General Notes and Regulations

Intended Use

This equipment measures high-speed analog and digital signals in laboratory or mobile environments. It may also be used in other areas, for example when troubleshooting or performing field tests. The use of the DECAQ measurement system requires an understanding of the measurement chain and signal analysis.

Handling Precautions

Even though the DECAQ has been designed to withstand rough handling, it is a sensitive and complex electronic instrument and must be handled with care.

Changing Hardware

The DECAQ must be powered down for 30 seconds before any Module or Board can be inserted or removed. The DECAQ hardware is not hot-swappable.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions

Care has been taken to provide reasonable ESD protection. However, all DECAQ components are sensitive to ESD and may be damaged by an ESD discharge.

To avoid damaging the DECAQ, antistatic precautions must be followed. This is especially important when swapping Modules. However, care must also be taken when swapping combined System Controller and Power Supply boards, Signal Conditioning boards or Synchronization Engines. Antistatic precautions are advisable when connecting cables or sensors to Modules.

Precautions include:

• Power down the DECAQ and disconnect the power supply
• Earth the Chassis by using the Chassis Ground Socket
• When swapping boards or Modules, work on an earthed antistatic mat while wearing an earthed antistatic wrist strap to discharge excess static electricity your body might contain
• Handle boards and Modules by their front panels or aluminium covers
• Place boards and Modules in antistatic bags immediately after removal from the DECAQ and close the antistatic bags securely
• Keep in mind electrostatic charge may have built up on the cables and sensors when connecting signal cables to Modules
• Store and transport boards and Modules in padded antistatic packaging

Transporting Precautions

• Never stack boards or Modules on top of each other
• Do not mark the front panels using any pen or writing tool that cannot be easily removed, as additional charges will be incurred should the board or Module be returned for repair

Cable and Power Supply Precautions

Do not use a damaged power supply, cable or any other DECAQ component.

Extreme Environments

The DECAQ may not be operated or stored in flammable environments (fumes, gasses, liquids, etc.), excessively harsh environments (corrosive, ambient temperature above 50 °C, radioactive, hydraulic fluid, etc.), or excessively damp environments.

Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation

The radiated output power of the DECAQ is within acceptable radio frequency exposure limits and is intended to be used 300 mm away from a human operator.

Weight

Depending on the configuration, the DECAQ may become heavy and could pose a danger if not stored or transported in a responsible manner. Please use the handle provided. When using the removable handle, ensure it is properly installed and the locking mechanisms are engaged.

Recycling and disposal

Mecalc supports environmentally sound recycling. Recycle or dispose of DECAQ Batteries through a reputable service provider or contact your supplier (Mecalc Representative or Channel Partner) for assistance. This is also applicable to any other broken or unused components.

Minamata Convention on Mercury

The products in this manual do not contain any mercury or mercury compounds.

Japan Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL)

The products in this manual do not contain any substances listed as Class I or Class II specified chemical substances under the Japan Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL).

Conflict Minerals Sourcing Policy

Mecalc believes in ethical and responsible practices and is committed to promoting economic, environmental and social justice at all levels of our supply and manufacturing processes.

As part of this commitment, we:

• Support the “OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas”

• Have conducted a Conflict Mineral report using the Responsible Minerals Initiative’s Conflict Minerals Reporting Template (CMRT) and Extended Mineral Reporting Template (EMRT)

• Require all our suppliers to source minerals exclusively from smelters or refiners that comply with principles highlighted in the “OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas”

US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) & Canada (IC)

The DECAQ measurement frontend is classified as “a digital device used exclusively as industrial, commercial, or medical test equipment”. Therefore, according to CFR47 section 15.103 the DECAQ measurement frontend is exempt from the specific technical standards in CFR47 part 15. Even though the starred combinations have not been explicitly certified for FCC/IC compliance, Mecalc did endeavour to have the device meet the specific technical standards. All DECAQ measurement frontends may therefore be used in the USA or Canada provided that according to CFR47 section 15.103, “the operator of the exempted device shall be required to stop operating the device upon a finding by the Commission or its representative that the device is causing harmful interference”.

MIC (Japan) and KCC (South Korea)

The WLAN Module used in the DECAQ has been pre-certified for use in Japan and South Korea.

Export Compliance

The products described in this manual are not designed, developed, or intended for military use. They are not included on the United States Munitions List (USML) as defined under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120–130.

All products are classified as Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) items. Additionally, these products are regulated under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and are classified under Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 3A992.a. This classification applies to general-purpose electronic devices intended for civilian and industrial applications.

Product Overview

DECAQ systems are compact data acquisition systems which measure high-speed analog and digital signals. Designed for portable measurement, troubleshooting, field testing and complex laboratory applications, DECAQ systems are capable of housing up to 216 channels in a single chassis. Each DECAQ system can securely connect, communicate and be controlled using either the User Interface, a laptop or smart device, as well as to store data for later playback.

A typical user will have an understanding of measurement chain and signal analysis.

DECAQ Features

• Simplified cabling for Power, Ethernet and synchronization.
• Gigabit Ethernet connectivity (1000BASE-T), with PTPv2 (IEEE 1588-2008) synchronization capability.
• Modular signal conditioning with individual and separate signal conditioning QModules, Processing Units and Chassis which can be upgraded without replacing the whole system.
  
• Multiple signal conditioning engines facilitate modular signal conditioning, with isolated power, digital signal processing using powerful DSPs, and automatic internal calibration.
• The ability to measure parameters with interchangeable QModules, including:
  • Vibration
  • Piezoelectric Charge
  • Rotation Speed
  • Temperature
  • Strain
  • Bridge and Voltage
  • Temperature
  • Sound
  • Time and Precision
  • Digital Bus Interface
  • Digital Audio
• Data throughput of up to 45 MB/s, depending on QModule (signal conditioning) configuration, voltage of supplied power, QModule sampling rate and ambient temperature.
• Optional built-in 128 GB SSD storage to store measurement data, retrieve and analyze it later.
• Optional built-in Wi-Fi to securely control your system using Wi-Fi and a smart device, or to use Wi-Fi to connect to your workstation.
• Uninterruptible power supply when switching between external power and internal battery with 20 minutes to 2 hours battery life (depending on system configuration).
• A choice of different chassis sizes:
  • DECAQ 2-slot for 8-24 channels
  • DECAQ 3-slot for 16-48 channels
  • DECAQ 4-slot for 24-72 channels
  • DECAQ 6-slot for 40-120 channels
• Accessible and open data formats, with intuitive interaction for set-up and control on smart devices.
• Connection to a Web Server which provides information and control functions.
• Rack Mountable chassis versions with improved airflow:
  • DECAQ L 4-slot is a 19” Rack Mountable version for 24-72 channels
  • DECAQ L 6-slot is a 19” Rack Mountable version for 40-120 channels
• Conduction and dynamic fan cooling.

Views of the DECAQ Mainframes

The DECAQ comes in 4 chassis sizes, namely the DECAQ 2-slot, 3-slot, 4-slot and 6-slot chassis. This section shows views for each chassis size.

Rack Mount versions of the DECAQ Mainframes are shown in section 5.

Front View

This section highlights front view features common to all systems.

1. Extraction Jacking Screw To remove the board from the chassis during system maintenance, tighten the extraction jacking screw until the board ejects.

2. Portal for Thermal Expanders Ensure the thermal expanders have been properly fastened before conducting measurements. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

3. Built-in Wi-Fi Antenna Connectors Reverse Polarity SMA Female connectors for IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN communication. The antenna should have a Reverse Polarity SMA Male connector.

4. QModule slots Featured QModule: Slot 2 CHS42X:6 Channel Charge or ICP^®/IEPE and Voltage Input Amplifier See Measure: Signal Conditioning for more information.

5. Ethernet (Ethernet / PTP) Ethernet 1000BASE-T PTP (Precision Time Protocol) IEEE 1588-2008 PTP synchronization over Ethernet. See Synchronization for more information.

6. S-Port Connect to the ATTOQs via the S-Port.

7. User Interface Display Receive system information and execute commands via the User Interface. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

8. User Interface Scroll Button Use the Scroll Button () to switch on the DECAQ and scroll through User Interface menu options. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

9. User Interface OK Button Confirm User Interface menu option selections using the OK Button. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

10. Power LEMO^® Power the DECAQ with an external power source via the Power LEMO^®. See Power for more information.

11. Earth Terminal Beware of ground loops as the system is earthed via the Mean Well power supply. Consider connecting the Earth Terminal to the building safety earth if there is any risk of electrical shock in the testing environment. It can be used to provide a ground reference for analog signal measurements, if appropriate settings are applied to the relevant QModule channels. It can also be used in some cases to decrease noise on analog signals.

12. QModule Jacking Screw Insert and remove QModules using a Jacking Screw. See Inserting and Removing QModules for more information.

13. Battery Status LED Provides information about the internal battery to the User.

14. Power Supply Status LED Provides information about the power supply to the User.

15. Ethernet / PTP Status LED Synchronize DECAQ systems with PTP (Precision Time Protocol) See Synchronization for more information.

DECAQ 2-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ 2-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side Views

1. Handle For simplified handling, use the handle when carrying the chassis.

2. Handle Adjustment Button To adjust your handle, press down on the Handle Adjustment Button. Move the handle from 0° to 45°, 90°, 135° and finally 180°. Once the handle reaches any one of the four settings, it will lock into that position until the button is pressed in to adjust the handle again. Please ensure the Handle Adjustment Button is locked before picking up the system with the handle.

3. Fins Fins provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis fins unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guides.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to the rear cover to insert/remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

DECAQ 3-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ 3-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side View

1. Handle For simplified handling, use the handle when carrying the chassis.

2. Handle Adjustment Button To adjust your handle, press down on the Handle Adjustment Button. Move the handle from 0° to 45°, 90°, 135° and finally 180°. Once the handle reaches any one of the four settings, it will lock into that position until the button is pressed in to adjust the handle again. Please ensure the Handle Adjustment Button is locked before picking up the system with the handle.

3. Fins Fins provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis fins unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guides.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to the rear cover to insert / remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

DECAQ 4-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ 4-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side View

1. Handle For simplified handling, use the handle when carrying the chassis.

2. Handle Adjustment Button To adjust your handle, press down on the Handle Adjustment Button. Move the handle from 0° to 45°, 90°, 135° and finally 180°. Once the handle reaches any one of the four settings, it will lock into that position until the button is pressed in to adjust the handle again. Please ensure the Handle Adjustment Button is locked before picking up the system with the handle.

3. Fins Fins provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis fins unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

4. Fans Fans provide cooling for the system’s chassis. Keep the fan intake unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guide.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to the rear cover to insert / remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

DECAQ 6-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ 6-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side View

1. Handle For simplified handling, use the handle when carrying the chassis.

2. Handle Adjustment Button To adjust your handle, press down on the Handle Adjustment Button. Move the handle from 0° to 45°, 90°, 135° and finally 180°. Once the handle reaches any one of the four settings, it will lock into that position until the button is pressed in to adjust the handle again. Please ensure the Handle Adjustment Button is locked before picking up the system with the handle.

3. Fins Fins provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis fins unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

4. Fans Fans provide cooling for the system’s chassis. Keep the fan intake unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guide.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to the rear cover to insert / remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Views of DECAQ L Mainframes

The DECAQ L chassis has been designed to fit into a 19” rack for stationary use in a laboratory. The DECAQ L chassis has improved airflow with air being blown through vents at both sides. There are no fins on the sides or the rear of the DECAQ L chassis.

Front View

This section highlights front view features common to all L systems.

1. Extraction Jacking Screw To remove the board from the chassis during system maintenance, tighten the extraction jacking screw until the board ejects.

2. Portal for Thermal Expanders Ensure the thermal expanders have been properly fastened before conducting measurements. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

3. QModule slots Featured QModule: Slot 2 CHS42X:6 Channel Charge or ICP^®/IPE and Voltage Input Amplifier See Measure: Signal Conditioning for more information.

4. Ethernet (Ethernet / PTP) Ethernet 1000BASE-T PTP (Precision Time Protocol) IEEE 1588-2008 PTP synchronization over Ethernet. See Synchronization for more information.

5. S-Port Connect to the ATTOQs via the S-Port.

6. User Interface Display Receive system information and execute commands via the User Interface. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

7. User Interface Scroll Button ()

Use the Scroll Button to switch on the DECAQ L and scroll through the User Interface menu options. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

8. User Interface OK Button Confirm User Interface menu option selections using the OK Button. See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information.

9. Power LEMO^® Power the DECAQ L with an external power source via the Power LEMO^®. See Power for more information.

10. Earth Terminal Beware of ground loops as the system is earthed via the Mean Well power supply. Consider connecting the Earth Terminal to the building safety earth if there is any risk of electrical shock in the testing environment. It can be used to provide a ground reference for analog signal measurements, if appropriate settings are applied to the relevant QModule channels. It can also be used in some cases to decrease noise on analog signals.

11. QModule Jacking Screw Insert and remove QModules using a Jacking Screw. See Inserting and Removing QModules for more information.

12. Battery Status LED Provides information about the internal battery to the User.

13. Power Supply Status LED Provides information about the power supply to the User.

14. Ethernet / PTP Status LED Synchronize DECAQ systems with PTP (Precision Time Protocol) See Synchronization for more information.

DECAQ L 4-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ L 4-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side View

1. Vents Vents provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis vents unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

2. Fans Fans provide cooling for the system’s chassis. Keep the fan intake unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ L.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ L is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guide.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to insert/remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

DECAQ L 6-slot

The following section provides the Top, Side and Bottom Views of the DECAQ 6-slot.

Top View

1. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Side View

1. Vents Vents provide conduction cooling for the system chassis. Keep the chassis vents unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

2. Fans Fans provide cooling for the system’s chassis. Keep the fan intake unobstructed while conducting a measurement. See Handling Guidelines for Effective Cooling for more information.

Bottom View

1. Product Identifier The Product Identifier includes certifications and warnings related to the use of the DECAQ.

2. Serial Number Label The Serial Number / Barcode Label of each DECAQ is found on its base. This identifier allows our Product Experts to access information specific to your device in order to provide valuable support services.

3. Mecalc or Partner Label The Mecalc or Partner Label provides a QR code that lets the User access support information such as User Guide.

4. HEX key The HEX key is used to gain access to insert/remove batteries.

5. Fastening Inserts Fasten your chassis onto a surface using the fastening inserts.

Electromagnetic Immunity

The DECAQ complies with EMC directives.

When connecting cables, sensors or third-party devices to the DECAQ, electromagnetic noise could be introduced into the measurement.

Recommendations for good measurement practice include:

• Remove or isolate electromagnetic noise sources.
• Use shielded cables, with the shield and signal voltage difference minimized.
• Use twisted pair cables with differential measurements.
• Avoid ground loops by isolating sensors and/or cable shields.
• Use low impedance signal sources where possible.
• Correctly ground the DECAQ.
• Use shorter cables.

Power

Power Cables and Power Supply

The DECAQ systems use customized power cables to ensure they operate at their optimum level. Using a third-party cable is highly discouraged, as this may damage your system. Contact your supplier for more information about which cable is best suited for your measurement configuration.

DECAQ systems operate within a range of 10 - 30 VDC voltage. When running the DECAQ from lower voltages, the resulting increased current could cause power cables and connectors to heat up. A lowered supply voltage increases the current flowing through the resistance of the cable and connector, resulting in a quadratic rise in temperature.

When powering larger DECAQ systems, it is therefore recommended to:

• Use short cables.
• Use higher voltages (for example, 24 V instead of 12 V).
• Avoid the addition of any intermediate connectors or joints in the power cable.

When switching off your system, make sure it is being powered down using either the Web Server or the User Interface Buttons on the chassis front panel. Switching off the system by merely disconnecting the power supply could result in permanent hardware damage.

Additionally, avoid disconnecting the power supply if a battery is not present. The system’s battery power will ensure the protection of your hardware and/or recorded data if the power supply gets disconnected. If you need to switch off the system while it is running on battery power only, please do so using the Web Server or User Interface Buttons (see above).

Available Power Cables

The following table provides information which serves as a guideline when choosing the appropriate power cable for your external power connection:

Suggested power cables for different system configurations

[1] Depending on Module configuration and sampling rate

[2] Depending on Module configuration and sampling rate

Power Usage

[1] The term ‘most demanding Modules’ is used to denote the following configuration:

• The Mainframe was fully populated with its maximum number of SC428 boards each fully populated with ICS425 Modules
• A PQ45 VMEbus system controller was used in the Mainframe
• All channels enabled
• Each ICS channel is set to ICP® mode with 4 mA current excitation
• The master sampling rate is set to 204800 Hz
• The DF was set to 2 (so the sampling rate of the SC428 boards is 102400 Hz)
• 120 Ω loads were connected to each ICS channel

Power Supply

The recommended power supply wattage depends on the size of your DECAQ chassis. The following table summarizes the recommended power supply for each DECAQ chassis size:

[1] 15 V Mean Well power adapters are ideal for use with ICS, WSB and THM Modules

[2] 24 V Mean Well power adapters are ideal for use with ALI Modules

When operating either high channel counts (typical of DECAQ-06 DECAQ chassis configurations) or while using the Dynamic Charge feature (see information about DECAQ Battery maintenance below), the following recommended input voltages should be applied:

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

All DECAQ systems contain an internal battery pack. When the power input voltage to the DECAQ drops below the threshold voltage (which is typically 8.5 V), the DECAQ’s UPS will power the system using the battery pack.

If the DECAQ runs from its battery pack, the Battery LED will turn green. Once the system’s power input voltage rises above the threshold (typically 9.5 V), the UPS will automatically switch back to the DECAQ’s power input as its primary power supply.

The DECAQ can run from the battery pack for a specified battery pack temperature of between -20 °C and 65 °C, although battery capacity will decrease at low temperatures.

DECAQ Batteries

The DECAQ has been designed with portable measurements in mind. Battery Cartridges may be added to any size mainframe for up to two hours of field measurements. Batteries are interchangeable and may be swapped in the field to support longer measurement tasks.

• Supported in all DECAQ systems from DQ02 to DQ06
• Easily swappable in the field
• Battery Cartridges comply with flight regulations for a single cartridge installed in a system and two spare cartridges as carry-on luggage.

Battery and cartridge description

Battery and cartridge combinations

SYSTEM	SYSTEM WITHOUT BATTERIES	BATTERY CAPACITY BMUX BATTERY CARTRIDGE STANDARD - 1 REMOVEABLE BATTERY	BATTERY CAPACITY BMUX BATTERY CARTRIDGE FOR ADDITIONAL BATTERIES
DECAQ-02			N/A
DECAQ-03			N/A
DECAQ-04			Max 2 removeable batteries
DECAQ-06			Max 3 removeable batteries

The DECAQ Mainframes have been designed to be able to swap between different batteries.

Removal of a battery inside a Mainframe whilst powered down

• Unscrew the hex key from the bottom cover of the DECAQ Mainframe

  • The hex key can be found integrated into the bottom cover
  • Rotate the thumb screw to loosen the hex key
  • Once the thumb screw is loose, remove the hex key

• Use the hex key to unscrew the rear cover plate of the DECAQ Mainframe

  • Use the hex key to loosen each of the four screws on the rear cover plate
  • Remove the rear cover plate
  • The battery/ies can now be seen inside the mainframe

• Pull out the battery using the tab on its plastic housing

  • Grip onto the tab of the battery
  • Pull on the battery until it disconnects from its connector
  • The battery can now be slid out of the DECAQ Mainframe

• Return the rear cover plate to the DECAQ Mainframe

• Return the hex key to the bottom cover of the DECAQ Mainframe

Insertion of a battery into a Mainframe whilst powered down

• Unscrew the hex key from the bottom cover of the DECAQ Mainframe
  • The hex key can be found integrated into the bottom cover
  • Rotate the thumb screw to loosen the hex key
  • Once the thumb screw is loose, remove the hex key
• Use the hex key to unscrew the rear cover plate of the DECAQ Mainframe
  • Use the hex key to loosen each of the four screws on the rear cover plate
  • Remove the rear cover plate
  • The batterie/s can now be seen inside the mainframe
• Insert a battery
  • The battery can only be inserted one way (alignment grooves prevent the User from incorrect insertion)
  • Match the alignment grooves with the inside of the Mainframe and then slide the battery in
  • The left hand side alignment groove is much larger than the one on the opposite side preventing incorrect insertion
  • Use the tab to gently click the battery into place
• Return the rear cover plate to the DECAQ Mainframe
• Return the hex key to the bottom cover of the DECAQ Mainframe

Battery Maintenance

Charging the battery

There are two ways to charge the DECAQ battery:

• Fast Charge

  Fast charge can only be performed if the DECAQ is switched off. Charging times vary according to the chassis size – a 2-slot DECAQ with only one battery takes 2 hours to charge (the fastest charging time), whereas the 6- slot DECAQ with up to three batteries takes 5 hours to charge (the slowest charging time).

  Fast charging will start automatically when external power is first connected to the DECAQ or when the DECAQ is switched off and the battery is not yet fully charged.

  Fast charge uses approximately 90 W of electrical input power. If the input power supply is not capable of providing the power, the system might reset. This method also introduces additional heat into the system. It is therefore highly recommended that it be performed in an area with a free flow of cool air.

• Dynamic Charge

  This setting charges the battery as fast as possible while the DECAQ is switched on. With Dynamic Charge, all available power (up to 40 W) not being used by the system is diverted to the battery.

  Input Currents and System Temperature

  Dynamic Charge requires the total input current to be less than the set current limit before it will start charging. Once the system’s input current is less than the system current limit, charging will commence. Thereafter, the battery charge current will increase until maximum charge current is reached, or the input current rises to above the system current limit.

  If the total input current rises above the system current limit during charging, the charge current will be reduced until the input current is below the system current limit or until zero charge current has been reached. Once zero charge current has been reached, the charge current will only increase once input current to the system falls below the system current limit.

  Dynamic Charge Cycles and Termination

  Dynamic Charge will start a charge cycle if the battery is not 100% full.

  Dynamic Charge will terminate when:

  • The battery is fully charged (the battery is fully charged).

  • The main input power has been lost and the system goes into backup mode.

  • A fault is detected in the battery.

  Dynamic Charge Deactivation

  Once the setting has been changed to Dynamic Charge, the system will use it as the default setting. The setting can then be deactivated via the Web Server and will stay deactivated until the User activates the setting again.

  Fast Charge does not affect Dynamic Charge (which is only applicable once the system is operational (DECAQ switched on)).

Only one of these two charge algorithms can be active at any given time.

The battery has to be charged for the DECAQ’s uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to supply the system with backup power. You can use any of the two settings to recharge a discharged battery. Fast charge is managed automatically when the system is switched off. Dynamic charge can be selected on the Web Interface.

The most efficient way of maintaining the battery is to use the new ‘Dynamic Charge’ setting. Dynamic Charge will ensure the system automatically keeps the battery in a fully charged state.

Alternatively, ‘Fast Charge’ can also be used to fully recharge a battery that has been depleted.

Recommended battery replacement interval (Li-Ion batteries)

To ensure Li-Ion batteries are functioning at full capacity, it is recommended they be replaced every three years.

Mecalc does not repair batteries that are out of warranty. Please ensure that spent batteries are disposed of responsibly by recycling them at local recycling facilities in accordance with relevant local regulations. Proper disposal helps protect the environment and reduces hazardous waste. Contact your local waste management services for guidance on battery recycling locations and procedures.

Battery Care

For optimum battery care, charge or discharge DECAQ batteries to approximately 50% capacity at least once every six months. This ensures batteries maintain their maximum energy capacity. Store the battery at temperatures between 5 °C and 20 °C (41 °F and 68 °F) and 50% capacity.

Switching On / Off the DECAQ

Before switching on the DECAQ, make sure it is being powered with an external power source or contains a charged battery.

Switch On

Switch on the DECAQ via the User Interface by applying the following steps:

• Press and hold in the Scroll Button until the LEDs flash to indicate initialization. The User Interface will display HELLO. The Scroll button can be released as soon as the LEDs light up.
• The User Interface display then will show BUSY – this indicates the system has started to boot.
• If the system is running off battery power, the Battery Status LEDs will be green.
• The User Interface display will then show WAIT – this indicates the DECAQ has started to initialize its signal conditioning boards and QModules. ‘WAIT’ will then be replaced with a boot and upgrade percentage [xx%].
• Wait for the User Interface display to indicate IDLE – this indicates the DECAQ has powered up and booted successfully.

See Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display for more information about the User Interface display.

Switch Off

Switch off the DECAQ via the User Interface by applying the following steps:

• Scroll using the Scroll Button until the display shows OFF?
• Select OFF? by pressing the OK Button. The display will then show SURE?
• Select SURE? using the OK Button. The display will then show OK and the shutdown sequence will begin.

Setting Up Your DECAQ

The DECAQ can be connected to a Notebook / PC / network / smart device through Ethernet and/or Wi-Fi.

Connecting to the DECAQ with Wi-Fi

A built-in 2 MIMO streams IEEE 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi network interface is available on the DECAQ. The Wi-Fi network interface can be used where truly mobile operation of the DECAQ is required.

The default configuration for the DECAQ Wi-Fi interface is:

• Access Point Mode
• Wi-Fi SSID: “Quantus_[Serial Number printed on the bottom]” e.g. “Quantus_1234S5678”
• Channel number: 6
• Encryption: Disabled
• Country: Germany
• IP address: 192.168.2.204
• Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
• mDNS enabled with default name: “Quantus_[Serial Number printed on the bottom]” e.g. “Quantus_1234S5678”
• DHCP Server enabled

Connect to the DECAQ with your compatible Wi-Fi device using the SSID mentioned above. To test connectivity, use the default IP address as the URL in a web browser, for example, http://192.168.2.204.

The default mDNS name may also be used in compatible web browsers, for example, http://Quantus_1234S5678.local.

The browser should then display the DECAQ’s “System Overview” page. The DECAQ’s start-up Wi-Fi interface configuration parameters can be edited in the Web Server’s network setting configuration pages.

Effective Wi-Fi data streaming rates of up to 2.7 MB/s can be achieved with your DECAQ. Please note that your DECAQ Wi-Fi connection performance is highly dependent on its connection settings, as well as environmental factors including (but not limited to) distance, interference and shared bandwidth.

Connecting to the DECAQ with Ethernet

A Gigabit Ethernet connection (1000 BASE-T) is available on the DECAQ’s front panel that can accept compatible Ethernet cables. When using Ethernet on the DECAQ use only a CAT5e UTP cable. This will ensure the correct screening of signals throughout the length of the cable.

The default configuration for the DECAQ Ethernet interface is:

• IEEE 802.3 compliant Auto-Negotiation to determine link speed and duplex
• mDNS enabled with default name: “Quantus_[Serial Number printed on the bottom]” e.g. “Quantus_1234S5678”
• DHCP Client mode enabled (will default to an Automatic Private IP address such as 169.254.119.144 if no DHCP Server discovered)

To use the Ethernet interface, simply plug in an Ethernet cable. The DECAQ will automatically detect the Ethernet cable and initialize it as the primary network interface. Use a Gigabit Ethernet enabled link partner (network device or PC) for best performance.

To test connectivity to the DECAQ, use a web browser that supports mDNS and enter the URL “http://Quantus_1234S5678.local” (replace “1234S5678” with the Serial Number of the DECAQ).

The browser should then display the DECAQ “System Overview” page. The DECAQ’s start-up Ethernet interface configuration parameters can be edited in the Web Server’s network setting configuration pages.

Once booted, the User Interface can also be used to display the system’s IP address. The DECAQ Web Server can then be used (with the IP address as the URL) to make modifications to the network set-up.

Ethernet Connection Range and Cables

Gigabit Ethernet over copper (1000BASE-T) connections allow for cable lengths of up to 100 m. If a longer connection distance is required, active repeaters need to be used at each 100 m interval.

Connecting to the Web Server

DECAQ system information is available on the Web Server. This includes all boards that make up the specific system, their serial numbers and firmware. The following DECAQ parameters are shown and can be configured via the Web Server (please note the user interface of the web server depends on the firmware version and some settings may not be applicable):

• Global power settings or when running on the battery
  • Setting input current limit
  • Length of time to power down
  • Length of time to standby
  • Automatic on when power detected
• Dynamic Battery charging settings
• Fan behavior and speed settings (constant or dynamic)
• S-Port settings (for example to enable the use of the AttoQ)
• LAN settings
  • IP address
  • Subnet mask
  • DHCP
• Wi-Fi settings
  • Network mode (Access Point or Infrastructure Mode)
  • IP address
  • Subnet mask
  • Country code
  • SSID name
  • Enable or disable Broadcast SSID
  • Channel bandwidth
  • Channel number
  • Encryption type
  • DHCP
• Bridged mode settings (to allow the LAN and WLAN to share the same IP address, this enables the network traffic to be streamed from Wi-Fi to LAN and vice versa)
• Local storage device settings (change preferred device, format and perform a S.M.A.R.T assessment of the SSD)
• Advanced DECAQ settings
  • Change system password
  • Change system name
  • PTP Synchronization settings

Navigating the DECAQ’s User Interface Display

![](assets/images/PQ45-labeled.jpg{width=100%}

The DECAQ User Interface provides specific system information and allows the user to perform certain vital commands. It is found on the System board of the chassis and consists of a 128 x 32 graphic OLED, LEDs and two buttons (the Scroll () Button and the OK Button).

To control the User Interface, press the Scroll Button to scroll down the menu options shown on the display. Use the OK Button to select an item from the menu to execute its related command. As a safety feature the display might show ‘SURE?’, asking the user to confirm the command before the system will execute it.

Options on the User Interface will continue to loop if the user continues to press the Scroll Button.

The OLED display is automatically dimmed when no screen or User input activity has been detected.

User Interface Menu Options: DECAQ Switched On

The following menu options will be available on the User Interface display once the DECAQ has been switched on (to scroll through these options, press the Scroll Button until the option appears on the display):

	IDLE Default text displayed on the DECAQ User Interface
	IP? Displays the mDNS name, IP address of LAN and Wi-Fi
	RESET? Reset the DECAQ
	OFF? Power down the DECAQ
	TEMP? Power Supply temperature
	INFO? Information and firmware revisions of the DECAQ
	DEFAULT? Changes boot parameters of the DECAQ back to the system’s default settings

The menu options on the User Interface cycle in a repetitive loop – press the Scroll Button to scroll from INFO? to IP? and so on.

IP Address (IP?)

To display the IP address on the User Interface display:

• Scroll the menu by pressing the Scroll Button until the display shows IP?
• Press the OK Button to select this option. The display will show SURE?
• Press the OK Button again to confirm the command.
• The display will show OK and then scroll the mDNS name of the system, followed by the LAN IP address.
• If a WLAN board is fitted it will also display its IP address before displaying the firmware versions.

Resetting the System (RESET?)

To reset the DECAQ:

• Scroll the menu by pressing the Scroll Button until the display shows RESET?
• Press the OK Button to select this option. The display will show SURE?
• Press the OK Button again to confirm the command.
• The display will show OK and then BOOT.

Switching Off the DECAQ (OFF?)

Temperature (TEMP?)

To let the display show the status of the chassis temperature:

• Scroll the menu by pressing the Scroll Button until the display shows TEMP?
• Press the OK Button to select this option. The display will show SURE?
• Press the OK Button again to confirm the command.

The display will show OK and thereafter the temperature of the chassis, for example 40 °C.

General System Information (INFO?)

This menu option shows information and firmware versions related to the DECAQ.

To view the information:

• Scroll the menu by pressing the Scroll Button until the display shows INFO?
• Press the OK Button to select this option. The display will show SURE?
• Press the OK Button again to confirm the command.
• The display will show OK and thereafter show the information.

Examples of the information displayed include:

• The PQ serial number: Serial Number: PQ Serial: 03129032

Restore Default Settings (DEFAULT)

To restore the system to its default boot parameters:

• Scroll the menu by pressing the Scroll Button until the display shows DEFAULT.
• Press the OK Button to select this option. The display will show SURE?
• Press the OK Button again to confirm the command.
• The display will show OK.

The default boot settings of the DECAQ System board are:

User Interface Display: DECAQ Switched Off

	SWITCHED OFF / CHARGING While the DECAQ is switched off (and power is available) or charging the internal battery, the User Interface display will either be blank - or display CHARGING.
	HELLO To switch on the DECAQ from this state, press and hold the Scroll Button until the LEDs flash and the User Interface displays HELLO.

For more about the User Interface Display and Menu Options while the DECAQ is switched on.

Boot Up Messages displayed on the User Interface

When the DECAQ is switched on it will begin to boot up with firmware stored in its internal Flash memory. There are three stages to booting up correctly:

• Boot up the System board and begin communications over the internal VMEbus as well as external LAN or Wi-Fi,
• Boot up each Signal Conditioning board in the system, and
• Boot up each QModule in the system.

During boot up the device will show the following messages on the User Interface:

	BUSY This message is displayed when the system board is booting after Power On (cold boot)
	BOOT This message is displayed while the System board is booting
	PSU UPGRADE This message is displayed during the Power Supply firmware upgrade. The status LEDs will also flash yellow to indicate the system is still active. This process can take several minutes to complete. The User must not switch off the system during the upgrade. Power Supply firmware upgrades typically take place after the DECAQ has been programmed with new firmware.
	FPGA UPGRADE This message is displayed during the FPGA firmware upgrade. The status LEDs will also flash yellow to indicate the system is still active. This process can take several minutes to complete. The User must not switch off the system during the upgrade. FPGA firmware upgrades typically take place after the DECAQ has been programmed with new firmware.
	CPLD UPGRADE This message is displayed during the CPLD firmware upgrade. The status LEDs will also flash yellow to indicate the system is still active. This process can take several minutes to complete. The User must not switch off the system during the upgrade. CPLD firmware upgrades typically take place after the DECAQ has been programmed with new firmware.
	WAIT This message is displayed when the system board starts to initialize the Signal Conditioning cards.
	xx% This is the progress indicator displayed during the Signal Conditioning and QModule boot-up.
	IDLE This message will be displayed once the boot-up is complete

Understanding the DECAQ’s LEDs

The DECAQ User Interface’s LEDs indicate when the system is active and provides information about different DECAQ Ethernet, Battery and Power statuses.

Below find a brief explanation of each LED action and what it represents:

Ethernet Connector (PTP) LED

The Ethernet connector LED labeled “PTP” is used to indicate the status of the Ethernet link as well as the PTP synchronization status of the system. The following table lists the different states of the LED.

Battery Status LED

Application LED 1

The LED underneath the User Interface Display on the right is a “soft” LED. The meaning of the LED light changes depending on the application. It could be used to indicate standby / sleep / heartbeat / system activity – it is undefined for now.

DC Power LEMO LED

Measure: Signal Conditioning

The DECAQ’s Signal Conditioning QModules are housed in the system’s Signal Conditioning boards, each board providing signal processing and mechanical infrastructure for up to 4 QModules.

These boards provide:

• Isolated power for each QModule.
• A DC accurate calibration engine used to calibrate each QModule.
• Sample timing infrastructure.
• Internal communication interfaces used to set parameters for each channel.
• The ability for the user to insert / remove QModules depending on their measurement need.

QModules

Available Signal Conditioning Channels

The DECAQ system contains multiple slots that support a variety of interchangeable Signal Conditioning channels (QModules), which can be purchased separately and then added and/or swapped as the need arises. QModules are packaged in a robust aluminium casing so as to optimize size and thermal performance, as well as to provide electronic protection.

All QModules include the following features:

• 50 V galvanic isolation from one QModule to another.
• Automatic internal calibration capability.
• All settings are software configurable.
• Very high channel density.
• Excellent signal to noise performance.
• Excellent spurious free-dynamic range, total harmonic distortion and crosstalk.
• Finely tuned for the best performance at the lowest possible power.
• Protection to accommodate both transient and limited continuous over-voltages.
• Strong Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) screening for lower noise floor.
• Firmware protection from excessive external EMI events.
• Low power consumption.

Available Modules and a summary of their features are presented in the following section. More information regarding specific Modules (eg. Specification Sheets) is available in separate documents which can be requested from your supplier.

ICS42

Description

The ICS42 Module can be used with ICP^® based accelerometers, force and pressure sensors as well as to measure analog voltages. All 6 channels operate independently of each other, each with their own setting of mode, gain and coupling. The Module can be used:

• With any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• With any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ICS42 with LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 6 channels
• 2 input modes of operation:
  • ICP^® mode with 4 mA constant current at 24 V excitation
    
  • Voltage input mode with AC or DC coupling
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 1)
• 24-bit resolution
  
• ± (100 mV, 1 V, 10 V) input ranges
  
• Highly configurable to accommodate single-ended and triaxial sensors
• Supports a number of known industry triaxial cables
  
• Short and open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Pre- and post-filter overflow monitoring
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
  
• Low power consumption
  
• LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

ICS42 Specifications

ICS42 Specifications
[1] Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s

ICS42 Specifications continue

ICS42 Specifications
² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP151000, Release 2.4. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

Accelerometer connections per Module

The ICS42 can accept inputs from single ICP^® accelerometers as well as triaxial ICP^® accelerometers. The connectors on the front panel are ideally designed to connect to two triaxial sensors per Module. The LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition indicates where the signal connections of each X, Y and Z and the common return of the triaxial sensor can be connected.

Grounding options

There are four ALI mode grounding options available on the ICS42:

• Differential float (Balanced float):
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground
• Differential ground (Balanced ground):
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ directly to a ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

Grounding Diagrams: ALI mode (Voltage Input mode)

Although each channel in the ICS42 can be set individually as to its grounding type, enabling the ground option on any one channel will cause the isolation barrier of the module to be bridged (i.e. on all six channels AGNDM will be directly connected to CGND).

Excitation Diagrams: ICP^® Mode

There are two biasing options when using ICP^® input mode with 4 mA current excitation, either differential of single-ended. The Biasing settings are independent of the grounding options. The following table shows the different possible settings for the ICS42 Module in ICP^® input mode:

ICS42 Module Settings in ICP^® input mode with 4 mA current excitation

CHS42X

Description

The CHS42X Module can be used with ICP^® based accelerometers, force and pressure sensors, quartz or piezoelectric ceramic sensors or to measure analog voltages. The Module can be used:

• With any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• With piezoelectric sensors commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force, torque and pressure
• With any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

CHS42X with LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

ESD WARNING The CHS42X Module inputs are sensitive to ESD damage. Always take care to discharge any additional static electricity that might have built up on a cable and connector before making contact with the CHS42X Module.

ICP^® and Voltage Input Mode Features

• 6 channels
• ICP^® mode with 4 mA constant current at 24 V excitation
• Voltage input mode with AC or DC coupling
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9 V1.0 (Class 1)
• 24-bit resolution, 102.4 kSa/s sampling
• Highly configurable to accommodate single ended and triaxial sensors
• Supports a number of known industry triaxial cables
• Short and open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Pre and post filter overflow monitoring
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• Low power consumption
• LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors
  

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

CHS42X ICP^® and Voltage Input Mode Specifications

CHS42X Module ICP^® and Voltage Input Mode Features

CHS42X Module ICP^® and Voltage Input Mode Specifications
¹Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s with all channels in voltage input / ICP^® mode.
²Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s with 3 channels in charge mode and 3 channels in voltage input mode.
³Valid for charge mode sensitivities 1 mV/pC and 0.1 mV/pC.

CHS42X Module ICP^® and Voltage Input Mode Specifications

⁴ Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Charge Input Mode Features⁵

• 6 channels
• 24-bit resolution, 102.4 kSa/s sampling rate per channel, 44.3 kHz bandwidth
• Drift is lower than 4 mV/h at any sensitivity and gain
• The cable shield can be connected or disconnected from the module ground
• Low power consumption
• High input impedance
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors

⁵ Charge mode channels cannot be mixed with non-charge mode channels within a connector.

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

Charge Input Mode Specifications

CHX42X Charge Input Mode Specifications

CHX42X Charge Input Mode Specifications
⁶Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s with all channels in charge mode.

⁷ Valid for charge mode sensitivities 1 mV/pC and 0.1 mV/pC.

⁸ Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s with 3 channels in charge mode and 3 channels in voltage input Mode

CHX42X Charge Input Mode Specifications
⁹ Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP200300, Release 1.3. Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

Connector layout

On the front panel of the CHS42X a connector layout description can be found.

Connectors marked with an will accept ICP^® as well as voltage input signals. Connectors marked with a are capable of accepting charge signals.

ICP^® Accelerometer Connections per Module

The CHS42X can accept inputs from single ICP^® accelerometers as well as triaxial ICP^® accelerometers. The connectors on the front panel are ideally designed to connect to two triaxial sensors per Module. The LEMO^® 9-way EHG.0B connectors Module pin definition indicates where the signal connections of each X, Y and Z and the common return of the triaxial sensor can be connected.

Grounding options ALI mode (Voltage Input mode)

There are four ALI mode grounding options available on the CHS42X:

• Differential float (Balanced float):
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground
• Differential ground (Balanced ground):
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ directly to a ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

Grounding Diagrams: ALI mode (Voltage input mode)

Although each channel in the CHS42X can be set individually as to its grounding type, enabling the ground option on any one channel will cause the isolation barrier of the module to be bridged (i.e., on all six channels AGNDM will be directly connected to CGND).

Grounding options Charge mode

The CHS42X offers 4 grounding options. The grounding options are provided for reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) that might be present on the sensor cables.

CHS42X Module charge mode grounding options

*Default setting on Module startup. This combination provides a path for Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) to slowly discharge and will provide some protection against rapid ESD events that could damage the sensitive charge inputs.

Grounding Diagrams: Charge mode

Excitation Diagrams: ICP^® Mode

The CHS42X can facilitate an ICP^® input mode with a 4 mA current excitation. The Biasing settings are independent of the grounding options. The following table shows the different possible settings for the ICS42 Module in ICP^® input mode:

CHS42X Module Settings in ICP^® input mode with 4 mA current excitation

CHG42S

Description

The CHG42S Module has 4 independent input channels for Quartz or Piezoelectric Ceramic sensors. These sensors are typically used when improved signal performance such as low noise and low distortion is required or where high temperature or nuclear radiation prevents the use of ICP^® based sensors. Various grounding options allow for low noise measurements regardless of external grounding constraints. The Module can be used:

• With piezoelectric sensors commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force, torque and pressure

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

CHG42S with 10-32 Microdot connectors Module Pin Definition when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector

ESD WARNING

The CHG42S Module inputs are sensitive to ESD damage. Always take care to discharge any additional static electricity that might have built up on a cable and connector before making contact with the CHG42S Module.

Features

• 4 channels
• 24-bit resolution, 204.8 kSa/s sampling rate per channel, 90 kHz bandwidth
• Drift is lower than 4 mV/h at any sensitivity and gain
• The cable shield can be connected or disconnected from the module ground
• Selectable low and high-pass digital filters
• Overvoltage detection on frontend input signals
• Low power consumption
• High input impedance
• 10-32 Microdot connectors
  

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

CHG42S Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s

CHG42S Specifications
² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP160200, Release 1.8. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

WARNING

When using Endevco cables it is recommended to remove the rubber O-ring on the CHG42S Module 10-32 connector as this could cause an intermittent electrical connection between the pin on the cable and the Module connector.

The CHG42S offers 4 grounding options. The grounding options are provided for reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) that might be present on the sensor cables.

Grounding options

*Default setting on Module startup. This combination provides a path for Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) to slowly discharge and will provide some protection against rapid ESD events that could damage the sensitive charge inputs.

DCH42S

Description

The DCH42S Module has 2 independent differential input channels for Quartz or Piezoelectric Ceramic sensors. These sensors are typically used when improved signal performance such as low noise and low distortion is required or where high temperature and nuclear radiation prevents the use of ICP^® based sensors. Additionally, a differential charge measurement offers further noise immunity and higher bandwidth and is particularly suited to applications using long cables. The Module can be used:

• With piezoelectric sensors commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force, torque and pressure
• Where long cables are required necessitating the use of balanced twisted pair cables

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

DCH42S with 31-2225 twin BNC connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

ESD WARNING

The DCH42S Module inputs are sensitive to ESD damage. Always take care to discharge any additional static electricity that might have built up on a cable and connector before making contact with the DCH42S Module.

Features

• 2 channels
• 24-bit resolution, 204.8 kSa/s sampling rate per channel, 90 kHz bandwidth
• 2 Sensitivity settings of 0.1 mV/pC and 1 mV/pC when in single-ended mode
• 2 Sensitivity settings of 0.2 mV/pC and 2 mV/pC when in differential mode
• 3 voltage gain ranges
• There are 2 distinctive input mode options:
  • Single-Ended
  • Differential
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• Overvoltage detection on frontend input signals
• Low power consumption
• Amphenol 31-2225 Twin BNC connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

DCH42S Specifications

DCH42S Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s

Functionality per Channel

Grounding diagram

THM42

Description

The THM42 Module contains 8 channels for use with any thermocouple type as well as Pt100 sensors. Remote cold junction compensation is provided through a SubModule (which is thermocouple type specific) whilst linearization is provided in the signal conditioning board. The Module also includes a calibrated 0.2 mA current source for Pt100 sensor excitation.

SubModules are used with the Module which contains a pair of commonly used miniature E, J, K, and T thermocouple connectors (other types available upon request) with cold junction circuitry for thermocouple applications. Another SubModule contains a pair of LEMO^® connectors for Pt100 applications. Any combination of applicable SubModules can be connected to the THM42 Module.

The THM42 Module also includes 8 channels for measuring voltage inputs up to ±10 V. The Module can be used:

• When measuring E, J, K, and T thermocouples (other types available upon request)
• When measuring Pt100 sensors in constant current mode
• With any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

THM42 with LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 8 channels
• 3 input modes of operation:
  • Thermocouples
  • Pt100 based temperature measurement
  • Voltage input mode
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 2)
• 24-bit resolution, 6.4 kSa/s sampling rate per channel, 2.5 kHz bandwidth
• ±(100 mV and 10 V) input ranges
• 0.2 mA Pt100 excitation current
• Open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• 2 MΩ differential input resistance
• LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors with 2 channels sharing one connector

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

THM42 Specifications

THM42 Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 6.4 kSa/s

Functionality per Channel

ICT42

Description

The ICT42 Module is a hybrid Module which combines 2 channels from the ICP42 Module with 2 Tacho input channels. The Tacho channels provide Tacho period measurements with a 20 ns resolution, sampled where the signal intersects its trigger level settings. Triggering of Tacho signals can be set for rising or falling edges with adjustable hysteresis whilst additionally providing AC coupling for sensors with varying DC voltage offsets. A 204.8 kSa/s scope mode is provided to view the Tacho signals in order to assist with the definition of trigger levels. The Module can be used:

• When measuring the pulse rate and time between pulses such as rpm and crank angle
• With any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• With any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ICT42 with male SMB and LEMO^® 4-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 2 Tacho channels
• Tacho input can be DC/AC coupled
• 20 ns Tacho resolution
• 700 kPulse/s rate for the sum of the 2 Tacho channels
• 16-bit Tacho trigger level adjustment
• ±(2 V, 12 V, 30 V and 60 V) input ranges
• 2 MHz analog bandwidth for all input ranges
• Adjustable trigger level hysteresis (Schmitt trigger implementation)
• Triggering on the n’th edge
• Tacho trigger level self-calibration
• Scope mode for each Tacho channel, sampled at 204.8 kSa/s
• ±12 V or 12 V voltage excitation output to Tacho sensor
• Low power consumption
• LEMO^® 4-way EHG.0B connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

Channels 1 and 2 have the same performance parameters as each channel of the ICP42 Module. Note: Please refer to the ICP42 Module for further details.

ICT42 Specifications

ICT42 Specifications

Functionality per Tacho input channel

Channels 3 and 4 of the ICT42 Module are both Tacho as well as scope input channels. Each Tacho channel functions separately and is connected to its own Tacho sensor. Each scope channel displays the input of the Tacho channels. The scope channels can be configured to display a single Tacho channel.

As a standard, the ICT42 has a 4-pin LEMO^® connector for each Tacho input at the Module front panel. Two of the LEMO^® connector pins are for the Tacho signal. The two additional pins provide an excitation voltage that may be used as a power supply to external Tacho sensors. The Excitation+ and Excitation- lines are each protected against a current overload by a 140 mA self-resetting fuse. There are two options for the excitation output as shown in table below.

Excitation Mode	Description	Diagram
Differential excitation	The Excitation+ and Excitation- lines are connected to +12 V and -12 V respectively, both positive and negative rails use AGNDM as 0 V reference
Single-Ended isolated excitation	Excitation+ is connected to +12 V and Excitation- to an isolated ground

ICT42 Excitation description

Grounding options per Tacho input channel

Each Tacho input channel of the ICT42 Module has the following grounding options:

• Differential float (Balanced float):
  • Both inputs connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • One input connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • One input connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

ICT42S

Description

The ICT42S Module is a hybrid Module which combines 2 channels from the advanced ICP42S Module with 2 advanced Tacho input channels. The Tacho channels provide Tacho period measurements with a 20 ns resolution, sampled where the signal intersects its trigger level settings. Triggering of Tacho signals can be set for rising or falling edges with adjustable hysteresis whilst additionally providing AC coupling for sensors with varying DC voltage offsets. A high speed 4.9 MSa/s scope mode is provided to view the Tacho signals in order to assist with the definition of trigger levels. The Module can be used:

• When measuring the pulse rate and time between pulses such as rpm and crank angle
• With any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• With any voltage source up to ±60 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ICT42S with LEMO^® 3-way and 4-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 2 Tacho channels
• Tacho input can be DC/AC coupled
• 20 ns Tacho resolution
• 1 MSa/s Pulse rate for the sum of the 2 Tacho channels
• 16-bit Tacho trigger level adjustment
• ±(2 V, 12 V, 30 V and 60 V) input ranges
• 2 MHz analog bandwidth for all input ranges
• Adjustable trigger level hysteresis (Schmitt trigger implementation)
• Triggering on the n’th edge
• Tacho trigger level self-calibration
• Scope mode for each Tacho channel, sampled at 4.9 MSa/s
• ±12 V or 12 V voltage excitation output to Tacho sensor
• Low power consumption
• LEMO^® 4-way EHG.0B connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

Channels 1 and 2 have the same performance parameters as the first 2 channels of the ICP42S Module. Note: Please see the ICP42S Module for more details about the two ICP^® or voltage input mode channels.

ICT42S Specifications

ICT42S Specifications

Functionality per Tacho input channel

Channels 3 and 4 of the ICT42S Module are both Tacho as well as scope input channels. Each Tacho channel functions separately and is connected to its own Tacho sensor. Each scope channel displays the input of the Tacho channels. The scope channels can be configured to display a single Tacho channel.

As a standard, the ICT42S has a 4-pin LEMO^® connector for each Tacho input at the Module front panel. Two of the LEMO^® connector pins are for the Tacho signal. The two additional pins provide an excitation voltage that may be used as a power supply to external Tacho sensors. The excitation+ and excitation- lines are each protected against a current overload by a 140 mA self-resetting fuse. There are two options for the excitation output as shown in table below.

Excitation Mode	Description	Diagram
Differential excitation	The Excitation+ and Excitation- lines are connected to +12 V and -12 V respectively, both positive and negative rails use AGNDM as 0 V reference
Single-Ended isolated excitation	Excitation+ is connected to +12 V and Excitation- to an isolated ground

Grounding options per Tacho input channel

Each Tacho input channel of the ICT42S Module has the following grounding options:

• Differential float (Balanced float):
  • Both inputs connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • One input connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • One input connected through 120 kΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

Grounding diagrams

ICP42

Description

The ICP42 Module can be used with ICP^® based accelerometers, force and pressure sensors as well as to measure analog voltages. All 4 channels operate independently of each other, each with their own setting of mode, gain and coupling. The Module can be used with:

• Any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• Any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ICP42 with male SMB connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 4 channels
• 2 input modes of operation:
  • ICP^® mode with 4 mA constant current at 24 V excitation
  • Voltage input mode with AC or DC coupling
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 1)
• 24-bit resolution
• ±(100 mV, 1 V and 10 V) input ranges
• There are 3 distinctive input mode options:
  • Differential or Balanced Float (±12 V excitation only for voltage input mode)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Float (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Ground (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
• Short and open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Pre- and post-filter overflow monitoring
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• 2 MΩ differential and 1 MΩ single-ended input resistance
• Low power consumption
• SMB connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

ICP42 Specifications

ICP42 Specifications

ICP42 Specifications

ICP42 Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 102.4 kSa/s

ICP42 Specifications ² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP150601, Release 3.1. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

The addition of a 24 V power rail to the ICP42 assures advancement in the overall grounding of the Module:

• Differential float (Balanced float) in voltage input mode only:
  • -12 V to 12 V excitation
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • 0 to 24 V excitation
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • 0 to 24 V excitation
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

Grounding Diagrams: ALI mode (Voltage Input mode)

Although each channel in the ICP42 can be set individually as to its grounding type, enabling the single-ended ground option on any one channel will cause all four channels to be connected directly to ground. Software³ will automatically set the grounding type to single-ended ground when one of the channels has been configured in this way.

There are three grounding types when using ICP^® input mode:

• ICP42 functionality in ICP^® mode with 4 mA current excitation and differential float selected as grounding type (only with specific software³)
• ICP42 functionality in ICP^® mode with 4 mA current excitation and single-ended float selected as grounding type
• ICP42 functionality in ICP^® mode with 4 mA current excitation and single-ended ground selected as grounding type

³These grounding types may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

Grounding Diagrams: ICP^® mode

ICP42S

Description

The ICP42S Module can be used with ICP^® based accelerometers, force and pressure sensors as well as to measure analog voltages. All 4 channels operate independently of each other, each with their own setting of mode, gain and coupling. The ICP42S furthers the ICP42 by sharing many of the same features and advancing others. The Module can be used with:

• Any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure
• Any voltage source up to ±60 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ICP42S with LEMO^® 3-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 4 channels
• 2 input modes of operation:
  • ICP^® mode with 4 mA, 8 mA or 12 mA constant current at 24 V excitation
  • Voltage input mode with AC or DC coupling
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 1)
• 24-bit resolution
• ±(100 mV, 1 V, 10 V and 60 V) input ranges
• There are 3 distinctive input mode options for both ICP^® and voltage input modes:
  • Differential or Balanced Float (±12 V excitation only for voltage input mode)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Float (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Ground (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
• Short and open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Pre- and post-filter overflow monitoring
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• 2 MΩ differential and 1 MΩ single-ended input resistance
• Low power consumption
• LEMO^® 3-way EHG.0B connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

ICP42S Specifications

ICP42S Specifications

ICP42S User Manual Specifications

ICP42S Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s

ICP42S Specifications ² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP150600, Release 3.1. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

Grounding options

The addition of a 24 V power rail to the ICP42S assures advancement in the overall grounding of the Module:

• Differential float (Balanced float) in voltage input mode only:
  • -12 V to 12 V excitation
  • Both inputs connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground
• Single-Ended float (Unbalanced float):
  • 0 V to 24 V excitation
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to the floating ground
• Single-Ended ground (Unbalanced ground):
  • 0 V to 24 V excitation
  • One input connected through 1 MΩ to a floating ground the other directly to ground

Grounding Diagrams: ALI mode (Voltage Input mode)

Although each channel in the ICP42S can be set individually as to its grounding type, enabling the single-ended ground option on any one channel will cause all four channels to be connected directly to ground. Software will automatically set the grounding type to single-ended ground when one of the channels has been configured in this way.

Similar to the ALI mode there are again three grounding types in ICP^® input mode. With ICP^® Input mode there is another configuration option, namely the amount of current excitation which can be provided to an attached sensor.

Grounding Diagrams: ICP^® mode

WSB42X

Description

The WSB42X Module is used with AC and DC bridge measurements including strain gauges configured as full, half or quarter bridges and inductive displacement transducers (LVDT). The Module offers numerous software selectable features such as constant voltage (AC or DC) and constant current excitation (DC), bridge sensing, bridge completion resistors, shunt calibration, dynamic strain mode and ICP^® sensor support. The bridge can be balanced on command or a previous balance value can be recalled. The Module can be used with:

• Any strain gauge in quarter, half and full bridge, load cell and pressure transducer
• Inductive displacement transducer (LVDT)
• Any voltage source up to ±10 V in voltage input mode
• Current-excited sensors in 4-wire mode (Full bridge or 1 external element, DC and AC)
• Current-excited sensors in 2-wire mode (Dynamic strain only)
• Any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force or pressure

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

WSB42X with LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 4 channels
• 7 modes of operation:
  • Analog input mode
  • ICP^® mode with 4, 8 or 12 mA constant current at ±12 V excitation
  • Bridge voltage-excitation mode:
    • 0-6 V (AC or DC)
      • for 350 Ω full bridges
      • for 120 Ω and 350 Ω half or quarter bridges
    • 0-4 V (AC or DC) for 120 Ω full bridges
  • Bridge voltage-excitation mode:
    • 8-10 V (DC) for 1 kΩ bridges
  • Bridge current-excitation mode:
    • 4, 8 or 12 mA (DC)
  • 2 and 4 wire current-excitation strain mode:
    • 4, 8 or 12 mA (DC)
  • LVDT inductive displacement transducer mode (AC)
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 1 and 2)
• 24-bit resolution
• ±(10 mV, 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V) input ranges for all modes
• ≤ 10 kHz AC excitation
• Balanced differential signal input, differential voltage-excitation output and balanced sense input
• Full, half and quarter bridge configurations
• Internal half and quarter bridge completion resistors for 120 Ω and 350 Ω bridge elements
• Local and remote sense options
• 100 kΩ internal shunt calibration resistor
• Pre- and post-filter overflow monitoring
• Selectable low and high pass digital filters
• LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

WSB42X Specifications

WSB42X Specifications

WSB42X Specifications

​

WSB42X (All builds preceding Build R) Specifications continue

WSB42X (All builds preceding Build R) Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s. ² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP150801, Release 3.2. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

WSB42X Low Capacitance (Build R onwards) Specifications

WSB42X Low Capacitance (Build R onwards) Specifications

¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s. ² Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

Module grounding

Input signals on the WSB42X are referenced to the Module’s internal ground only. In the figure below the Module’s internal ground is labelled as AGND and the chassis ground of the system is labelled as CGND. A potential difference of up to 50 V may exist between AGND and CGND. Differences in excess of 50 V will activate the Module’s protection circuits and clamp voltage differentials to within safe levels.

For shielded sensors connected to CGND, the positive and negative Signal lines can float to a maximum of 50 V above or below CGND.

A simplified diagram of the signal grounding is shown in the next figure.

This grounding method is applicable to all interface modes, ALI, ICP^® and WSB and their individual sub modes.

Voltage sensing

Voltage excitation can be sensed using the sense lines (+Sense and -Sense). Sensing can be performed externally by connecting two dedicated sense lines from the Module to the bridge. Internal sensing refers to the measurement of the excitation voltage within the Module, without the need for external sense wires.

Voltage excitation is measured and digitized to 24-bit resolution using a dedicated ADC. The maximum sampling rate for the sense channel is 204.8 kSa/s under most conditions and generally mirrors the sample rate set for the signal channels.

Voltage excitation sensing allows for accurate initial setting of the excitation voltage.

The following diagrams illustrate voltage excited Wheatstone bridges with external and internal sensing for full, half and quarter bridges.

Constant current excitation

Exciting sensors with 12 mA from ±12 V supplies will add substantially to the Module power consumption. It is recommended that 12 mA excitation only be used to drive long cables in cases where high signal bandwidth is required. The diagrams illustrate typical connection setups for constant current excitation.

Shunt Calibration

Shunt calibration is a means of simulating strain in a bridge. It is an accepted and useful way of checking the gain and accuracy of instrumentation without the need to expose the transducer to known physical input values.

Shunt calibration works by shunting a known resistor across one arm of a Wheatstone bridge. The resulting deviation in bridge output is expressed in mV/V or mV/mA of excitation.

Practically, data obtained from a shunt calibration can be used to check that the instrumentation is operating as expected, that the correct input range is selected and that the correct gauge and scaling factors are used in subsequent calculations.

Shunt calibration can be performed for any bridge setup.

The table below summarizes the shunt calibration outputs for unloaded bridges with negligible lead wire resistance and gauge factor equal to 2.

Shunt calibration outputs

An equivalent shunt calibration circuit for voltage excitation is illustrated in the figure below. The shunt resistor path is highlighted in red.

An equivalent shunt calibration circuit for current excitation is illustrated in the figure below. The shunt resistor path is highlighted in red.

MIC42X

Description

In addition to providing microphone measurements, the MIC42X Module also offers ICP^® and voltage input modes. The Module can be used:

• With any 200 V or self-polarized microphones with preamplifier
• With any ICP^® based sensor commonly used to measure vibration, acceleration, force and pressure
• With any voltage source up to ±12 V in voltage input mode

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

MIC42X with LEMO^® 7-way EGG.1B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 2 channels
• 3 input modes of operation
  • Microphone mode with 200 V or self-polarized microphone capsules with pre-amplifier
  • ICP^® mode with 4 mA, 8 mA or 12 mA constant current at 24 V excitation
  • Voltage input mode with AC or DC coupling
• Supports TEDS IEEE 1451.4 V0.9, V1.0 (Class 1 and 2)
• 24-bit resolution
• ±(120 mV, 1.2 V, 12 V) input ranges
• ±14.5 V microphone pre-amplifier excitation voltage
• 0 or 200 V polarization output
• Microphone calibration output to inject test signals into microphone pre-amplifiers
• Exceptionally low distortion and noise design
• There are 3 distinctive input mode options:
  • Differential or Balanced Float (±12 V excitation only for voltage input mode)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Float (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
  • Single-Ended or Unbalanced Ground (24 V excitation for both ICP^® and voltage input modes)
• Software selectable connection of cable shield to CGND
• Short and open circuit cable monitoring
• Signal integrity circuit continuously monitors the input and disconnects sensitive circuits during overload conditions
• Pre- and post-filter overflow monitoring
• Low power consumption
• LEMO^® 7-way EGG.1B connectors
• Pre-amplifier Excitation Short Circuit protection

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

MIC42X Specifications

MIC42X Specifications

¹ Measured in 12 V range at 204.8 kSa/s

MIC42X Specifications continue

MIC42X Specifications

¹ Dynamic range calculated at sampling rate of 51.2 kSa/s, with a 4096-point FFT.

Specification number: SP151002, Release 2.0. The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

Grounding diagrams for ALI mode

The figure below shows the effect on the Module input mode options when the CGND switch is closed. The isolation barrier will be bridged for the entire Module. Therefore, any channel connected in differential coupling will measure 1 MΩ to CGND and any channel connected in single-ended coupling will be connected with the single-ended GND (unbalanced GND) option.

Grounding diagrams for ICP^®mode

ALO42S

Description

The ALO42S Module provides four independent output channels for the generation of analog signals. Each channel also incorporates Status Input and Output signals, enabling further communication with external equipment for applications such as test supervision or workflow control. The ALO42S Module can be used for applications such as:

• Excitation signals for shaker / modal testing;
• Drive signals for acoustic testing;
• Arbitrary analog signals to feed into other circuits requiring ±10 V static or dynamic signals

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

ALO42S with LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors Module Pin Definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• 4 channels each with:
  • Analog Signal Output
  • Module Status Output
  • Device Under Control Status Input
  • 5 V or 12 V DC Voltage Output
• 24-bit resolution
• 20 kHz 0.1 dB passband flatness
• Low noise and distortion performance
• DC gain and offset stability
• ±10 V @ 30 mA output
• Automatic safe shutdown upon fault condition
• 10 Ω output impedance
• LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors
  

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ ALO42S Specifications

ALO42S Specifications continues

ALO42S Specifications
¹ Measured in 10 V range at 204.8 kSa/s

The Module settings and measurement conditions that were used during specification measurements are available on request.

Functionality per Channel

The Device Under Control (DUC) is connected to the ALO42S through a 7-pin LEMO^® connector.

• Two Analog Signal Output lines (+CH and -CH) provide analog information,
• Two Module Status Output lines (MS+ and MS-) provide the DUC with information from the ALO42S, and
• Two DUC Status Input lines (DS+ and DS-) provide the ALO42S with information from the DUC
• 5 V / 12 V DC output

Grounding Diagram

The LEMO^® connector on the ALO42S makes contact with the cable shield connecting the DUC. Due to this fact, the shield should be broken on the DUC side, so that the DUC is not connected to the system Chassis Ground.

This LEMO^® connector is also connected to the 4 mm Chassis Ground socket on the front right foot of the DECAQ, the Ethernet connector shield and the negative DECAQ power supply pin.

CAN42S

Description

The CAN42S Module provides interfaces to two CAN or CAN FD (CAN with Flexible Data-Rate) busses. CAN FD is an extension of the original CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol, which allows for higher data bandwidth. Messages received from CAN are time-stamped to synchronize their reception with analog and digital measurements from other Modules in the system. A self-reception of sent messages is provided as well as three operational modes, including Participate mode, Listen-Only mode, Self-Reception of sent messages and Loopback mode. The CAN42S Module features independent channel filtering and can be used:

• When monitoring CAN and CAN FD based messages
• When controlling CAN and CAN FD based devices

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

CAN42S with LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors Module pin definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Note: Pin 6 – CAN Ground Channel 1 and CAN Ground Channel 2 are isolated from each other.

The CANC10 SubModule can be used to connect a CAN42S Module to a CAN or CAN FD network. It provides the interface between the 7-pin LEMO^® connector on the CAN42S Module and the 9-pin D-sub connector on the CAN or CAN FD network.

Two cable lengths are available when connecting to a CAN FD network:

• 3000 mm cable length, or
• 300 mm cable length

Features

• Conforms to ISO 11898-1:2015 (“ISO CAN FD”)
• Supports Arbitration Bit Rates from 14.4 kbit/s to 1000 kbit/s
• Supports Data Bit Rates from 14.4 kbit/s to 8000 kbit/s (single channel only), or 2000 kbit/s (both channels simultaneously)
• Supports Sample Point configuration for the arbitration phase
• Software selectable 120 Ω bus termination per Channel
• 3 modes of operation:
  • Participate – actively acknowledges messages on the bus and sends messages
  • Listen only – passively interprets messages that are sent between other nodes on the bus
• Each CAN message received and accepted by the Module is time stamped in order to synchronize the received CAN messages with the rest of the measurement data
• Individually configurable identifier list per channel to provide acceptance filtering for all CAN messages received from the CAN bus
• Individually configurable CAN message transmission
• Each channel has protection against ESD and other harmful transients
• LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors
• 9-way D-sub connectors are provided with the CANC10 SubModule
  

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

Functionality per Channel

The CAN Module contains two channels that are implemented by its firmware to act as inputs or outputs (channel 1 – input/output 1; channel 2 – input/output 2).

The CAN42S conforms to ISO 11898-1:2015 and to CAN 2.0 B (with support for 11-bit and 29-bit identifiers). Time stamping is executed on each message received which allows CAN messages to be synchronized with the rest of the measurement data.

Grounding Diagram

FLX42

Description

The FLX42 Module provides an interface to connect to a FlexRay™ network for the monitoring of FlexRay™ based messages and interfacing with FlexRay™ based sensors. The FLX42 Module contains two dependent FlexRay™ channel interfaces to support either single channel or dual channel topologies. For the transmission and reception of FlexRay™ messages, selectable bit rates of 2.5, 5, 8 or 10 Mbit/s are available. The FLX42 Module provides independent channel filtering and provides status and error information to the user. The Module can be used:

• When monitoring FlexRay™ based messages
• When interfacing with FlexRay™ based sensors

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

FLX42 with LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors Module pin definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

The FLXB20 SubModule can be used to connect the FLX42 Module to a FlexRay™ network.

Two cable lengths are available when connecting to a FlexRay™ network:

• 3000 mm cable length (for higher bit rates), or
• 300 mm cable length (for lower bit rates)

Features

• 2 dependent channels configured as:
  • Dual Channel Device or
  • Single Channel Device (connector 2 disabled)
• Configurable cold start
• FlexRay™ Bit Rate Range of 2.5, 5, 8 or 10 Mbit/s
• 2 modes of operation:
  • Participate mode – active network interaction (cold start, transmission and reception of messages enabled)
  • Listen-only mode – passive network interaction (no transmission or cold start, only reception of messages)
• FlexRay™ messages are time-stamped with a sub-microsecond resolution
• Configurable FlexRay™ message acceptance filtering
• Software selectable 110 Ω termination per channel
• Each channel has protection against ESD and other harmful transients
• LEMO^® 7-way EHG.0B connectors
• 9-way D-sub connectors are provided with FLXB20 SubModules
• Compatible with FlexRay™ Protocol Specification V2.1A and FlexRay™ Electrical Physical Layer Specification V2.1A

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

FLX42 Specifications

FLX42 Specifications

Functionality per Channel

The FLX42 Module contains two dependent FlexRay™ channel interfaces to support either the single or dual channel topologies.

The MFR4310 communication controller and TJA1080 transceivers are used on the FLX42 Module. They support the transmission and reception of FlexRay™ messages over a FlexRay™ network with selectable bit rates of 2.5, 5, 8 or 10 Mbit/s.

The FLX42 Module supports independent channel filtering and provides status and error information to the User.

The FLX42 has:

• Conformance with FlexRay™ Protocol Specification V2.1A
• FlexRay™ Electrical Physical Layer Specification V2.1A
• Each FLX42 interface is galvanically isolated from the DECAQ system
• Each message received and accepted by the FLX42 Module will be time stamped in order to synchronize the received messages with the rest of the measurement data
• Individually configurable FlexRay™ Frame ID, Channel ID and Cycle Count filtering per channel

Grounding Diagram

GPS42S

Description

The GPS42S provides accurate GPS time and position data to QuantusSeries systems. Accurate timing information is in the form of a pulse per second (pps) logical signal. The GPS42S can also be used for synchronization purposes. Here the GPS42S Module provides the System Controller with the pps signal to align its internal clock. Systems with this capability are able to synchronize with one another without limitations as to their position or the total number of systems. The Module can be used when:

• Synchronization of numerous channels over multiple systems
• Requiring accurate time and position information

Front Panel	Connector Information and Pin Definitions

GPS42S with an SMA connector Module pin definition (when looking into the front panel’s connector or at the rear of the cable’s connector)

Features

• Antenna Voltage: 3.3 V
• Receiver type: 56 channels GPS L1C/A SBAS L1C/A QZSS L1C/A GALILEO E1B/C
• Position updates: 1 Hz and 4 Hz
• Position accuracy: autonomous 2.5 m, SBAS 2.0 m
• Acquisition time: Cold Start 29 s; Warm Start 28 s; Hot Start 1 s
• Available protocols: NMEA and UBX
• Time-Pulse RMS accuracy: 30 ns
• Operations limits: altitude < 50 000 m; velocity < 500 m/s
• Specified antenna: ANN-ST-O-005-0 antenna from U-BLOX AG, Switzerland
• Time stamping of received GPS time and position data up to 5 μs resolution
• 1 channel SMA connector

Please note:The features and specifications may vary based on the software package utilized with the DECAQ

GPS42S Specifications

GPS42S Specifications ¹ CEP: Circular Error Probability, the radius of a horizontal circle, centered at the antenna’s true position, containing 50% of the fixes

Functionality

The GPS42S is specified for use with the ANN-ST-0-005-0 GPS antenna. This antenna is an active GPS antenna with a 5 m cable and an SMA Male connector.

The GPS42S implements a real-time differential correction method known as SBAS (or Satellite-Based Augmentation System). SBAS provides correction data for visible satellites as follows:

• Corrections are computed from ground station observations and then uploaded to geostationary satellites
• This data is then cast on the L1 frequency and is tracked using a channel on the GPS receiver

Using SBAS will allow the GPS42S to achieve an accuracy of < 2.0 m when using circular error probability (CEP). CEP is the probability that 50% of the corrections to the position are within the radius of a horizontal circle centered on the antenna’s true position.

The GPS42S supports drift compensation as well as synchronized start over GPS.

¹ ANN-ST-O-005-0 GPS antenna from U-BLOX AG, Switzerland

Inserting and Removing QModules

Inserting a QModule

• Ensure the DECAQ is switched off (see Switch Off for more information) before inserting a QModule. Merely disconnecting the external power supply is not sufficient. Inserting a QModule while the DECAQ is running will cause damage to the QModule and the system.
• Put on an antistatic wrist strap connected to an earthed antistatic mat.
• Take extra care when fitting a QModule into a QModule slot on the DECAQ front panel for the first time.
• Only handle QModules by their front panels or board edges and always store them in their antistatic bags. Do not touch the QModule connectors.
• Lightly flatten the EMC strip (use a clean finger to do this).
• Take the QModule out of its antistatic bag and push it into the empty QModule slot, until the left-hand jacking screw engages its thread. If necessary, use a screwdriver to further flatten the EMC strips.
• Fasten the screw with a 2.0 mm hex key. The QModule gets pulled in as you turn the screw.
• On the next power-up, the DECAQ will automatically detect the newly installed QModule/s.

Removing a QModule

• Ensure the DECAQ is switched off (see Switch Off the DECAQ for more information) before removing a QModule. Merely disconnecting the external power supply is not sufficient. Removing a QModule while the DECAQ is running will cause damage to the QModule and the system.
• Put on an antistatic wrist strap connected to an earthed antistatic mat.
• Disconnect all sensors and cables connected to the QModule (see the section below).
• Before the QModule can be removed it must have cooled down to below 40 °C. This is important as the permanent screw retainer used between the jacking screw and its nut could fail at high temperatures.
• Have an antistatic bag ready for the QModule being removed.
• Loosen the screw with a 2.0 mm Allen key. As the screw loosens, the QModule will be pulled out of its slot automatically.
• Once the jacking screw has been completely loosened, simultaneously hold onto the front panel and pull the QModule out of its slot and immediately place it in its antistatic bag.
• All empty QModule slots of the DECAQ must be covered using a blank panel (MBL). Failure to do so may allow dust or other objects to damage the DECAQ.

Plugging-in and Unplugging LEMO^® Connectors

The DECAQ’s S-Port and power connector, as well as most QModules, use LEMO^® connectors.

When plugging-in and unplugging LEMO^® connectors, please make sure to use the latching sleeve (rough metallic cover) when pulling and pushing in the connector. Do not plug or unplug the LEMO^® connectors by pulling on the cable itself. This will damage the cable, affecting measurements.

The following image shows how to plug / unplug the LEMO^® connector using the latching sleeve provided:

The images below show the incorrect way to plug / unplug the LEMO^® connector (by pushing and pulling on a cable). Please take care not to do this:

Recommended QModule Mating Connectors

Digital Modules

Analog Modules

Specifications and Dimensions

The following section provides mechanical specification overviews and dimensions of the DECAQ’s 2-slot, 3-slot, 4-slot, 6-slot and 10-slot chassis.

DECAQ 2-slot

Mechanical Specifications Overview

[1] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 516.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[2] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 514.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[3] These values are an indication of the power consumption for typical chassis configurations and are not intended as an explicit specification for the external power supply.

[4] The term ‘most demanding Modules’ is used to denote the following configuration:

• The Mainframe was fully populated with its maximum number of SC428 boards each fully populated with ICS425 Modules
• A PQ45 VMEbus system controller was used in the Mainframe
• All channels enabled
• Each ICS channel is set to ICP® mode with 4 mA current excitation
• The master sampling rate is set to 204800 Hz
• The DF was set to 2 (so the sampling rate of the SC428 boards is 102400 Hz)
• 120 Ω loads were connected to each ICS channel

Dimensions

DECAQ 3-slot

Mechanical Specifications Overview

[1] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 516.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[2] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 514.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[3] These values are an indication of the power consumption for typical chassis configurations and are not intended as an explicit specification for the external power supply.

[4] The term ‘most demanding Modules’ is used to denote the following configuration:

• The Mainframe was fully populated with its maximum number of SC428 boards each fully populated with ICS425 Modules
• A PQ45 VMEbus system controller was used in the Mainframe
• All channels enabled
• Each ICS channel is set to ICP® mode with 4 mA current excitation
• The master sampling rate is set to 204800 Hz
• The DF was set to 2 (so the sampling rate of the SC428 boards is 102400 Hz)
• 120 Ω loads were connected to each ICS channel

Dimensions

DECAQ 4-slot

Mechanical Specifications Overview

[1] For optimal cooling, see Chassis Handling below

[2] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 516.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[3] According to MIL-STD-810G Method 514.6, Procedure I. 1 g = 9.8 m/s²

[4] These values are an indication of the power consumption for typical chassis configurations and are not intended as an explicit specification for the external power supply.

[5] The term ‘most demanding Modules’ is used to denote the following configuration:

• The Mainframe was fully populated with its maximum number of SC428 boards each fully populated with ICS425 Modules
• A PQ45 VMEbus system controller was used in the Mainframe
• All channels enabled
• Each ICS channel is set to ICP® mode with 4 mA current excitation
• The master sampling rate is set to 204800 Hz
• The DF was set to 2 (so the sampling rate of the SC428 boards is 102400 Hz)
• 120 Ω loads were connected to each ICS channel

Dimensions

DECAQ 6-slot

Mechanical Specifications Overview