JP-1 Data Muncher: A general purpose stand alone acquisition device

Abstract

JP-1 as a data acquisition device is capable of gathering data in terms of voltages for specified time intervals. It allows for 6 sampling time choices ranging from 1 sample per second to 1 per 0.5 millisecond, JP-1 has a memory capacity of 8 kilobytes. This capability together with JP-1's user available features allows for several trials to be stored at a time. Actual data processing is done through a microcomputer to which data is transferred from JP-1 through a simple communications protocol and interface. JP-1's 8 bit parallel port allows for fast data transmission. Any microcomputer with an eight bit parallel data line and three control signals may be used to get data from JP-1. Furthermore, JP-l’s compact design allows for easy handling and use. Any 6-7 volt power supply including batteries can satisfy the necessary power requirements. Space for an internal battery is provided to supply the standby power supply requirements of JP-1's 6264 static RAM to preserve its contents during transport or field applications. Lastly, JP-1's features allows for easy application and interfacing with any physics experiment as long the data can be transformed in terms of voltages. JP-1 is very effective for slow signals, the type which can not captured by most oscilloscopes.