MultiLab CE Guia de Usuario

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User GuideMultiLab CE for the Nova5000

Integrating StudentComputing & Science

MultiLab CE User Guide

For the Nova5000

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2006 Fourier Systems Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this document in any manner without the prior written consent of Fourier Systems Ltd. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text include: Nova5000, MultiLab, Vernier Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. February 2007 P/N BK085 Rev: C

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction to MultiLab 1

1.1. MultiLab Window Layout 1

1.2. MultiLab Main Toolbar 4

1.3. MultiLab Graph Toolbar 5

1.4. Meters View Toolbar 6

Chapter 2: Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000 7

Chapter 3: Operating MultiLab 11

3.1. Collecting Data 11 3.1.1. Launching MultiLab 11 3.1.2. Connecting the Sensors 11 3.1.3. Setting up the Sensor 12 3.1.4. Select Display 15 3.1.5. Recording Data 16 3.1.6. Saving your Data 16

3.2. Viewing Data 17 3.2.1. Data Map 17 3.2.2. Graph View 18 3.2.3. Table View 19 3.2.4. Meter View 20 3.2.5. Previewing Data 21

3.3. Opening and Downloading Data Sets 22 3.3.1. Opening Saved Data Sets 22 3.3.2. Downloading Data Sets 22

3.4. Analyzing the Data 23 3.4.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates 23 3.4.2. Reading the Difference between Two Coordinate Values 24 3.4.3. Using the Analysis Functions 24 3.4.4. Statistics 25

3.5. Printing 25

3.6. Exporting/Importing CSV Files 26 3.6.1. Exporting CSV Files 26

3.6.2. Importing CSV Files 27

3.7. Resetting the Logger 28

Chapter 4: Configuring Sensors in MultiLab 29

4.1. Choosing the Right Setup 29 4.1.1. Sampling Rate 29 4.1.2. Manual Sampling 30 4.1.3. Continuous Sampling 31

4.2. Programming Rules and Limitations 31 4.2.1. Number of Sampling Points 31 4.2.2. Maximum Sampling Rates 32

4.3. Auto Detect Sensors 32

4.4. Setting the Zero Point of a Sensor 33

4.5. Averaging Sensor Readings 34

4.6. Triggering 35

4.7. The Timing Wizard 36

4.8. Calibrating Sensors 42 4.8.1. Hardware Offset Calibration 43 4.8.2. Nova5000 Automatic Zero Calibration 43 4.8.3. pH Temperature Compensation 44 4.8.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration 44 4.8.5. Factory Calibration (No Calibration Required) 45

4.9. Defining New Sensors 45

Chapter 5: The Analysis Wizard 49

5.1. Using the Analysis Wizard 49

5.2. Analysis Functions List 50

5.3. The Timing Analysis Wizard 54 5.3.1. Working with the Analysis Timing Wizard 54 5.3.2. Measuring Methods 55 5.3.3. Time Schemes and Calculations 59 5.3.4. Tips on using the Timing Wizard 64

Chapter 6: Working in Graph View 67

6.1. The Cursor 67

6.2. Autoscale/Graph Properties 68 6.2.1. Autoscale 68 6.2.2. Manual Scaling 68 6.2.3. Selecting the X-axis 69 6.2.4. Formatting the Graph Colors 69

6.3. Zooming 70 6.3.1. Zooming into a Specific Area 70

6.4. Annotations 70

6.5. Adding a Graph to the Project 71

6.6. Smoothing 71

6.7. Prediction Tool 72

6.8. Stretch/Compress Axis Tool 72

Chapter 7: Additional Tool Menu Options 73

7.1. Unit Settings 73

7.2. Graph Title 74

7.3. Crop 74

Chapter 8: The Workbook 75

8.1. Working with the Workbook Feature 75

8.2. Opening a Worksheet 75

8.3. Create your own Worksheet 76

Chapter 9: Running the Nova5000 Logger from a PC 79

Appendix A: Sensors Supported by the Nova5000 81

Appendix B: Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor 85

Appendix C: Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications 87

Customer Support Fourier Systems is always ready to provide you with any technical support you might need regarding MultiLab, or the Nova5000. Please contact us as follows: • Toll-free telephone (USA only): 1-866-771-NOVA • e-mail: [email protected] • Web: http://www.fourier-sys.com/support_support.html

Chapter 1 – Introduction to MultiLab 1

Chapter 1: Introduction to MultiLab

Fourier Systems has developed a Windows CE version of its renowned MultiLab software, supporting the Nova5000's data logging capability. MultiLab is a powerful software tool, letting you collect, display and analyze data, turning the Nova5000 into a true Digital Lab and engaging students with science. Using the Nova5000's four sensor ports, you can run up to eight sensors simultaneously from a selection of over 50 Fourier sensors, or up to 20 Vernier sensors too. MultiLab's flexible and comprehensive features let you: • Collect and display data online, in real-time • Display data in graphs, tables, and meters • Analyze data using the Analysis Wizard • Import/Export data as CSV files • Run Workbooks to guide students through lab activities • Open video files to watch prerecorded experiments • And much more

Note: Connect your Nova5000 to a PC and benefit from the more extensive features of the full MultiLab for PC version. See page 79 for more details.

1.1. MultiLab Window Layout

The MultiLab interface is simple and innovative. You can switch between three different display views, depending on how you want your data displayed during real-time data logging.

2 Chapter 1 – Introduction to MultiLab

• Graph view (the default view when opening MultiLab)

• Table view

Data Map


• Meter view

1.1.1. Main Window Layout

The main window layout below is the default layout first visible when launching MultiLab.


1.1.2. Status and Title Bars

The bottom pane of the MultiLab window consists of the Status bar and Title bar.

Status bar Title barStatus bar Title bar

Status Bar The Status bar indicates the current status of the MultiLab software. For example: • Logger ready – MultiLab ready to log data • Run – MultiLab is currently logging data • Stopping Logger – MultiLab is stopping data logging • Download – MultiLab is currently downloading data

Title Bar The Title bar indicates the name of the file currently opened.

1.2. MultiLab Main Toolbar

The upper toolbar is the main MultiLab toolbar and consists of the following buttons for operating the main MultiLab features:

Open file

Save file

Run logger

Stop logger


Download data

Setup logger

Launch video

Graph view

Table view

Meter view

Launch Workbook

Analysis wizard

Linear fit

Derivative

This toolbar is always available no matter what mode MultiLab is in.

1.3. MultiLab Graph Toolbar

The lower toolbar functions as the graph toolbar and includes the following buttons for operating the graph features, when the Graph view is enabled.

Add annotation

Move annotation

Zoom in

Autoscale

More smoothing

Less smoothing


First cursor

Second cursor

Back cursor

Forward cursor

Graph properties

Add graph to properties

Export to PlanMaker

Pause/Play predictions

Add prediction

Erase prediction

This toolbar is not visible in the following modes: • Table view • Meters view • Workbook mode

1.4. Meters View Toolbar

The Meters view toolbar is visible when operating in Meters view.

Enter Meters view using the button. The toolbar buttons are as follows:

• Analog view

• Bar view

• Digital view

Chapter 2 – Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000 7

Chapter 2: Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

Before you start using the MultiLab software, you should first familiarize yourself with the Nova5000 sensor interface.

Note: You are able to connect over fifty Fourier sensors and up to a selection of 20 Vernier sensors to the Nova5000.

See page 81 for a full list of supported sensors.

Sensors are connected to the four input/output (I/O) sockets situated on the top of the Nova5000. These ports are labeled I/O-1 to I/O-4, as shown below. All four sockets can be used simultaneously.

To connect a sensor to the Nova5000 use one of the mini-din cables supplied with your sensor. Plug one end of the cable into the Nova5000 with the arrow facing down, and the other end into the sensor. If you are using one sensor only connect it to I/O-1. If you are using two sensors connect them to I/O-1 and I/O-2, and so on.

I/O-1 I/O-2 I/O-3 I/O-4

8 Chapter 2 – Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

Connecting more than four sensors In order to connect more than four sensors at a time, use splitter cables also supplied by Fourier, which will enable the connection of up to eight sensors simultaneously. When a splitter cable is connected, it must be connected to the socket in the correct numerical order. For example, when using five sensors, I/O-1 to I/O-3 will have the individual sensors connected, and I/O-4 will have the splitter cable connected. To connect a splitter cable, first connect to the Nova5000 the end of the cable with only a single plug. The other end of the cable has two plugs. One of these plugs is marked with two arrows. This is the main cable input which, when connected to a sensor, is assigned the lower I/O number on the Nova5000. The second plug is marked with the letter S (Split) indicating that it is the secondary input (the higher I/O number). For example, if connecting the splitter cable to I/O-4, the main cable input (with the arrows) is assigned I/O-4 and the secondary cable input (with S) is assigned I/O-5.

Using four splitter cables Connect up to four input splitters to split the Nova5000’s sensor inputs starting with I/O-4 (the splitters must be connected in order): • I/O-4 splits into I/O-4 and I/O-5 • I/O-3 splits into I/O-3 and I/O-6 • I/O-2 splits into I/O-2 and I/O-7 • I/O-1 splits into I/O-1 and I/O-8

Note: Before connecting the mini-din cable to the Nova5000 or the sensor sockets, make sure that the mini-din plug is correctly positioned in front of the socket. Connecting the cable in an awkward position might cause damage to the cable pins.

Chapter 2 – Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000 9

Connecting Vernier sensors If you are using a Vernier sensor, first consult page 81 to ensure that this sensor is supported by the Nova5000. You must also have the Vernier adapter supplied by Fourier in order to connect the sensor to the Nova5000 sensor interface. For MultiLab to recognize Vernier sensors, you must define them in the software using the Define New Sensors option. Please refer to page 45.

Note: When using any of the sensors listed below, you must connect the Nova5000 to the AC adapter. You will otherwise not record accurate data if running the Nova5000 from battery power alone. These sensors require additional power when working with the Nova5000.

• Distance 0.4-10m: P/N DT020-1 • Exercise heart rate: P/N DT298 • Pressure 150-1150: P/N DT015

10 Chapter 2 – Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

Chapter 3 – Operating MultiLab 11

Chapter 3: Operating MultiLab

In this chapter, you'll learn the basics for collecting, viewing and analyzing your data using MultiLab.

Note: Instructions below are written on the basis of using a stylus when operating the MultiLab software. Therefore all on screen actions are referred to as taps, rather than clicks.

3.1. Collecting Data

3.1.1. Launching MultiLab

Go to Start > Programs > Science & Math > MultiLab to launch the MultiLab software. This will launch the MultiLab in the default Graph view.

Creating a MultiLab Desktop Shortcut Open the My Nova icon on the desktop and navigate to the \Program Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab CE folder. Tap once on the MultiLabCE.exe file (do not open this file) and on the main menu, select File > Send To > Desktop as Shortcut. You may now launch MultiLab from the Nova5000 desktop.

3.1.2. Connecting the Sensors

Connect between one to four sensors to the Nova5000 sensor inputs. The arrow on the sensor plug should be face down.

12 Chapter 3 – Operating MultiLab

Sensors must be added successively, starting with I/O-1 and then I/O-2 and so on. See Chapter 2: Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000 for more details.

3.1.3. Setting up the Sensor

Setting up the sensors is a key step in preparing for data logging. Here, you define the specific sensors you are using and the sampling rate and sampling size required.

1. On the Logger menu select Setup or tap the Setup button . The Setup window will open.


2. On the Sensors tab the Auto Detect Sensors check box should be selected (this is the default setting). The connected sensors should be automatically displayed in the Input fields.

3. If the Auto Detect Sensors check box is not selected, you must select the connected sensors from the relevant Input drop-down menus.

4. To adjust the Display properties of a specific sensor, tap the

Sensor properties button adjacent to the Input field.

a. In the Sensor properties dialog box, you can adjust the color

of the sensor plot and of the y-axis in the Graph view. b. To define the scale of the data that you want displayed e.g.

40-60% instead of 0-100% for the Humidity sensor, unselect the Autoscale check box and enter the scale in the Min and Max fields.

c. To restore the Color or Scale settings to default, tap Restore Defaults.

5. Tap the Rate tab and in the Rate drop-down menu, select the relevant number of samples per second/minute/hour.


a. If you select the Manual recording rate, you can manually

record each data point. To perform manual logging, first continue to the end of the Setup process. Tap Run to record the first sample. When ready, tap Run again to record the second sample and so on.

b. To stop the Manual data logging session, go to Logger > Stop.

Note: If the sampling rate is higher than 100 samples per second, the data will be automatically displayed on the graph once the recording has stopped.

6. Tap the Samples tab and in the drop-down menu, select the relevant number of samples to record. You will see the maximum recording time based on the number of samples chosen.


c. On this tab, you can also choose to clear the memory of the

data logger before you start recording fresh data. Just select the Clear memory check box and tap OK on the upper right of the window.

Note: This will clear all experiment data currently residing in the logger memory – not the MultiLab software data files.

d. To learn how to use the Triggering function, refer to page 35. Refer to Chapter 4: Configuring Sensors for more details.

3.1.4. Select Display

From the main MultiLab toolbar, select the display in which you want to view the data recording. Tap one of the following display icons:

• Graph

• Table

• Meter

Note: The Graph view is the default view when launching MultiLab.


3.1.5. Recording Data

Note: When MultiLab is recording data the Nova5000 will not go into Suspend.

1. To start recording data, on the Logger menu select Run or tap

Run on the main toolbar. As soon as you click Run, you will see the data being logged in the MultiLab window, in one of the three displays you selected in section 3.1.4 above. While in the middle of recording data, you can switch between the three display views - Graph, Table or Meter view.

Note: If the sampling rate is higher than 100 samples per second, the data will be automatically displayed on the graph once the recording has stopped.

2. To manually stop recording data, on the Logger menu tap Stop or tap the Stop button on the upper toolbar.

3. MultiLab will also stop recording automatically once the predefined sample size has been reached.

Note: If you accidentally disconnect a sensor during data collection, MultiLab will continue to Run but the collected data from the point of disconnection will be inaccurate.

3.1.6. Saving your Data

Once recorded, your data is added to the Data Map as a data set (see page 17). However, if you do not save this data, you will lose it upon exiting MultiLab. You will be prompted to save open data when exiting MultiLab. To save your data set, on the File menu select Save File or tap the

Save button .


This will save all the open data sets in the Data Map under one file name. You cannot save individual data sets. On the File menu, select Save As to save a previously saved file under a different name.

3.2. Viewing Data

As previously mentioned MultiLab features three views for viewing data that is being recorded, Graph, Table and Meter. You can easily switch between these views using the upper toolbar buttons. Once you have completed your experiment you can then view the recorded data offline in Graph or Table view. Meter view is for viewing data during real-time data recording only.

3.2.1. Data Map

The Data Map is situated on the left of the MultiLab window and lists the data sets that were recorded in the current MultiLab session. The Data Map is populated by running experiments or opening previously saved data sets. The Data Map cannot be moved or hidden. A data set contains all data recorded in a particular experiment. Each sensor used in the experiment has its own entry in the data set, and you can toggle which data, if not all, to display in the graph or table. When you apply analysis functions onto your data, an entry for that specific function is also added to the Data Map. You have the following options when using the Data Map: • To display the complete list of sensors for an individual

experiment, tap the plus sign (+) next to the experiment entry to expand its data set.

To collapse the sensor list under an individual experiment, tap the minus sign (-) next to the experiment entry.

To display a specific data set tap its name in the list, and then tap Show situated at the bottom of the Data Map. You can also choose to display data from specific sensors in the data set. Simply tap the sensor name and tap Show.


To hide a data set tap its name in the list, and then click Hide situated at the bottom of the Data Map. You can also choose to hide data from specific sensors in the data set. Simply tap the sensor name and tap Hide.

• To remove a data set from the Data Map, tap and hold on the data set and select Delete Data.

• To display data from a specific sensor on the graph, tap and hold on the sensor entry in the data set and select Display on Graph.

Note: Showing or hiding a data set with the Data Map applies both to the Graph and Table views.

Tap to Show data set

Tap to Hide data set

Data Map Exp. 2 – Temperature sensor data

Exp. 2 – Humidity sensor data

Exp. 2 – Linear function on Humidity data

Data hidden

Data shown

Tap to Show data set

Tap to Hide data set

Data Map Exp. 2 – Temperature sensor data

Exp. 2 – Humidity sensor data

Exp. 2 – Linear function on Humidity data

Data hidden

Data shown

3.2.2. Graph View

Tap Graph to display the data in graph view. The default graph display is the data set or sets plotted vs. time.


The graph usually displays all the data sets of a given recording, but you can use the Data Map to remove or hide one or more of the sets from the graph. In order to keep the graph easy to read, only one Y-axis is shown on the graph. To change the Y-axis to reflect a specific sensor, select the desired sensor from the drop-down menu situated above the graph.

You can identify the Y-axis by its color, which matches the plot color.

3.2.3. Table View

Tap Table to display the data table. The data that is displayed in the table always matches the data in the corresponding graph. Each sensor Input is represented by a separate column in the table. Use the Data Map to change the data displayed in the table.


Add Manual Column You can manually add a new data set to a data table, even after the experiment has been conducted. You can then view this data set as a plot line in Graph view. 1. On the Tools menu, select Add Manual Column. 2. In the Insert manual column dialog box, enter the Column title

and Column unit. 3. On the data table, manually enter data into the newly created

column. 4. Switch to Graph view and tap Show on the new data set icon in

the Data Map to view the plot on the graph.

3.2.4. Meter View

MultiLab enables you to view data in Meter format in the main MultiLab window. When you move to Meter view, you will see real-time data readings from the sensors currently connected to MultiLab.

Tap Meter on the main toolbar to switch to Meter view. One of the three Meter views will open. You can switch between Meter types by tapping the corresponding icon on the Meter toolbar situated below the Meter view window.

• Analog view

• Bar view

• Digital view The Meter view is used to: • View live data without actually recording this data i.e. to monitor

the current real-time sensor readings (Snapshot mode) • View data in real-time while it is being recorded by MultiLab (Run

mode). The meter’s scaling automatically matches the graph’s scaling.


While viewing or collecting data in Meter view, you are only able to view the data of one sensor at a time. If you have more than one sensor connected, switch between these sensors on-the-fly using the drop-down sensor menu located above the Meter view.

Snapshot Mode In Snapshot mode, MultiLab continuously displays the real-time data but the data is not actually saved i.e. a snapshot of the data is

displayed. A small camera icon indicates you are in Snapshot mode, and is located on the bottom left of the Meter window. To work in Snapshot mode, simply connect your sensor and switch to Meter view. As long as you don’t tap Run, you will remain in Snapshot mode and MultiLab will display the sensor data.

Run Mode To start collecting data while remaining in Meter display, simply click

Run in the main toolbar. The icon will switch to a small

running man icon , indicating you are now in Run mode.

3.2.5. Previewing Data

Prior to collecting data you may wish to preview your data. In Preview mode you can:


• Ensure that the sensors are properly connected to the Nova5000. • Verify that a sensor is measuring what you intended it to measure. • Verify that a sensor has reached a stable value.

Note: In Preview mode, data is not saved.

To preview data: 1. Connect the sensors to the Nova5000 and perform required sensor

setup. 2. On the Logger menu, select Preview. 3. The MultiLab will start running the data. Verify that the sensors are

working properly and the data is accurate.

4. Click Stop to stop previewing the data.

3.3. Opening and Downloading Data Sets

3.3.1. Opening Saved Data Sets

To open previously saved data sets, select Open File on the File menu and select the desired file from the Open File dialog box. The saved file, with all the data sets included in it, will be added to the Data Map.

3.3.2. Downloading Data Sets

By using the Download feature in the Logger menu, you are able to download data sets recorded in the current MultiLab session. For instance, you may have recorded an experiment but then removed it from data map. Using the Download feature, you are able to recover the data from the logger memory.


Note: Once you have closed MultiLab, all data is cleared from the logger memory unless it was saved.

How does Download Work?

Whenever you tap the Download button or go to Logger > Download, MultiLab will download the last recorded data set into the Data Map. The first time you tap Download, MultiLab will download the most recently recorded data set. The second time you tap Download, the next to last recorded data set will be downloaded, and so on in a continuous cycle.

Selective Download This option allows you to retrieve a specific data set, according to the experiment number assigned to the data set. Simply go to Logger > Selective Download, select the Experiment number from the drop-down menu and tap Download.

Remember: Once MultiLab is closed, all unsaved data sets will be lost.

3.4. Analyzing the Data

Once you have collected and viewed your data, you have the option to analyze it using a variety of tools available in the MultiLab. The sections below detail the various analysis methods. Also refer to Chapter 5: The Analysis Wizard for further details.

3.4.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates

When in Graph view, position the cursor (see page 67) on a point on the graph. Its coordinates will be displayed at the bottom of the graph window.


3.4.2. Reading the Difference between Two Coordinate Values

First, position one cursor on the first point and then position a second cursor on the second point on the graph. The difference between the two coordinate values will be displayed at the bottom of the graph window.

3.4.3. Using the Analysis Functions

A number of analysis functions are available under the Tools menu. These functions can only be applied to data sets that are currently displayed in the graph window. When applied, the analysis function will be visible on the graph. To apply an analysis function: 1. First ensure the relevant graph is open in the main Graph window. 2. Use the graph cursors to select the data range to which you want

to apply the analysis. 3. Select Analysis on the Tools menu. 4. The Analysis menu will open. You may either select:

a. Analysis Wizard - Opens a wizard, guiding you though an extensive list of analysis functions.

b. Linear Fit - Draw a line of linear least square fit y = ax + b c. Power Curve Fit - Draw a line of power least square fit

nxay =

d. Exponential Curve fit - Draw a line of exponential least

square fit bxaey =

e. Quadratic Curve fit - Draw a line of quadratic least square fit cbxaxy ++= 2

f. Derivative - Use Derivative to construct a graph in which each point is the slope of the three consecutive points on the source graph.


g. Integral - Use Integral to construct a graph in which each point is the integral of all the preceding points on the source graph.

h. Statistics – Display statistics on a selected range of data. See section 3.4.4 below for more details.

If you select one of the functions from 4b-g above, the function will be applied to the graph immediately and the curve fit equation and correlation coefficient (R2) will be displayed on the information bar below the graph.

Note: You can also apply the Linear Fit and Derivative functions by tapping the respective buttons in the upper tool bar.

3.4.4. Statistics

By selecting Statistics on the Tools > Analysis menu, you can display statistics of a selected data set or a range of data. The statistics include: • Average - The average of all the numbers in the range • Median - The median (or middle) data point in the range • Mode - The data point with the highest frequency in the range • StDev - The standard deviation • Minimum - The smallest value in the range • Maximum - The largest value in the range • Sum - Adds all the numbers in the range • Area - The area between the graph and the x-axis in the range • Rate - The recording rate • Samples - The number of data points in the range

3.5. Printing

Assuming you have established connection between the Nova5000 and a printer, you may choose to print either a graph or a table from MultiLab.


Select the data set in Data Map and go to File > Print. The following dialog box pops up.

To print a graph, simply select the Graph option and tap Print. To print a table, select the Table option and choose to either print all data in the table or a selection of data, by unselecting the Print all data check box and entering the print range.

3.6. Exporting/Importing CSV Files

3.6.1. Exporting CSV Files

Using the Nova5000’s PlanMaker spreadsheet application, you are able to export the raw data contained in any given data set in MultiLab into a CSV (Comma Separated Value) file. By doing so, you will be able further manipulate the data in PlanMaker. For example, build bar charts using the data range. To export a CSV file: 1. Select the data set in the Data Map that you want to export to

PlanMaker.

2. Go to File > Export CSV file or tap the Export to PM button in the graph toolbar.

3. The Save As dialog box will open. Enter the name of the CSV file and tap OK.


4. PlanMaker will launch and the Import options dialog box will pop up. Select the Comma separator option.

5. The main PlanMaker window will open with the exported data displayed.

3.6.2. Importing CSV Files

You can import back into MultiLab, files containing MultiLab data that were saved in CSV format. To import a CSV file: 1. On the File menu, select Import CSV file. 2. In the dialog box that opens, browse to the location of the CSV file

and click OK.


3. The file will be imported to MultiLab, and you will be able to view the data in Graph and Table view.

3.7. Resetting the Logger

If the MultiLab application is not functioning as expected this could mean the Nova5000 data logger is experiencing operating problems and requires a reset. You can reset the Nova5000 by going to Logger > Reset Logger. Resetting the logger simply reinitializes the logger and clears the logger memory i.e. all unsaved experiments conducted in the current MultiLab session will be deleted. This operation does not clear the MultiLab data files, however. These files are saved in the MultiLab software folders and can only be deleted manually.

Chapter 4 – Configuring Sensors in MultiLab 29

Chapter 4: Configuring Sensors in MultiLab

This chapter provides further details on using sensors with MultiLab, including setting up sensors, calibrating sensors and other important information.

4.1. Choosing the Right Setup

4.1.1. Sampling Rate

The sampling rate should be determined by the frequency of the phenomenon being sampled. If the phenomenon is periodic, sample at a rate of at least twice the expected frequency. For example, sound recordings should be sampled at the highest sampling rate – 20,800/sec, but changes in room temperature can be measured at slower rates such as once per second or even slower, depending on the speed of the expected changes. There is no such thing as over-sampling. For extremely smooth graphs, the sampling rate should be about 20 times the expected frequency.

Note: Sampling at a rate slower than the expected rate can cause frequency aliasing. In such a case, the graph will show a frequency much lower than expected. In the figure below, the higher frequency sine wave was sampled at 1/3 of its frequency. Connecting the sampled points yielded a graph with a lower, incorrect frequency.

30 Chapter 4 – Configuring Sensors in MultiLab

Frequency aliasing After you have chosen the sampling rate, choosing the number of points will determine the logging period: Samples / Rate = Logging time. You can also choose the duration of an experiment first, and then calculate the number of samples: Samples = Logging time × Rate.

4.1.2. Manual Sampling

Use Manual sampling for: • Recordings or measurements that are not related to time. • Situations in which you have to stop recording data after each

sample obtained, in order to change your location, or any other logging parameter

Note: During the experiment no changes can be made to the MultiLab sensor configuration.

To start an experiment using manual data logging: 1. Go to the Rate tab in the Setup Wizard. 2. Select Manual from the Rate drop-down menu. 3. Tap Run once to record the first sample. Tap Run again to record

the next data point, and so on.


4. To stop the Manual data logging session, go to Logger > Stop.

4.1.3. Continuous Sampling

In Continuous mode, MultiLab can continue to logging indefinitely. Data is automatically saved and displayed real-time in the MultiLab graph. To operate in Continuous mode: 1. On the Rate tab in the Setup Wizard, select a rate equal to or less

than 100/s. 2. On the Samples tab, select Continuous.

Remember: Continuous sampling is disabled for sampling rates faster than 100/s.

4.2. Programming Rules and Limitations

The following are some rules and limitations you must take into account when programming sensors for use with the Nova5000. MultiLab integrates all programming limitations automatically and will only allow the programming of settings that comply with the rules below.

4.2.1. Number of Sampling Points

Increasing the number of active inputs limits the number of sampling points one can choose. The following condition must always be satisfied: Samples × Active Inputs < Memory


• Nova5000’s data logger memory is sufficient for 100,000 samples. However, when sampling at rates faster than 100 samples per second the memory can store only two experiments of 32,000 samples each.

• Selection of 100,000 sampling points will create 2 files of 50,000 points each in the data logger’s memory.

4.2.2. Maximum Sampling Rates

The number of sensors in use limits the maximum sampling rate as follows:

Number of Sensors Maximum Sampling Rate

1 20,800 samples per second 2 3,701 samples per second 3 2,631 samples per second 4 2,041 samples per second 5 1,667 samples per second 6 1,409 samples per second 7 1,220 samples per second 8 1,076 samples per second

4.3. Auto Detect Sensors

MultiLab has two working modes when setting up the sensors. The default mode is Auto Detect Sensors. In this mode, the sensor you connect to the Nova5000 will be automatically identified by MultiLab, as long as the sensor is predefined in MultiLab. When using more than four sensors, when using Vernier sensors, or if you’ve defined your own custom sensor, unselect the Auto Detect Sensors checkbox so you can then select the sensor manually from the sensor drop-down menu. MultiLab saves the current mode selection and will automatically open in that mode the next time you launch the software.


To enable MultiLab’s Auto detect mode:

1. On the Logger menu, select Setup or tap the button in the main toolbar.

2. Tap the Sensors tab. 3. Ensure the Auto Detect Sensors checkbox is selected. 4. Click OK. 5. To switch to eight sensors mode unselect the Auto Detect

Sensors checkbox.

4.4. Setting the Zero Point of a Sensor

MultiLab enables you to rescale some sensors and to set the current readings to zero for subsequent loggings. This feature applies to the following sensors: • Distance • Force • Magnetic field • Light sensors • Pressure sensors To set the current readings of a sensor to zero:

1. Tap Setup on the main toolbar to open the Setup Wizard.

2. Tap the Sensor properties icon next to the sensor input you want to set.

3. Tap the Set Zero tab. 4. Check the Set the current reading to zero check box. 5. Tap OK, and tap OK again to exit the Setup window.

MultiLab takes a single measurement and sets the reading to zero.


To change the zero point



3. Tap the Set Zero tab. 4. Tap the Reset zero button. 5. Tap OK, and tap OK again to exit the Setup window.

To return to the default zero point



3. Uncheck the Set the current reading to zero check box. 4. Tap OK, and tap OK again to exit the Setup window.

4.5. Averaging Sensor Readings

Using the Averaging feature allows you to smooth any noise in your data sampling. Averaging works by taking a user defined number of the most recently recorded data points and recording an average sample of these points. You can apply Averaging on all sensors that are currently recording. 1. Go to Logger > Averaging to open the Averaging dialog box.


2. Drag the slider to select between 0 – 15 samples for averaging. 3. Tap OK.

4.6. Triggering

You can start data recording only when a specific time or measurement condition has been met. 1. Tap Triggering on the Samples tab of the Setup Wizard. This opens the Triggering dialog box:

2. Select the triggering sensor in the Based on drop-down menu. 3. Choose one of the following from the Type options:

a. None - Trigger is disabled b. Above level - Start logging only once the measured value is

higher than the trigger level. c. Below level - Start logging only once the measured value is

lower than the trigger level. d. Event Recording - This function enables you to record the

exact time and date at which a certain phenomenon occurs. The trigger level set for this option is actually a threshold setting. Each time the threshold is crossed, MultiLab will record the exact time and date of the occurrence, and will continue to do so until the desired number of samples has been obtained.


Note: The trigger acts on analog measurements only (not on the distance sensor). The trigger condition must be fulfilled for at least 300μS.

e. Control Level - The control level trigger allows you to create an automatic sense & control system. This means that you can connect a sensor measuring a certain phenomenon (for example, temperature) and connect a device that will start operating when the recorded data from the sensor falls above or below a certain level (for example, a fan that will start operating when the temperature measured by the sensor rises above 30°C). This function requires the use of a splitter cable and a control sensor. The cable divides each input into a sensor cable and a controller cable. After setting the control level and starting the data logging process, the sensor will sample and record the data as usual. However, when the measurement from the sensor rises above the predetermined threshold value, the controller cable will send a pulse of 5V to the control sensor, and will continue to do so until the sensor measures a value below the threshold level. When receiving the 5V pulse, the control sensor will close/open a relay capable of switching 110/220V to any load.

4. Tap OK to exit the Triggering dialog box. Tap OK again to exit Setup Wizard.

4.7. The Timing Wizard

MultiLab enables you to measure events such as Time, Velocity and Acceleration using the photogate sensor and the Logger Timing Wizard.

Working with the Timing Wizard Connect one photogate to I/O-1 of the Nova5000 or two photogates, one to input I/O-1 and the other to I/O-2, depending on the type of data you require. 1. On the Logger menu, select Timing Wizard to open the Timer

module.


2. Select one of the options for measurement: Time, Velocity or

Acceleration. 3. Tap the Timing Wizard – Method tab.

4. Select one of the options to select the measuring method. 5. If required, enter the body’s width in mm (an integer between 0 to

59), or the distance between the gates in cm (an integer between 0 to 99) in the text box (for velocity and acceleration measurements only).

6. Tap OK to exit the Timing Wizard and tap Run to enter the timing standby mode. Timing begins each time a body blocks the photogate in input 1 and ends when unblocking the photogate in input 1 or input 2


(according to the event method). MultiLab displays the results in a bar graph and in the data table. You can repeat as many measurements as you need. After each event, MultiLab adds the results as a new bar in the graph and as new raw data in the table.

7. To exit the timing mode select Logger > Stop on the main toolbar.

Measuring Methods The Timing Wizard offers you various methods of analyzing the different measurements. In some measurements you will be asked to enter the dimension of the moving body, or the distance between the two photo gates to allow for the calculation of velocity and acceleration. The methods depend on the selected measurement: Time At one gate

Measures the time it takes the body to cross the photo gate (between blocking and unblocking the infrared beam)

Between gates

Measures the time it takes the body to move from one photo gate to the second photo gate (between blocking the first and blocking the second infrared beams)


Velocity At one gate

Measures the time it takes the body to cross the photo gate (between blocking and unblocking the infrared beam) and returns the velocity. You should enter the body’s width in mm.

Between gates

Measures the time it takes the body to move from one photo gate to the second photo gate (between blocking the first and blocking the second infrared beams) and returns the average velocity. You should enter the distance between gates in cm.

Acceleration Between gates

Measures the crossing time at the first gate, the time it takes the body to move from one gate to the second gate and the crossing time at the second gate and


returns the average acceleration. You should enter the body’s width in mm.

Time Schemes and Calculations

TIME MEASUREMENTS • At one gate

Result: 12 ttt −=Δ

• Between gates


t1

t2

t3

t

Input 1

Input 2

t2 t1


VELOCITY • At one gate Required parameters: w – the body’s width

Result: 12; ttttwv −=ΔΔ

=

• Between gates Required parameters: L – the distance between gates

Result: 13; ttttLv −=ΔΔ

=

t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Input 2

t1 t2


ACCELERATION • Between gates Required parameters: w – the body’s width

Result:

tvva

ttttt

ttwv

ttwv

Δ−

=

−−+=Δ

−=

−=

12

1234

342

121

2

;

4.8. Calibrating Sensors

You are able to increase the accuracy of Nova5000 sensors using various calibration techniques. Most of the Fourier sensors are linear, i.e. the output level of each sensor changes according to the equation:

baXY += Where: Y - Output of the sensor (voltage level changing from 0 to 5V) X - Sensor input

t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Input 2

Δt


a - Sensor gain b - Sensor offset The calibration process allows us to control the offset, and in some cases even the gain, of a sensor. You are able to perform four types of calibration: • Hardware offset calibration • MultiLab Automatic zero calibration • MultiLab Sensor calibration • Factory calibration (no manual calibration required)

4.8.1. Hardware Offset Calibration

On some of the sensors there is a screw controlling the sensor offset. To calibrate the sensor, run this sensor in MultiLab and rotate the calibration screw until the sensor shows the correct measured value (obtain the actual correct value from another source that is known to be accurate).

4.8.2. Nova5000 Automatic Zero Calibration

The Nova5000 data logger is able to automatically calibrate the sensor offset for all analog sensors accurately, quickly, and for every new experiment conducted. The calibration method is very simple. Whenever you plug in a sensor the data logger checks to see if the selected sensor measures a value within ±2% of its zero value. If so, MultiLab sets that value as zero. To enable this feature, make sure that the sensors are at their zero values when you plug them in. To ensure the most accurate zero value:


• Shorten the Voltage sensor plugs • Leave the Current sensor plugs open • Cover the Light, Photogate, and Microphone sensors • Insert the pH sensor in a pH 7.0 solution • Unload the Force Transducer • Place the Accelerometer on a stationary surface • Place the Temperature probes in ice water • Place the Pressure sensor in a 1 ATM (1013 mb) chamber

4.8.3. pH Temperature Compensation

To compensate a pH sensor for temperature changes, plug the temperature sensor into I/O-1, and the pH sensor in I/O-2. MultiLab will then display the compensated pH value.

4.8.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration

MultiLab enables you to calibrate any of the linear sensors manually. This two point calibration method sets both the gain (slope) and offset (intercept) of the sensor’s conversion function. The calibration procedure affects MultiLab readings only. 1. On the Logger menu, tap Calibrate Sensors. 2. Select a sensor from the Choose Sensor drop-down menu and

tap OK. 3. Enter a distinct real value in each of the Real Value fields and the

corresponding measured values in each of the Measured Value fields. The measured values are the values displayed by MultiLab when measuring the two real values.


4. Tap OK. The calibrated sensor parameters will be saved in

MultiLab. 5. To reset to the default calibration for any sensor, repeat steps 1 to

3 above and tap Restore defaults.

4.8.5. Factory Calibration (No Calibration Required)

All digital sensors that are essentially timers leave the factory fully calibrated, and do not suffer from any accuracy degradation. An example of such a sensor is the Sonic Ranger distance sensor, which measures the time passed from the transmission of a sound pulse to its echo reception.

4.9. Defining New Sensors

MultiLab enables you to define additional custom sensors. This is a useful tool for when you need the Nova5000 and MultiLab to communicate with sensors from different sensor vendors, such as Vernier. Any additional sensor that you would like to connect to the Nova5000 must comply with the following restrictions:


• The sensor’s output must be greater than or equal to 0V and less than or equal to 5V. Remember that all sensors transform actual data into electrical data, so the electrical output should remain between 0 and 5 volts.

• The sensor Transfer Function (sensor output voltage changes vs. the sampled phenomenon changes) must be a linear Transfer Function.

• The sensor must have a code resistor in order to be automatically identified. If the sensor does not have a code resistor, you will have to work in 8 sensors mode and select the sensor manually. To determine whether or not your sensor has a code resistor, simply connect it to the Nova5000, open MultiLab and enter the Setup Wizard. Verify that the sensor is displayed in the Sensors tab window.

Refer to page 85 to learn how to add a code resistor to your custom sensor.

To define a new sensor 1. On the Logger menu, select Define New Sensor to open the

Define New Sensor dialog box.

2. Tap Add new sensor.


3. Enter a sensor name and a sensor unit in the relevant fields. 4. Enter two calibration values (two real values and the

corresponding output voltages of the sensor). 5. Tap OK. Your sensor has now been defined and is saved in the

Sensor list in the Setup Wizard. 6. Tap Restore defaults to restore the default sensor list, and

remove the defined sensors from the Setup Wizard sensor list.


Chapter 5 – The Analysis Wizard 49

Chapter 5: The Analysis Wizard

The Analysis Wizard will guide you through the extensive analysis functions available in MultiLab. The analysis functions available are mathematical and trigonometric functions.

5.1. Using the Analysis Wizard

To apply an analysis function to an open data set: 1. First ensure the relevant graph is open in the main Graph window. 2. Use the graph cursors to select the data range to which you want

to apply the analysis.

3. Click the Analysis Wizard button on the upper toolbar.

4. Select a relevant function from the Functions drop-down menu. The function’s formula is displayed underneath the Functions drop-down menu.

50 Chapter 5 – The Analysis Wizard

5. If you've selected a data set, it will be highlighted in the G1 drop-down menu. However, you have the option of selecting a different data set.

6. If the analysis function involves two data sets, select the second data set from the G2 drop-down menu.

7. Where necessary, you have the option of entering a constant value in the A, B or C fields relating to constants in the function equation.

8. Edit the name in the Name field (this is optional – the default name includes both the function’s formula and the data set name).

9. Edit the Unit field (optional). 10. Click OK to apply the function.

5.2. Analysis Functions List

This section includes a brief description of each of MultiLab’s analysis functions. In the formulas below, G1 and G2 represent selected data sets, and A, B and C are constants that you can enter. The constant’s default value is 1.

Absolute 1BGAy =

Draws a line of the absolute values of a data set.

Add 21 BGAGy +=

Draws a line of the addition of two data sets.

Arccosine )arccos( 1BGAy =

Draws a line of the arccosine values of a data set (in radians). Arccosine is the angle whose cosine is 1BG . The argument 1BG must be between –1 and 1.


Arcsine )arcsin( 1BGAy =

Draws a line of the arcsine values of a data set in radians. Arcsine is the angle whose sine is 1BG . The argument 1BG must be between –1 and 1.

Cosine )cos( 1 CBGAy +=

Draws a line of the cosine values of a data set. The argument CBG +1 must be expressed in radians.

Delta Y )0(11 =−= tGGy

Draws a line of the difference between the Y-coordinate of every point and Y-coordinate of the first point. Use this function to move the data set along the Y-axis so that the point will intersect the Y- axis at the origin.

Derivative ratesamplingt

tyy

y nnn

1,2

11 =ΔΔ−

= −+

Draws a line of the slopes of every three consecutive points of a data set. For high recording rates and small Δt, this line may be very noisy, which is why smoothing the data set is recommended before applying the derivative function.

Divide 2

1

BGAGy =

Draws a line of the division of two data sets

Envelope (lower)

Lower envelope of G1 with tolerance of A points

Draws a line that connects the minimum values of a data set. The tolerance defines the minimum distance (in sampling points) between two minima, so that the envelope function is able to ignore random noises.


Envelope (upper)

Upper envelope of G1 with tolerance of A points

Draws a line that connects the maximum values of a data set. The tolerance defines the minimum distance (in sampling points) between two maxima, so that the envelope function will be able to ignore random noises.

Exp. CAey BG += 1

Draws a line of e raised to the power of a data set.

Fourier transform

Discrete Fourier transform of G1.

Draws a line of the amplitudes of the harmonics of Fourier transform vs. frequency.

Frequency The frequency of G1 (minimum of A points in one cycle).

Draws a line of the frequency of a periodic data set vs. time. The constant A defines the minimum data points in one cycle.

Integral tGBAy Δ∑+= 1

Draws a line in which each point is the discrete integral of all the preceding points in a data set.

Kinetic energy 2

1 )(21 GAy =

Draws a line of the kinetic energy of a data set. The argument 1G must be the velocity of the body, and the constant 1C must be the mass of the body.

Linear BAGy += 1

Draws a line of a linear displacement of a data set. This function is useful when you want to change the point of origin of a data set.


Ln )ln( 1BGAy =

Draws a line of the natural logarithm of a data set. The argument 1BG must be positive.

Log )(log 110 BGAy =

Draws a line of the logarithm of a data set to base 10. The argument 1BG must be positive.

Multiply 21 BGAGy ⋅=

Draws a line of the multiplication of two data sets

Quadratic CBGAGy ++= 12

1

Draws a line of the quadratic form of a data set.

Reciprocal (1/X)

CBG

Ay ++

=1

Draws a line of the reciprocal values of a data set.

Sine )sin( 1 CBGAy +=

Draws a line of the sine values of a data set. The argument CBG +1 must be expressed in radians.

Square (X2) 21 )(BGAy =

Draws a line of the squares of a data set.

Square root CBGAy += 1

Draws a line of the square root values of a data set: The argument 12GC must be greater than or equal to zero.

Subtract 21 BGAGy −=

Draws a line the subtraction of two data sets.


Tan )tan( 1 CBGAy +=

Draws a line of the tangent values of a data set. The argument CBG +1 must be expressed in radians.

5.3. The Timing Analysis Wizard

The Timing Analysis Wizard is an additional analysis tool, enabling you to easily measure and calculate many types of time events, including velocity and acceleration, with one or two photo gates. Connect one photogate to input 1 of the Nova5000 or connect two photogates to input 1 and input 2 of the Nova5000 and perform the desired experiment. Then let the wizard guide you through the analysis of this experiment. With the Timing Analysis wizard you can measure sequences of time events at gate one and/or at gate two, or time events between the two gates. MultiLab can then calculate the velocity and acceleration of these events. Special options make it easy to measure velocities in collisions and the time period of a pendulum or any other oscillating body. The Timing Analysis wizard can handle multiple events. For example, if a body crosses a photo gate several times, applying the wizard will result in a series of measurements that match the number of crossings.

5.3.1. Working with the Analysis Timing Wizard

1. Display the data that you wish to analyze in the Graph window. 2. On the Tools menu, select Analysis > Timing Wizard. This

launches the Timing Wizard dialog box.


3. Select the Time, Velocity or Acceleration measurement. 4. Select the Timing Wizard – Method tab.

5. Select one of the measuring methods: At one gate, Between gates

or Collision (two gates). 6. If required, enter the body’s width, or the distance between the

gates in cm in the Width text box. 7. Click OK to display the results.

5.3.2. Measuring Methods

The Timing Analysis Wizard offers you various methods of analyzing the different measurements. In some measurements you will be asked to enter the dimension of the moving body, or the distance between the two photo gates to allow for the calculation of velocity and acceleration.


The methods depend on the selected measurement: Time At one gate

Measures the time it takes the body to cross the photo gate (between blocking and unblocking the infrared beam)

Between gates

Measures the time it takes the body to move from one photo gate to the second photo gate (between blocking the first and blocking the second infrared beams)

Pendulum

Measures the time period of an oscillating body (the time interval between the first and the third blockings of the beam)


Velocity At one gate

Measures the time it takes the body to cross the photo gate (between blocking and unblocking the infrared beam) and returns the velocity. You should enter the body’s width.

Between gates

Measures the time it takes the body to move from one photo gate to the second photo gate (between blocking the first and blocking the second infrared beams) and returns the average velocity. You should enter the distance between gates.

Collisions Measures the

crossing time intervals at each gate and returns the corresponding velocities. You should enter the bodies’ width (the width of the two


bodies must be identical).

Acceleration At one gate

A card with two flags must be attached to the moving body (see figure to the left). The Timing wizard measures the crossing time intervals of the two flags and returns the acceleration. You should enter the flags width.

Between gates

Measures the crossing time at the first gate, the time it takes the body to move from one gate to the second gate and the crossing time at the second gate and returns the average acceleration. You should enter the body’s width.


5.3.3. Time Schemes and Calculations

TIME MEASUREMENTS • At one gate


• Between gates


t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Input 2

t2 t1


• Pendulum (one gate)

t5

t3

t1

t2

t4 Result: 15 ttt −=Δ

VELOCITY • At one gate Required parameters: w – the body’s width t1

t2

Result: 12; ttttwv −=ΔΔ

=


• Between gates Required parameters: L – the distance between gates

t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Input 2

Result: 13; ttttLv −=ΔΔ

=

• Collision (two gates) Required parameters: w – the bodies’ widths (must be identical)

t1

tt4

Input 1


t5

t7

Input 2

t8

Result:

782

562

341

121

;

;

ttwv

ttwu

ttwv

ttwu

−=

−=

−=

−=

ACCELERATION • At one gate Required parameters: w – the flags’ widths

t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Δt


Result:

tvva

ttttt

ttwv

ttwv

Δ−

=

−−+=Δ

−=

−=

12

1234

342

121

2

;

• Between gates Required parameters: w – the body’s width

t1

t2

t3

t4

Input 1

Input 2

Δt

Result:

tvva

ttttt

ttwv

ttwv

Δ−

=

−−+=Δ

−=

−=

12

1234

342

121

2

;


5.3.4. Tips on using the Timing Wizard

Attach a flag to the moving body When measuring the motion of a moving cart it is convenient to attach a vertical flag to the cart (see picture below). You can mount a slotted wooden block on the cart and insert the flag onto the slot, or use masking tape to attach the flag to one side of the cart.

Use a double flag to measure acceleration at one gate. The width of the two flags must be the same.

Use the cursors Use the cursors to select the graph and data range to which you want to apply the Timing wizard.


Time resolution The time resolution depends on the sampling rate. Use the table below to select a rate that meets your needs. Rate (samples per second)

Resolution

10 0.1 s 25 0.0 4s 50 0.0 2s

100 0.0 1s 500 2 ms

1000 1 ms 11200 0.1 ms 20800 0.05 ms

Use the Trigger For fast events and high sampling rates use the Trigger tool (see page 34) to initiate the data logging.


Chapter 6 – Working in Graph View 67

Chapter 6: Working in Graph View

While working in Graph view, you have a variety of features at your disposable for viewing and formatting the graph data.

6.1. The Cursor

You can display up to two cursors on the graph simultaneously. • Use the first cursor to display individual data recording values, to

select a curve or to reveal the hidden Y-axis. • Use two cursors to display the difference between two coordinate

values or to select a range of data points. To display the first cursor:

Select an individual data point on the graph or click 1st Cursor on the graph toolbar. You can drag the cursor with the stylus onto any other point on the plot, or onto a different plot.

To display the second cursor:

Click 2nd Cursor on the graph toolbar. MultiLab will now display the difference between the two coordinate values. To remove the cursors: Click 1st Cursor a second time. To remove only the 2nd cursor: Click 2nd Cursor a second time.

68 Chapter 6 – Working in Graph View

Moving the cursor:

For finer cursor movements use the forward and backward buttons on the graph tool bar. The coordinate values of the selected point will appear at the bottom of the graph window.

6.2. Autoscale/Graph Properties

6.2.1. Autoscale

Tap Autoscale on the graph toolbar to view the full data display. This is useful when you have customized the data scale, and then wish to return to the full data display.

6.2.2. Manual Scaling

1. Tap Format graph on the graph toolbar. Tap the Lines tab.

2. Select the axis you want to rescale from the Select plot drop-down

menu. 3. Uncheck the Autoscale check box and enter the desired values in

the Min and Max text boxes.


4. To restore the default scale values, tap Restore defaults. 5. Tap OK. 6. To restore the default scale value while in Graph view, tap

Autoscale .

6.2.3. Selecting the X-axis

1. Tap Format graph on the graph toolbar. Tap the X Axis tab.

2. Select the data you want to display on the X0axis from the X-axis

drop-down menu. 3. Tap OK.

6.2.4. Formatting the Graph Colors

To change the data line’s color:

1. Tap Format graph on the graph toolbar. Tap the Lines tab. 2. Select the plot you want to format from the Select plot drop-down

menu. 3. Tap the Color box to open the palette and select the desired

color.


4. Tap OK. 5. To restore the default plot color, return to the Lines tab, select the

relevant plot and tap Restore defaults.

6.3. Zooming

6.3.1. Zooming into a Specific Area

1. Tap Zoom on the graph toolbar and drag the stylus (or mouse) cursor diagonally on the graph to select the area you want to magnify. Remove the stylus or release the mouse to zoom in to the selected area.

2. Tap Zoom a second time to disable the Zoom tool.

3. To revert to the default graph size, tap Autoscale in the graph toolbar.

Note: You can also use the Zoom tool by going to Logger > Zoom in or Zoom out.

6.4. Annotations

You can add annotations (notes) to the graph. An annotation is always connected to a certain data point. To view annotations: On the Tools menu, select Show annotations (this option is usually selected by default). To hide all annotations: On the Tools menu, unselect Show annotations to hide all current annotations.


To add an annotation: 1. Place a cursor on the desired point to which you want to assign an

annotation.

2. Click Add new annotation on the graph toolbar to display the new annotation caption text box.

3. Enter the text and tap OK. To move an annotation:

Tap Move annotation on the graph toolbar and drag the annotation text box to the desired location. To delete an annotation: Go to Logger > Delete annotation and the last selected annotation will be deleted.

6.5. Adding a Graph to the Project

MultiLab displays new data in the graph window every time you start a new recording. If you want to save a graph that you created to your project, or to update a saved graph with changes you made, use the Add to project tool:

Tap Add to project on the graph toolbar.

6.6. Smoothing

The Smoothing tool is very useful in reducing random noises, especially if you want to apply any analysis functions to the data. The smoothing process replaces every data point with the average of its neighboring points. 1. Use the cursor to select the graph that you want to smooth.

2. Tap More smoothing on the graph toolbar. 3. You can repeat the procedure to further smooth the data.

4. Tap Less smoothing to reduce the amount of smoothing.


6.7. Prediction Tool

The Prediction tool enables you to draw predictions directly on the graph, prior to displaying the real data. 1. Make sure you are in Graph view and tap Run on the main toolbar

to start recording data.

2. Tap Pause/Continue on the graph toolbar to freeze the graph. The data recording continues, but the plotting of data on the graph is paused.

3. Tap Add prediction on the graph toolbar to enable the Add prediction tool. Tap the points on the graph where you predict the plot will continue. Each point you add to the graph will be connected by a straight line. By tapping Add prediction again, you can add a second set of predictions, and so on.

4. Tap Pause/Continue a second time to resume live data display and to compare your predictions with the real data.

5. Tap Erase prediction on the graph toolbar to enable the Erase prediction tool. You may erase a set of predictions by clicking on any one of the points within a series.

6.8. Stretch/Compress Axis Tool

Tap and drag the cursor onto one of the graph axes in order to stretch or compress the axis scale. Drag the cursor to the desired location. Repeat the procedure for the other axis if necessary.

Tap Autoscale to restore the scale to default.

Chapter 7 – Additional Tool Menu Items 73

Chapter 7: Additional Tool Menu Options

7.1. Unit Settings

Change the units and number format of the graph currently open in MultiLab. 1. On the Tools menu, select Unit Settings. 2. In the Unit Settings dialog box, choose the plot you want to

format from the Select plot drop-down menu.

3. Select the prefix option you want to use. 4. Select the desired number of decimal places. 5. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check

box. 6. Tap OK.

74 Chapter 7 – Additional Tool Menu Items

7.2. Graph Title

You are able to edit the title of the graph currently open in the Graph view: 1. On the Tools menu, select Graph Title. 2. In the Graph Title dialog box, enter the new title to be assigned to

the graph currently opened. 3. Click OK.

7.3. Crop

The Crop tool enables you to trim the edges of a data set. Use it to remove unwanted data or to apply manual curve fitting to a desired range of data points. The time scale of the trimmed data is shifted so that it will start at

0=t . After applying the Crop tool, the trimmed data set replaces the original set on the graph display and a new icon is added to the Data Map under cropped data.

To trim all data up to a point Position a cursor on the data point and on the Tools menu, select Crop.

To trim all data outside a selected range Use the cursors to select the range you want to keep. On the Tools menu, select Crop.

Chapter 8 – The Workbook 75

Chapter 8: The Workbook

8.1. Working with the Workbook Feature

The Workbook is an online library of experiment manuals called worksheets that appear in Web-page format. Each worksheet includes an experiment template that automatically configures the MultiLab at the push of a button. To begin recording, all you need to do is tap Run. Every time you run an experiment from a worksheet, MultiLab opens a new project file with the same predefined setup. You can use Fourier-produced worksheets, or create your own. You can also modify Fourier’s existing worksheets to your own specifications.

8.2. Opening a Worksheet

1. On the Tools menu, select Workbook, then select Open worksheet from the Workbook menu.

2. Navigate to the folder in which the worksheet is stored. 3. Tap the file name to open the worksheet.

76 Chapter 8 – The Workbook

4. Follow the on-screen instructions and use the scroll bar, hyperlinks and the Back and Forward buttons to navigate throughout the document.

5. Tap Launch to configure MultiLab. 6. Close the Worksheet to return to MultiLab. 7. Tap Run on the main toolbar to begin recording data.

8.3. Create your own Worksheet

Creating a worksheet consist of two steps. First, create an HTML document using your HTML editor (for example, Nova5000’s TextMaker). This file should include the Lab manual and the experiment instructions. The second step is to use the MultiLab software to create a configuration file, which is a file that will store the specific settings you wish to define for the experiment. These include the MultiLab sensor setup, sampling rate, graph format, and so on.

Creating an HTML document 1. Open TextMaker on the Nova5000. 2. In the File menu, tap New. 3. Create your worksheet, including all necessary content for

experiment instruction. 4. Go to File > Save as and select HTML from the File type drop-

down menu. 5. Navigate to My Nova\Program Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab

CE\Experiment documents and tap Save.

Create a Web page from an existing Word document 1. Open the existing file in Word (from your PC). 2. In the File menu, tap Save as Web Page. Save the document to

the PC desktop.

Chapter 8 – The Workbook 77

3. Copy the document to the following location on the Nova5000: My Nova\Program Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab CE\Experiment documents

Create a configuration file 1. Go to Tools > Workbook > Create workbook. 2. Select the file you want to open from the Open dialog box and tap

OK. 3. Click Enter workbook settings to open the Setup Wizard.

4. Use the setup wizard to preset MultiLab just as with the normal

setup process. 5. On the Sensors tab, tap X-axis display properties to enter the X-

axis formatting. 6. When you’ve finished entering the settings, tap OK to update the

worksheet.

78 Chapter 8 – The Workbook

Chapter 9 – Running the Nova5000 Logger from the PC 79

Chapter 9: Running the Nova5000 Logger from a PC

The Nova5000 can also be connected directly to your PC and used as a standalone data logger via the MultiLab for PC software. Using the Nova5000 in this way lets you benefit from the full range of MultiLab functionality, not all of which is available in the lighter MultiLab CE version. You will be able to perform more extensive analysis, graphing and video activities as well as many other features while running the Nova5000 data logger via MultiLab for PC. To run the Nova5000 data logger from your PC: 1. Install MultiLab 1.4.11 or higher on your PC. This version includes

the necessary software support and drivers to detect the Nova5000 when connected to the PC. Install MultiLab from your Nova5000 software CD included with your Nova5000 packaging. Follow the installation instructions provided in the MultiLab PC user guide.

2. On the Nova5000, open the Control Panel and open the Logger

Options icon . 3. The Logger Options dialog box will open. Tap the Run logger

from PC button and tap OK. 4. You will be prompted to reset the Nova5000 for the changes to

take affect. Tap OK. When the Nova5000 OS loads again it will be ready to work with the MultiLab for PC software.

5. Using the Nova5000 USB sync cable, connect the Nova5000 to your PC’s USB port.

6. Launch MultiLab from your PC. Go to Logger > Com Setup, select the Nova communication option and click Try to connect.

80 Chapter 9 – Running the Nova5000 Logger from the PC

7. MultiLab will then detect the Nova5000. The status pane in the

lower left of the MultiLab window will indicate Nova was detected. 8. The Download and Setup Wizard icons in the MultiLab main

toolbar will change to indicate that the PC is communicating with

the Nova5000, rather than another Fourier data logger: . 9. The Nova5000 is now ready for full control by the MultiLab for PC.

Enter the Setup Wizard to configure the sensor setup and then run the Nova5000 to start recording data.

10. To return the Nova5000 to normal use of the MultiLab CE version, open the Logger Options from the Control Panel and tap the Run logger from Nova5000 button.

Note: Opening MultiLab CE will temporarily suspend the USB connection between MultiLab PC and the Nova5000. However, closing MultiLab CE will automatically resume this connection.

Note: To use ActiveSync again after running the Nova5000 data logger from your PC, you must return to Run logger from Nova5000 mode.

Appendix A – Sensors Supported by the Nova5000 81

Appendix A: Sensors Supported by the Nova5000

The table below provides an up-to-date list of Fourier Systems probeware. These sensors are fully compatible with the Nova5000 and are used together with the MultiLab software for data collection and analysis. Please contact Fourier Systems for more information regarding these sensors.

Compatible Fourier Systems Sensors Part Number Sensor Name Range Physics Biology Chemistry

DT138 Acceleration ±63 m/s2 AC012 Anemometer 0-1000 km/h DT031 Angular Position 0-360o DT037 Breathing ±L/620 min DT039 CO2 Gas Sensor 0-5000 ppm DT185 Colorimeter 0-100% DT035 Conductivity 0-20 mS DT110/111 Control Switch Open/Close DT005 Current ±2.5 A DT006 Current ±250 mA DT007 Current 0-20 mA

DT020-1 Distance (dual range)

0.4-2 m, 0.4-10 m

DT187 Linear Distance 0.4-6 m DT189 ECG 0-5 V DT120 Force ±10N, ±50N

82 Appendix A – Sensors Supported by the Nova5000

Part Number Sensor Name Range Physics Biology Chemistry

DT116 Geiger-Muller Counter 0-1024 bq

DT155 Heart Rate 0-200 bps DT014 Humidity 0-100%

DT041 Humidity (high accuracy)

0-100%

DT010 Light 0-130 klx DT009 Light 0-6.6 lx DT009-3 Light 0-300 lx

DT156 Magnetic Field ±0.2 mT, ±10 mT

DT008 Microphone ±2.5 V

DT114A Oxygen 0-25 %, 0-14 ppm

DT016 pH 0-14 pH DT137 Photo Gate 0-5 V DT015-2 Pressure 0-10 kPa DT015-1 Pressure 0-700 kPa

DT015 Pressure 160-1150 mbar

AC013 Rain Collector 0-200 mm DT148 Rotary Motion ±128o DT122 Smart Pulley 0-5 m/s

DT027 Temperature -200 – 400oC

DT029 Temperature -25 – 110oC DT026 Temperature 0 – 750oC DT025 Thermocouple K 0 – 1250oC DT188 Temperature linear -10 – 110oC DT068 Temperature DHG -10 – 110oC DT004 Voltage ±50 mV DT003 Voltage 0-5 V

Appendix A – Sensors Supported by the Nova5000 83

Part Number Sensor Name Range Physics Biology Chemistry

DT002 Voltage ±2.5 V DT001 Voltage ±25 V

Compatible Vernier Sensors This table also includes the necessary voltage and real values for defining these sensors for use in MultiLab.

Sensor Name Min Output Voltage

Min Real Value

Max Output Voltage

Max Real Value

Accelerometer -- 3 axis 0 -51.6 5 63.0 Accelerometer -- Low g 0 -51.8 5 62.9 Barometer 0 24.2 5 35.7 Barometer 0 0.8 5 1.2 Barometer 0 614.8 5 907.4 Barometer 0 819.5 5 1209.5 CO2 0 0.0 5 10000.0 Colorimeter 0 0.0 5 142.9 Current 0 0.6 5 -11.9 Differential Voltage 0 6.3 5 -6.3 Dissolved Oxygen 0 -0.3 5 16.0 Dual Range Force 0 12.3 5 -12.3 Dual Range Force 0 61.3 5 -61.3 Flow Rate 0 0.0 5 5.0 Force Plate 0 -1000.0 5 -445.0 Force Plate 0 -250.0 5 1000.0 Gas Pressure 0 0.0 5 232.4 Gas Pressure 0 0.0 5 2.3 Gas Pressure 0 0.0 5 1743.2 Light Sensor 0 0.0 5 770.0 Light Sensor 0 0.0 5 8460.0 Light Sensor 0 0.0 5 192120.0

84 Appendix A – Sensors Supported by the Nova5000

Sensor Name Min Output Voltage

Min Real Value

Max Output Voltage

Max Real Value

Magnetic Field 0 -80.6 5 80.6 Magnetic Field 0 -3.2 5 4.8 Magnetic Field 0 -8.1 5 8.1 Magnetic Field 0 -0.3 5 0.5 ORP 0 -559.8 5 1774.6 pH 0 13.7 5 -5.5 Relative Humidity 0 -23.8 5 140.7 Salinity 0 0.0 5 81.5 Thermocouple 0 -188.9 5 1393.0 UVA 0 0.0 5 19700.0 UVB 0 0.0 5 19700.0 X-Long Temperature 0 -53.1 5 238.6 X-Long Temperature 0 -63.5 5 461.5 Direct Connect Temperature 0 -17.8 5 260.0

Appendix B – Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor 85

Appendix B: Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor

In order for the Nova5000 to automatically identify a sensor, it must have a code resistor. The figure below shows the Nova5000 input socket configuration. You must connect the resistor between the Auto recognition resistance input and the GND input. Mini DIN female - Nova5000 panel view

When you define a custom sensor in MultiLab you must choose one sensor from the list provided. Note its position in the list and look in the table below to find the resistance.

86 Appendix B – Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor

Auto recognition resistors Position in

Define sensor dialog box drop-down

menu

Resistance (kΩ) Max Resistance

(kΩ) Min Resistance

(kΩ)

1 372 384.1 360.9 2 410 424.8 396.5 3 455 472.9 437.8 4 508 530.9 486.6 5 573 601.9 544.8 6 653 691.1 615.6 7 754 806.5 703.4 8 888 961.9 814.6 9 1071 1183.0 959.2

10 1337 1524.4 1151.2

Appendix C – Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications 87

Appendix C: Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications

Input • Auto ID mode:

Up to 4 simultaneous analog inputs Or 4 digital inputs with automatic sensor identification

• 8-input (manual) mode: Up to 8 simultaneous analog inputs Or Up to 4 simultaneous digital inputs and 4 analog inputs

Outputs 4 Digital Control Outputs

Sampling • Capacity: Up to 100,000 Samples • Analog sampling rate: From 1 sample/hour to 20,800 samples/sec • Digital sampling rate: >200 kHz

Resolution 12-bit (4096 levels)

88 Appendix C – Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications

Timer Module Time velocity and acceleration • Range: 0.0014s to 6.5535s • Resolution: 0.1mS • Card width: 0 to 59mm • Distance between gates: 0 to 99cm

Features • Standalone operation – no PC needed • Automatic or manual sensor identification • Saving and loading of last setup • Trigger: Programmable or manual • Automatic calibration of offset sensors • Built-in clock and calendar that keeps track of time and date for

each data recording • Event recording • Up to 10 user defined sensors

Documents

MultiLab CE Guia de Usuario