Ocean Optics USB-AOUT User Manual

USB-AOUT

Analog Output Module

Installation and Operation Instructions

Description

The USB-AOUT is a digital-to-analog accessory that connects directly to the 10-pin input connector
on the Ocean Optics USB2000 or USB4000 Spectrometer. It emits an analog current ranging from 4 to
20 mA (based on a user-configurable scale) from Pin 8 of its 10-pin output. The analog current varies
based on a specific wavelength intensity obtained from OOIBase32 or SpectraSuite Spectrometer
Operating Software. The USB-AOUT does not require an external power supply, as the spectrometer
powers the unit via the accessory connector.

The USB-AOUT is an ideal solution for system integration configurations. It is designed to be a
custom configurable trigger mechanism based on current levels. You must configure the specific
events to be triggered separately in your configuration.

Parts Included

The USB-AOUT ships with the following items:

• USB-AOUT digital-to-analog output module

• Thumbscrew (to secure the USB-AOUT to the spectrometer)

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USB-AOUT Installation and Operation Instructions

Using the USB-AOUT

The following sections provide instructions on setting up and using the USB-AOUT.

Connecting the USB-AOUT

► Procedure

Follow the steps below to configure the USB-AOUT:

1. Remove the USB-AOUT and thumbscrew from the product packaging.

2. Screw the thumbscrew into the metal connector located under the 10-pin output of the USB-

AOUT.

3. Connect the 10-pin input connector of the USB-AOUT to the 10-pin connector on the

USB2000 Spectrometer or the 22-pin connector on the USB4000 Spectrometer and secure the
USB-AOUT using the thumbscrew.

4. Connect the fiber, USB cable, etc. to the spectrometer as you normally would.

5. Connect the appropriate detection mechanism to Pin 8 of the 10-pin output connector on the

USB-AOUT.

6. Connect the ground wire to Pin 6 of the 10-pin output connector on the USB-AOUT.

You have now connected the USB-AOUT for operation.

Configuring the USB-AOUT in OOIBase32

The OOIBase32 and SpectraSuite operating software allow you to customize the intensities that
produce certain current levels in the USB-AOUT. This is achieved by configuring the USB-AOUT in
the Time Acquisition Channels configuration dialog box in OOIBase32. Using this feature in
OOIBase32, you can customize the USB-AOUT so that it outputs a current that scales (with a
maximum output of 20 mA, based on intensity) at the desired wavelength.

For specific instructions on using OOIBase32, consult the OOIBase32 manual at the following web
address:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/ooibase32bit.pdf

► Procedure

Follow the instructions below to configure the USB-AOUT options in the Time Acquisition dialog
boxes of OOIBase32:

1. Ensure that OOIBase32 is in the desired mode of operation.

2. Open the Time Acquisition Channel Configuration dialog box (see the OOIBase32 manual for

specific instructions).

3. Select the Channel Tab associated with the USB-AOUT-equipped spectrometer.

4. Select the Enable button to enable Time Acquisition on the channel tab.

5. Select the Enable D/A Output (Channel X) check box on the channel tab.

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