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SignalStar VIBRATION CONTROLLERS
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The Data Physics 900 Series Vibration Controllers integrate innovative vibration control algorithms with a new distributed real-time signal processing engine to provide extraordinary vibration control performance. With a modular, gigabit Ethernet architecture, the 900 Series can be expanded to over 1,000 channels for laboratory use.
The SignalStar Scalar controller is designed as a capable and user friendly vibration controller suitable for small channel count applications. Scalar offers the same control quality as the high powered Vector because it shares the DSP architecture and control algorithms with SignalStar Vector and Matrix. Scalar can be configured to meet your current needs and later upgraded as your requirements increase.
SignalStar Vector incorporates the Data Physics DSP centric Abacus hardware in a modular, expandable system, providing comprehensive vibration control capabilities with powerful analysis features. The SignalStar user interface makes Vector easy enough for the novice while providing advanced control and analysis features to meet the most demanding test requirements.
4 to 32 input channels
Redefining the Boundaries of Vibration Control SignalStar Matrix sets the standard for control performance in multi shaker applications. Matrix provides both multishaker vibration control and high channel count single shaker vibration control on the DSP centric Abacus signal processing platform.
ABACUS 900 SERIES
The new Abacus 900 Series hardware platform is a powerful, real-time, distributed digital signal processing system. The Gigabit Ethernet network architecture allows the systems to be used independently or combined to create larger systems with over 1,000 channels. Systems are comprised of channel cards with up to six channels per card. Two channels on each card are reconfigurable by the user as inputs, outputs or tachometers allowing the system to be configured as needed for each test.
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Up to 216 kSamples/s for 80 kHz of alias-free bandwidth
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24-bit analog-to-digital conversion with up to
150 dB dynamic range -
Channel-to-channel phase accuracy of better than 0.5 deg
at 40 kHz
TEST MODES
The SignalCalc test suite includes a broad range of vibration control and dynamic signal analysis tools and provides a seamless environment for simultaneous vibration control and signal analysis. The 900 Series Vibration Controller applications include
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Random Vibration Control
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Sine Vibration Control
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Shock Vibration Control
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SRS Synthesis Control
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Mixed Mode Control (Sine on Random, Random on Random)
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Sine Resonance Search and Dwell Control
Simplified Test Analysis
The SignalCalc 900 Series user interface simplifies test setup and run-time operations. Enter the test profile and the configuration wizard automatically sets up associated control and measurement parameters. Import shaker parameters from a large database of standard models to verify test feasibility. All setup, project, test article, and customer information is saved along with measurement data in a database. Easily search for data from different test runs and test types for analysis and report generation.
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Manage tests and data using the built-in relational database
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Streamline testing by running multiple simultaneous real-time measurements
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Define custom real-time signal processing functions using mathematical operations, including, integration, differentiation, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, matrix operations, filters (low pass, high pass and bandpass), Fourier Transform, Inverse Fourier Transform
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Generate high-quality custom reports
Enhanced Signal Analysis Tools
The SignalCalc 900 Series has a unique ability to add signal analysis measurements to a vibration control test. For example, narrowband FFT, third octave, and histogram measurements can run simultaneously with the vibration control test. These measurements are configured using independent sample rates, bandwidths, block sizes, etc. Independent acquisition, analysis and control systems with separate hardware are no longer required. Signal analysis measurements are immediately available, removing the delay of waiting for post-processing of recorded data.
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The 900 Series Dynamic Signal Analyzer software offers signal analysis solutions for a wide range of dynamic testing applications:
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General FFT Analysis
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Data Acquisition and Waterfall Analysis
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Throughput Recording & Playback Analysis
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Structural Analysis
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Acoustic Analysis
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Rotating Machinery Analysis
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Environmental Test Data Analysis
User-Defined Real-Time Signal Processing
SignalCalc 900 Series signal processing tools set includes user-defined custom signal processing. These algorithms are processed during the test in real-time using the embedded digital signal processors in the 901 hardware. The results of these algorithms may be displayed during the test and saved with test data.
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User-defined signal processing options include:
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Channel Math – Creation of “User Channels” using mathematical operations on time-domain signals from input channels: Integration, Differentiation, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division of Channel, Matrix Math, Low Pass, High Pass, and Band Pass Filtering.
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Signal Math – Creation of “User Signals” using mathematical operations on processed time and frequency domain signals: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, FFT, IFFT, CFFT, ICFFT.
SIGNALSTAR SCALAR
The SignalStar Scalar controller is designed as a capable and user friendly vibration controller suitable for small channel count applications. Scalar offers the same control quality as the high powered Vector because it shares the DSP architecture and control algorithms with SignalStar Vector and Matrix. Scalar can be configured to meet your current needs and later upgraded as your requirements increase.
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2 to 8 input channels
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24-bit ADC and DAC for 120 to 150 dB dynamic range
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32-bit floating point digital signal processors
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Channel selectable IEPE/ICP power
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Full suite of vibration control and analysis:
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sine
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random
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classical shock
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transient shock
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SRS shock
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mixed mode (sine and random on random)
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time replication
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dynamic signal analysis
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Capable of running via Ethernet or via the onboard CPU by connecting a keyboard, mouse, and monitor
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Intuitive and simplified user interface
Optimised for Simplicity
Scalar is based on the acclaimed SignalStar intuitive graphical user interface but made simpler for the novice user by limiting the parameters to those essential to the control task. It gives you the best of both worlds. No other vibration controller compares with the combination of simplicity and powerful control in a package that costs so little.
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SignalStar Scalar is designed with ease of use in mind. Each control application follows the same simple steps for test setup. Test parameters are organized in a single dialog that leads the user through setup of control parameters, reference profile, and input channels. The run schedule lists all automatic operations during the test such as level changes, dwell operations, data saves, and printing commands.
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Tests can be run in a fully automatic mode or the user can manually modify test functions from the test control panel. The optional security feature allows passwords and permissions to be set for each user. Permissions can be set based on the experience level of the user. This enables Scalar to have the power and flexibility to run difficult tests, while retaining the ease of operation and safety required for novice users.
Powerful DSP Based System
SignalStar Scalar derives its capability from the acknowledged leader of vibration control, SignalStar Vector, incorporating the same powerful Abacus digital signal processing hardware and control algorithms.
Scalar is offered in a basic configuration with only the most commonly needed features. Unlike most entry level controllers, Scalar can be configured with optional features that are usually offered only on the most advanced vibration controllers, making it easy to configure just the right system for your test and your budget.
The ability to add software options in the future also protects your investment in Scalar as your testing needs grow.
Sophisticated Safety Features
Scalar provides extensive safety features to protect test equipment and the device under test. Its advanced realtime control algorithms and high signal to noise ratio guarantees that the controller will maintain proper testing levels by adapting quickly to dynamic structures. Expected peak displacement, velocity, and acceleration are compared to shaker limits prior to running the test.
During Pretest, the system determines if the loop is open or closed for all control channels and reports if poor test conditions exist. The control signal is continuously compared against alarm and abort limits and, if the control signal drops out due to a dislodged accelerometer or broken cable, the system instantly aborts.
The large external abort switch is connected directly to the control engine to ensure rapid safe shutdown under any circumstances.
Comprehensive Test Documentation
Each time a test is run, Scalar automatically documents every event that occurs to ensure that all information pertinent to the current run is saved.
At the beginning of the test, if Run Notes are enabled, up to eight user defined prompts can be displayed requiring the operator to enter key test identification information such as name, date, or test item serial number.
During the test, information such as date and time of start, operator interactions, and reason for test ending are automatically recorded in the Run Log. When a test ends, Scalar stores all signals to record ending conditions.
In addition, all scheduled and operator selected data Saves are linked to the Run and its documentation. With complete documentation, you can be certain all relevant information is always available for review and reports.
Customized reports can be created with your own templates for headers and footers, and can include graphics, such as your company logo.
VECTOR
SignalStar Vector incorporates the Data Physics DSP centric Abacus hardware in a modular, expandable system, providing comprehensive vibration control capabilities with powerful analysis features. The SignalStar user interface makes Vector easy enough for the novice while providing advanced control and analysis features to meet the most demanding test requirements.
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4 to 32 input channels
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24-bit ADC and DAC for 120 to 150 dB dynamic range
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32-bit floating point digital signal processors
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Channel selectable IEPE/ICP power
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Full suite of vibration control and analysis:
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sine
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random
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classical shock
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transient shock
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SRS shock
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mixed mode (sine and random on random)
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time replication
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dynamic signal analysis
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Intuitive user interface
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Advanced vibration control and analysis features
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Optional local throughput disk
The Industry Standard
SignalStar Vector is a vibration controller, or random vibration controller, that runs on Abacus, the world’s first DSPcentric engine. Vector provides a comprehensive system satisfying all modes of vibration testing: Random, Sine, Resonance Search and Dwell, Classical Shock, SRS, Transient, Sine on Random vibration testing, Random on Random, and FFT Analysis.
Powerful DSP Centric Architecture
Closed loop vibration control requires a large amount of real-time computation. SignalStar Vector Vibration Controller distributes this burden over multiple Digital Signal Processors.
Vector can be configured with 4 to 32 channels, any or all of which can be combined into one control signal as an averaged or external spectrum.
Remaining inputs may be used as measurement and limit channels to protect the test item. Differential inputs on all channels eliminate potential ground loop problems and provide a high level of protection against noisy environments.
With a 24 bit ADC per channel, you get increased signal-to-noise ratio for accurate measurements required to control “high-Q” resonances or deeply notched references. Dual cascaded DACs with reconstruction filters generate pure analog signals for all applications, including true analog sine-sweep to excite all frequencies in a specified band.
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SignalStar Vector Vibration Controller interfaces to any PC, desktop or laptop, running Windows via a high speed Ethernet connection.
Advanced Control and Analysis Capabilities
Vector benefits from more than 30 years of ongoing development of proprietary algorithms for closed loop vibration control. Vector vibration control software encompasses the complete range of vibration environments.
Multi reference limit profiles provide the ability to limit the drive signal at frequencies where vibration levels can cause damage to the test article. Sine employs high quality digital tracking filters to accurately measure amplitude of true continuous swept sine signals.
The resonance search and dwell option automates the identification of resonances and enables phase tracked dwell for fatigue testing.
All inputs are available for the analysis of the dynamic response of devices under test.
The powerful user interface makes extensive online analysis possible, and the displays can be configured with up to 32 graph windows containing up to 16 signals each. All relevant signals are available for live display such as Control, Response Channels, Drive, Error, Transfer Functions, Reference, and Tolerance Limits.
Vector has the ability to make independent measurements of transfer functions, auto spectra, and cross spectra during random vibration control tests. These measurements may be independently scheduled to occur at any time during the random test and may be tailored to the analysis task. Measurement data may be used for further analysis, such as operating deflection shape and operating modal analysis.
Throuhgput to Disk
Disk throughput allows continuous (gap free) simultaneous time streaming to the local disk in the Abacus hardware during vibration control testing for all channels at up to 107 kHz.
Throughput can be manually started and stopped multiple times during a single test, and throughput data can be post processed using either SignalCalc Analyzer or SignalCalc DSA software. Analysis Options include auto and cross spectrum analysis, Sine Data Reduction, and SRS Analysis.
MATRIX
Redefining the Boundaries of Vibration Control SignalStar Matrix sets the standard for control performance in multi shaker applications. Matrix provides both multishaker vibration control and high channel count single shaker vibration control on the DSP centric Abacus signal processing platform.
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Multishaker vibration control, 2 to 16 shakers
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Multiple and single shaker vibration control, 40 to 1024 input channels
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24-bit ADC and DAC with 120 to 150 dB dynamic range
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Optional local throughput disk
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Full suite of application software with an intuitive interface
Acclaimed Data Physics Algorithms
SignalStar Matrix Vibration Controller unites the all new Abacus DSPcentric hardware platform with the highly acclaimed Data Physics vibration control software to produce a complete and fully integrated solution redefining the boundaries of vibration testing. The intuitive user interface makes it easy to setup and run the most sophisticated vibration tests to the top specifications in the Industry.
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SignalStar Matrix is the preferred vibration controller for high end multi shaker control applications. Matrix provides coupled and uncoupled multi shaker control for up to 16 shakers. In single shaker applications, Matrix supports up to 1024 input channels which can all be used in any combination of control and limit channels.
Abacus distributed DSP architecture provides unlimited expansion possibilities. Multiple 32 channel Abacus chassis are connected to the host PC through a Gigabit network switch. Synchronization cables between Abacus chassis ensures excellent phase match between channels in the system.
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Abacus also provides software selectable single ended and differential inputs to eliminate common mode noise associated with ground loop problems. IEPE/ICP power for transducers can be selected in the software and also supports TEDS Smart transducers.
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The Abacus distributed digital signal processor hardware architecture is ideal for vibration control applications, where DSP speed is essential for realtime control. A 32-bit floating point digital signal processor on each module supports up to 8 input channels and 2 output channels and ensures sufficient control processing power with additional input channels. A local throughput disk in each 32 channel Abacus chassis means that time data can be streamed gap-free to disk during control at 107 kHz on all channels, regardless of the number of channels or the number of Abacus chassis.
Multishaker Vibration Control
The real vibration environment for a structure is complex with multiple excitation sources. Using SignalStar Matrix, it is now possible to perform more precise and realistic testing than ever before, using multiple shakers to simulate the complex environment.
Matrix addresses the complete range of multi shaker test requirements, from IEEE 344 multi axis seismic testing to 6 DOF time data replication testing. Matrix uses continuous control to adapt to the dynamics of the system under test. Compensating the cross coupled dynamic responses of the multiple inputs simultaneously yields high control accuracy.
Matrix offers independent reference definition of each control point with defined phase and coherence between control points. Matrix offers control capability for all multishaker scenarios from automotive durability testing to advanced spacecraft testing.
Multi Shaker Single Axis
Large products, particularly those that are physically long such as space vehicles, may require more complex testing where more than one shaker is used to provide controlled vibration at different points of the structure. This can involve the control of the individual vibration profiles and of the phase relationships between them.
Multi Shaker Multi Axis (Direct)
Entire automobiles, aircraft, turbomachinery and other large structures are subjected to the simultaneous excitation of multiple shakers, each directly attached to a point of environmental load input. This provides a realistic simulation of the operational loading under laboratory control. Motion Replication, such as road simulation, is often performed in this configuration.
Multi Shaker Multi Axis (Table)
Components and substructures can be tested on specially designed shaker tables with motion in many degrees of freedom. Seismic qualification tests are performed by mounting a test item to a large multi axis shaker table. Automotive subassemblies are often tested on smaller multi axis tables.