High-speed data acquisition for the Princeton University Dynamic Model Track

Abstract

Real time analysis of data can reduce the time involved in exploring dynamic systems. The failure of the data acquisition system at the Princeton Dynamic Model Track prompted its replacement with a real time data acquisition system. Data can be obtained from an experiment and analyzed during and immediately following a data run. The new system employs high speed analog to digital conversion and a small computer to collect data. Sampling rates of 1000 hertz over 44 channels (44,000 words/sec) are obtainable. The data can be accessed as it enters the computer's environment where it may be displayed or stored for later processing. The system was tested on a helicopter rotor steep descent experiment. The data collected compares with previous data from a similar experiment