DACS: Distributed I/O, data acquisition for test applications
Packaged. Precise. Tough.
DACS is a rugged, synchronised distributed I/O system built for reliable measurement and control in demanding test environments. It connects seamlessly to sensors, measurement devices, computers, and other signal sources, enabling efficient data manipulation for comprehensive measurement and analysis.
DACS excels in applications where precision, durability and deterministic timing are critical. Its fully packaged IP67 design, microsecond level synchronisation and simple drop in deployment make it a strong fit for a range of test requirements.
Distributed I/O
DACS’s robust design enables measurements and setpoints close to the signal for better quality, simplified connection and synchronisation between modules.
Powerful
DACS provides real time high accuracy 24bit mixed signal measurement with on-board calibration and data is available in raw ADC or engineering units.
Easy to Deploy
Multiple units can be added and removed from your configured EtherCAT network and are 24VDC powered for flexibility.
40+ years of testing
DACS is our third-generation I/O, applying experience from decades of providing precise measurement and control systems
Modular Data Acquisition
DACS is packaged as a solution to meet your test requirements.
Specifications
- High resolutions of 24-bit inputs and 18-bit outputs
- 1 kHz on every channel simultaneously with internal sampling up to 24 kHz
- On-board ARM processing enables high speed calculations – e.g. averaging, RMS
- Analogue (voltage and current) temperature (RTD TC), frequency, digital (i/o) encoders.
- All ports are individually galvanically isolated
- All signals connections are reverse voltage and short circuit protected
- Channel calibration is stored on board and moves with the DACS unit
- IP 67 rated
- Integrated connector options
- M12 4-12 poles per port
- TC’s 2 per port – integrated CJC
- D-type – support existing transducer panels
- Operates in environments from -40 C to +50 C
DACS Modules
- Each DACS module is standalone, driven by decentralised clocks to deliver perfect synchronisation via a real-time EtherCAT network
- The DACS architecture combines variable rate control and data acquisition to facilitate complex test scenarios and the generation of coherent datasets
- The ruggedised chassis with IP 67 rating and protected channel electronics enable highly flexible deployment capabilities
- Thermocouples + built in support for the 8 common types
- RTD /PRT temperature
- Analogue (voltage and current) In / Out +
- Encoder +
- Frequency In / Out +
- Digital In / Out +
Enhance your data acquisition with CADET Control Software
Add CADET, Sierra CP’s proven, open and intuitive control, automation and datalogging platform to DACS for a complete solution.
CADET enables operational personnel to easily compile test programs and analyse the data during or at the completion of a test.
Data Acquisition and Control for any test application
As a distributed data acquisition and control system, DACS can be used wherever you need it. Whether you need a single system for a lab bench or thermal test enclosure, want to add one to an existing system, or plan to start small and expand your test requirements, DACS is a versatile plug and play solution.
Distributed I/O
DACS is designed for environments where vibration may cause standard lab hardware to fail.
Climatic chambers
DACS maintains stable data in temperature extremes, fluids, dust and electrical noise.
Production lines
Supports long, continuous test runs with reliable, repeatable measurement.
Research centres
Provides precise, time-aligned data and deterministic synchronisation.
Large distributed rigs
Modules close to signals, short cable lengths, tidier installations, with permanent and mobile modules working in parallel.
Growing test facilities
Scales effortlessly by adding modules or reconfiguring I/O.
Cabinet-free data acquisition system
The IP67-rated DACS housing shields the electronics from vibration, fluids, dust, electrical noise and temperature extremes. It can be placed in challenging test environments without a cabinet, reducing cost and complexity.
Packaged Data Acquisition Solution
For customers who want a complete, ready-to-run solution, DACS can be supplied as part of a full test cell package. From I/O architecture to automation, from control system deployment to final commissioning, we can deliver everything as one engineered system.
