In today’s world, data is king. Collecting, analyzing, and acting on data is crucial for success in all industries, from manufacturing to healthcare to finance.

In process control and factory automation, data acquisition (DAQ) is key in helping make informed decisions for operation optimization. This blog post will explore the different types of DAQ modules and their applications.

Types of DAQ modules

DAQ modules are designed to measure or interface with different types of signals. Here are some of the most common types of DAQ modules:

  1. Analog Input Modules

    These modules measure analog signals, such as voltage, current, temperature, pressure, and so on. They typically include a range of channels, each capable of measuring a single analog signal. Most modules are designed to accept inputs from thermocouples, RTDs, and various transducers/transmitters outputting DC current/voltage. To improve measurement accuracy, the modules also include built-in signal conditioning, such as CJC for thermocouples, Lead Resistance Compensation for RTDs, and Analog filtering.

  2. Digital Input Modules

    These modules interface with digital signals, such as on/off switches, relays, and logic levels, They are used for detecting the state of a switch or sensor.

  3. Pulse Counter Modules

    These modules count digital signals such as electric pulses from devices such as electric meters, gas meters, proximity sensors, infrared sensors, etc. They can be used for energy monitoring/consumption, counting objects, measuring frequency and RPM, etc.

  4. Specialty Modules

    These modules are designed for specific applications, such as strain gauge measurement, sound, and vibration analysis, or high-speed data acquisition. They often include specialized signal conditioning, such as bridge completion or anti-aliasing filters, to ensure accurate measurement in challenging environments.

Applications of DAQ modules

DAQ modules have many applications in process control and factory automation. Here are some of the most common applications:

  1. To measure process parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc., for open-loop monitoring or closed-loop control.
  2. To measure/monitor energy usage.
  3. To monitor parameters in Renewable Energy Plants and Weather Monitoring Systems.
  4. Collect data during testing and validating products or systems, such as automotive, aerospace, or medical devices.
  5. Collect data for research and development in various fields, such as materials science, physics, or biology.

In conclusion, data acquisition modules are a crucial component of process control and factory automation, allowing companies to collect and analyze data for monitoring, control, testing, and research purposes. At PPI, we offer a wide range of DAQ modules to meet the needs of our customers. Our modules are designed to provide accurate and reliable measurement and control of various parameters, from analog signals to digital inputs and outputs.

Check out our product video 4 / 8 Channel DIN-Rail Analog Input Module