User-friendly instrumentation system !

The Huron is a complete, stand-alone instrumentation and control system with many built-in functions that make it more than a DAS/C. Unlike computer plug-in DAS cards, it can be conveniently placed at the site near the sensors and actuators, while the computer can be located remotely, where it can be operated to control activity. Running sensor cables a long distance is costly and makes them vulnerable to electrical noise which degrades sensor data. The Huron connects to the system computer through a 3-wire RS-232 or RS-485 serial port connection. It is remotely controlled by sending commands as lines of text, either manually by an operator or from mission software. The Huron can also be programmed for stand-alone control.

The Huron is optimized for stand-alone 

or remote operation, where minimal

manual support is available, such as 

engine test stands,  

heating or cooling systems, 

power conversion, mobile vehicles or 

automated machines.

Built-In Data Processing for major transducer types

The 20 input and 5 output channels can be configured for a transducer type. Built-in types include: J- or K-type thermocouples, linear bridge-based sensors, 100 ohm or 1 kohm RTDs, digital I/O lines, pulse-input flow sensors, solid-state temperature sensor (AD22100). Processing for additional types can be downloaded from Huron library files or created by user.

Simple Setup

The User Manual step-by-step procedure guides you through installation, from connection to calibration. Channels can be configured by downloading a configuration file for your application. For calibration, apply a known input, type in its value and press enter - in units you choose. Two-point calibration corrects for offset and gain (scale-factor) errors. Connect the Huron to your computer serial-port, run a communication program and type in commands. All Huron connections are made through on-board connectors. You don't get into your computer in order to use it.

Built-In Functions

Mission clock times events and tags data, has 0.1 second resolution.

Scheduler sequences through channels based on a telemetry frame you design. Frame has 200 subframes and repeats at 1 Hz rate, with regular sample intervals for channels and multiple levels of multiplexing.

Data recorder captures from 81.92 seconds to 4.55 hours of 16-bit data. It operates like a tape recorder, with processing of raw recorded data during playback. Output frame format includes clock time, channel, data value, and unit, and can be imported as spreadsheet file. All channels can be selected for recording, including outputs. Lithium battery backs recorder, computer configuration data and mission programming.

Telemetry channels are chosen and telemetry frames sent via serial port when requested by system computer or on-board programming. Maximum baud rate is 19,200. Raw ADC counts or processed data can be sent.

Failure Recovery

Microcomputer uses small-area, large-geometry integrated circuits to minimize failures due to ionizing radiation. If power transient or program dethreading failure occurs, computer restarts recovery program to resume mission program execution. Interrupt and background level watchdog timers protect against dethreading.

Network Multiple Hurons

Up to 8 Hurons can be networked using the RS-485 serial port to expand DAS/C capability.

Accessories & Customization

The Huron DAS/C board has an optional plastic enclosure, PG2 current-output, dual pulse generator, LCD and switches front-panel, and an increasing library of downloadable mission programs and configuration files. Inquire about design customization or licensing for integration into your larger system.

Summary of Huron Features
10 differential analog inputs, 5 SE
Progammable full-scale analog input ranges from 4.1 mV to 4.1 V
2- or 4-wire bridges with bridge supply compensation

High-current on-board bridge supply

2 programmable-duration pulse generator channels

2 PCM channels drive R/C servomotors

8 digital input and 8 output bit-lines, expandable to 16 each off-board

Serial I/O bus extends channels

SPDT relay with programmable activation time

2 magnetic-vane flow-rate channels

Ohmmeter and frequency counter

+5V dc power with on-board converter module, or 5V, +12V, -12V in

On-board accelerometer mounting and lead pads

 Innovatia Laboratories