Converting legacy equipment into a distributed laboratory instrument system using network-ready microcontroller boards

Abstract

We describe here how to convert a legacy microcontroller-based instrument into a networked distributed laboratory instrument system that could be used for monitoring and control of other devices through the internet. The system comprises a standard microcontroller board, a network-ready microcontroller board, a hub or intelligent switch for connection to other computers in the network, a local PC for data storage and processing, and remote PC for external monitoring and control.