Tag Archive for: analog-to-digital

Mastering The Signal Chain in Test and Measurement
In test and measurement, Interface defines the signal chain as the interconnected hardware and software continuum that converts a physical event into validated engineering units. It encompasses the raw strain gage bridge from a load cell, regulated excitation sources, local analog conditioning, filtering, high-resolution digitization, network transmission, and the final analytical software interface. Learn engineering tips, application highlights, and why modern test and measurement requires planning for the entire signal chain to preserve data integrity.

High-Fidelity 101
Interface 101 series details high-fidelity (Hi-Fi), a term referencing how accurately a measurement system reproduces the characteristics of a physical input. Load cell users may require a high-fidelity system where the digital output precisely reflects the mechanical force applied to the sensor. This integrity must be maintained throughout the entire signal chain, from the physical deformation of the strain gage to the final data output. Hi-Fi is very important in aerospace, additive manufacturing, and product efficiency such as lightweighting.

Analog-to-Digital Converters 101
Interface analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) are vital in advanced force measurement systems. These devices connect the analog output of force transducers to digital inputs for data acquisition and analysis. Interface load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors produce a small analog voltage proportional to the applied force. This signal needs careful conditioning and conversion before it can be used for logging, viewing, and analysis. The ADC carries out this important conversion, changing the continuous analog voltage into a discrete digital representation.