Automated measurement

Abstract

This chapter is intended to provide an awareness of the current techniques in the use of on-line computers for measurement. This will be of interest to both the developers and users of environmental sensors, for example:

• • those developing and evaluating sensors in the laboratory will find a wide range of on-line techniques of interest (A/D modules, GPIB, RS 232, CAMAC, Rack systems)

• • those involved in the use of sensors for environmental measurement will be interested in techniques of portable data logging and in methods of transmitting data over long distances

• • those developing sensors for the market place should be aware of the techniques that are being incorporated into the sensor unit and the systems that may be employed by future customers using the sensors (smart devices, distributed systems, fieldbus).