Outputting Voltages to a Computer

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around interfacing an old oxygen sensor that outputs a DC voltage of 1-5 V with a computer. Participants explore options for data acquisition and logging, considering both commercial products and DIY solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the suitability of a specific analog to digital converter for connecting the oxygen sensor to a computer.
  • Another participant suggests that the analog to digital converter should work for reading and logging data, and mentions the possibility of using a microcontroller for a potentially cheaper solution.
  • A third participant references a low-cost alternative data acquisition unit and suggests it may be more user-friendly for beginners.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the suggestions and clarifies their goal of simply reading and eventually recording the data using software like Excel.
  • Another participant points out that the suggested product has an optional Excel add-on, indicating it would meet the user's needs for data logging.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the suggested analog to digital converters could work for the intended purpose, but there are multiple competing views regarding the best approach and products to use.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the user's technical background and specific needs for data logging remain unaddressed. The discussion does not resolve which product is definitively better for the user's situation.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals looking to interface sensors with computers, particularly those interested in data acquisition and logging solutions.

Cesium
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First off, I had no idea in which subforum to post this, so moderators feel free to move this if appropriate.

I have an old oxygen sensor (electrode) which outputs a DC voltage ranging from 1-5 V which has no interface to a computer. So I was wondering if something like this- http://www.dataq.com/products/startkit/di148.htm - would work for outputting the voltage to a computer.

Thanks for any help as I have no experience in things like this.
 
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This analog to digital converter should work fine. Are you looking to just read the data or bring it into a program? If you are only looking to view the data and maybe log it then this should work fine. I didn't look to deeply into the software it comes with but you will be able to read the data. If you have any knowledge of microcontrollers it would be cheaper to use the built in analog to digital converter then communicate the data to the computer using the serial port. Then the data could be used in real time with a program you write.
 
According to the data sheet, it should work fine. Another low cost unit you should look at is the http://labjack.com/index.php" . I think it might be easier for someone just getting started.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks both of you for your help. I just wanted to make sure I was looking at the right type of product before buying something. All I want to do is read the data and be able to record it eventually with something like Excel.
 

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