An adaptable, modular data - collection system suitable for scientific experimentation: analog to digital transformation, short - term digital storage, formatted digital tape - recording, and computer entry of experimental data

This paper describes an adaptable, modular data acquisition system suitable for the collection of experimental data in a form readily adapted to subsequent digital computer entry and analysis. The system utilizes voltage-to-frequency conversion of an input analog signal over precisely regulated timing intervals. The digitized data is initially stored in shift-registers and later digitally formatted and digitally tape-recorded. The recorded data is read by a complimentary tape reading system and entered into a mini-computer for subsequent analysis and long-term storage. The digital formatting technique permits unambiguous definition and recovery of each data word as the tape is read. Adaptations of this system necessary to accommodate variations in the length of each data-word and the number of words per message block are discussed. Commercially available TTL integrated circuits and modular components are used in the design of this system.