16 bits of resolution, the DAS board would resolve to 0.0022 degrees. This is far
in excess of the accuracy of the RTD.
The stages of gain you choose are not only dependent on the RTD you choose, but on the range of
temperature you are measuring. Use the equation above to fine tune the CIO-EXP-GP circuit to your
advantage, then be sure to update the InstaCal program so the Universal Library linearization routines
will operate properly.
6.6Setting the Gain
Once you have determined the gain required for your application, set the gain of the CIO-EXP-GP using
the following guide.
Amplification for ALL channels (board output gain) is switch selectable (S17) for X1 or X2.5.
Input amplification for EACH CHANNEL is switch selectable (CH0 through CH7) for X1, X10, X100 or
X1000. A user-specified gain may be set by supplying a precision resistor at position RX### and setting
the “U” option on switch CH ## to ON.
6.6.1Setting the Board Gain
There is a switch on DIP switch block S17
(Figure 6-1) labeled X1 and X2.5. Sliding this
switch down amplifies the output of the
multiplexers by 2.5. The factory default
position (up) has a gain of 1 (unity).
The X2.5 gain switch is useful in some voltage
and bridge measurements. If you desire a
voltage gain of 2.5, 25, 250 or 2500, set this
switch down.
The effect of this switch is multiplicative with respect to the individual channel gains. For example, if
you have set an input channel gain to X10 and the board output gain to X2.5, the signal is amplified by
25 before it reaches the A/D board.
REM
X1
1V
2V
4V
+5 COMP
10V
X2.5
GND
Figure 6-1. Board Gain
S17
0.5V
22
6.6.2Setting the Channel Gain
Channel Gain Switches
There is a set of gain switches for each input circuit
(Figure 6-2). There are two, 4-switch DIP blocks for
each channel. One is labeled “GAIN” and the other “IN
CONFIG”. The gain switches are labeled U (user), 10,
100, and 1000.
Set the gain of your choice by placing a slide switch into
the ON (down) position.
The “U” switch and associated user resistor is of no
value to RTD measurement since the minimum specified
value produces a gain of X100, for which there is a
switch. A gain of X100 is the maximum you would use
with an RTD.
CH4
N
O
U
X10
X1000
X100
GAIN FOR CHANNELS 0 and 4
SET FOR A GAIN OF 10.
SLIDER DOWN SELECTS GAIN
ALL OTHERS TO BE OFF (UP)
N
O
CH0
Figure 6-2. Channel Gain Switches
6.7Input Configuration
RTDs may have 2, 3 or 4 wires coming from the probe. A switch labeled “IN CONFIG” must be set to
match the number of wires on your RTD. There is one switch per channel.
RTD Type
IN CONFIG Setting
2 Wire4 & 4 ON, 3 & 3 OFF
3 Wire3 & 3 ON, 4 & 4 OFF
4 Wire4 & 4 ON, 3 & 3 OFF
6.7.1Setting the Input Configuration
A channel configuration switch is associated with
each channel. The switch is used to configure the
input circuit for 2, 3, or 4-wire RTDs (Figure 6-2).
Two- and four-wire RTDs share the same switch
position. Set both “4” switches ON (down) and
both “3” switches OFF (up).
For three-wire RTDs, set both “3” switches ON
(down) and both “4” switches OFF (up).
IN CONFIG
3
4
3
4
N
O
CH0
SET FOR 2- AND 4-WIRE RTDs SET FOR 3-WIRE RTDs
IN CONFIG
3
4
3
4
N
O
CH0
Figure 6-2. Channel Configuration Switches - RTDs
23
6.8Connecting RTDs To Screw Terminals
The connections made to the screw terminal depend on the type of RTD you are using. The inputs of the
CIO-EXP-GP are designed to provide the excitation and signal conditioning required for RTDs. An RTD
can have two, three, or four wires which you must connect to the CIO-EXP-GP. This section shows the
three types of RTD connections and describes how to connect them to the input channels.
6.8.1Two-Wire RTD Hookup
A two wire RTD has two leads, one to each side of the temperature sensitive resistor. The excitation
current is connected directly to the leads at the CIO-EXP-GP screw terminals.
A two wire RTD is less accurate than the 4 wire
type, and so is not the first choice for the best
measurements. The reason for the inaccuracy is
that there is a slight resistance associated with the
excitation current flowing in the sense leads and
this resistance is added to the RTD’s resistance.
The inaccuracy is determined by the wire gauge
and length. However, as a general rule, the
difference in accuracy between the 2- and 4-wire
RTDs is often less than 0.1% of full scale.
2 WIRE
RTD
Shorting Wires
Between Terminals
CIO-EXP-GP BOARD
EXCITATION CURRENT (+)
SENSE HIGH (+)
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION CURRENT (-)
Figure 6-3. Two-wire RTD Hookup
6.8.2Three-Wire RTD Hookup
A three wire RTD has three leads, one for each side of the temperature sensitive resistor and one for the
excitation current.
The current return and sense signals of one side
are shared. In the case of the EXP-GP the shared
signals are unconventional. The CIO-EXP-GP is
a true clone of the original EXP-GP, and shares
the unconventional circuit configuration, which
3 WIRE
RTD
Note: EXP-GP uses non-standard
3 wire RTD hookup
EXCITATION CURRENT (+)
SENSE HIGH (+)
is corrected on the CIO-EXP-RTD. The
unconventional configuration does not affect the
quality of the measurement but, if you are
familiar with RTDs and use a standard
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION CURRENT (-)
connection, please be mindful of this difference.
Figure 6-4. Three-Wire RTD Hookup
6.8.3Four-Wire RTD Hookup
A four wire RTD has four leads. One to each side of the temperature sensitive resistor and an excitation
current source and its return.
24
These connections eliminate the fixed inaccuracy
associated with the 2-wire RTD. Since virtually no
current flows on the sense lines, there is no voltage
drop in the sense lines. Thus, the error associated with
2-wire RTDs is eliminated. We recommend the 4-wire
RTD, but you must judge if the added cost is worth the
additional accuracy.
4 WIRE
RTD
EXCITATION CURRENT (+)
SENSE HIGH (+)
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION CURRENT (-)
Figure 6-5. Four-Wire RTD Hookup
6.9Verifying the Installation
To verify the installation, use the InstaCal program installed on your computer. This software came with
your A/D board if you bought the board from the same manufacturer as the CIO-EXP-GP. If your A/D
board is not from the same manufacturer but is compatible, please call technical support and request a
copy of InstaCal.
Use InstaCal's TEST option to verify that a signal present at one of the CIO-EXP-GP inputs can be read.
25
7CONFIGURATION FOR RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS
Resistance measurements are made using the CIO-EXP-GP by constructing a resistor “bridge” containing
known resistor values that are to be compared to the resistor value to be measured. This is known as a
Wheatstone Bridge. The typical application is a strain gauge.
Strain gauge sensors are variable-resistance devices. When installed in one leg of the resistor bridge (as
the “unknown” resistor, their value can be measured. The Wheatstone Bridge circuit is extremely
sensitive to changes in resistance in one leg relative to the others. There are various types of bridge
sensors, but the descriptions and examples here are for strain gauges.
7.1Channel Select
The General Configuration section describes the channel selection, setting the jumper and verifying the
installation and operation of the CIO-EXP-GP with your data acquisition board. Configure your boards
as described in that section before continuing with this section.
7.2VEXC Jumper Select
There is a set of jumpers near the 37 pin connector labeled “VEXC SEL”, which stands for channel
excitation voltage select. This jumper will connect the on board excitation voltage to one of the A/D
board channels so that it can be measured. Measurement Computing Corp. does not use a measurement
of the excitation voltage in any of its software. You do not need to set this jumper if you are using the
board with Measurement Computing Corp. software, or with packages such as Labtech Notebook which
use the Universal Library. Use this jumper only with software from other manufacturers that specifically
require it.
7.3CJC Jumper Select
There is a set of jumpers near the 37 pin connector labeled “CJC SEL”, which stands for cold junction
compensation select. Remove this jumper. There is no cold junction compensation used with bridge
sensors.
7.4Powering the CIO-EXP-GP
There are two power issues to address. The first is the source of the 5 volt power to the board. The
second is the source of the bridge excitation voltage power.
7.4.1Selecting the Power Source for the Board
The General Configuration section describes the power selection options for powering the CIO-EXP-GP
itself. Configure your boards as described in Powering the CIO-EXP-GP in the General Configuration
section before continuing with this section.
7.4.2Selecting the Power Source for the Excitation Voltage
Bridge sensors consume a lot of power. In some cases the bridge sensors consume so much power that if
fully populated with eight sensors the on board excitation circuit would not have adequate power to
26
supply all eight sensors. This is an extreme case but is indicative of the attention you must pay to power
requirements when using bridge sensors.
Also, when selecting the power source for the excitation voltage, consider the voltage you will use for
excitation. The options available are 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 10V. In general, higher excitation voltages are
better because a higher voltage increases the difference between the balance points of the bridge circuit,
which increases the accuracy of your measurement. The excitation voltage must be less than the source.
Jumper JB11 (Figure 7-1), located near the bottom edge of the board,
JB11
selects the source of the bridge excitation voltage. The three choices are
+P EXT
+12V
+5V (the same 5V source chosen for board power above), +12V (from the
+5V
PC through the 37 pin connector) or +PEXT (an external power supply
connected at the ±P EXT screw terminal).
Figure 7-1
Output Gain & Power Select
If you choose a separate power supply, it must be a floating, isolated supply (one with three terminals).
Do not tie the GND and −V terminal together. It must not exceed +15V.
The +5V and +12V jumpers are only valid with CIO-DAS08 family boards. The +12V jumper is not
valid with the CIO-DAS08-AO and -PGx. For more information on excitation voltages, refer to the
section on bridge sensors.
+5V Excitation Voltage Source
If your choice for the excitation voltage source is +5V, you may choose a 0.5V, 1V, 2V or 4V excitation
voltage for your bridge sensors. The +5V option is always available, since +5V is required to power the
CIO-EXP-GP.
+12V Excitation Voltage Source
If your choice for the excitation voltage source is +12V PC power, you have the choice of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, or
10 volt excitation for your bridge sensors. The option to power from the PC 12 volt supply exists only
with DAS08 family boards, except that +12V is not valid with the CIO-DAS08-AO or PGA.
+PEXT Excitation Voltage Source
An external power supply can be used. If you choose a separate power supply, it must be a floating, or
isolated supply (one with three terminals). Do not tie the GND and -V ter minal togethe r). Output voltage
must not exceed +15V. If your power supply is not floating, it is likely that you will create a ground loop
(current flow in the ground lines). A ground loop will induce an error in your reading. Connect the
power supply to the CIO-EXP-GP at the terminals labeled −PEXT and +PEXT on the screw terminal
block located adjacent to the 37-pin connector, P2.
27
7.4.3Selecting the Excitation Voltage
DIP switch S17 has five switches to select bridge
excitation voltage. Only set one ON. All others must
be OFF.
X1
REM
Figure 7-2 shows the switch and the excitation power
source jumper set for the factory defaults. Excitation
is set for 10V ON. Power source must be set to +12V
S17
(as shown in Figure 7-1) or +PEXT.
Do not select an excitation voltage at the switch that
+5 COMP
X2.5
GND
4V
10V
0.5V
1V
2V
exceeds the excitation power supply voltage.
Figure 7-2. Excitation Voltage Select Switches
7.5Determining the Appropriate Gain
To accurately measure a voltage, the full scale of the signal should be matched to the full range of the
input circuit. (Most DAS boards have an input range of ±5V, which is the native range of the analog to
digital converter at the heart of the board. Some DAS boards include amplification on the input circuit to
allow the signal to be amplified to make better use of the resolution of the A/D.) For example, an input
signal which varies between 0 and 1 volt would only be using 1/10th of a ±5V A/D converter's
resolution. By switching the input signal of the DAS board to unipolar (no negative voltage) and
amplifying the sign wave signal by 5, the entire range of the A/D converter is used and a higher
resolution measurement may be made. By adding this gain and selecting this range, the resolution on a
12-bit A/D improves from 2.4 millivolts per bit to 0.24 millivolts per bit. If you needed to measure a
change of 1 millivolt, you would need an amplification of 10.
In order to match your signals with the input range of the A/D board, you should do a similar calculation
and set switches on the CIO-EXP-GP for the required gain. Remember to make sure that the settings in
InstaCal match the switches on the DAS and CIO-EXP-GP boards.
When using strain gauges, the expected output from the sensor should be calculated and the gain of the
CIO-EXP-GP set accordingly. There are some examples at the end of this chapter detailing these
calculations. You may also find it helpful to refer to the Appendix for additional strain gauge
information.
7.6Setting the Gain
Once you have determined the gain required for your application, set the gain of the CIO-EXP-GP using
the following guide.
Amplification for ALL channels (board output gain) is switch selectable (S17) for X1 or X2.5.
Input amplification for EACH CHANNEL is switch selectable (CH0 through CH7) for X1, X10, X100 or
X1000. A user-specified gain may be set by supplying a precision resistor at position RX### and setting
the “U” option on switch CH ## to ON.
28
7.6.1Setting the Board Gain
There is a switch on DIP switch block S17
X1
REM
(Figure 7-3) labeled X1 and X2.5. Sliding this
switch down amplifies the output of the
multiplexers by 2.5. The factory default
position (up) has a gain of 1 (unity).
The X2.5 gain switch is useful in some voltage
GND
1V
2V
4V
+5 COMP
10V
X2.5
S17
0.5V
and bridge measurements. If you desire a
voltage gain of 2.5, 25, 250 or 2500, set this
switch
down
.
Figure 7-3. Board Gain
The effect of this switch is multiplicative with respect to the individual channel gains. For example, if
you have set an input channel gain to X100 and the board output gain to X2.5, the signal is amplified by
250 before it reaches the A/D board.
7.6.2Setting the Channel Gain
There is a gain switch for each channel (Figure 7-4). Set the input channel gain to match the expected
voltage output of the bridge you are measuring to the input range of the A/D board as described above.
Channel Gain Switches
There is a set of DIP gain switches for each input
circuit labeled GAIN (Figure 7-4). There are four,
two-position switches for each channel. The gain
switches are labeled U, X10, X100, and X1000.
Select a gain (higher than unity) by moving the
switch for that gain down. All other switches should
be left in the UP position.
A custom gain may be selected on the CIO-EXP-GP
by installing a precision resistor and setting the
switch marked “U” (User) in the down position. See
Table 7-1 below for positions and some sample gain
values.
CH4
U
X10
N
O
X1000
X100
GAIN FOR CHANNELS 0 and 4
SET FOR A GAIN OF 10.
SLIDER DOWN SELECTS GAIN
A channel configuration switch is associated with each
channel (Figure 7-5). The switches are used to configure the
input circuits for voltage inputs, thermocouple inputs, 2, 3, or
4-wire RTDs and bridges.
For bridge measurements on a particular channel, set the
switches labeled “4” to the ON (down) position for that
channel.
Set the switches labeled “3” in the OFF (up) position.
CH4
N
O
3
4
3
4
IN CONFIG
4
3
4
3
N
O
CH0
CHANNEL CONFIGURATION SWITCHES SET
VOLTAGE, THERMOCOUPLES, OR 2/4-WIRE RTDs
BOTH 4s ARE ON (DOWN), BOTH 3s ARE OFF (UP)
Figure 7-5.
Input Channel Configuration Switches
7.8Configuring the Bridge
As mentioned earlier in this chapter, resistance measurements are made by constructing a bridge
containing precision resistors with known values against which the unknown resistor is to be compared.
In strain gauge applications, the strain gauge sensor itself may make up a quarter of this bridge, half of
30
this bridge or the entire bridge. Examples of each of these configurations follow. Figure 7-6 is a
schematic of the bridge circuit.
EXCITATION VOLAGE (+)
EXCITATION. VOLTS (+)
A
SENSE LOW (-)
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION CURRENT (-)
EXCITATION VOLTS (-)
SENSE HIGH (+)
SENSE HIGH (+)
EXCITATION CURRENT (+)
Figure 7-6. Bridge Circuit
This table shows how the measurement at the
A/D board varies with respect to an increase
or decrease of the resistance in one of the legs
of the bridge.
C
B
Arm
Null Pot
D
GAIN SW
AMP
80Hz Low
Pass Filter
CURRENT SOURCE
VOLTAGE REFERENCE
Resistance Change vs. Sense Voltage
Change
A
B
C
+ Volts
- Volts
- Volts
TO CHANNEL
MULTIPLEXOR
- Ohms+ OhmsLeg
- Volts
+ Volts
+ Volts
D
+ Volts
- Volts
Read the table by selecting the leg you are interested in and looking across that row to the ±Volts
indication under the column heading for the expected change in resistance. For example, if you are
interested in leg ‘A’ and want to know what the relative change in volts at the A/D board will be if the
resistance is increased, look under + Ohms. The measured voltage will increase.
7.8.1Bridge Completion Resistors
You likely will have to install bridge-completion resistors on the CIO-EXP-GP board to match the
resistance of the external gauge. Refer to Table 7-2 for their identities and locations.
If you are using a ¼ bridge then you will have to install three precision resistors to complete the
bridge.
If you are using a ½ bridge then you will need to install two resistors to complete the bridge.
If you are using a full bridge, there are no resistors to install.
31
Referring back to Figure 7-6, the legs of the bridge are labeled A, B, C and D. Table 7-3 below matches
the legs of the bridge to the resistor number nomenclature that appears on the CIO-EXP-GP.
Some values of precision resistors are available from Measurement Computing Corp.
7.8.2Nulling Potentiometers & Arm Resistor
Each circuit has a position for a nulling potentiometer and associated arm resistor. The purpose of the
nulling arm is to allow you to zero the reading of strain at a given strain position. There is no formula to
use to select the nulling potentiometer and arm resistor. Bridge resistor values and total gain selected for
the CIO-EXP-GP will affect adjustability for a given nulling circuit. An average value for the arm
resistor is 10k ohms. Start with that and adjust as required.
7.8.3Strain Gauge Bridge Configuration Examples
Following are three typical strain gauge bridge configurations. They are by no means the only way to
connect a strain gauge to the CIO-EXP-GP. For example, there is no rule that says the ‘A’ leg must be
the strain gauge on a ¼ bridge implementation.
The examples below show how to translate strain to input voltage for the strain gauge
configuration used to measure simple bending strain. Other types of stress and strain: axial,
torsion, shearing , etc. are beyond the scope of this description.
guide for calculating the bridge voltage in your own application, and thus help you select the proper
amplifier gain and excitation voltage.
The use of quarter bridge, half bridge and full bridge strain gauge configurations are described.
These examples can be used to as a
The Application:
In these examples, imagine a beam extending out from a fixed point on a wall. Force is applied to deflect
the end of the beam downward. We know that the maximum strain to be measured will be 250µε (250
micro strain). Knowing the amount of force required and the size of the beam is not necessary, since
strain relates to the change in length of the surface of interest.
The Strain Gauge will be a metal foil type, 350 ohms resistance, Gauge Factor = 2. Refer to the
Appendix for information on these specifications.
The following example shows a bending strain measurement ex ample. It can be used to calculate
the bridge voltage, and thus help the user select the proper amplifier gain and excitation voltage.
The use of one, two and four strain gauges will be examined.
32
A Quarter Bridge Example
For ¼ bridge circuits, the strain gauge has a single resistive element that is connected as one leg of the
bridge. The other three legs must be populated with the precision completion resistors.
EXCITATION VOLAGE (+)
A
EXCITATION. VOLTS (+)
SENSE LOW (-)
C
EXCITATION VOLTS (-)
SENSE HIGH (+)
D
B
Arm
Null Pot
80Hz Low
Pass Filter
GAIN SW
AMP
TO CHANNEL
MULTIPLEXOR
Figure 7-6. ¼ Bridge Circuit - Simplified
Quarter-Bridge Calculations
The strain gauge is applied to the top of the beam. This strain gauge takes the place of resistor A
(see Figure 7-6). Three other 350 ohm resistors (B, C and D)
installed by the user in locations provided on the board or attached to the screw terminals.
complete the bridge circuit. These are
As downward force is applied, the strain gauge on the top of the beam will be stretched, therefore
its resistance will increase by:
Strain Gauge increase = 350 ohm x 250 x 10-6 x 2
= +0.175 ohm
Thus the value of gauge A (under tension) will be 350.175 ohms when the strain on the beam is +250µε.
Initially, choosing an excitation voltage of 10V, the bridge voltage is:
Choosing an amplifier gain of X1000 results in 1.25V maximum presented to the DAS board.
Choosing an additional X2.5 (overall output gain) results in a total gain of 2500, thus sending
3.125V maximum to the DAS board. This makes an optimum use of the 5V range.
33
A Half Bridge Example
For a ½ bridge circuit (Figure 7-7), the strain gauge has two resistive elements which are connected
across two legs of the bridge. The two legs would always be A & C or B & D. The other two legs of the
bridge must be populated with the precision (350 ohm) completion resistors.
EXCITATION VOLAGE (+)
A
C
EXCITATION. VOLTS (+)
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION VOLTS (-)
SENSE HIGH (+)
D
B
Arm
Null Pot
80 Hz Low
Pass Filter
GAIN SW
AMP
TO CHANNEL
MULTIPLEXOR
Figure 7-7. ½ Bridge Circuit- Simplified Schematic
Half Bridge Calculations
The ½ bridge implementation consists of two strain gauges; one on the top of the beam (as in the ¼
bridge example) and one on the bottom of the beam. The strain gauge on the bottom of the beam
replaces completion resistor C in the ¼ bridge implementation.
Two active strain gauge elements (one in tension and one in compression) result in twice the sensitivity
of the ¼ bridge. (One element increases resistance while the second element decreases resistance
simultaneously.)
When the beam is forced down (250µε change), the resistance in C decreases by 0.175 ohm, and
resistance A increases by 0.175 ohm as shown in the ¼ bridge example above.
Choosing Gain = X1000 would result in 2.5V being applied to the DAS board. Choosing Gain = X2500
(X1000 on the input channel and X2.5 on the output) could result in an amplified voltage that’s out of the
DAS board’s range. In this case, the excitation voltage could be reduced to 4V, reducing the bridge
voltage to 1.00mV. A gain selection of 2500 would then present a maximum voltage of 2.5V to the DAS
board.
34
Full Bridge Example
Full bridge strain gauges consist of all four bridge resistors (Figure 7-8). Obviously, no bridge
completion resistors are installed on the board when using this configuration.
EXCITATION VOLAGE (+)
EXCITATION. VOLTS (+)
Arm
Null Pot
GAIN SW
B
A
C
SENSE LOW (-)
EXCITATION VOLTS (-)
D
SENSE HIGH (+)
80Hz Low
Pass Filter
Figure 7-8. Full Bridge - Simplified Schematic
Full bridge calculations
With four active strain gauge elements, these are four times more sensitive than a 1/4 bridge. All four
resistors are strain gauges and are attached to the beam in the following configuration:
AMP
TO CHANNEL
MULTIPLEXOR
Gauge resistors C and B are on the bottom. Their resistance decreases under the resultant compression
(but bridge voltage increases).
Gauge resistors D and A are on the top of the beam. Their resistance increases under the resultant tension
(and bridge voltage likewise increases), equal in magnitude to the changes in D and A.
Choosing a gain of X1000 presents 5V to the DAS board covering its entire 5V unipolar range.
An excitation voltage of 4V could be been used in combination with a gain of 2500 (X1000 on
the input channel and X2.5 on the output). This would also result in 5V to the DAS board. The
advantage to using a lower excitation voltage is that it causes less power dissipation on the strain
gauge element itself, reducing thermal expansion from self-heating.
7.9Verifying the Installation
To verify the installation, use the InstaCal program installed on your computer. This software came with
your A/D board if you bought the board from the same manufacturer as the CIO-EXP-GP. If your A/D
board is not from the same manufacturer but is compatible, please call technical support and request a
copy of InstaCal.
Use InstaCal's TEST option to verify that a signal present at one of the CIO-EXP-GP inputs can be read.
35
8SPECIFICATIONS
Power Consumption
+5V380mA typical, 533mA max
Analog Input Section
Input amplifier typeINA102
Number of channels8 differential
GainsEach channel individually switch selectable for X1,
X10, X100 or custom and board gain switch selectable
for X1 or X2.5
Gain Error
Gain = 1, 2.50.01%FS typical, 0.15%FS maximum
Gain = 10, 250.02%FS typical, 0.35%FS maximum
Gain = 100, 2500.05%FS typical, 0.40%FS maximum
Gain = 1000, 25000.20%FS typical, 0.90%FS maximum
Linearity
Gain = 1, 2.50.045%FS typical
Gain = 10, 250.045FS typical
Gain = 100, 2500.075%FS typical
Gain = 1000, 25000.15%FS typical
Input OffsetEach channel adjustable to zero
Gain TC
Gain = 110ppm/°C typical
Gain = 10015ppm/°C typical
Gain = 100020ppm/°C typical
Input Offset TC
Gain = 1, 2.520µV/°C typical
Gain = 10, 256µV/°C typical
Gain = 100, 2505.1µV/°C typical
Gain = 1000, 25005.1µV/°C typical
Common Mode Range±10V
CMRR
Gain = 10, 25, 100, 250, 1000, 2500100dB typical
Gain = 1, 2.594dB typical
Absolute maximum input±50V
Channel to channel settling time
5V step to .01%50µs
MUX switching time
5V step to .01%5µs typical
MiscellaneousEach input channel has a 79Hz low pass filter
X2.5 gain is adjustable for zero error
Jumper selects compatibility with DAS08 or DAS16
series
Locations provided for bridge completion resistors for
each channel.
Locations provided for bridge nulling pots and resistors
for each channel
36
Analog Output Section
Output Amplifier typeOP07
Number of channels1
Maximum Output Range±10V
Current Drive±5 mA
Output short-circuit duration25 mA indefinite
Output couplingDC
Output impedance100 Ohms max
MiscellaneousOutput jumper selectable for one of 16 channels (P1 &
P2 Output 0 to Output 15)
Digital Input / Output Section
Digital type
DIn 0 through 2HI508A multiplexer
DIn 32N2222 transistor inverter
Configuration3 digital inputs for selecting multiplexer channel
1 digital input for controlling calibration relay
Input low voltage
DIn 0 through 20.8V max, -4V absolute min
DIn 31.0V max, -4V absolute min
Input high voltage
DIn 0 through 22.4V min, 9V absolute max
DIn 3 1.27V min, 9V absolute max
Voltage Excitation Section
Excitation voltages10V, 4V, 2V, 1V, 0.5V
Sources for excitation voltage5V from PC, 5V from MOLEX, 12V from PC, external
(±PEXT screw terminal)
Current
5V source from P1, 4V VEXC100mA
5V source from P19, 4V VEXC275mA
12V source, 10V VEXC350mA
15V external source, 10 VEXC670mA
MiscellaneousOutput jumper selectable for one of 16 channels (P1 &
P2 Output - to Output 15)
Voltage adjustable for zero error
Current Excitation Section
Excitation1mA
Channels8
Voltage compliance4.6V typical, 2V minimum
AccuracyAdjustable for zero error
CJC Section
Conversion ratio24.4mV/°C (0mV @ 0°C)
Environmental
Operating temperature range0 to 60°C
Storage temperature range-40 to 100°C
Humidity0 to 90% non-condensing
37
9APPENDIX
9.1About Strain Gauges
9.1.1What Are Strain Gauges?
εA Strain Gauge is a variable resistance device whose resistance changes in proportion to the
amount it is stretched or compressed. Physically it is an etched metal-foil in a grid pattern that is
glued to any surface which undergoes strain. The output is a dimensionless quantity defined as
change in length and whose symbol is ε. A micro-strain of “1” means that length of the surface
of interest has changed by 1 ppm. The ratio of resistance change to strain change is known as the
Gauge Factor (GF). Typical metal foil strain gauges have Gauge Factors of 2 to 2.1. This means
that the resistance will change twice as much as the strain does. A change of 1 micro-strain
means that the resistance of the strain gauge has changed by 2 ppm or .0002% (.0001% x 2). For
a 350 ohm strain gauge with GF = 2, a 1µε change results in a resistance change of:
Metal Foil gauges are available in 120, 350 and 1000 ohms. Semiconductor strain gauges exist
and have resistance of up to 10000 ohms. They can readily be used with the CIO-EXP-GP, but
may not be as linear as metal foil gauges.
Maximum strain allowed is 3% to 5% depending on type and thickness of strain gauge material.
εThis means a limit of 30,000 to 50,000
µε
or a maximum resistance change of 6% to 10%.
Strain Gauges are typically used to calculate a change in strain; that is, the difference between the
unstrained and the strained state.
9.2Reference Material for Application of Strain Gauges
The Bonded Electrical Resistance Strain Gage, First Edition
by William M. Murray and William R. Miller.
1992, 424 pages ISBN: 0-19-507209-X
Available from Society for Experimental Mechanics, order # OX-2.
Strain Gage Users’ Handbook
, First Edition.
1992, 424 pages. ISBN: 0-912053-36-4
38
Published by Society for Experimental Mechanics, order #ELS-017
The Art of Practical and Precise Stain Based Measurement
by James Pierson.
1992, 400 pages in 3-ring binder . ISBN: 1-895976-00-6
Available from Society for Experimental Mechanics, order # JP-001
Strain Gage and Transducer Techniques
1984, 72 pages.
Published by Published by Society for Experimental Mechanics, order # S-023
Society for Experimental Mechanics
7 School St.
Bethel CT 06801
(203) 790-6373
39
For your notes
40
EC Declaration of Conformity
We, Measurement Computing Corp., declare under sole responsibility that the product:
Voltage, TC, RTD and Bridge inputs for ISA busCIO-EXP-GP
DescriptionPart Number
to which this declaration relates, meets the essential requirements, is in conformity with, and CE marking has been
applied according to the relevant EC Directives listed below using the relevant section of the following EC standards
and other normative documents:
EU EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
EU 55022 Class B
technology equipment.
EN 50082-1
IEC 801-2
IEC 801-3
equipment.
IEC 801-4
Carl Haapaoja, Director of Quality Assurance
: EC generic immunity requirements.
: Electrostatic discharge requirements for industrial process measurement and control equipment.
: Radiated electromagnetic field requirements for industrial process measurements and control
: Electrically fast transients for industrial process measurement and control equipment.
: Limits and methods of measurements of radio interference characteristics of information
: Essential requirements relating to electromagnetic compatibility.
Measurement Computing Corporation
16 Commerce Boulevard,
Middleboro, Massachusetts 02346
(508) 946-5100
Fax: (508) 946-9500
E-mail: info@measurementcomputing.com
www. measurementcomputing.com
Loading...
+ hidden pages
You need points to download manuals.
1 point = 1 manual.
You can buy points or you can get point for every manual you upload.