The board acquires up to 34,000 x 48 bit data samples at rates up to 1.1 kHz. It also contains two standard plus two optional 16 bit DAC's. Two provide control effort output to the I/O electronics box and the two optional ones may be used for the real-time analog output of any system states. These may be viewed on an oscilloscope, plotter, or spectrum analyzer. The board also includes four encoder counters with 48 bit range @ 10 MHz to reliably provide position data at all system speeds and travel ranges. All I/O signals are opto-isolated for noise immunity. This board is a version of PMAC technology provided through Delta Tau Data Systems of Northridge California and incorporates ECP's special I/O configuration and proprietary firmware. In addition to real-time control support, ECP's imbedded firmware carries out important system safety functions. It continuously monitors the system for mechanical over-travel, over-speed, motor-amplifier over-current, and processor fault (watch-dog function) and safely disables the system drive should any out-of-tolerance condition occur. These features have proven to be of great value in assuring that ECP systems reliably stand up to continuous use in the laboratory. |