Signals and Computerised Instrument Systems

Interfacing of instrument systems to allow for the control of the instrument using a computer is a key skill for an instrumentation scientist or engineer. The purpose of such computerised instrument systems is often signal measurement or process control. The content of this module builds on aspects introduced in previous modules and includes: understanding signals, making measurements of signals, interfacing instruments, and setting up computerised instrument systems.

1. Demonstrate a conceptual, theoretical and practical understanding of signals, including signal measurement and signal sampling.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles, operation and limitations of digital sampling.

3. Describe various Analogue to Digital Convertors (ADCs) and Digital to Analogue Convertors (DACs) and be aware of their relative strengths, weaknesses, limitations and application suitability.

4. Demonstrate a conceptual, theoretical and practical understanding of aspects of working with signals in the time domain and temporal frequency domain, including transforming between domains.

5. Demonstrate awareness of various programming environments and communication protocols used in industrial and scientific settings for data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation purposes.

6. Use a relevant programming environment to set up a range of computerised instrument systems for the purpose of data acquisition and control systems.