ContentsDisplay: C, K or F. Cold Junction Comp.: Via precision thermistor. 4 Overall Ranges:...

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Contents

Introduction 1

Hardware Specifications 2

Safety 6

EMC 6

Connections 7

Installation 9

General Operation 10

VIPS 10 Analogue Input Pod 16

VIPS 20 Analogue Output Pod 22

VIPS 30 Digital Input Pod 26

VIPS 40 Digital Output Pod 27

VIPS 50 Digital Input/Output Pod 28

VIPS 60 Analogue Switch Pod 30

VIPS T100 Temperature Pod 31

Hardware Options 35

VIPSDDE 36

VIPS DLLs 42

IntroductionThe VIPS system consists of a range of self powered pods which plug into a PC’s parallel port,including analogue input, analogue output, opto-isolated logic input, logic output driver and logicinput/output pods. Further options include an expansion box (VIPS X-BOX), which allows up to 4pods in any mix to be connected to a single parallel port, and a connection pcb.

The initial 7 pod types are:-

VIPS 10 8-channel 12-bit Analogue Input Pod.

VIPS 20 4-channel 12-bit Analogue Output Pod.

VIPS 30 8-channel Opto-Isolated Digital Input Pod.

VIPS 40 8-channel Digital Output Driver Pod.

VIPS 50 8+8-channel Digital Input/Output Pod.

VIPS 60 8-channel Analogue Switch Pod.

VIPS T100 6-channel Thermocouple Temperature Pod.

Windows 95/3.1 compatible software is provided to set-up, control and display the results of up to4 pods. Drivers are also provided enabling programs to be easily created for data acquisition andcontrol applications.

The low power consumption allows VIPS pods to be used by portable, notebook or palmtopcomputers in remote or mobile situations.

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Hardware SpecificationsVIPS 10

Number of Channels: 8 single ended or 4 differential channels or a mixture of both.

Resolution: 12 bits.

Conversion Time: 10µs.

Sampling Rate: 20µs per channel (computer dependent).

Input Voltage Range: 0 to 4.096V (unipolar), ±2.047V (bipolar).

Internal Reference: 4.096V ±3mV (trimmed).

Internal Ref Temp Coefficient: ±50ppm/°C max.

External Reference Range: 1.5V to 5.0V.

Relative Accuracy: ±1 LSB max.

Offset Error: ±3 LSB max.

Max. Permissible Input Voltage: ±6V (inputs protected against ESD).

Temperature Sensor Output (VIPS 10 Only)

Output Scale: 10mV/°C or, using internal gain, 15mV/°C or 30mV/°C.

Accuracy: ±3°C.

Output Impedance: 100Ω.

VIPS 20Number of channels: 4.

Resolution: 12 bits.

Settling Time: 25µs to ± ½LSB.

Output Voltage Range: ±2.047V (bipolar), 0V to 2.047V (unipolar) or 0V to 4.095V (unipolar).

Load Resistance: 2kΩ minimum.

Internal Reference: 2.048V nominal; 2·017V min, 2·079V max.

Temperature Coefficient: 50ppm/°C.

Relative Accuracy: ±1 LSB.

External Reference Range: -3V to +3V (can be used as a multiplying DAC input).

VIPS 30Number of Channels: 8 opto-isolated.

‘ON’ Voltage: >1.1V (No series resistor).

‘ON’ Current: >1mA.

Input Current: 10mA at 5V in (Use series resistor for higher voltages).

Maximum Input Current: 18mA.

Maximum Reverse Voltage: 6V

Isolation Voltage: 50V with respect to earth ground.

Data Rate: 180kHz (computer dependent).

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VIPS 40

Number of channels: 8 driver outputs (open collector).

VCE: 50V maximum.

Maximum sink current: 200mA per channel.

VCE(SAT): 1.1V at 100mA, 1.3V at 200mA.

Maximum Power Dissipation: 1W.


Max. load current (+5V O/P): 5mA.

VIPS 50

Number of Channels: 8 digital inputs & 8 digital outputs.

Input Resistance: 100kΩ pull ups.

Input levels: CMOS levels.

Maximum Input Voltage: -5V, +10V.

Input Protection: 330Ω series resistors and diode clamps (14mA max. input current).

Output levels: CMOS levels.

Output Current: 1mA maximum.

Output Protection: 330Ω series resistors.


Max. load current (+5V O/P): 5mA.

VIPS 60

Number of Channels: 8 Analogue switches.

Analogue Signal Range: -10V to +10V

On Resistance: 150Ω

Maximum Current: 30mA (1 switch only).

Off Isolation: 90dB

Date Rate: 300kHz (computer dependent)

VIPS T100

Number of Channels: 6, via miniature thermocouple connectors.

Thermocouple Mode

Thermocouple Types: B, E, J, K, N, R, S, T - each selectable per channel.

Conversion Time: 100 ms.

Basic Accuracy: ± 0·2% or ± 0·4°C for ambient operating range 18°C to 28°C.

Resolution: 0·1°C (all types).

Display: °C, °K or °F.

Cold Junction Comp.: Via precision thermistor.

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Overall Ranges:

Thermocouple Type Overall Range at 0 °C Overall Range at 25 °C

B 250°C to 1820°C 275°C to 1845°C

E −200°C to 1000°C −175°C to 1025°C

J −210°C to 1200°C −185°C to 1225°C

K −200°C to 1372°C −175°C to 1397°C

N −200°C to 1300°C −175°C to 1325°C

R −50°C to 1768°C −25°C to 1793°C

S −50°C to 1768°C −25°C to 1793°C

T −200°C to 400°C −175°C to 425°C

Voltage Mode

Resolution: 16 bits (1 in 65536)

Measurement Range: Settable as 0 to ± 30 mV or 0 to ± 100 mV.

Max. Resolution: 1µV (low range).

Input Impedance: 100kΩ.

OvervoltageProtection:

± 25V.

VIPS General

Power: Automatically powered by the PC’s parallel port or from an external DC source viathe 2·1mm power socket (Centre pin = negative); operating range 2 - 3·6V.

PC Connection: To parallel port or to VIPS X-BOX using cable supplied.

Operating Range: +5ºC to 40ºC, 20 - 80% RH.

Storage Range: -40ºC to 70ºC.

Environmental: Indoor use at altitudes up to 2000m, Pollution Degree 1.

EMC: Complies with EN50081-1 and EN50082-1.

Size & Weight: 64mm x 55mm x 16mm x 45gms, except VIPS T100;VIPS T100 120mm x 70mm x 35mm, 240 gms.

Options: 4-way expansion box with printer feed through; connection board with screwterminals.

X-BOX Option

Connections: 25-way ‘D’ (male) to PC parallel port; 25-way ‘D’ (female) to printer,unbuffered; 4 x 25-way ‘D’ (female) for VIPS positions 1 - 4, partially buffered.

Excessive cable lengths between the X-BOX and individual VIPS will load theparallel port and may affect printer and VIPS operation.

Power: X-BOX and VIPS pods are powered from the PC unless individually poweredfrom an external DC source (see VIPS specifications).

Size & Weight: 180mm x 72mm x 22mm; 280g.

Operating Range: +5ºC to 40ºC, 20 - 80% RH.

Storage Range: -40ºC to 70ºC.

EMC: Complies with EN50081-1 and EN50082-1.

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EC Declaration of Conformity

We Thurlby Thandar Instruments LtdGlebe RoadHuntingdonCambridgeshire PE18 7DXEngland

declare that the

Virtual Instrument Pod System Pods type VIPS 10, VIPS 20, VIPS 30,VIPS 40, VIPS 50, VIPS 60, VIPS T100 and Expansion Box X-BOX

meet the intent of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC. Compliance was demonstrated byconformance to the following specifications which have been listed in the Official Journal of theEuropean Communities.

EMC

Emissions: EN50081-1 (1992) Generic (Light Industrial) referring to:

EN55022 Radiated, Class B

Immunity: EN50082-1(1992) Generic (Light Industrial) referring to:

a) EN60801-2 (1993) Electrostatic Discharge

b) IEC801-3 (1984) RF Field

c) IEC801-4 (1988) Fast Transient

................................................................

CHRIS WILDING

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

19 June 1998

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SafetyThese instruments have been designed to meet the requirements of EN61010-1 (SafetyRequirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use). Theseinstruments are Installation Category I designed to be powered directly from a PC’s parallel portor an external low voltage DC supply.

These instruments have been tested in accordance with EN61010-1 and have been supplied in asafe condition. This instruction manual contains some information and warnings which have to befollowed by the user to ensure safe operation and to retain the instruments in a safe condition.

These instruments have been designed for indoor use in a Pollution Degree 1 environment (nopollution, or only dry non-conductive pollution) in the temperature range 5°C to 40°C, 20% - 80%RH (non-condensing). They may occasionally be subjected to temperatures between +5° and -10°C without degradation of their safety.

Use of these instruments in a manner not specified by these instructions may impair the safetyprotection provided. Do not operate the instruments outside their rated operating voltages orenvironmental range. In particular excessive moisture may impair safety.

If the instruments are clearly defective, have been subject to mechanical damage, excessivemoisture or chemical corrosion the safety protection may be impaired and the apparatus shouldbe withdrawn from use and returned for checking and repair.

Do not wet the instruments when cleaning.

EMCThese instruments have been designed to meet the requirements of the EMC Directive89/336/EEC.

Compliance was demonstrated by meeting the test limits of the following standards:

Emissions

EN50081-1 (1992) Generic emission standard for residential commercial and light industry. Testmethods and limits used were:

EN55022 Radiated, Class B

Immunity

EN50082-1 (1992) Generic immunity standard for residential, commercial and light industry. Testmethods and limits used were:

a) EN60801-2 (1993) Electrostatic Discharge, 8 kV air discharge.

b) IEC801-3 (1984) RF Field, 3 V/m.

c) IEC801-4 (1988) Fast Transient, 0·5kV peak (signal lines).

Cautions

To ensure continued compliance with the EMC directive the following precautions should beobserved:

a) connect the instruments to the PC using only high quality, double-screenedcables.

b) In the event of part replacement becoming necessary, only use components of anidentical type.

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ConnectionsThe 25-way ‘D’ socket connections for each pod are as follows:

VIPS10 VIPS 10R

1) Ref 1 14) n/c 1) Ref 1 14) n/c

2) Ref 2 15) S-DN 2) Ref 2 15) S-DN

3) CH 8 16) GND 3) CH 8 16) GND

4) CH 7 17) GND 4) CH 7 17) GND

5) CH 6 18) GND 5) CH 6 18) GND

6) CH 5 19) GND 6) CH 5 19) GND

7) CH 4 20) GND 7) CH 4 20) GND

8) CH 3 21) GND 8) CH 3 21) GND

9) CH 2 22) GND 9) CH 2 22) GND

10) CH 1 23) GND 10) CH 1 23) GND

11) -5V 24) FB-2 11) -5V 24) FB-2

12) +5V 25) FB-1 12) +5V 25) FB-1

13) T Out 13) Ref Out

VIPS 20 VIPS 30

1) BPO1 14) +5V 1) n/c 14) n/c

2) O/P1 15) GND 2) n/c 15) -I/P1

3) Ref1 Op 16) Ref1 In 3) +I/P1 16) -I/P2

4) BPO2 17) +5V 4) +I/P2 17) -I/P3

5) O/P2 18) GND 5) +I/P3 18) -I/P4

6) Ref2 Op 19) Ref2 In 6) +I/P4 19) -I/P5

7) BPO3 20) +5V 7) +I/P5 20) -I/P6

8) O/P3 21) GND 8) +I/P6 21) -I/P7

9) Ref3 Op 22) Ref3 In 9) +I/P7 22) -I/P8

10) BPO4 23) +5V 10) +I/P8 23) n/c

11) O/P4 24) GND 11) n/c 24) n/c

12) Ref4 Op 25) Ref4 In 12) n/c 25) n/c

13) -5V 13) n/c

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VIPS 40 VIPS 50

1) n/c 14) Vee 1) +5V 14) GND

2) n/c 15) Vee 2) n/c 15) O/P1

3) O/P1 16) Vee 3) I/P1 16) O/P2

4) O/P2 17) Vee 4) I/P2 17) O/P3

5) O/P3 18) Vee 5) I/P3 18) O/P4

6) O/P4 19) Vee 6) I/P4 19) O/P5

7) O/P5 20) Vee 7) I/P5 20) O/P6

8) O/P6 21) Vee 8) I/P6 21) O/P7

9) O/P7 22) Vee 9) I/P7 22) O/P8

10) O/P8 23) Vee 10) I/P8 23) n/c

11) K 24) GND 11) n/c 24) GND

12) +5V 25) GND 12) +5V 25) GND

13) +5V 13) +5V

VIPS 60 VIPS T100

1) n/c 14) n/c Miniature thermocouple connectors

2) n/c 15) CM1 (Cu - Cu) designated TH1 to TH6.

3) NO1 16) CM2

4) NO2 17) CM3

5) NO3 18) CM4

6) NO4 19) CM5

7) NO5 20) CM6

8) NO6 21) CM7

9) NO7 22) CM8

10) NO8 23) n/c

11) n/c 24) GND

12) n/c 25) GND

13) +5V

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InstallationSoftware InstallationPC requirements

The minimum PC requirement is an IBM compatible computer with the following specification:

386 SX25 + Floating Point Hardware (80387 or better)4MB RAMVGA displayWindows 3.1 & WIN32S

Some instrument operations will be very slow with a minimum specification PC and a 486 orbetter is the practical recommendation.

WIN32S is freeware and is available from Microsoft or can be downloaded via the internet fromany good shareware site.

Note: VIPS pods will generally work with the computer’s parallel port set to either STANDARD,EPP or ECP modes. However, some computers exhibit a problem and fail to communicate withthe VIPS pod correctly; if this occurs, ensure the parallel port is set to STANDARD mode. This isusually done via the BIOS setup; caution must be taken when changing any BIOS parameterand, if in doubt, make sure a suitably qualified person assists you.

Software Installation

The software comes on one 1.44MB 3.5” disk and should be copied onto the PC’s hard diskusing the automatic setup program.

Installing with Windows 3.x: Open File Manager and click on the 3.5” drive, having first insertedthe disk. Double click on SETUP.EXE to run the install program; a warning message will appear,click on OK to continue with the setup. The installation dialog box will appear showing that thesoftware will be installed in a directory called TTI_VIPS; click on Install to implement theinstallation. The installation program will also automatically create a new Program Group inProgram Manager called “TTi VIPS” which contains the icons for the VIPS and VIPSDDEprograms.

Installing with Windows 95: Open Windows Explorer and click on the 3.5” floppy, having firstinserted the disk. Double click on SETUP.EXE to run the install program; a warning message willappear, click on OK to continue with the setup. The installation dialog box will appear showingthat the software will be installed in a directory called TTI_VIPS; click on Install to implement theinstallation. The installation program will also automatically create a new group under Programscalled “TTi VIPS”; selecting this group from Programs will give the icons for the VIPS andVIPSDDE programs.

NOTE: To un-install the VIPS software, run SETUP.EXE and click on Remove; a message boxwill appear, click on OK to automatically remove the files and program group that was installed.The TTI_VIPS directory will also be removed; but if any extra files have been saved in thisdirectory then the directory and these files will remain.

Hardware Installation

A single pod may be plugged directly into the printer port, or via a screened cable (25 way plug to25 way socket), or connected to any position on the VIPS X-BOX. Pods should only beconnected to the port when the port lines have been initialised for VIPS although the pods shouldnot be damaged if this procedure is not observed.

On launching and exiting the software for each pod, messages instruct when to apply andremove power to the pods. Power may also be removed from within the software when selectinga pod position.

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General OperationThis section describes the operation of those elements of the software common to all pods.Details of the set-up and display options for each pod are detailed, together with hardwareoperation considerations, in the sections describing each pod.

Software Overview

VIPS software supports up to 4 pods of any type in any mix. Thus it is possible to have a32-channel data logger, a 32-channel event recorder, an 8-channel Digital Storage Oscilloscopewith a 4-channel Signal Generator, etc.

The pod type for each position is shown in each position header bar and this must reflect the typeof pod(s) which are plugged into the port or expansion box. The pod type can be changed usingthe Select Pod option in the pod menu. This is a drop down menu which is accessed by clickingin the pod type box. Other pod controls are accessed via this menu.

The screen consists of 4 individual viewing/control windows along the top and a single maindisplay window. A number of different types of display can be selected in the main areadepending on the pod selected in the position being viewed.

On exit from the system, the current configuration is saved to the file VIPS.INI. Specialconfigurations may be saved and reloaded for particular experiments via the Load and Saveoptions in the File menu.

The viewing/control display and main display for each pod are described in the appropriate podsection.

As the VIPS software is designed for real-time operation, the on-line controls are designed forfast operation. Windows controls are slow so VIPS uses direct click areas. A click area is shownas a 'raised' button. Clicking on such a button initiates an action. Where there is a dual actioncontrol - narrow buttons above and below describing text - the area of the button action extendsup and down to the centre of the text.

Starting the Software

The software is launched from VIPS.EXE.

The initial Power-On message is shown :-

Power is removed. Continue when pods connected

The user is requested to connect the correct configuration of pods at this point but there will beno harm to the pods if the configuration is not as required. The message may be skipped overby unchecking the Power Msg option in the File menu

If the initialisation file VIPS.INI is not found, the message :-

Load File Error Using standard configuration

is shown. This starts the system with all positions Unused.

Tool Bar Functions

File Stop L og Help

File Loads and saves configuration files.

Stop Stops selected positions working and allows data to be redrawn or dumped todisk.

Log Sets up, starts and stops logging of data to disk.

Help Gives access to an on-line version of this manual.

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File

The options available from this menu are :-

Load Loads the selected configuration file. The system will now run with thisconfiguration. Power is removed when a file is loaded allowing the hardware tobe reconfigured.

Save Saves the current configuration to a file of your choice.

Port A slave menu allows the selection of the output port being used. The portselected is shown checked.

Power Msg When checked the initial and final 'Power removed' messages are shown. Whenunchecked these messages are not shown allowing the system to startunattended.

Demo Replaces pod inputs with internally generated values. This allows the operationof any input pod to be seen without having to have the pods connected. Notethat the output pods, if fitted, are active when demo is set.

Exit Exits from the system saving the current configuration in VIPS.INI.

Stop

This option freezes the display of those positions selected for logging. Other positions continue torun. The display may be redrawn or the data dumped to disk while the display is stopped.

The positions for which Stop is active are selected by clicking Log On in the pod menu (click onthe pod description box to access this menu). When Stop (or Log) is enabled, ‘Log’ is shown inpod header bar.

Three dump file formats are available giving files suitable for printing, importing to an Excel sheetor importing to Waveform Manager.

When the system is Stop ped, Log is not allowed.

The menu options are :-

Stop Stops the positions chosen. See note below regarding VIPS 20 pod. Whenstopped, it is not possible to change the type of display until the display isrestarted.

Start Restarts the positions chosen. Drawing is continued from the current time marker.

Redraw Clears the picture and redraws it with the last sample taken placed at the rightmargin. The current display control settings are used. Sampling is not restarted ifthe position has been stopped. If Redraw is selected without stopping, the picture isredrawn and sampling continues.

Clear Clears the picture and restarts sampling. The position need not be stopped.

Dump Data Dumps to disk the display data of the chosen positions.

The file name can be set by the user or the system. To set a file name, select FileName on the pod menu. Enter a 6 character name in the edit box which appears.A 2 digit hexadecimal edition number will be added to the name allowing 255 dumpfiles to be created using the 6 character name entered.

If no file is entered or the file name does not start with an alphabetic character, thefile name is set by the system and comprises 4 characters designating the date(MMDD), 1 character for the type of pod (A = Analogue, L = logic), 1 character forthe pod position and 2 characters for edition. During a day the edition isincremented each time a dump or log is initiated. The edition is a 2 digithexadecimal number, i.e. has the range 01-FF, giving 255 dumps per day.

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Print File The extension is .PRN.

The data format on disk is similar to that of the pod LIST display. Readings arescaled to engineering units. The files are text files and may be read and printedby a text editor (e.g. Notepad) or a Word Processor (Word). The data is pagedand the headings are shown on each page.

Excel File The extension is .LOG.

The data format on disk is similar to that of the pod LIST display. Readings arescaled to engineering units. The files are text files and may be read and printedby a text editor (e.g. Notepad), a Word Processor (Word) or imported into anExcel spreadsheet. The headings are shown only at the top of the file and thedata is not paged.

Data File The extension is .DTA.

The data on disk is not scaled. The readings are those measured. Further detailsof the data format are given with each pod description. No heading or paging isprovided.

NOTE - The VIPS 20 is a special case. Stop and Log are not applicable to VIPS 20 pods.

Log

This option logs data to disk.

WARNING - Logging and the high speed DSO mode of the VIPS 10 pod are incompatible. Thesoftware does allow both modes to be chosen simultaneously and will try and do its best butthese two modes should not be used together.

The positions for which Log is active are selected by clicking Log On in the Pod menu (click onthe pod description box to access this menu). When Log (or Stop) is enabled, ‘Log’ is shownin pod header bar.

Three Log file formats are available giving files suitable for printing, importing to an Excel sheetor importing to Waveform Manager.

When the system is Log ging, Stop is not allowed.

Once a log is started, it may be stopped temporarily and restarted using the same file.

Start Starts or restarts logging of the positions chosen. When a log is started, (asopposed to restarted from pause) the file name is set.

The file name can be set by the user or the system. To set a file name, select FileName on the pod menu. Enter a 6 character name in the edit box which appears.A 2 digit hexadecimal edition number will be added to the name allowing 255 dumpfiles to be created using the 6 character name entered.

If no file is entered or the file name does not start with an alphabetic character, thefile name is set by the system and comprises 4 characters designating the date(MMDD), 1 character for the type of pod (A = Analogue, L = logic), 1 character forthe pod position and 2 characters for edition. During a day the edition isincremented each time a dump or log is initiated. The edition is a 2 digithexadecimal number, i.e. has the range 01-FF, giving 255 dumps per day.

When the log is restarted, the log continues to use the same file, starting on a newpage.

End Ends the logging session closing the files used.

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Pause Halts logging without closing the file. On subsequently choosing Start, logging iscontinued on a new page using the same file.

Print File The extension is .PRN.

The data format on disk is similar to that of the pod LIST display. Readings are scaledto engineering units. The files are text files and may be read and printed by a texteditor (e.g. Notepad) or a Word Processor (Word). The data is paged and theheadings are shown on each page.

Excel File The extension is .LOG.

The data format on disk is similar to that of the pod LIST display. Readings are scaledto engineering units. The files are text files and may be read and printed by a texteditor (e.g. Notepad), a Word Processor (Word) or imported into an Excel spreadsheet.The headings are shown only at the top of the file and the data is not paged.

Data File The extension is .DTA.

The data on disk is not scaled. The readings are those measured. Further details ofthe data format is given with each pod description. No heading or paging is provided.

NOTE - The VIPS 20 is a special case. Stop and Log are not applicable to VIPS 20 pods.

Display and Control

Across the top of the screen are the individual pod viewing/control displays. Beneath these arethe timebase controls for each pod. The main display area shows detailed information from oneof the positions.

When using the expansion box, the screen positions are the same as the socket positions on theX-box. When a single pod is pugged into the parallel port, the pod is in position 1.

Viewing/Control Displays

The title bar shows the type of pod selected for that position. On the centre of the title bar, theword 'Log' indicates that the position has been enabled for Logging and Stopping. Clicking on theMaximise box at the right of the title bar expands that position to the main display. The positionselected for the main display has the title bar in blue and a large blue arrow pointing to the maindisplay area

The form of the top displays depend on the pod and are described below in the description ofeach pod.

Pod Settings

The Setup and Control facilities are similar for each type of pod (VIPS 20 is the exception to this).These controls are accessed via a drop down menu which appears when the pod type box on thetitle bar is clicked.

Setup This allows the hardware configuration of the pod (as opposed to the on-line displayconfiguration) to be set. The set-up dialog box depends on the pod selected for theposition.

The Hardware dialog boxes are closed by clicking the mouse when pointing at theWindows Close box or clicking outside the dialog box.

Hardware setup is done by channel. On the right of each dialog box is the ChannelSelect list. The currently selected channel is highlighted. Click on the channelrequired. The other elements in the box show the setup of that channel.

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Default Sets the pod to the standard configuration for the type of pod selected.

Pod Select Selects a pod type for a position. A list of each of the pod types plus the Unusedoption is shown. The currently selected pod is highlighted. 'Point' and click tomake a selection.

Clicking the Power Off switch stops current operation and removes power to thepods. This allows pods to be changed without exiting from the system.

On exiting from Pod Select with a new pod selection, the position is set-up with thestandard configuration for that pod. The exception to this is selecting Unusedthen selecting the same pod as before, in which case the previous set-up ismaintained. To clear the set-up to the standard values use the Default optionfrom the menu.

The Pod Select dialog box is closed by clicking the mouse when pointing at theWindows Close box or clicking outside the dialog box.

Log On Enables the Logging and Stop (dump) facilities for this position. (not VIPS 20)

Log File Allows the user to enter a file name for logging and dumping. Only the first 6characters are recognised. If non-standard characters or spaces, etc. are usedthese will be replaced by an underline. If the first character is not a validcharacter, the internal date/position file name will be used instead of the file nameentered - see Logging or Dump descriptions. A 2 digit hexadecimal editionnumber is automatically added each time the file is opened allowing up to 255files to be created with the same base name. (not VIPS 20)

VIPS 20 only - the lower two options are replaced with specific signal controls

Sync Synchronises all signals. Cyclic signals are set to 0 degrees and external signalsare set to the beginning of the external file.

Ext File Selects the file from which to load the external data. The file - with a .DACextension - should be in the same folder as the rest of the VIPS files. The filename is stored and will be loaded with the initialisation file. The form of the file isdescribed in the section on the VIPS 20 pod.

Individual Pod displays

Different pod types have different types of viewing/control displays.

VIPS 10 Shows a Bar Graph of the inputs scaled as selected on the main display.

VIPS 20 Gives access to the Signal Generator controls. These are described in detail inthe description of the main display in the pod section.

The channel being controlled, signal type, output gain, offset and frequency canbe set.

Note that with this pod, the period control changes the sampling period of thedisplay. This period is independent of the individual channel frequency controls.Care should be taken to avoid the aliasing effects which arise when a highfrequency signal is sampled at a low rate.

VIPS 30 Shows an annunciator display of the 8 inputs. The display is blue if the opto inputis driven, otherwise it is silver.

VIPS 40 Controls and indicates the state of the 8 outputs. The display is red if the outputtransistor is ON, otherwise it is silver. Clicking within a channel box toggles theoutput ON/OFF, i.e. the action is similar to a push switch.

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VIPS 50 This has an annunciator display whose format depends on the hardware optionchosen.

INPUT ONLY is the same as the VIPS 30 except that blue depicts a 5V logic highor open circuit at the input. Silver depicts a logic 0 or closed circuit.

OUTPUT ONLY is the same as the VIPS 40 except that red depicts a 5V logichigh at the output and silver depicts a logic 0.

INPUT/OUTPUT is a combination of the above 2 modes. The whole channelarea is active as a click switch.

VIPS 60 Shows an annunciator display of the state of the 8 switches. The display is red ifthe switch is ON, otherwise it is silver. Clicking within a switch box toggles theswitch ON/OFF.

VIPS T100 Shows a Bar Graph of the input temperatures or millivolts scaled as selected onthe main display.

Timebase Controls

The sampling rate for each pod is set in the lower area of the individual viewing/control displays.The range of the timebase is pod type dependent. The left hand buttons increment/decrementthe units. The right hand buttons increment/decrement the multiplier which may range from 100microseconds to hours.

If a pod is running faster than can be supported by the computer, the rate text is coloured red.

Main Display

The Main display has 3 areas: display selection at the top, the display area itself and the displaycontrol area at the right.

The display selectable controls are pod type specific and are fully described in the appropriatepod section.

Closing the Software

Pods should not be unplugged until power has been removed. On closing, power is removedand, if Power Msg is checked on the File menu, the user is advised to remove the pods beforecontinuing. If the pods are not removed, power may be applied to them if Windows attempts todrive a printer without using the expansion box. The pods will not be harmed by leaving themattached to the port but outputs may change. Choose OK to exit from VIPS or Cancel to returnto the software.

Importing VIPS Text Files into EXCEL

VIPS Dump and Log files with the extension .LOG may be imported into Excel. Open Excel andselect, at the bottom of the OPEN screen,

'Files of Type' Text files ( *.*)

Select the VIPS folder where the log/dump files reside. Now select the file to be imported.

A 'Text Import Wizard' will appear reporting that the text is fixed width. Click on Finish and thedata will be imported.

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VIPS 10 Analogue Input Pod

General

The VIPS 10 pod provides 8 channels of Analog-to-Digital Conversion. In software, each channelmay be individually set as UNIPOLAR (0 to 4095 counts range) or BIPOLAR (-2048 to 2047counts range). With the internal reference adjusted to 4.096 Volts, each bit represents a1 millivolt change.

Each channel may also be individually set by software as SINGLE-ENDED (referenced to0 volts) or DIFFERENTIAL (referenced to another channel). The differential pairings are :-1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 2-1, 4-3, 6-5, 8-7. The reference channel of a differential pair can also bemeasured in single-ended mode, i.e. referenced to ground. For example, if channel 1 is set asdifferential and channel 2 as single-ended, the difference is shown in channel 1 and the offsetvalue in channel 2.

An external reference may be applied (see VIPS 10 Hardware External Reference) allowing fullscale ranges from 2.5 Volts to 5 Volts.

The display options are:

Viewing/Control - Bar Graph

Main - DSO (Digital Storage Oscilloscope)

GRAPH

BAR

METER

LIST

VIPS 10 Hardware Setup

Inputs

Each channel may be set by software to be single-ended or differential. The differential pairs areCH1-CH2, CH3-CH4, CH5-CH6, CH7-CH8. The reference channel of a differential pair can alsobe measured in single ended mode, i.e. referenced to ground.

Each channel may be set by software to unipolar or bipolar mode.

Ideally connections to the inputs should be made via short screened leads.

Internal Reference

The internal reference has been pre-set to 4.096V; it is output on pin1 (Ref 1). If it needsadjusting, connect a 4½ digit voltmeter between Pin 1 and GND. Adjust the pre-set (through thecase aperture opposite the power input) so that the voltmeter reads 4.096V ± 0.003V.

External Reference 1

An external reference can be directly connected to Pin 1 (Ref 1) but first the internal referencemust be disabled by:-

1) Carefully prising the case apart and moving LK1 to EXT position.

or

2) Connecting Pin 2 (Ref 2) to pin 12 (+5V).

The external reference must be able to source up to 350µA from

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External Reference 2

Ref 2 input can be used for connecting an unbuffered reference. The input impedance is typically20kΩ.

The Ref 2 buffer has a gain of typically 1.678, i.e. VREF = 4.096V = 2.44V x 1.678.

The voltage range of the external reference should be between 1.5V and 3V.

The value of VREF can be checked by connecting a 4½ digit voltmeter to pin 1.

NOTE: Ensure LK1 is in INT position and pin 2 is not connected to pin 12 (see External Reference 1).

Effect of Changing Vref

All calculations are based on COUNTS. One Count is Vref/4096. With Vref = 4.096V as suppliedby the internal reference, 1 count = 1 mV. The ADC converts from 0 to 4095 counts in Unipolarmode and from -2048 to 2047 counts in bipolar mode.

Although 4096 levels are converted, only 4000 are displayed. Full scale display at Display Gain= 1 is then 0 to 4000 counts or -2000 to 2000 counts.

The Scale conversion is accurately :-

Value = Gain * Count + Offset.

External DC Input

If the computer cannot provide enough power from its printer port to power the VIPS then anexternal power source can be used. The external DC voltage is connected to the 2.1mm powersocket (Centre pin = negative).

DC voltage range should be between 2V and 3.6V (ideally 2x 1.5V cells).

Temperature Sensor

The built in temperature sensor outputs 10mV/°C from Pin 13 (Tout).

By utilising different gain settings, 15mV/°C and 30mV/°C can be output from Pin 13.

To set 15mV/°C connect Pin 24 (FB-2) to Pin 23 (GND), and connect Pin 25 (FB-1) to Pin 13(Tout).

To set 30mV/°C connect Pin 24 (FB-2) and Pin 25 (FB-1) to Pin 23 (GND).

By connecting Tout to an input channel a record can be kept of the ambient temperature duringmeasurements.

VIPS 10 Hardware Control

There are 4 areas in the hardware configuration box. Scaling to Engineering Units sets theconversion between measurement (millivolts) and the display. Hardware Configurationdetermines the configuration of the converter and its multiplexer. Alarms sets the level andpolarity of any alarms. Error displays error messages if any entry is outside the acceptablerange.

Scaling to Engineering Units

There are four elements to scaling.

LABEL: Value = GAIN * mV + OFFSET UNITS

Unlike other controls, the scaling controls do not immediately affect the display. To see theeffect, click on the current channel number. The display is also updated when the channelselected is changed or when the dialog box is closed.

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The default settings are :-

Label = Chan n

Units = Volts

Value = 0.001 * mV + 0

Since the resolution is 12 bits, the value displayed has been limited to 4 digits. To facilitate this,the values for gain and offset have been limited. The limits are given with the control descriptionbelow. You will not be allowed to proceed if your entry is not recognised as a valid number or isoutside acceptable ranges. The Error area will indicate the unacceptable entry.

LABEL This is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required.

UNITS This is an 8 character designator indicating the engineering units in which thevalue is displayed.

GAIN Multiplies the millivolt measurement by the amount entered,e.g. a semiconductor temperature sensor gives out 10mV/°C. A gain of 0.1 willdisplay the measurements in °C. 10mV * 0.1 = 1°C. This assumesVref = 4.096V as supplied. See also the Effect of Changing Vref section above.

Up to 8 digits including sign and decimal point may be entered.

The gain must lie between 0.001 and 2.

OFFSET This number is added to the GAIN * mV figure.

The offset must lie between ±9999.

Hardware Configuration

There are 3 elements to the hardware configuration of a VIPS 10 pod. Each channel may be setup separately and is controlled by the software.

SINGLE-ENDED orDIFFERENTIAL

In single-ended channels, measurement is made relative to signal ground.In differential channels, measurement is made relative to another channel inpairs. The differential pairings are :- 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 2-1, 4-3, 6-5, 8-7.

UNIPOLAR orBIPOLAR

Unipolar measures from 0 to 4.000 volts and bipolar from -2.000 to +2.000 voltsassuming Vref = 4.096 volts. See also the Effect of Changing Vref sectionabove.

ON This controls the conversion. If checked (ON), a conversion takes place ateach sample time. If not checked (OFF), no conversion takes place and acount of 0 is stored. OFF channels are not displayed. It speeds up the systemif only the required channels are ON.

Alarms

The VIPS 10 has a comprehensive alarm facility in all display modes except DSO (Digital StoreOscilloscope). Each channel has 2 alarm levels - A and B. Each may be set to be Off or toAction when the alarm is High or Low. The alarm level can be set anywhere within themeasurement range and the levels are displayed and entered in engineering units. The alarmstate can be sent to a logic output pod so that appropriate action can be taken. A and B alarmscan be sent to the same or different pods.

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The controls in the Alarms box are applicable to the pod as a whole.

ON Enables the alarm functions for the pod

A to Position Selects the logic pod to which the alarm status is sent. The destination can beOFF or any of the 4 positions. Display the position using the Up/Downcontrols then click in the display area to select the destination. Thedestination is highlighted in blue.

A channel in the source pod will set the equivalent channel in the destinationpod. A destination pod channel will only be set if it is designated as a logicoutput, i.e. it is a VIPS 40, VIPS 50 in output or in/out mode or a VIPS 60 pod.

B to Position As above except that it is the destination of alarm B status which is selected.

Alarm levels

Each channel has its own Alarm level controls. Only valid numbers can be set into the levelentry boxes, an appropriate error message being displayed if the alarm level is unacceptable.

A Level The alarm level can be set anywhere within the input range. Entry is inengineering units so that translation from mV to display units is not required.

A High/Low/Off Allows the alarm sense to be set. A High alarm will trigger when the input ishigher than the value entered and a Low alarm will trigger when the input islower than the value entered. Off disables this alarm for this channel.

B Level As A Level above.

B High/Low/Off As A Level above.

Error

If any of the numeric entries is not a valid number or is outside the acceptable range, anappropriate error message will shown in the Error box. You cannot change channel or close thebox until an acceptable number is entered.

VIPS 10 Display Options

The viewing/control window shows a Bar Graph of the inputs scaled as selected on the maindisplay. The Main display options are:

DSO Graph Bar Meter List

Not all displays are available at all operating speeds.

DSO (Digital Storage Oscilloscope)

Whereas all other displays show the current real-time data, i.e. a sample is taken then displayed,the DSO display mode takes a screen-full of samples then displays them. Since writing to thedisplay is a relatively slow process, DSO mode allows faster sampling. DSO is only availablebelow 10ms sample period. It is the only mode available below 1ms sampling. Further details ofthe display are given below under GRAPH.

A x1,2,4,8 expansion facility is available. This expands the timebase allowing faster signals to beseen in more detail. The sample rate is unchanged but less samples are taken to fill the screen.

TRIGGER triggers sampling when the channel chosen crosses the trigger level set in thedirection indicated. The level is set on an individual channel basis and is shown in millivolts.

The trigger channel and the direction of change is chosen by clicking the channel boxes belowthe level display. Only one channel can act as trigger at any one time. Clicking the currenttrigger channel cycles the choice through + , – and off. Clicking on any other channel changesthe trigger to that channel. A channel retains its level and direction when not used.

Only channels which are ON at both hardware and display levels are available for triggering.

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The maximum sampling rate achievable is restricted by the bus speed to the port internal to thecomputer; this limits sampling to typically 100µs per channel. 8 channels can be sampled atbetter than 800µs. A single channel can be sampled at 10k samples per second provided allother channels are switched OFF. In DSO mode, a channel can be switched OFF at eitherhardware or software level. In other modes, Display ON/OFF affects the display not theconversion and storage and unused channels must be switched off in the hardware configurationbox to maximise the sampling rate of the used channels.

If a trigger mode is set, the word 'Trigger' is shown above the control area while awaiting a validtrigger. 'Sample' is displayed while sampling and 'Display' is shown while the display is redrawn.

WARNING During DSO sampling, clicks are not processed. A complete scan can take up to 3.6,4.5 or 5.6 seconds at the 9ms rate depending on the system resolution. When working with DSOat the slower rates it is necessary to click and wait; all clicks will be processed when scanning iscomplete.

GRAPH

GRAPH displays the incoming values in graphical form. It is not available for sample periodsless than 1ms. All 8 channels can be displayed. Each channel is colour coded, 1 - Black, 2 -White,3 - Red, 4 - Yellow, 5 - Blue, 6 - Violet (Magenta), 7 - Green, 8 - Cyan. These colours are alsoused in the scale and control areas.

A x1,2,4,8 expansion facility is available. This expands the timebase allowing faster signals tobe seen in more detail. The sample rate is unchanged but less samples are taken to fill thescreen.

The graph resolution is 400x200, 500x250 or 625x312 depending on the monitor resolution set.With Gain = 1, the full range of the input signal is shown. With Gain = 20, 1 single bit changecan be observed. With Gain = 1/8, a single channel can be fitted within a single grid area.

To the right of the screen, the scale of the selected channel is shown. The channel is selectedin the control area to the right of this. The scale area shows the top, mid and bottom screenvalues in engineering units as set by the hardware controls.

The control area allows display controls similar to the Gain and Shift controls of an oscilloscope.

Trace Controls

CHANNELSELECT

The top control buttons selects the channel. A channel button is not shown if it isOFF at the hardware level. Click in the box containing trace colour/numberrequired to be controlled.

DISPLAYON/OFF

Switches the display ON/OFF for that channel. This control only affects the currentpicture drawing, i.e. if it was OFF, switched ON then a redraw requested, it will beredrawn.

GAIN Ranges from 20 (25mV/div) down to 1/8 (4000mV/div). A gain of 1 (500mV/div)displays the whole input range.

SHIFT Moves the viewing area up or down. A shift of 25 moves the display by 1 division.The scale indicates the range being shown. The range provided might appearexcessive but is required to bring a signal sitting near full scale onto the screenwhen the highest gain is chosen.

Alarms

Alarm status and Alarm Accept button are shown when Alarms are enabled on the setupscreen. When a channel goes into alarm, the appropriate A or B level flashes red if it is a Highalarm and blue if it is a Low alarm. Accepting the alarm cancels the flashing. The display is thensteady red or blue if the alarm is on or clear if the alarm is off.

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BARBAR displays the variable in Bar Graph form. Irrespective of the shift control, each trace will bedrawn from 0mV to the measured value. The scale and controls are the same as for Graph.Drawing the bars takes up a lot of computer time. To minimise flicker, the maximum update rateof the Bar display is 10 times per second.

METERSelecting METER presents 8 panel meter displays. The instantaneous values are displayed inengineering units. The colour of the label and units is in the channel colour. To minimise flicker,the maximum update rate of the meter display is 10 times per second. Channel Display may beset ON or OFF. Alarms are controlled/displayed as in Graph. Channels which are hardware ordisplay OFF are not displayed.

LISTLIST lists the previous values in numerical form. The channel label and engineering units areshown above each column. The time of sample is shown to the left of each line. List is notavailable at periods below 100ms.

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VIPS 20 Analogue Output PodGeneral

The VIPS 20 pod provides 4 channels of Digital-to-Analog Conversion implemented as a SignalGenerator. Sine, Cosine, Ramp, Triangle and Square repetitive signals are generated and aRandom and a DC Level signal are also provided. Arbitrary signals can also be read from disk.Using the internal reference of 2.048 Volts, the output may be linked to produce 0 to 2.047 Volts,0 to 4.095 Volts or -2.048 to 2.047 Volts. In the first case, 1 bit represents 0.5 mV change andthe latter two cases 1 bit represents 1 mV change. It is also possible to use an externalreference voltage which allows a 2 or 4 quadrant multiplying DAC to be operated.

Note that the software limits the outputs to 4.000V or ±2.000V.


Viewing/control - Signal Control

Main - OFF

GRAPH

BAR

METER

VIPS 20 Hardware SetupBipolar Outputs ( ± 2.048V)

To configure the channels to output a bipolar signal make these connections:

O/P1 Connect Pin 1 (BPO1), Pin 3 (Ref1 Op) and Pin 16 (Ref1 In) together.




Unipolar Outputs (0 to +2.048V)To configure the channels to output a 0 to 2.048V unipolar signal make these connections:

O/P1 Connect Pin 1 (BPO1) to Pin 2 (O/P1) and connect Pin 3 (Ref1 Op) to Pin 16 (Ref1 In)




Unipolar Outputs (0 to 4.096V)

To configure the channels to output a 0 to 4.096V unipolar signal make these connections:

O/P1 Connect Pin 1 (BPO1) to GND and connect Pin 3 (Ref1 Op) to Pin 16 (Ref1 In).




Multiplying DAC

Any output can be configured to operate as a four-quadrant multiplier by connecting BPOx toRefx Ip. The bipolar input signal is connected to Refx Ip, where x is the channel number. Theoutput level is now controlled by the digital code input.

NOTE: The input signal must be in the range -3V to +3V.

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External DC Input

If the computer cannot provide enough power from its printer port to power the VIPS then anexternal power source can be used. The external DC voltage is connected to the 2.1mm powersocket (Centre pin = negative). DC voltage range should be between 2V and 3.6V (ideally 2x1.5V Cells).


The VIPS 20 outputs can be hardware linked to one of six configurations per channel. It isimportant that the hardware links are correctly reported to the software otherwise the outputdisplayed is not what is actually being output from the device.

The output value, i.e. the signal, frequency and amplitude, is controlled from the on-line display.

LABEL Allows the label for the channel to be set. LABEL is an 8 character designator.Initially set to Chan n.

Unlike other controls, the Label control does not immediately effect the display. Tosee the effect, click on the current channel number. The display is also updatedwhen the selected channel is changed or when the dialog box is closed.

LINKING Six link combinations are allowed - see VIPS 20 Hardware Setup. The resultingranges are :-

0 to 2 Volts 0 to Vin

0 to 4 Volts 0 to 2*Vin

2 to 2 Volts -Vin to Vin

The first of each pair should be set if the internal reference is linked to theReference Input. The second of the pair should be set if an external reference isbeing used.

Note that the display shows 4000 counts and not 4096. The scale does not changewhen external reference ranges are chosen.

ON This controls the output. If checked (ON), an output change takes place at eachsample time. If not checked (OFF), the output is set to 0 and no further conversiontakes place. OFF channels are not displayed. It speeds up the system if only therequired channels are checked ON.


The viewing/control window gives access to the signal generator controls which are alsoavailable to the right of the main display.

The channel being controlled, signal type, output gain, offset and frequency can be set.

Note that with this pod, the period control changes the sampling period of the display. This periodis independent of the individual channel frequency or rate controls. Care should be taken to avoidthe aliasing effects which arise when a high frequency signal is sampled at a low rate.

On the main display the options are GRAPH, BAR, METER and OFF.

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Controls

The Signal Generator controls are as follows:

CHANNELSELECT

The top control buttons selects the channel. A channel button is not shown if itis OFF at the hardware level. Click on the trace colour/number required to becontrolled. Channel 1 (black) is on the left and channel 4 (yellow) is on theright.

SIGNAL Selects the waveform. The waveforms available are :-

Sine

Cosine

Triangle

Ramp

Square

Random

DC Level

External

At 100% Level, signals cover the full range as set by the hardware links,i.e. 0 to 2.000V, 0 to 4.000V or ±2.000V. It is important that the hardware linksare correctly reported to the software otherwise the output displayed is not whatis actually being output from the device.

The cyclic signals are output every degree. When SYNC is clicked on the podmenu, all degree counters are set to 0 degrees.

RANDOM This is a signal which varies in an unpredictable manner. It is not a white orpink noise generator.

DC LEVEL This output is controlled only by the Offset control.

EXTERNAL Outputs a signal which has been defined using Excel or other programs. Thenext section details the form of the Excel file required. Up to 16000 points perchannel may be output in External before the signal repeats. When SYNC isclicked on the pod menu, all external file counters are set to 0.

LEVEL Strictly an Attenuation. Adjusts the output range from 0 to 100% in 10% and1% steps.

OFFSET mV Adds a DC offset to the signal. The offset can be changed in 1000, 100, 10 or 1mV steps. In the 0 to 2V range the steps are half these values. The smallestoffset step is then 0.5mV so 2 clicks on the units section of the button arerequired to move the display by 1 mV.

FREQUENCY Controls the frequency (update rate) of the output signal. At frequencies below20Hz, the output is updated every degree. A channel set to 1Hz will be updated360 times per second. At higher frequencies, the system detects how manydegrees have passed since the last sample and changes the output to the newdegree value. If the degree step is greater than 36 (10 samples per cycle), the'too-fast' bar is shown below the affected channel selection button.

The frequency can be varied from 1mHz to 1kHz in unit & decade steps.

RATE For External signals, the output is controlled by a rate control rather than afrequency. The file will be incremented 1 point at the rate intervals chosen.

These controls are shown with all VIPS 20 displays and are also shown in the topimmediate/control area when the pod is not selected to the main display. This allows the signalgenerator outputs to be changed at any time.

25

Displays

Displays available are :-

OFF GRAPH BAR METER

Remember that the display sampling rate and the channel frequency are not connected.However, higher output frequencies cannot be achieved with the display on. If any channelfrequency is selected to be 10Hz or above, the display will be switched OFF. The minimumsample period is 10ms.

OFF No display of output signals.

GRAPH Displays the output values in graphical form. It is not available for sample periodsless than 10ms. All 4 channels can be displayed. Each channel is colour coded,1 - Black, 2 - White, 3 - Red, 4 - Yellow. These colours are also used in the scaleand control areas.

The graph resolution is 400x200, 500x250 or 625x312 depending on the systemresolution. The scale is 0 to 4.000 volts for unipolar ranges and ±2.000 volts forbipolar ranges.

BAR A Bar graph display of the instantaneous output value. Maximum update rate is 10per second.

METER A digital panel meter showing the instantaneous output value. Maximum updaterate is 10 per second.

Defining External DAC Files in EXCEL

Each DAC channel has an associated external file which may be defined using Excel or otherspreadsheet programs. Up to 16000 points for each DAC channel may be defined. If no signalis defined, External acts in the same way as DC LEVEL.

A separate file is created for each VIPS 20 pod. The file is loaded using the Ext File option ofthe pod menu and should have the extension .DAC. This file name is saved and will be reloadedwhen the system is started. Different pods can use the same of different external files.

The signals are defined in the first 4 columns of the spreadsheet, column A being the data forchannel 1 of the pod. The first row defines the number of points in the signal. This number isused to define the storage used for the signal and any data beyond the number of points definedwill be ignored. If a channel is not being used, enter 0 in the corresponding column in the firstrow or leave the column blank.

Enter the data in the column in counts in the range 0 to 4000. The output will depend on therange connections of the DAC. For 0 to 2V and 0 to 4V ranges, 0 count is 0 volts and 4000count is full scale, i.e. 2.000 or 4.000 volts. For the -2 to 2V range, 0 count is -2.000 volts, 2000count is 0 volts and 4000 count is 4.000 volts.

When the signals have been defined, save the sheet as a *.TXT file. This stores the file with aTAB character between columns and CR LF at the end of each row. The values are stored asASCII characters. To use the file, rename it with the extension .DAC.

Formulae may be used to define signals as only the values are stored in ∗.TXT files. If formulaeare being used, the sheet should be stored in normal Excel format as well as TXT format so thatthe signal may be edited at a later date.

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VIPS 30 Digital Input PodThe VIPS 30 pod provides 8 channels of opto-isolated Logic Input. A logic 1 is read when theopto-isolator is driven ON.


Opto-Isolated Inputs

When an external voltage is applied between the +ve input (Anode) and the -ve input (Cathode)of the opto-isolators an internal transistor switches on pulling down the input to the data buffer.This is read and displayed as a logic 1 by the VIPS software.

When connecting external voltages an external series resistor can be added to reduce the ONcurrent. To calculate the resistor required to achieve the minimum ON current for any external

voltage use the equation: R s e r ie sV e xt 1 1V

1m A=

− ⋅

External DC Input

If the computer cannot provide enough power from its printer port to power the VIPS then anexternal power source can be used. The external DC voltage is connected to the 2.1mm powersocket (Centre pin = negative). DC voltage range should be between 2V and 3.6V (ideally 2 x1.5V Cells).


Two labels may be entered - Upper and Lower. This refers to their position in annunciator andlist displays. On the event display the upper label is displayed to the left and the lower label isdisplayed to the right.

UPPER LABEL This is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required. Initially set to 'In n'

LOWER LABEL This, too, is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required. Initially set to 'In n'.


The Viewing/Control window shows an annunciator display of the 8 inputs. The display is blue ifthe opto input is driven, otherwise it is silver.

The main display options are:

EVENT Shows a history of the logic inputs in graphical form. Logic inputs are shownin blue. The identification labels are shown to the left and right of the displayarea. Trace high indicates that the input opto is powered.

ANNUN This is an annunciator type display of the current input levels. Blue indicatesthat the input opto is powered.

LIST A list of the most recent samples. A 1 indicates that the input opto ispowered.

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VIPS 40 Digital Output PodThe VIPS 40 pod provides 8 channels of Logic Output. The VIPS 40 takes 8 signals from thecomputer and provides 8 ON/OFF drive signals. The output is a pull-down transistor; a logic 1drives the output transistor ON.

VIPS 40 Hardware SetupOutputs

The outputs of the VIPS 40 are open collector; the output voltage is ‘pulled down’ to Vee whendriven ON. Series ‘pull up’ resistors have to be added to limit the current when connected todevices like LEDs etc.

For single supply circuits connect Vee to GND and connect GND to the external circuits GND.For dual supply circuits connect Vee to -ve rail (if switching load to -ve rail) and connect GND tothe external circuits GND. K is the cathode of the internal catching diodes and should beconnected to the +ve supply of the external circuit when driving inductive loads.

NOTE: All Vee connections are internally joined together and should be connected to GND or the-ve rail, not both. If the +5V output is used as the supply to any external loads ensure seriesresistors are used to keep the maximum load current

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VIPS 50 Digital Input/Output Pod

General

The VIPS 50 pod provides 8 channels of Logic Input and 8 channels of Logic Output.

The input section takes 8 logic signals or contact closures and reads the levels into thecomputer. A 0 volt signal or contact closed is shown as 0. A 5 volt signal or open circuit isshown as 1.

The output section outputs 8 logic signals. A 1 produces a 5 volt level and a 0 produces 0 volts.

This pod has 3 I/O options, Input only, Output only and Input/Output. The input only option hasthe same displays as the VIPS 30. The output only option has the same displays as the VIPS40. The input/output option has the display :-

Viewing/Control - Annunciator + Annunciator Switch

Main - EVENT with output switch

ANNUN Annunciator + Annunciator switch

LIST with output switch


Inputs

The inputs have internal ‘pull up’ resistors and can be switched low using external switches,transistors etc. The inputs switch state at CMOS levels and will interface directly to 5V CMOSand TTL circuits.

Outputs

The outputs correspond to CMOS levels and can directly interface to 5V CMOS and TTL circuits.

External DC Input

If the computer can not provide enough power from its printer port to power the VIPS then anexternal power source can be used. The external DC voltage is connected to the 2.1mm powersocket (Centre pin = negative). DC voltage range should be between 2V and 3.6V (ideally 2x1.5V Cells).


This pod can be configured in 3 ways :-

Input only Input/Output Output only

The display, but not the hardware set-up, changes depending on the option chosen.

Two labels may be entered - Input and Output. In Input/Output mode, these are the upper andlower labels on the annunciator and list displays and the left and right labels on the eventdisplay.

INPUT LABEL This is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required. Initially set to 'In n'

OUTPUT LABEL This, too, is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to labelthe channel as required. Initially set to 'Out n'. The output label area on anyof the displays is an output toggle control area when either of the outputoptions is selected.

29


The viewing/control window has an annunciator display whose format depends on the hardwareoption chosen:

INPUT ONLY Is the same as the VIPS 30 except that blue depicts a 5V logichigh or open circuit at the input. Silver depicts a logic 0 or closedcircuit.

OUTPUT ONLY Is the same as the VIPS 40 except that Brown depicts a 5V logichigh at the output and silver depicts a logic 0.

INPUT/OUTPUT Is a combination of the above 2 modes. The whole channel areais active as a click switch.

The main display options are:

EVENT ANNUN LIST

The form of the displays change depending on the hardware set-up :-

INPUT ONLY The displays are identical to the VIPS 30 pod except thatHigh/Blue/1 represents a 5V logic 1 or open circuit at the input andLow/Silver/0 represents 0V or closed circuit at the input.

OUTPUT ONLY The displays are identical to the VIPS 40 pod except thatHigh/red/1 represents a 5V logic 1 at the output and Low/Silver/0represents 0V at the output.

INPUT/OUTPUT Dual display of input and output states.

EVENT Shows a history of the logic inputs and outputs in graphical form. Logic inputs are theupper (blue) trace in each channel area and the outputs are the lower (brown) traces.The input identification labels are to the left and the output labels to the right of thedisplay. The control area to the right are also annunciator click switches. Trace highindicates input logic 1 (or open circuit) or output logic 1.

ANNUN This is an annunciator type display of the current input and output levels. Inputs arethe upper Blue areas - blue indicating a 5V logic 1 or open circuit and silver indicatinga logic 0 or closed circuit at the input. Outputs are the lower Red areas - red indicatinga 5V logic 1 and silver indicating a logic 0 at the output. Clicking anywhere in achannel area will toggle that output.

LIST The input is the left of the pair and is blue. A 1 indicates that the input is at logic 1 oropen-circuit.

The output is the right of the pair and is brown. A 1 indicates that the output is atlogic 1. Clicking in the label boxes at the top of the display will toggle the output.

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VIPS 60 Analogue Switch PodThe VIPS 60 pod provides 8 separately controlled single-pole-single-throw (SPST) analogueswitches. All switches conduct equally in either direction and on resistance (typ100Ω) is constantover the analogue signal range. Upon power-up all switches are off.

To use the VIPS60 as a multiplexer, tie all drains together (CM1 to CM8); the multiplexer inputsnow source each switch (NO1 to NO8).


When a switch is ‘ON’ it provides a low resistance path between the appropriate CM and NOterminals, i.e. CM1 and NO1 for Switch1.

External DC Input

If the computer cannot provide enough power from its printer port to power the VIPS 60 pod, thenan external power source can be used. The external DC voltage is connected to the 2.1mmpower socket (Centre pin = negative). Dc voltage range should be between 2V and 3.6V (ideally2x 1.5V Cells).


Two labels may be entered - Upper and Lower. This refers to their position in annunciator and listdisplays. On the event display the upper label is displayed to the left and the lower label isdisplayed to the right.

UPPER LABEL This is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required. Initially set to ‘Switch n’.

LOWER LABEL This, too, is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required. Initially set to ‘Switch n’. The lower label area on any ofthe displays is an output toggle control area.


The Viewing/Control window controls and indicates the state of the 8 switches. The display is redif the switch is ON, otherwise it is silver. Clicking within a channel box toggles the switch ON/OFF,i.e. the action is similar to a push switch.

The Main display options are:

EVENT Shows a history of the switch states in graphical form. Switch states areshown in red. The identification labels are shown to the left and right of thedisplay area. Trace high indicates that the switch is ‘ON’. Clicking in the labelboxes to the right of the display will toggle that switch.

ANNUN This is an annunciator type display of the current switch state. Red indicatesthat the switch is ‘ON’. Clicking anywhere in a channel area will toggle thatswitch.

LIST A list of the most recent switch states. A 1 indicates when a switch was ‘ON’.Clicking in the label boxes at the top of the display will toggle that switch.

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VIPS T100 Temperature Pod

General

The VIPS T100 pod provides 6 thermocouple inputs which will accept miniature thermocoupleplugs from any type of thermocouple. Linearisation for types B,E,J,K,N,R,S and T is provided.The display can be selected to display temperature in degrees Celsius, Fahrenheit or Kelvin. ACold Junction Sensor is fitted close to the thermocouple sockets. Measurements are made to0.1°C resolution.

Millivolt ranges are also provided.

The maximum sampling rate is 100ms for a single channel. Sampling and display update areseparated. Measurements are made at a constant rate and the latest reading is held in memory.When a sample is required, these stored readings are transferred to the display memory. As themaximum scan rate is 100ms per channel, it can take over 1/2 second for a change to appear onthe display event at the fastest update rate.


Viewing/Control - Bar Graph

Main - GRAPH

BAR

METER

LIST

T100 Hardware Setup

To measure temperatures connect a suitable thermocouple to one or more inputs, ensuring thecorrect type of miniature connector is used for the thermocouple. Note any unused inputs willdisplay a temperature close to ambient.

To measure voltages use a copper/copper miniature connector to ensure no thermoelectriceffects can cause errors.

An earth terminal has been provided to enable screened thermocouple cables to be used, thiscan be found on the case close to the thermocouple sockets.

Calibration

Calibration is guaranteed as in the specification for 1 year. Where owners wish to carry out re-calibration themselves, this should be done by skilled personnel with access to precisionequipment.

A Precision Voltage Source/Calibrator or a stable Voltage Source and 5½ digit voltmeter (1µVresolution) is required.

i) Remove the case lid by removing the 4 screws.

ii) Set the software to measure mV using the low range on TH 1.

iii) Connect 15.000mV to TH1.

iv) Adjust VR2 to display 15.000mV ± 0.008mV.

v) Set the software to measure mV using the high range on TH 1.

vi) Connect 60.000mV to TH1.

vii) Adjust VR1 to display 60.000mV ± 0.030mV.

viii) Carefully replace the lid.

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VIPS T100 Hardware Control

There are 4 areas in the hardware configuration box. Thermocouple Selection selects the typeof thermocouple and the scaling. Range sets the display range for the channel. Calibrationallows a software calibration of the readings for maximum accuracy. Alarms sets the level andpolarity of any alarms. Error displays error messages if any entry is outside the acceptablerange.

Thermocouple Selection

Label is an 8 character channel designator.

The thermocouple type being used is set. This selects the gain and linearisation used to convertthe voltage readings to temperature values. Thermocouple types T, E, J, K, N, S, R, B and directmV can be selected. Linearisation is performed using international standard polynomial tablesand the results are displayed to 0.1°C resolution.

The default settings are :-Label = Chan nUnits = Deg C

Type = K

Units can be Deg C (Celsius), Deg K (Kelvin) and Deg F (Fahrenheit). If type mV is selected,units can only be mV.

LABEL This is an 8 character channel designator. It allows the user to label thechannel as required.

TYPE Selects the thermocouple type or millivolt inputs.

UNITS Deg C, Deg K, Deg F or mV. mV is automatically selected if thethermocouple type is set to mV (millivolts).

ON If not ON, the channel is not sampled. This can be used to speed upscanning if maximum scan rate is required on a limited number of channels.

Range

Each thermocouple type has a different mV/temperature conversion characteristic. Some requirea higher gain than others, some can measure high temperatures and some are only effectiveover a low temperature range. High range, if applicable, sets the range to 2000°C and low rangesets the range to 500°C

Type High Range

2000 °C

Low Range

500 °C

T --- -200 to 400

E -200 to 1000 -200 to 500

J -210 to 1200 -210 to 500

K -200 to 1372 -200 to 500

N -200 to 1300 -200 to 500

S -50 to 1768 ---

R -50 to 1768 ---

B 250 to 1820 ---

mV ±100mV ±30

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Calibration

The hardware gain, ADC conversion and the software linearisation produce a result with 0.1°Cresolution. Individual thermocouples are not so accurate. For maximum accuracy, eachthermocouple should be calibrated. The calibration Gain and Offset controls allows an additionalsoftware calibration to be added to the measurements to produce more accurate readings from acalibrated thermocouple. The Gain is normally set to 1.0 and the Offset to 0 which does notaffect the measured readings.

Alarms

The VIPS T100 has a comprehensive alarm facility in all display modes. Each channel has 2alarm levels - A and B. Each may be set to be Off or to Action when the alarm is High or Low.The alarm level can be set anywhere within the measurement range and the levels are displayedand entered in degrees - C, K or F as selected by Units. The alarm state can be sent to a logicoutput pod so that appropriate action can be taken. A and B alarms can be sent to the same ordifferent pods.

The controls in the Alarms box are applicable to the pod as a whole.

ON Enables the alarm functions for the pod

A to Position Selects the logic pod to which the alarm status is sent. The destination canbe OFF or any of the 4 positions. Display the position using the Up/Downcontrols then click in the display area to select the destination. Thedestination is highlighted in blue.

A channel in the source pod will set the equivalent channel in the destinationpod. A destination pod channel will only be sent if it is designated as a logicoutput, ie it is a VIPS 40, VIPS 50 in output or in/out mode or a VIPS 60 pod.

B to Position As above except that it is the destination of alarm B status which is selected.

Alarm levels

Each channel has its own Alarm level controls. Only valid numbers can be set into the levelentry boxes, an appropriate error message being displayed if the alarm level is unacceptable.

A Level The alarm level can be set anywhere within the input range. Entry is intemperature or mV as selected by the unit control.

A High/Low/Off Allows the alarm sense to be set. A High alarm will trigger when the input ishigher than the value entered and a Low alarm will trigger when the input islower than the value entered. Off disables this alarm for this channel.

B Level As A Level above.

B High/Low/Off As A Level above.

Error

If any of the numeric entries is not a valid number or is outside the acceptable range, anappropriate error message will shown in the Error box. You cannot change channel or close thebox until an acceptable number is entered.

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VIPS T100 Display OptionsThe viewing/control window shows a Bar Graph of the inputs scaled as selected on the maindisplay. The Main display options are:

Graph Bar Meter ListGRAPH

GRAPH displays the incoming values in graphical form. All 6 channels can be displayed. Eachchannel is colour coded, 1 - Black, 2 - White, 3 - Red, 4 - Yellow, 5 - Blue, 6 - Violet (Magenta.These colours are also used in the scale and control areas.

A x1,2,4,8 expansion facility is available. This expands the timebase allowing faster signals tobe seen in more detail. The sample rate is unchanged but less samples are taken to fill thescreen.

The graph resolution is 400x200, 500x250 or 625x312 depending on the monitor resolution set.With Gain = 1, the full range of the input signal is shown. With Gain = 20, 1 single bit changecan be observed. With Gain = 1/8, a single channel can be fitted within a single grid area.

To the right of the screen, the scale of the selected channel is shown. The channel is selectedin the control area to the right of this. The scale area shows the top, mid and bottom screenvalues in engineering units as set by the hardware controls.

The control area allows display controls similar to the Gain and Shift controls of an oscilloscope.

Trace Controls

CHANNELSELECT

The top control buttons selects the channel. A channel button is not shown if it isOFF at the hardware level. Click in the box containing trace colour/numberrequired to be controlled.

DISPLAYON/OFF

Switches the display ON/OFF for that channel. This control only affects the currentpicture drawing, i.e. if it was OFF, switched ON then a redraw requested, it will beredrawn.

++/+– Selecting ++ will display only positive temperatures. +– allows the display ofnegative temperatures. ++/+– change with degree K displays but have no effect.

GAIN Ranges from 20 down to 1/8. A gain of 1 displays the whole input range.

SHIFT Moves the viewing area up or down. A shift of 25 moves the display by 1 division.The scale indicates the range being shown. The range provided might appearexcessive but is required to bring a signal sitting near full scale onto the screenwhen the highest gain is chosen.

AlarmsAlarm status and Alarm Accept button are shown when Alarms are enabled on the setupscreen. When a channel goes into alarm, the appropriate A or B level flashes red if it is a Highalarm and blue if it is a Low alarm. Accepting the alarm cancels the flashing. The display is thensteady red or blue if the alarm is on or clear if the alarm is off.

BARBAR displays the variable in Bar Graph form. Irrespective of the shift control, each trace will bedrawn from 0 degrees to the measured value. The scale and controls are the same as forGraph.

METERSelecting METER presents 8 Panel Meter displays. The instantaneous temperatures aredisplayed in degrees. The colour of the label and units is in the channel colour. Channel Displaymay be set ON or OFF. Alarms are controlled/displayed as in Graph. Channels which arehardware or display OFF are not displayed.

LISTLIST lists the previous values in numerical form. The channel label and units are shown aboveeach column. The time of sample is shown to the left of each line.

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Hardware Options

VIPS X-BOX Expansion Box

The X-BOX enables up to 4 VIPS pods to be connected to a single PC parallel port as well asmaintaining the printer connection to the PC. Any VIPS pod can be connected in any position; theappropriate pod type is assigned to each position by the user, see Software Overview section.

The printer can be used whilst VIPS pods are connected but they will have to be disabled duringprinting.

VIPS Connection Board

This connection board allows quick connection of individual signal lines to a VIPS pod. It providesa one to one connection of the 25 Way D-Type connector to two 12-way terminal blocks; refer tothe connections for the appropriate pod. The only pin that is not connected to the terminal blocksis pin 14. The terminal blocks can be unplugged from the connection board to permit easy wiringto the block. The terminal blocks can be separated into individual 2-way blocks, allowing theposition of connections to be moved without having to unscrew the terminal. The terminal blockscan be used in either a horizontal or vertical position.

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VIPSDDE

General

VIPS-DDE is a version of VIPS I/O software for use with other applications which support DDE.An example of an Excel implementation is provided in file VIPS.XLS.

A knowledge of DDE is assumed. Further details of DDE can be obtained from Microsoft’sWin32 Programmers Reference Manuals. The particular reference book covering DDE is Volume5. These manuals may be obtained in printed form individually or the complete reference set isincluded as part of the Microsoft Developer Library which comes with Microsoft’s MSDNsubscription Level 2.

All data is transferred in CF_TEXT format, i.e. data as ascii text characters with tab(char = 09)between data elements and CR LF at the end of each line.

Using VIPSDDE

APPLICATION

The APPLICATION is called VIPSDDE.

ASSIGN

Before using DDE to obtain or send data to/from pods, the printer port being used and the podtype in each position must be assigned. Just the pod type numbers are sent, i.e. send '10' toassign a VIPS10 pod. Use type 00, 0 or blank to indicate an unused position.

WM_DDE_INITIATE with APPLICATION = VIPSDDE and TOPIC = ASSIGN

WM_DDE_POKE with ITEM = TYPE and data = Port, Pod1, Pod2, Pod3 and Pod4 type numbers.

WM_DDE_TERMINATE

POSITION

The topics which transfer data to/from each of the pod positions are POS1, POS2, POS3 andPOS4. These will be referred to as POSn. Pod type specific information is contained in the datasent, not the way in which it is sent.

SETUP

Each channel must be setup before the system can be used. To set up a channel :-

WM_DDE_INITIATE with APPLICATION = VIPSDDE and TOPIC = POSn

WM_DDE_POKE with ITEM = SETUP and data = Channel No, A, B, C

A, B and C are pod type dependent. Details are given in the table below.

WM_DDE_REQUEST with ITEM = SETUP returns the measured value of the channel

WM_DDE_TERMINATE

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START

After all channels have been setup, the timing system of VIPSDDE must be started. This isachieved by sending :-

WM_DDE_INITIATE with APPLICATION = VIPSDDE and TOPIC = START

WM_DDE_TERMINATE

RUNNING THE SYSTEM

After starting the system, VIPSDDE is running. If a VIPS20 pod if fitted, it will be working as asignal generator. All other pods await further commands.

To sample a channel or output data to a channel, repeat the setup sequence. This outputs thechannel number, 3 pieces of data and returns the measured value. Two other routines, SCANand RUN, have been provided to make multi-channel measurement easier.

SCAN

Returns the measured value of all eight channels.


WM_DDE_REQUEST with ITEM = SCAN returns the measured value of 8 channels

WM_DDE_TERMINATE

The returned data will be in CF_TEXT format, i.e. ascii characters with tab (09) between dataitems and CR LF at the end of the group.

RUN

Returns the measured value of all eight channels.


WM_DDE_POKE with ITEM = RUN and data = ON/OFF Flag(1=ON,0=OFF), Number of scans, milli-seconds between scans.

WM_DDE_REQUEST with ITEM = RUN returns the measured value for n scans of 8 channels

WM_DDE_TERMINATE

The data sent is in CF_TEXT format, i.e. ascii characters with tab (09) between data items andCR LF at the end of the three items. The ON/OFF flag should be the ascii characterrepresentation of the numbers 1 or 0. Sending a poke with ON/OFF = 1 will start a run. WithON/OFF = 0, a run already started will be aborted. The scans already made will be returned bythe subsequent request.

The returned data will be in CF_TEXT format, i.e. ascii characters with tab (09) between dataitems and CR LF at the end of each line (scan) of data. The data should not be requested until itis known that the run is finished.

The maximum number of Scans is 1000 and the maximum scan interval is 1000 milliseconds.NOTE - 1000 scans at 1 second intervals will take 16.67 minutes.

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SUMMARY of DDE TRANSFERS

APPLICATION TOPIC ITEM : POKE REQUEST

VIPSDDE ASSIGN TYPE : Port, Type in pos 1-4 Nil

POS1

SETUP : Channel, Info A,B,C (see below) Count

POS2

SCAN : Nil Count 1 - 8

POS3

RUN : On/Off,N, ms NxCount 1-8, at ms afterPOS4 N*ms/1000 secs.

START Nil Nil Nil

RUN takes N scans at ms millisecond intervals. The maximum number of Scans is 1000 andmaximum scan interval is 1000 milliseconds. NOTE - 1000 scans at 1 second intervals will take16.67 minutes. A Run may be terminated by sending a Stop Run POKE with the ON/OFF flagset to 0. If the Run is stopped, a subsequent request will return the samples taken.

Run does not report when it is finished. The program calling VIPSDDE should calculate the totalrun time and send a Request after this interval.

SUMMARY of SETUP INFORMATION

Setup

Pod A B C

VIPS 10 0 = OFF 0 = Bipolar 0 = Differential

Else ON Else Unipolar Else Single-ended

VIPS 20 Channels 1-4 0 = 0 > 2V Level: 0 - 100% Offset: mV

1 = 0 > 4V

2 = ±2V

Channels 5-8 setsthese

0 = Sine 1 > 9 -3 > 2

parameters on Ch 1-4 1 = Triangle Frequency Units Frequency Multiplier

respectively. 2= Ramp Hz

3 = Square

4 = Random

5 = DC Level

VIPS 30 No meaning No meaning No meaning

VIPS 40 0 = OFFElse ON

No meaning No meaning



VIPS 60 0 = OFF No meaning No meaning

T100 0 = OFF 0 = Low Range 0 > 8 t/c types

Else ON Else High Range T E J K N S R B mV

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WARNING - DDE is not fast. When used with a VIPS 20 pod, any DDE activity will interrupt thesignal being generated. DDE is useful to setup a signal generator or to sample a measurementor group of measurements but should not be used to implement a real-time control strategy.

EXCEL ExampleThe example is in file Vips.xls. 7 sheets are used, 5 pod control sheets (Assign, Position1,Position2, Position3, Position4) and a program sheet (pod1).

STARTUPTo start, load VIPSDDE.EXE. This displays the TTI/VIPS logo then minimises the window. Noinformation is shown in this window. Excel should then be loaded and the file VIPS.xls opened.All inputs and outputs are controlled via the Excel program.

ASSIGN SHEETSets up the VIPS system. PORT (1-3) tells which parallel port to use. VIPS ---- Pod assigns apod type to each position. The Assign button must be pressed before the pods are setup. Podtypes numbers are automatically entered into the position sheets.

START must be pressed after all pods are Setup. This applies power to the pods and starts theVIP timer.

POSITION SHEETEach pod position has the same configuration. At the top are the 3 data items which will be sentwhen SETUP is pressed. SET ALL sets all 8 channels. Set All will take a minimum of 8seconds. The setup is given in the table below.

Setup Information

A B C

VIPS 10 0 = OFF 0 = Bipolar 0 =Differential

Else ON Else Unipolar Else Single-ended

VIPS 20 Channels 1-4 0 = 0 > 2V Level: 0 - 100% Offset: mV

1 = 0 > 4V

2 = ±2V

Channels 5-8 0 = Sine 1 > 9 -3 > 2

sets Ch 1-4 1 = Triangle Frequency Units Frequency Multiplier

2= Ramp Hz

3 = Square

4 = Random

5 = DC Level

VIPS 30 No meaning No meaning No meaning





VIPS 60 0 = OFF No meaning No meaning

T100 0 = OFF 0 = Low Range 0 > 8 t/c types

Else ON Else High Range T E J K N S R B mV

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VALUE

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