USB-TEMP

Multi-sensor Temperature Measurement

User's Guide

October 2016. Rev 14A© Measurement Computing Corporation

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use in life support systems and/or devices without prior written consent from Measurement Computing
Corporation. Life support devices/systems are devices or systems that, a) are intended for surgical implantation
into the body, or b) support or sustain life and whose failure to perform can be reasonably expected to result ininjury. Measurement Computing Corporation products are not designed with the components required, and are
not subject to the testing required to ensure a level of reliability suitable for the treatment and diagnosis ofpeople.

HM USB-TEMP

2

Table of Contents
Preface

About this User’s Guide ....................................................................................................................... 5
What you will learn from this user's guide ......................................................................................................... 5
Conventions in this user's guide ......................................................................................................................... 5
Where to find more information ......................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 1

Introducing the USB-TEMP .................................................................................................................. 6
Functional block diagram ................................................................................................................................... 7
Chapter 2

Installing the USB-TEMP ...................................................................................................................... 8
Unpacking........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Installing the software ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Installing the hardware ....................................................................................................................................... 8
Configuring the hardware ................................................................................................................................... 8
Calibrating the hardware..................................................................................................................................... 8
Chapter 3

Sensor Connections ............................................................................................................................. 9Screw terminal pinout ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Sensor input terminals (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L) ............................................................................................................... 9
Current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4) ..............................................................................................................10
Four-wire, two sensor common terminals (4W01 to 4W67) ............................................................................................10
Two sensor common terminals (IC01 to IC67) ................................................................................................................10
Digital terminals (DIO0 to DIO7) ....................................................................................................................................10
CJC sensors......................................................................................................................................................................10
Power output terminals (+5V)..........................................................................................................................................10
Ground terminals (GND) .................................................................................................................................................10

Thermocouple connections ............................................................................................................................... 10
Wiring configuration........................................................................................................................................................11

RTD and thermistor connections ...................................................................................................................... 11
Two-wire configuration ...................................................................................................................................................12
Three-wire configuration .................................................................................................................................................13
Four-wire configuration ...................................................................................................................................................13

Semiconductor sensor measurements ............................................................................................................... 14
Wiring configuration........................................................................................................................................................14

Digital I/O connections ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Chapter 4

Functional Details ............................................................................................................................... 16
Thermocouple measurements ........................................................................................................................... 16
Cold junction compensation (CJC) ..................................................................................................................................16
Data linearization .............................................................................................................................................................16
Open-thermocouple detection (OTD) ..............................................................................................................................16

RTD and thermistor measurements .................................................................................................................. 17
Data linearization .............................................................................................................................................................17

External components ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Screw terminals................................................................................................................................................................17
USB connector .................................................................................................................................................................18
Status LEDs .....................................................................................................................................................................183

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Chapter 5

Specifications ...................................................................................................................................... 19
Analog input ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Channel configurations ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Compatible sensors ........................................................................................................................................... 20
Accuracy ........................................................................................................................................................... 21
Thermocouple measurement accuracy .............................................................................................................................21
Semiconductor sensor measurement accuracy .................................................................................................................21
RTD measurement accuracy ............................................................................................................................................22
Thermistor measurement accuracy ..................................................................................................................................22

Throughput rate ................................................................................................................................................ 23
Digital input/output........................................................................................................................................... 23
Memory ............................................................................................................................................................ 23
Microcontroller ................................................................................................................................................. 24
USB +5V voltage ............................................................................................................................................. 24
Power ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
USB specifications ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Current excitation outputs (Ix+) ....................................................................................................................... 25
Environmental .................................................................................................................................................. 25
Mechanical ....................................................................................................................................................... 25
Signal connector ............................................................................................................................................... 25
EU Declaration of Conformity ............................................................................................................ 27

4

Preface

About this User’s Guide
What you will learn from this user's guideThis user's guide describes the Measurement Computing USB-TEMP data acquisition device and lists device
specifications.

Conventions in this user's guide
For more information
Text presented in a box signifies additional information related to the subject matter.
Caution! Shaded caution statements present information to help you avoid injuring yourself and others,
damaging your hardware, or losing your data.
bold text

Bold text is used for the names of objects on a screen, such as buttons, text boxes, and check boxes.

italic text

Italic text is used for the names of manuals and help topic titles, and to emphasize a word or phrase.

Where to find more information
Additional information about USB-TEMP hardware is available on our website at www.mccdaq.com. You canalso contact Measurement Computing Corporation with specific questions.


Knowledgebase: kb.mccdaq.com
Tech support form: www.mccdaq.com/support/support_form.aspx
Email: techsupport@mccdaq.com
Phone: 508-946-5100 and follow the instructions for reaching Tech Support

For international customers, contact your local distributor. Refer to the International Distributors section on our
website at www.mccdaq.com/International.

5Chapter 1

Introducing the USB-TEMPThe USB-TEMP is a USB 2.0 full-speed, temperature measurement module that is supported under popular
Microsoft® Windows® operating systems. The USB-TEMP is fully compatible with both USB 1.1 and USB 2.0
ports.
The USB-TEMP provides eight differential input channels that are software programmable for different sensor
categories including thermocouple, RTDs, thermistors and Semiconductor sensors. Eight independent, TTLcompatible digital I/O channels are provided to monitor TTL-level inputs and to communicate with external
devices. The digital I/O channels are software programmable for input or output.
You can take measurements from four sensor categories:

Thermocouple – types J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B
Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurements of 100 Ω platinum RTDs
Thermistors – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurements
Semiconductor temperature sensors – LM35, TMP35 or equivalent

The USB-TEMP provides a 24-bit analog-to-digital (A/D) converter for each pair of differential analog input
channels. Each pair of differential inputs constitutes a channel pair.
You can connect a different category of sensor to each channel pair, but you cannot mix categories among thechannels that constitute a channel pair (although it is permissible to mix thermocouple types).
The USB-TEMP provides two integrated cold junction compensation (CJC) sensors for thermocouple
measurements, and built-in current excitation sources for resistive sensor measurements.
An open thermocouple detection feature lets you detect a broken thermocouple. An on-board microprocessor
automatically linearizes the measurement data according to the sensor category.
The USB-TEMP is a standalone plug-and-play module which draws power from the USB cable. No external
power supply is required. All configurable options are software programmable.
The USB-TEMP is fully software calibrated.

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Introducing the USB-TEMP

Functional block diagram
USB-TEMP functions are illustrated in the block diagram shown here.

Figure 1. Functional block diagram

7

Chapter 2

Installing the USB-TEMP
UnpackingAs with any electronic device, you should take care while handling to avoid damage from static
electricity. Before removing the board from its packaging, ground yourself using a wrist strap or by simply
touching the computer chassis or other grounded object to eliminate any stored static charge.

Installing the software
Refer to the MCC DAQ Quick Start and the USB-TEMP product page on our website for information about theavailable software.
Install the software before you install your device
The driver needed to run the USB-TEMP is installed with the software. Therefore, you need to install thesoftware package you plan to use before you install the hardware.

Installing the hardware
To connect the USB-TEMP to your system, turn your computer on, and connect the USB cable to a USB port
on your computer or to an external USB hub that is connected to your computer. The USB cable provides powerand communication to the USB-TEMP.
When you connect the USB-TEMP to a computer for the first time, a Found New Hardware dialog opens when
the operating system detects the device. When the dialog closes, the installation is complete. The upper Activity
LED blinks when initially connected and then stays on; the lower Power LED turns on when power is applied.
Caution! Do not disconnect the device from the USB bus while the Activity LED is on and the computer iscommunicating with the USB-TEMP, or you may lose data and/or your ability to communicate
with the USB-TEMP.

Configuring the hardware
All hardware configuration options on the USB-TEMP are programmable with software. Use InstaCal to set thesensor type for each channel. The configurable options dynamically update according to the selected sensor
category. Configuration options are stored on the USB-TEMP 's isolated microcontroller in EEPROM, which is
non-volatile memory on the USB-TEMP module. Configuration options are loaded on power up.
Default configuration
The factory default configuration is Disabled. The Disabled mode disconnects the analog inputs from theterminal blocks, internally grounds the A/D inputs, and disables each of the current excitation sources.
Warm up
Allow the USB-TEMP to warm up for 30 minutes before taking measurements. This warm up time minimizes
thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements. For RTD or thermistor measurements,
this warm-up time is also required to stabilize the internal current reference.

Calibrating the hardware
The USB-TEMP is fully calibrated via software. InstaCal prompts you to run its calibration utility when you
change from one sensor category to another.
Allow the USB-TEMP to operate for at least 30 minutes before calibrating. This warm up time minimizes
thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements.
8

Chapter 3

Sensor Connections
The USB-TEMP supports the following temperature sensor types:

 Thermocouple – types J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B
 Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurement modes of 100 Ω platinum RTDs.
 Thermistors – 2, 3, or 4-wire measurement modes.
 Semiconductor temperature sensors – LM36 or equivalentSensor selection
The type of sensor you select will depend on your application needs. Review the temperature ranges andaccuracies of each sensor type to determine which is best suited for your application.

Screw terminal pinout
The device screw terminals are identified in Figure 2. Between each bank of screw terminals are two integrated
CJC sensors used for thermocouple measurements.

Figure 2. USB-TEMP screw terminal pin numbers

Use 16 AWG to 30 AWG wire for your signal connections.
Tighten screw terminal connections
When making connections to the screw terminals, be sure to tighten the screw until tight. Simply touching the
top of the screw terminal is not sufficient to make a proper connection.

Sensor input terminals (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L)
You can connect up to eight temperature sensors to the differential sensor inputs (C0H/C0L to C7H/C7L).
Supported sensor categories include thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors, or semiconductor sensors.
Do not mix sensor categories within channel pairs. You can mix thermocouple types (J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B)
within channel pairs, however.

9USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

Do not connect two different sensor categories to the same channel pair
The USB-TEMP provides a 24 bit A/D converter for each channel pair. Each channel pair can monitor one
sensor category. To monitor a sensor from a different category, connect the sensor to a different channel pair
(input terminals).

Current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4)
The USB-TEMP has four dedicated pairs of current excitation output terminals (±I1 to ±I4). These terminals
have a built-in precision current source to provide excitation for the resistive sensors used for RTD andthermistor measurements.
Each current excitation terminal is dedicated to one pair of sensor input channels:I1+ is the current excitation source for channel 0 and channel 1
I2+ is the current excitation source for channel 2 and channel 3
I3+ is the current excitation source for channel 4 and channel 5
I4+ is the current excitation source for channel 6 and channel 7

Four-wire, two sensor common terminals (4W01 to 4W67)
These terminals are used as the common connection for four-wire configurations with two RTD or thermistor
sensors.

Two sensor common terminals (IC01 to IC67)
These terminals are used as the common connection for two-wire configurations with two RTD or thermistor
sensors.

Digital terminals (DIO0 to DIO7)
You can connect up to eight digital I/O lines to the screw terminals labeled DIO0 to DIO7. Each terminal issoftware configurable for input or output.

CJC sensors
The USB-TEMP has two built in high-resolution temperature sensors. One sensor is located on the right side of
the package, and one sensor is located at the left side.

Power output terminals (+5V)
The two +5V output terminals are isolated (500 VDC) from the USB +5V.
Caution! Each +5V terminal is an output. Do not connect to an external power supply or you may damage
the USB-TEMP and possibly the computer.

Ground terminals (GND)
The six ground terminals (GND) provide a common ground for the input channels and DIO bits and are isolated(500 VDC) from the USB GND.

Thermocouple connections
The USB-TEMP makes fully differential thermocouple measurements without the need of ground-referencing
resistors. A 32-bit floating point value in either a voltage or temperature format is returned by software. An
open thermocouple detection feature is available for each analog input which automatically detects an open or
broken thermocouple.
Use InstaCal to select the thermocouple type (J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B) and one or more sensor input channels
to connect the thermocouple.

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

Wiring configuration
Connect the thermocouple to the USB-TEMP using a differential configuration, as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. Typical thermocouple connection

The USB-TEMP GND pins are isolated from earth ground, so connecting thermocouple sensors to voltages
referenced to earth ground is permissible as long as the isolation between the GND pins (9, 19, 28, 38) and earth
ground is maintained.
When thermocouples are attached to conductive surfaces, the voltage differential between multiple
thermocouples must remain within ±1.4 V. For best results, we recommend the use of insulated or ungrounded
thermocouples when possible.
Maximum input voltage between analog input and ground
The absolute maximum input voltage between an analog input and the isolated GND pins is ±25 VDC when the
USB-TEMP is powered on, and ±40 VDC when the USB-TEMP is powered off.
If you need to increase the length of your thermocouple, use the same type of thermocouple wires to minimize
the error introduced by thermal EMFs.

RTD and thermistor connections
A resistance temperature detector (RTD) measures temperature by correlating the resistance of the RTD
element with temperature. A thermistor is a thermally-sensitive resistor that is similar to an RTD in that its
resistance changes with temperature — thermistors show a large change in resistance that is proportional to asmall change in temperature. The main difference between RTD and thermistor measurements is the method
used to linearize the sensor data.
RTDs and thermistors are resistive devices that require an excitation current to produce a voltage drop that canbe measured differentially across the sensor. The device has four built-in current excitation sources (±I1 to ±I4)
for measuring resistive type sensors. Each current excitation terminal is dedicated to one channel pair.
The USB-TEMP makes two, three, and four-wire measurements of RTDs (100 Ω platinum type) andthermistors.
Use InstaCal to select the sensor type and the wiring configuration. Once the resistance value is calculated, thevalue is linearized in order to convert it to a temperature value. A 32-bit floating point value in either
temperature or resistance is returned by software.
RTD maximum resistanceResistance values greater than 660 Ω cannot be measured by the USB-TEMP in the RTD mode. The 660 Ω
resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of the
RTD resistance and the lead resistances.
Thermistor maximum resistanceResistance values greater than 180 kΩ cannot be measured by the USB-TEMP in the thermistor mode. The
180 kΩ resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of
the thermistor resistance and the lead resistance.

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

Two-wire configuration
The easiest way to connect an RTD sensor or thermistor to the USB-TEMP is with a two-wire configuration,
since it requires the fewest connections to the sensor. With this method, the two wires that provide the RTD
sensor with its excitation current also measure the voltage across the sensor.
Since RTDs exhibit a low nominal resistance, measurement accuracy can be affected due to the lead wire
resistance. For example, connecting lead wires that have a resistance of 1 Ω (0.5 Ω each lead) to a 100 Ω
platinum RTD will result in a 1% measurement error.
With a two-wire configuration, you can connect either one sensor per channel pair, or two sensors per channel
pair.
Two-wire, single-sensor
A two-wire single-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4. Two-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration

When you select a two-wire single sensor configuration with InstaCal, connections to C#H and C#L are madeinternally.
Two-wire, two sensor
A two-wire, two-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5. Two-wire, two RTD or thermistor sensors measurement configuration

When you select a two-wire, two sensor configuration with InstaCal, connections to C#H (first sensor) andC#H/C#L (second sensor) are made internally.
When configured for two-wire mode, both sensors must be connected to obtain proper measurements.

12USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

Three-wire configuration
A three-wire configuration compensates for lead-wire resistance by using a single voltage sense connection.
With a three-wire configuration, you can connect only one sensor per channel pair. A three-wire measurement
configuration is shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6. Three-wire RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration

When you select a three-wire sensor configuration with InstaCal, the USB-TEMP measures the lead resistanceon the first channel (C#H/C#L) and measures the sensor itself using the second channel (C#H/C#L). Thisconfiguration compensates for any lead-wire resistance and temperature change in lead-wire resistance.
Connections to C#H for the first channel and C#H/C#L of the second channel are made internally.
Three-wire compensation
For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±I# pins must be of equal
resistance value.

Four-wire configuration
With a four-wire configuration, connect two sets of sense/excitation wires at each end of the RTD or thermistor
sensor. This configuration completely compensates for any lead-wire resistance and temperature change in leadwire resistance.
Connect your sensor with a four-wire configuration when your application requires very high accuracy
measurements. Examples of a four-wire single-sensor measurement configuration are shown in Figure 7 andFigure 8.
You can configure the USB-TEMP with either a single sensor per channel or two sensors per channel pair.
Four-wire, single-sensor
A four-wire, single-sensor connected to the first channel of a channel pair is shown in Figure 7.

Figure 7. Four-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

A four-wire, single-sensor connected to the second channel of a channel pair is shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8. Four-wire, single RTD or thermistor sensor measurement configuration

A four-wire, two-sensor measurement configuration is shown in Figure 9.

Figure 9. Four-wire, two RTD or thermistor sensors measurement configuration

When configured for four-wire, two sensor mode, both sensors must be connected to obtain proper
measurements.

Semiconductor sensor measurements
Semiconductor sensors are suitable over a range of approximately -40 °C to 125 °C, where an accuracy of±2 °C is adequate. The temperature measurement range of a semiconductor sensor is small when compared tothermocouples and RTDs. However, semiconductor sensors can be accurate, inexpensive and easy to interface
with other electronics for display and control.
The USB-TEMP makes high-resolution measurements of semiconductor sensors, and returns a 32-bit floating
point value in either voltage or temperature.
Use InstaCal to select the sensor type (LM35, TMP35 or equivalent) and the sensor input channel to connect thesensor.

Wiring configuration
Connect the semiconductor sensor to the USB-TEMP using a single-ended configuration, as shown in Figure
10. The device provides +5V and GND pins for powering the sensor.

Figure 10. Semiconductor sensor measurement configuration

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Sensor Connections

Digital I/O connections
You can connect up to eight digital I/O lines to the screw terminals labeled DIO0 to DIO7. You can configure
each digital bit for either input or output. All digital I/O lines are pulled up to +5V with a 47 kΩ resistor(default). You can request the factory to configure the resistor for pull-down to ground if desired.
When you configure the digital bits for input, you can use the USB-TEMP digital I/O terminals to detect thestate of any TTL-level input. Refer to the schematic shown in Figure 11. If you set the switch to the +5V input,
DIO0 reads TRUE (1). If you move the switch to GND, DIO0 reads FALSE (0).

Figure 11. Schematic showing switch detection by digital channel DIO0

Caution! All ground pins on the USB-TEMP (pins 9, 19, 28, 38) are common and are isolated from earth
ground. If a connection is made to earth ground when using digital I/O and conductive
thermocouples, the thermocouples are no longer isolated. In this case, thermocouples must not be
For more information about digital signal connections
For more information about digital signal connections
For general information about digital signal connections and digital I/O techniques, refer to the Guide to DAQ
Signal Connections (available on our web site at www.mccdaq.com/support/DAQ-Signal-Connections.aspx).

15

Chapter 4

Functional Details
Thermocouple measurements

A thermocouple consists of two dissimilar metals that are joined together at one end. When the junction of themetals is heated or cooled, a voltage is produced that correlates to temperature.
The USB-TEMP hardware level-shifts the thermocouple’s output voltage into the A/D’s common mode input
range by applying +2.5 V to the thermocouple’s low side at the C#L input. Always connect thermocouple
sensors to the USB-TEMP in a floating fashion. Do not attempt to connect the thermocouple low side C#L to
GND or to a ground referencing resistor.

Cold junction compensation (CJC)
When you connect the thermocouple sensor leads to the sensor input channel, the dissimilar metals at the USBTEMP terminal blocks produce an additional thermocouple junction. This junction creates a small voltage error
term which must be removed from the overall sensor measurement using a cold junction compensation
technique. The measured voltage includes both the thermocouple voltage and the cold junction voltage. To
compensate for the additional cold junction voltage, the USB-TEMP subtracts the cold junction voltage fromthe thermocouple voltage.
The USB-TEMP has two high-resolution temperature sensors that are integrated into the design of the USBTEMP. One sensor is located on the right side of the package, and one sensor is located at the left side. The CJC
sensors measure the average temperature at the terminal blocks so that the cold junction voltage can becalculated. A software algorithm automatically corrects for the additional thermocouples created at the terminal
blocks by subtracting the calculated cold junction voltage from the analog input's thermocouple voltage
measurement.
Increasing the thermocouple length
If you need to increase the length of your thermocouple, use the same type of thermocouple wires to minimize
the error introduced by thermal EMFs.

Data linearization
After the CJC correction is performed on the measurement data, an on-board microcontroller automaticallylinearizes the thermocouple measurement data using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
linearization coefficients for the selected thermocouple type.
The measurement data is then output as a 32-bit floating point value in the configured format (voltage ortemperature).

Open-thermocouple detection (OTD)
The USB-TEMP is equipped with an open-thermocouple detection for each analog input channel. With OTD,
any open-circuit or short-circuit condition at the thermocouple sensor is detected by the software. An open
channel is detected by driving the input voltage to a negative value outside the range of any thermocouple
output. The software recognizes this as an invalid reading and flags the appropriate channel. The software
continues to sample all channels when OTD is detected.
Input leakage current
With open-thermocouple detection enabled, 105 nA (max) of input leakage current is injected into thethermocouple. This current can cause an error voltage to develop across the lead resistance of the thermocouple
that is indistinguishable from the thermocouple voltage you are measuring.

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Functional Details

You can estimate the error voltage with this formula:error voltage = resistance of the thermocouple × 105 nA

To reduce the error, reduce the length of the thermocouple to lower its resistance, or lower the AWG of the wireby using a wire with a larger diameter. With open-thermocouple detection disabled, 30 nA max of input leakage
current is injected into the thermocouple.

RTD and thermistor measurements
RTDs and thermistors are resistive devices that require an excitation current to produce a voltage drop that canbe measured differentially across the sensor. The USB-TEMP measures the sensor resistance by forcing aknown excitation current through the sensor and then measuring (differentially) the voltage across the sensor todetermine its resistance.
After the voltage measurement is made, the resistance of the RTD is calculated using Ohms law – the sensor
resistance is calculated by dividing the measured voltage by the current excitation level (±Ix) source. The valueof the ±Ix source is stored in local memory.
Once the resistance value is calculated, the value is linearized in order to convert it to a temperature value. The
measurement is returned by software as a 32-bit floating point value in either temperature or resistance.

Data linearization
An on-board microcontroller automatically performs linearization on RTD and thermistor measurements.


RTD measurements are linearized using a Callendar-Van Dusen coefficients algorithm (you select DIN,
SAMA, or ITS-90).
Thermistor measurements are linearized using a Steinhart-Hart linearization algorithm (you supply thecoefficients from the sensor manufacturer's data sheet).

External components
The USB-TEMP has the following external components, as shown in Figure 12.

1
2

Screw terminal pins 1 to 26
Screw terminal pins 27 to 52

3
4

Status LEDs: Activity (top) and Power (bottom)
USB connector

Figure 12.External component locations

Screw terminals
Use the screw terminals for connecting temperature sensors and digital I/O lines. These terminals also provide
ground and power output connections. Refer to the "Sensor Connections" chapter on page 9 for information
about the device screw terminals.
17USB-TEMP User's Guide

Functional Details

USB connector
The USB connector provides +5V power and communication. No external power supply is required.

Status LEDs
USB-TEMP has two LEDs that indicate the status of power and data. The LEDs are stacked one above theother.


The Activity LED (top) blinks when data is transferred over the USB bus.
The Power LED (bottom) turns on when power is applied.

18

Chapter 5

Specifications
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Typical for 25 °C unless otherwise specified.
Specifications in italic text are guaranteed by design.

Analog input
Table 1. Generic analog input specifications
Parameter

Condition

Specification

A/D converters
Number of channels
Input isolation

Absolute maximum
input voltage

Thermocouple
RTD
Thermistor
Semiconductor sensor±C0x through ±C7x relative to GND (pins9, 19, 28, 38)

Input impedance
Input leakage current

Open thermocouple detect disabled

Four dual 24-bit, Sigma-Delta type
8 differential
500 VDC minimum between field wiring andUSB interface
Software programmable to match sensor type±0.080 V
0 to 0.5 V
0 to 2 V
0 to 2.5 V±24 V power on±24 V power off
5 GΩ, min
30 nA maxOpen thermocouple detect enabled
fIN = 60 Hz

105 nA max
90 dB minfIN = 50 Hz/60 Hz

100 dB min

15 °C to 35 °C
0 °C to 70 °C

24 bits
24 bitsDC
30 minutes min
Automatically enabled when the channel pair isconfigured for thermocouple sensor.
The maximum open detection time is 3 seconds.
±0.25 °C typ,±0.5 °C max–1.0 °C to +0.5 °C max

Channel configuration
Differential input
voltage range for thevarious sensor
categories

Normal mode rejection
ratio
Common mode rejection
ratio
Resolution
No missing codes
Input couplingWarm-up time
Open thermocouple
detectCJC sensor accuracy

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USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

Channel configurations
Table 2. Channel configuration specifications
Sensor Category

Disabled
Thermocouple
Semiconductor sensor
RTD and thermistor

Note 1:

Note 2:
Note 3:

Condition

Max number of
sensors (all channels
configured alike)

2-wire input configuration with a single sensor per channel pair2-wire input configuration with two sensors per channel pair
3-wire configuration with a single sensor per channel pair
4-wire input configuration with a single sensor per channel pair
4-wire input configuration with two sensors per channel pair

8 differential channels
8 differential channels
4 differential channels
8 differential channels
4 differential channels
4 differential channels
8 differential channels

Internally, the device has four, dual-channel, fully differential A/Ds providing a total of eight differential
channels. The analog input channels are therefore configured in four channel pairs with CH0/CH1 sensor
inputs, CH2/CH3 sensor inputs, CH4/CH5 sensor inputs, and CH6/CH7 sensor inputs paired together. This"channel-pairing" requires the analog input channel pairs be configured to monitor the same category oftemperature sensor. Mixing different sensor types of the same category (such as a type J thermocouple onchannel 0 and a type T thermocouple on channel 1) is valid.
Channel configuration information is stored in the EEPROM of the isolated microcontroller by the firmware
whenever any item is modified. Modification is performed by commands issued over USB from an external
application, and the configuration is made non-volatile through the use of the EEPROM.
The factory default configuration is Disabled. The Disabled mode will disconnect the analog inputs from theterminal blocks and internally ground all of the A/D inputs. This mode also disables each of the current
excitation sources.

Compatible sensors
Table 3. Compatible sensor type specifications
Parameter

Specification

Thermocouple

J: –210 °C to 1200 °C
K: –270 °C to 1372 °C
R: –50 °C to 1768 °C
S: –50 °C to 1768 °C
T: –270 °C to 400 °C
N: –270 °C to 1300 °C
E: –270 °C to 1000 °C
B: 0 °C to 1820 °C
100 Ω PT (DIN 43760: 0.00385 ohms/ohm/°C)
100 Ω PT (SAMA: 0.003911 ohms/ohm/°C)
100 ΩPT (ITS-90/IEC751:0.0038505 ohms/ohm/°C)Standard 2,252 Ω through 30,000 Ω
LM35, TMP35 or equivalent

RTD

Thermistor
Semiconductor / IC20

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

Accuracy
Thermocouple measurement accuracy
Table 4. Thermocouple accuracy specifications, including CJC measurement error
Sensor type

Maximum error (°C)

Typical error (°C)

Temperature range (°C)

J

±1.499±0.643±1.761±0.691±2.491±1.841±2.653±1.070±1.779±0.912±1.471±0.639±1.717±0.713±1.969±0.769±0.507±0.312±0.538±0.345±0.648±0.399±0.650±0.358±0.581±0.369±0.462±0.245±0.514±0.256±0.502±0.272–210 to 0
0 to 1200–210 to 0
0 to 1372–50 to 250
250 to 1768.1–50 to 250
250 to 1768.1
250 to 700
700 to 1820
–200 to 0
0 to 1000–200 to 0
0 to 600–200 to 0
0 to 1300

K
S
R
B
E
T
N
Note 4:Note 5:Note 6:

Thermocouple measurement accuracy specifications include linearization, cold-junction compensation andsystem noise. These specs are for one year, or 3000 operating hours, whichever comes first, and for operation of
the device between 15 °C and 35 °C. For measurements outside this range, add ±0.5° to the maximum error
shown. There are CJC sensors on each side of the module. The accuracy listed above assumes the screw
terminals are at the same temperature as the CJC sensor. Errors shown do not include inherent thermocouple
error. Please contact your thermocouple supplier for details on the actual thermocouple error.
Thermocouples must be connected to the device such that they are floating with respect to GND (pins 9, 19, 28,38). The GND pins are isolated from earth ground, so connecting thermocouple sensors to voltages referenced
to earth ground is permissible as long as the isolation between the GND pins and earth ground is maintained.
When thermocouples are attached to conductive surfaces, the voltage differential between multiple
thermocouples must remain within ±1.4 V. For best results we recommend the use of insulated or ungrounded
thermocouples when possible.

Semiconductor sensor measurement accuracy
Table 5. Semiconductor sensor accuracy specifications
Sensor type

Temperature range (°C)

Maximum accuracy error (°C)

LM35, TMP35 or equivalent–40 to 150±0.50Note 7:

Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. These specs are for one year while operation of thedevice is between 15 °C and 35 °C. Please contact your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error
limitations.

21

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

RTD measurement accuracy
Table 6. RTD measurement accuracy specifications
RTD

Sensortemperature (°C)

Maximum accuracy error (°C)
Ix+ = 210 µA

Typical accuracy error (°C)
Ix+ = 210 µA

PT100, DIN, US or
ITS-90–200 to –150
–150 to –100
–100 to 0
0 to 100
100 to 300
300 to 600

±2.85
±1.24
±0.58
±0.38
±0.39
±0.40

±2.59
±0.97
±0.31
±0.11
±0.12
±0.12

Note 8:Note 9:Note 10:Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. The sensor linearization is performed using a
Callendar–Van Dusen linearization algorithm. These specs are for one year while operation of the device isbetween 15 °C and 35 °C. The specification does not include lead resistance errors for 2-wire RTD connections.
Please contact your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error limitations.
Resistance values greater than 660 Ω cannot be measured by the device in the RTD mode. The 660 Ω resistancelimit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of the RTD
resistance and the lead resistances.
For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±Ix pins must be of equalvalue.

Thermistor measurement accuracy
Table 7. Thermistor measurement accuracy specifications
Thermistor

Temperature range (°C)

Maximum accuracy error (°C)
Ix+ = 10 µA

2252 Ω
3000 Ω

–40 to120–40 to120

±0.05
±0.05

5000 Ω
10000 Ω–35 to120–25 to120

±0.05
±0.05

30000 Ω–10 to120±0.05

Note 11:

Error shown does not include errors of the sensor itself. The sensor linearization is performed using a SteinhartHart linearization algorithm. These specs are for one year while operation of the device is between 15 °C and 35°C. The specification does not include lead resistance errors for 2-wire thermistor connections. Please contact
your sensor supplier for details on the actual sensor error limitations. Total thermistor resistance on any given
channel pair must not exceed 180 kΩ. Typical resistance values at various temperatures for supported
thermistors are shown in Table 8.
Table 8. Typical thermistor resistance specifications

Temp
(°C)

2252 Ω thermistor

3000 Ω
thermistor

5 kΩ
thermistor

10 kΩ
thermistor

30 kΩ
thermistor

–40

76 kΩ

101 kΩ

168 kΩ

240 kΩ (Note 12)885 kΩ (Note 12)

–35
–30

55 kΩ
40 kΩ

73 kΩ
53 kΩ

121 kΩ
88 kΩ

179 kΩ
135 kΩ

649 kΩ (Note 12)481 kΩ (Note 12)

–25
–20

29 kΩ
22 kΩ

39 kΩ
29 kΩ

65 kΩ
49 kΩ

103 kΩ
79 kΩ

360 kΩ (Note 12)271 kΩ (Note 12)

–15
–10

16 kΩ
12 kΩ

22 kΩ
17 kΩ

36 kΩ
28 kΩ

61 kΩ
48 kΩ

206 kΩ (Note 12)
158 kΩ

–50

9.5 kΩ
7.4 kΩ

13 kΩ
9.8 kΩ

21 kΩ
16 kΩ

37 kΩ
29 kΩ

122 kΩ
95 kΩ

Note 12:

Resistance values greater than 180 kΩ cannot be measured by the device in the thermistor mode. The 180 kΩ
resistance limit includes the total resistance across the current excitation (±Ix) pins, which is the sum of thethermistor resistance and the lead resistances.

22

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Note 13:

Specifications

For accurate three wire compensation, the individual lead resistances connected to the ±Ix pins must be of equalvalue.

Throughput rate
Table 9. Throughput rate specifications
Number of input channels

Maximum throughput

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

2 Samples/second
2 S/s on each channel, 4 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 6 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 8 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 10 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 12 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 14 S/s total
2 S/s on each channel, 16 S/s total

Note 14:

The analog inputs are configured to run continuously. Each channel is sampled twice per second. The maximum
latency between when a sample is acquired and the temperature data is provided by the USB unit isapproximately 0.5 seconds.

Digital input/output
Table 10. Digital input/output specifications
Parameter

Specification

Digital type
Number of I/O
Configuration

CMOS
8 (DIO0 through DIO7)
Independently configured for input or output.
Power on reset is input mode.
All pins pulled up to +5 V via 47 kΩ resistors (default). Pull-down to ground(GND) also available.
 Digital input: 50 port reads or single bit reads per second, typ Digital output:100 port writes or single bit writes per second, typ
2.0 V min, 5.5 V absolute max
0.8 V max, –0.5 V absolute min
0.7 V max
3.8 V minPull-up/pull-down configuration
Digital I/O transfer rate
(software paced)
Input high voltage
Input low voltage
Output low voltage (IOL = 2.5 mA)
Output high voltage(IOH = –2.5 mA)
Note 15:

All ground pins (pins 9, 19, 28, 38) are common and are isolated from earth ground. If a connection is made toearth ground when using digital I/O and conductive thermocouples, the thermocouples are no longer isolated. In
this case, thermocouples must not be connected to any conductive surfaces that may be referenced to earth
ground.

MemoryTable 11. Memory specifications
Parameter

Specification

EEPROM

1,024 bytes isolated micro reserved for sensor configuration
256 bytes USB micro for external application use

23

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

Microcontroller
Table 12. Microcontroller specifications
Parameter

Specification

Type

Two high-performance 8-bit RISC microcontrollers

USB +5V voltage
Table 13. USB +5V voltage specifications
Parameter

Specification

USB +5V (VBUS) input voltage
range

4.75 V min to 5.25 V max

Power
Table 14. Power specifications
Parameter

Condition

Specification

Supply current
Supply current(Note 16)
+5V output voltage range (pins 21
and 47)USB enumeration
Continuous mode<100 mA
140 mA typ

Connected to self-powered hub. (Note 17)+5V output current (pins 21
and 47)Isolation

Bus-powered and connected to a self-powered hub. (Note 17)4.75 V min to
5.25 V max
10 mA max

Measurement system to PC

500 VDC min

Note 16:
Note 17:

This is the total current requirement for the device which includes up to 10 mA for the status LED.
Self-Powered Hub refers to a USB hub with an external power supply. Self-powered hubs allow a connected
USB device to draw up to 500 mA.
Root Port Hubs reside in the PC USB Host Controller. The USB port(s) on your PC are root port hubs. All
externally powered root port hubs (desktop PC) provide up to 500 mA of current for a USB device. Batterypowered root port hubs provide 100 mA or 500 mA, depending upon the manufacturer. A laptop PC that is notconnected to an external power adapter is an example of a battery-powered root port hub.

USB specifications
Table 15. USB specifications
Parameter

Specification

USB device type
Device compatibility
Device power capability
USB cable type

USB 2.0 (full-speed)
USB 1.1, USB 2.0
Self-powered, 100 mA consumption max
A-B cable, UL type AWM 2725 or equivalent. (min 24 AWG VBUS/GND,
min 28 AWG D+/D–)
3 m (9.84 ft) max

USB cable length24

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

Current excitation outputs (Ix+)
Table 16. Current excitation output specifications
Parameter

Specification

Configuration

4 dedicated pairs:±I1: CH0/CH1±I2: CH2/CH3±I3: CH4/CH5±I4: CH6/CH7
Thermistor: 10 µA typ
RTD: 210 µA typ±5% typ
200 ppm/°C
2.1 ppm/V max
0.3 ppm/V typ
3.90 V max–0.03 V min

Current excitation output ranges
Tolerance
DriftLine regulation
Load regulation
Output compliance voltage(relative to GND pins 9, 19, 28, 38)
Note 18:
Note 19:

The device has four current excitation outputs, with ±I1 dedicated to the CH0/CH1 analog inputs, ±I2 dedicatedto CH2/CH3, ±I3 dedicated to CH4/CH5, and ±I4 dedicated to CH6/CH7. The excitation output currents should
always be used in this dedicated configuration.
The current excitation outputs are automatically configured based on the sensor (thermistor or RTD) selected.

Environmental
Table 17. Environmental specifications
Parameter

Specification

Operating temperature range
Storage temperature range
Humidity

0 °C to 70 °C–40 °C to 85 °C
0% to 90% non-condensing

Mechanical
Table 18. Mechanical specifications
Parameter

Specification

Dimensions (L × W × H)User connection length

128.52 x 88.39 × 35.56 mm (5.06 × 3.48 × 1.43 ft)
3 m (9.84 ft) max

Signal connector
Table 19. Signal connector specifications
Parameter

Specification

Connector type
Wire gauge range

Screw terminal
16 AWG to 30 AWG

25

USB-TEMP User's Guide

Specifications

Table 20. Screw terminal pinout
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Signal Name
I1+
NC
C0H
C0L
4W01
IC01
C1H
C1L
GND
I1–

Pin Description
CH0/CH1 current excitation source
No connection
CH0 sensor input (+)
CH0 sensor input (–)
CH0/CH1 4-wire, 2 sensor common
CH0/CH1 2-sensor common
CH1 sensor input (+)
CH1 sensor input (–)
GroundCH0/CH1 current excitation return

Pin
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36

CJC sensor
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

I2+
NC
C2H
C2L
4W23
IC23
C3H
C3L
GND
I2–
+5V
GND
DIO0
DIO1
DIO2
DIO3

Signal Name
I4–
GND
C7L
C7H
IC67
4W67
C6L
C6H
NC
I4+

Pin Description
CH6/CH7 current excitation return
GroundCH7 sensor input (–)
CH7 sensor input (+)
CH6/CH7 2 sensor common
CH6/CH7 4-wire, 2 sensor common
CH6 sensor input (–)
CH6 sensor input (+)
No connection
CH6/CH7 current excitation source

CJC sensor
CH2/CH3 current excitation source
No connection
CH2 sensor input (+)
CH2 sensor input (–)
CH2/CH3 4-wire, 2 sensor common
CH2/CH3 2 sensor common
CH3 sensor input (+)
CH3 sensor input (–)
GroundCH2/CH3 current excitation return
Power output
GroundDIO channel 0
DIO channel 1
DIO channel 2
DIO channel 3

26

37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52

I3–
GND
C5L
C5H
IC45
4W45
C4L
C4H
NC
I3+
+5V
GND
DIO7
DIO6
DIO5
DIO4

CH4/CH5 current excitation return
GroundCH5 sensor input (–)
CH5 sensor input (+)
CH4/CH5 2 sensor common
CH4/CH5 4-wire, 2 sensor common
CH4 sensor input (–)
CH4 sensor input (+)
No connection
CH4/CH5 current excitation source
Power output
GroundDIO channel 7
DIO channel 6
DIO channel 5
DIO channel 4

EU Declaration of Conformity
According to ISO/IEC 17050-1:2010
Manufacturer:
Address:

Product Category:
Date and Place of Issue:
Test Report Number:

Measurement Computing Corporation
10 Commerce Way
Norton, MA 02766
USAElectrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use.
June 2, 2016, Norton, Massachusetts USA
EMI4193.05 / EMI5215B.08

Measurement Computing Corporation declares under sole responsibility that the product

USB-TEMP
is in conformity with the relevant Union Harmonization Legislation and complies with the essential
requirements of the following applicable European Directives:
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/35/EU
Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
Conformity is assessed in accordance to the following standards:
EMC:
Emissions: EN 61326-1:2013 (IEC 61326-1:2012), Class A
 EN 55011: 2009 + A1:2010 (IEC CISPR 11:2009 + A1:2010), Group 1, Class A
Immunity: EN 61326-1:2013 (IEC 61326-1:2012), Controlled EM Environments EN 61000-4-2:2008 (IEC 61000-4-2:2008)
 EN 61000-4-3 :2010 (IEC61000-4-3:2010)
Safety: EN 61010-1 (IEC 61010-1)
Environmental Affairs:
Articles manufactured on or after the Date of Issue of this Declaration of Conformity do not contain any of therestricted substances in concentrations/applications not permitted by the RoHS Directive.

Carl Haapaoja, Director of Quality Assurance

Measurement Computing Corporation
10 Commerce Way
Norton, Massachusetts 02766(508) 946-5100
Fax: (508) 946-9500
E-mail: info@mccdaq.com
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