e -corder User Manuale-corderInput 1

Input 2

201

Power
Status

OutputTrigger

Input 1

Input 2

Input 3401

PowerStatus

OutputInput 4

Trigger

e-corder®

www.eDAQ.com

This document was, as far as possible, accurate at
the time of printing. Changes may have been madeto the software and hardware it describes sincethen: eDAQ Pty Ltd reserves the right to alterspecifications as required. Late-breaking information
may be supplied separately. Latest information andinformation and software updates can be obtained
from our web site.
Trademarks of eDAQ
e-corder and PowerChrom are registered trademarksof eDAQ Pty Ltd. Specific model names of data
recording units, such as e-corder 201, andPowerChrom 280, are trademarks of eDAQ Pty Ltd.
Chart and Scope are trademarks of ADInstrumets Pty
Ltd and are used under license by eDAQ. EChem isa trademarks of eDAQ Pty Ltd.

Products:

e-corder 201 (ED201);
e-corder 401 (ED401)

Document Number: U-ED201/ED401-1103
Copyright © November 2003
eDAQ Pty Ltd
6 Doig Avenue
Denistone East, NSW 2112
AUSTRALIA
http://www.eDAQ.com
email: info@eDAQ.com
All rights reserved. No part of this document may be
reproduced by any means without the prior written
permission of eDAQ Pty Ltd.

Other Trademarks
Mac OS, and Macintosh, are registered trademarksof Apple Computer, Inc. Windows 98, Windows
Me, Windows 2000, and Windows XP aretrademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
PostScript, and Acrobat are registered trademarks ofAdobe Systems, Incorporated.
All other trademarks are the properties of theirrespective owners.

ii

e-corderContents
1 Overview 1

A Technical Aspects 19

Unpacking 2
How to Use this Guide 2
The System 2
The Hardware 2
The Software 3
Computer Requirements 3
Other Hardware 4
Other Software 5

How Does it Work? 19
e-corder Accuracy 21

2 Setting Up 7
The e-corder 8
The Front Panel 8
Indicator Lights 9Analog Inputs 9
BNC Input Connectors 10
Pod Input Connectors 10
Analog Output 12
Trigger 13
The Back Panel 14
I2C Output 14
USB Port 15
Auxiliary Ground 15
Serial Port 15
Power 15
Self-Test 16
USB Connection 17
Connecting the e-corder 17

e-corderB Troubleshooting 23
C Specifications 29
e-corder Specifications 29
Input 29
Sampling 30
Output Amplifier 30
External Trigger 31
Microprocessor and Data Communication
31
Expansion Ports 31
Physical Configuration 32

Glossary 33
Index 1
License & Warranty 3

iii

iv

e-corderC H A P T E R

1 Overview

O N EYour e-corder recording unit, together with the Chart and Scope
software, provides a versatile data recording and analysis system whenused with a Windows or Macintosh computer. This chapter provides an
overview of the e-corder system and describes its basic features.

e-corder1Unpacking
As soon as you unpack your e-corder unit please check that:• all items described in the packing list are included; and that• there are no signs of damage that may have occurred duringtransit.
Contact your eDAQ distributor if you encounter a problem.

How to Use this Guide
This manual describes the features of the e-corder system and its
connection to your computer. The appendixes provide technicalinformation about the recording unit, and solutions to problems. Please
note that only an authorized eDAQ distributor should attempt repairs. If
you modify the recording unit yourself, you void any rights you haveunder warranty.
The Chart and Scope Software Manuals provide detailed information
on how to use your e-corder system to acquire, display, and analyze
data.

The System
The e-corder system is an integrated system of hardware and software
designed to record, display, and analyze experimental data. The
hardware comprises the e-corder recording unit and possible ancillarydevices (eDAQ Amps, or Pods); the Chart and Scope software run on
the computer to which the e-corder is connected.

The Hardware▲ WARNING!
Applying more than 15
V to the analog inputs
can damage the eDAQ
unit.

2

The e-corder 201 (or 401) hardware unit is a two, (or four) channel
data acquisition system that accepts analog voltage signals up to±10 V. It can be directly connected to most laboratory equipment thatwould otherwise use a chart recorder, XY–plotter, or oscilloscope torecord data.

e-corderBecause the e-corder unit sits outside the computer, connected via a
USB interface, it is subject to less electrical interference than an internal
data acquisition card. It is also easily transferred from one computer toanother.
Apart from amplifying and filtering the signal the e-corder has
considerable processing power and performs many tasks that arenecessary during data recording. Data is transferred to the computer inpackets, though in most cases the software displays data in a smooth
scrolling mode. Once on the computer, the data are available forreview, analysis, storage, printing, or transfer to other graphing or
analysis software.

The Software
Chart and Scope software are provided on the Installer CD that isincluded with each e-corder. Chart emulates a multi–channel chart
recorder (up to 16 channels can be displayed). Scope emulates a
two–channel storage oscilloscope or XYT plotter. Both provide manyother features in addition to simple data acquisition, including
computed functions, triggering options, software–controlled waveformgeneration, and automated recording and analysis. The Chart andScope Software Manuals on the Installer CD provide more details.

Computer Requirements
Windows• A computer with a Pentium processor or better• 32 MB free RAM (48 MB for Windows 2000)• Windows XP, 2000 or later operating system• USB installed
Macintosh• A G3, G4 or later Macintosh computer• 32 MB free RAM (64 MB recommended)• Mac OS X or later

Chapter 1 — Overview

3• USB installed

Other Hardware
eDAQ has a range of optional preamplifiers that can be connected tothe e-corder. eDAQ Amps are automatically recognized and configuredby the software.
The range of eDAQ Amps includes the:• pH/mV Amp, suitable for connection of pH, ion selective, andpotentiometric (ORP) electrodes• Potentiostat, a three–electrode potentiostat that can be used forvoltammetric and amperometric experiments. Gain ranges of 20 nA
to 100 mA in 1:2:5 steps.
• Picostat, a high sensitivity three–electrode potentiostat suitable foruse with carbon fibre and other microelectrodes. Current gain
ranges of 10 pA to 100 nA in 1:2:5 steps.
• Bridge Amp, suitable for sensors requiring a low drift, high gain
differential amplifier. Also provides DC excitation• GP Amp, suitable for high output sensors requiring a highimpedance single ended or differential amplifier. Also provides DC
excitation.
eDAQ Pods our range of miniature preamplifiers:• pH Pod suitable for use with most combination pH electrodes andcombination potentiometric redox (ORP) electrodes.
• Conductivity Pod for use with conductivity cells.
• RTD Pod signal conditioner for 100 Ω Pt RTD’s.
• Thermocouple Pod for use with appropriate T– or K–typethermocouple probes.

4e-corderOther Software
PowerChrom software (chromatographic data collection and analysis)
and EChem software (electroanalytical chemistry experiments) are alsoavailable for use with your e-corder system.
See our web site at www.eDAQ.com for more information.

Chapter 1 — Overview

56

e-corderC H A P T E R

2 Setting Up

T W O

This chapter starts with the e-corder internal self-test, then looks at how
to connect up your e-corder to a computer. It discusses the USB
connection in some detail.

e-corder7The e-corderFirst familiarize yourself with some of the external features of youre-corder before connecting it to a power source. The rest of this chapter
discusses the different features, connectors, and indicators of thee-corder 201 and e-corder 401.

The Front Panel
The front panel of your e-corder, shown in Figure 2–1, provides most of
the connectors for interfacing with external signals, and indicators forvarious functions. This section describes each of the front panelfeatures.

Input channels 1 and 2,
BNC connectors

Figure 2–1
The e-corder front panels.

Input 2

Input 1
201

Power
OutputStatusTrigger

Indicator
lightsExternal trigger input,
BNC connector

Analog output,
BNC connectors

Input 1

Input channels 1 and 2,
Pod port, DIN connectors

Input 2

Input 3401

PowerStatus

OutputInput 4

Trigger

Input channels 3 and 4,
BNC connectors

8

e-corderIndicator Lights
There are three lights that indicate when power is on, recording status,
and trigger state.
All three should turn on at least briefly when the e-corder is first turned
on. The Power indicator should glow blue and then stay lit, the Statusindicator should flash yellow and then stay green, and the Trigger
indicator should flash yellow and then turn off. When an external
trigger signal is received, the Trigger indicator will glow yellow. The
Status indicator provides some visual indication of what the e-corder isdoing, and will flash different patterns and colors depending on thestate of the e-corder, Table 2–1. These lights are used in the e-corderself test on power up (page 16)

Table 2–1
Status indicator functions.

Status Indicator

Meaning

Off

Idle and not yet initialized by the software.

Green

Idle, initialized, and waiting for a command fromthe computer.

Yellow

Sampling, or communicating with the computer.

Four red
flashes andone yellow one

The e-corder has detected a low-level software or
firmware fault. It will repeat until the power to thee-corder is turned off.

Red flashes

The e-corder has detected an internal fault during
the power-up test. It will repeat until the power tothe e-corder is turned off.

Analog Inputs
Each e-corder analog input has an independently programmable gain
amplifier with its own filtering, and AC/DC coupling. You can set up
each input with separate amplification and filtering settings to suit yourrequirements — see the Chart and Scope Software Manuals on the
Installer CD.
▲ WARNING!
Applying more than
15 V to the analog
inputs can damage theeDAQ unit.

Chapter 2 — Setting Up

Each e-corder input has gains of up to ×5000 making it possible torecord many signal ranges up to ±10 V without the need for anintervening preamplifier. The input amplifiers can be operated with orwithout AC coupling. The AC coupling mode is equivalent to applying
a 0.1 Hz high pass filter to remove the DC (baseline) signal
9▲ CAUTION!
e-corder inputs andoutputs are notelectrically isolated. If an
isolated input is requireda suitable isolated
preamplifier must be
used.

component. Low pass digital filtering can be selected in software from
1 Hz to 2 kHz. Note that each input is fitted with a fixed 20 kHz
anti–aliasing low pass filter, which is the effective upper limit of the
bandwidth. This filter is active even when the software selectable digital
filters are turned off.
The impedance of the e-corder inputs is one megohm (1 MΩ). If you
are using high impedance transducers (> 10 kΩ) you should consider
using the GP Amp or pH Amp, which provide input impedances of 108
and 1013 Ω respectively, or other suitable high input impedance
preamplifier.
The e-corder grounds the amplifiers of those input channels not in use. It
also grounds each amplifier and measures the DC offset voltage when
the gain is changed. In this way, the software corrects for any DC drift
or offset in the circuits that may develop over time or between readings.
The operation of the input amplifiers is illustrated by the block diagrams
shown in Figure 2–2.

BNC Input Connectors
Each analog input channel is fitted with a BNC connector on the front
panel of the e-corder unit (Input 1, Input 2 etc.). These connectors areused for single–ended signals (difference between signal and ground).
The outer shell of each of the BNC connectors is equivalent to the Input
Reference pin of the Pod DIN connector (Figure 2–3) and provides apathway to ground via the equivalent circuit shown in Figure 2–2.

Pod Input Connectors
Input channels 1 and 2 also have alternative Pod 8–pin DIN
connectors. Pod connectors allow the connection of eDAQ Pods — ourrange of miniature preamplifiers. The Pod DIN connectors can also be
used to connect transducers requiring power (±5 V DC at 50 mA
continuous), and/or differential input (separate + and – signal
components as well as ground). Pod inputs also provide several
grounding options which can be useful in electrically noisy
environments.
Do not attempt to record from both the BNC and Pod connectors of thesame input channel at the same time — the signals will compete andthe results will be unpredictable.
10

e-corderChannel control bus

Figure 2–2
Block diagram of thee-corder input circuits.
BNC input connector

AC/DC
coupling
control

Groundingand input
selection

1 MΩ

Gain
control

Instrument
amplifierTo multiplexer

Input reference

Channel control bus

Analog input
Groundingand input
selectionGaincontrol

BNC

AC/DC
coupling
control

Pod Input

1 MΩ

Instrument
amplifierTo multiplexer

1 MΩ

For a transducer, or other device, requiring single–ended connection(without shield) use the ‘Signal input +’ and ‘Input reference’ pinpositions. This is equivalent to using the input channel BNC connector.
In rare cases the ‘Analog Ground’ position may provide less noise thanthe ‘Input reference’ position. If the connection cable also uses a shield,
then this can be connected to the ‘Digital Ground’ position.
Signals from transducers requiring differential input may be monitoredby connecting them to the ‘Signal input +’ and ‘Signal input –’ pinpositions. If a shield is also required then connect it to the ‘Digital
Ground’ position.
The SCL and SDA pin positions are special control lines for eDAQ Pods
— you should never connect other devices to these.
Please take care when wiring transducers or other equipment to the Pod
connectors. Incorrect or faulty wiring can lead to damage of the

Chapter 2 — Setting Up

11Signal input –Figure 2–3
Pod input connector pin
assignments

Excitation –5 V

SDA
2

5

4

Excitation, +5 V

3

81

Signal input +7
6

Input reference.

Analog ground
SCL
Digital ground (metal ring)

Input reference
100 Ω
Analog groundFigure 2–4
e-corder analog output
circuit.

From
DAC

+
Ground–≤+10 V≤–10 V≤+10 V≤–10 Ve-corder, the transducer (or other equipment) or both. Such damage is
not covered under the terms of your warranty.

Analog Output
The e-corder can produce an analog voltage signal via its Output
sockets. The output is bipolar, that is, mirror image waveforms areprovided by the Output + and Output – connectors, Figure 2–4. For
example, if a 2.5 V pulse is configured in the software, then a +2.5 V
pulse will appear at the Output + connector and a –2.5 V pulse at the
Output – connector. A maximum output of ±10 V can be applied with amaximum current sink of 25 mA.

12e-corderControl of the output is via a 14 bit DAC (digital–to–analog convertor)
inside the e-corder, that is configured by using the Stimulator
commands in the Chart and Scope software.

Trigger
The trigger connector (external trigger) enables an external signal to be
used to synchronize recording with an external device. The trigger input
can be software–configured to respond to a standard TTL or contact
closure signal. The trigger signal must be present for at least 5 µs toregister as an event. When a trigger event occurs, the trigger indicatorlight will glow yellow.
The TTL threshold level, above which a trigger event is registered, is
2.9 V ± 0.25 V, however, once on, the trigger turns off at 1.8 V ±0.25
V, giving a hysteresis voltage of 1.1 V. The external trigger input draws
1 mA at the threshold, 2.2 mA at 5 V and 5.5 mA at 10 V. The input
will be overloaded if the voltage exceeds ±12 V.
When TTL configured, a voltage must be applied across the outer ringand the inner pin of the Trigger BNC connector. In this mode the trigger
input is optically isolated, as shown in Figure 2–5. Note that there is noCentre pin of BNC

Optocoupler
1500 Ω

Figure 2–5
e-corder trigger circuit.

Outer ringof BNC+5 V
470 Ω

1500 Ω
Optocoupler

Chapter 2 — Setting Up

13Model and serial numbers

Figure 2–6
The e-corder back panel.

EarthPower on/off

PowersocketNo user serviceable parts inside.
Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

RS 485

Rated Voltage: 90 - 250 V AC
2

I C Bus

I2C Port
DB-9 connector

Made in Australia by eDAQ Pty Ltd.

USB
connector

Serial Portmini-DIN connector

50/60 Hz 25 VA

Powerrequirements

electrical connection between the external trigger ground and theground of the triggering device. This removes ground noise and current
loop problems, and improves static discharge immunity.
In the external contact closure mode, the trigger input will respond to a
direct short between the centre pin and outer ring of the BNC
connector. This is typically achieved with an external relay contact, amanual push–button, or a microswitch. The trigger input is notelectrically isolated when configured for contact closure.

The Back Panel
The e-corder back panel is shown in Figure 2–6. This section describes
each of the back panel features. The back panels are the same for thee-corder 201 and e-corder 401.

I2C Output
The I2C output is a special port designed to connect to eDAQ Amps
made by eDAQ. It supplies power and communications. An e-cordercan have as many eDAQ Amps connected as it has input channels (twoor four), connected in a daisy-chain arrangement. Further details can befound in your specific eDAQ Amp Manual located on the Install CD.
Note. You should not attempt to run other external devices from the I2C
port: it is designed for use only with eDAQ Amps.

14

e-corder

INT

DSD

SDA

DSC

I2C control signals

SCL

Regulated +17 V

Regulated +8 V

Digital Ground

Regulated –17 V

Power

Figure 2–7
I2C connector pin
assignments

5
9

1
6

USB Port
The e-corder connects to your computer using a USB (universal serialbus) port. This works with USB 1.1 or USB 2 compliant computers(Windows XP or 2000 or later, or Macintosh with OS 8.5 or later).
You can safely turn on or off, or disconnect or reconnect, the e-corderwhile the computer remains on. The Chart or Scope software must not
be running while this occurs. Read the details on USB in Chapter 2 ofthis guide before connecting your e-corder to your computer using USB.

Auxiliary Ground
An auxiliary ground 4 mm terminal post has been provided on the backpanel of the e-corder. It can be used as a convenient location forgrounding Faraday cages, preamplifiers, or otherwise unearthed
ancillary equipment.

Serial Port
The RS485 serial port connector, Figure 2–8, is for factory diagnostic
and testing procedures only. It should NOT be used to connect to yourcomputer!

Power
The power switch on the back panel of the e-corder turns the e-corderon and off. A 3-pin IEC power socket is used to connect your e-corder

Chapter 2 — Setting Up

15

Figure 2–8
Serial port pin
assignments.

+7.5 V
GroundSerial out
7

6 5
3

4

RS485 low2
–5 V

RS485 high1
+5 V

to a 3-pin earthed (grounded) power cable. Unearthed (2-pin) powersockets or adaptors do not provide safe operation! The e-corderuniversal power supply can use mains power supplies between
90–260 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

Self-Test
Now that you are familiar with some of the features of your e-corder,
you should check that it is working properly before you connect it toyour computer.
The e-corder performs a diagnostic self-test each time it is switched on,whether or not it is connected to a computer. To test that your e-corderis functioning properly when you turn it on, follow the instructions
below:
1. Connect the e-corder to a power outlet using the power cablethat came with your unit. Turn the power on at the wall.
2. Turn on the power switch located on the rear of the unit.
3. All three labelled indicators on the front panel should turn on atleast briefly while the e-corder is started up. The Power indicator(Figure 2–1) on the front panel should glow blue while the e-corder
is on. If the internal diagnostic check finds no problems, the Statusindicator should flash yellow, and then stay green. The Trigger
indicator should flash yellow, and then turn off.
If the indicators perform as described above, then your e-corder can besafely connected to your computer.
If the Power indicator does not glow blue when the power switch isturned on, then there is a problem with the power source, power cable,or e-corder itself — check all connections.
16

e-corderIf an error is detected during the self-test, the Status indicator will flash
red, which means there is a hardware fault. Turn everything off, andthen after at least five seconds turn the e-corder back on again. Thisshould clear a temporary problem. If the Status indicator continues toflash red, then the e-corder may need repair and you should contact
your eDAQ representative.
If a problem persists contact your authorized eDAQ representative. Do
not attempt to repair the e-corder yourself (this will void your rights
under warranty).

USB Connection
The e-corder is fitted with a USB (universal serial bus) port, with which it
is connected to a USB 1.1 or 2 compliant computers.
All the devices on a USB network have a common communication
pathway, if you have many devices with a lot of information to transfer,they compete for capacity (bandwidth). Using a video camera and ascanner at the same time as an e-corder may limit the sampling rates
considerably (in Chart) or increase delay times between sweeps (inScope). To ensure maximum reliability we recommend avoiding using
such devices while the e-corder is acquiring data.
The USB standard allows for two types of cable:• low-speed cables suitable for mice and keyboards.
• high speed detachable USB cables. These are fully shielded
twisted-pair cables, with standard USB connectors: a narrowrectangular ‘A plug’ at one end and a nearly square ‘B plug’ with abevelled top at the other.
The e-corder is provided with a suitable high-speed cable.

Connecting the e-corder
Use the USB cable supplied with your e-corder to connect the USB port
on its back panel to the USB port on the computer, or to an active USB
hub connected to the computer. USB ports and cables should bemarked with a trident-like icon,, (or the letters ‘USB’).

Chapter 2 — Setting Up

17

USB icon

Figure 2–9
Connection to acomputere-corderback panel

Computer

B plugA plugUSB cable

Note that you can have more than one USB device connected to yourcomputer at one time. However you should observe the following rules
when working with USB devices:• Cable length should be less than 5 m (16 feet) between USB
devices (including USB hubs).
You can have up to five intervening hubs, so the maximum distanceis 30 m (98 feet) between the computer and the e-corder.
• Never attempt to make your own USB cable, or modify one.
USB is sensitive to cable impedances and cable lengths. Only use acertified USB cable from a reliable supplier. Your e-corder is
supplied with a suitable USB cable. If you need additional USB
cables, you should buy high–speed cables (fully shielded, twistedpair, and with standard USB connections) for reliable results.
• Don’t disconnect the e-corder while the Chart or Scope software isusing it.
Stop sampling and quit the software before disconnecting an
e-corder.
You can safely turn on or off, or disconnect or reconnect, an e-corderwhile the computer remains on, as long as the Chart or Scope software
is off. Although USB is a ‘hot–pluggable’ standard, Windows 2000
may bring up an alert if you attempt to disconnect the e-corder while
the computer is on. The alert lets you install a control in your taskbar to
avoid potential future problems.

18

e-corder

A

P

P

E

N

D

I

X

A

A Technical Aspects

This appendix gives an overview as to how the e-corder works. You do
not need to know the material here to use your e-corder, but it may beof interest to the technically minded. You should not use this information
as a service manual: user modification of the e-corder voids your rights
under warranty.

How Does it Work?
The e-corder is essentially a smart peripheral device designed toperform the various functions needed for data acquisition, signal
conditioning, and pre–processing. It contains its own microprocessor,
memory, and specialized analog amplifiers for signal conditioning. The
block diagrams in Figure A–1 and Figure A–2 show the essential
elements of each e-corder.
All sampling, output, and communication functions are controlled by aninternal PowerPC microprocessor running at 60 MHz. This
microprocessor has access to 4 MB of internal dynamic RAM for data
storage and buffering. The e-corder uses USB–2 (universal serial bus) tocommunicate with the computer.
The e-corder analog inputs are multiplexed to a 16 bit ADC (analog-todigital converter). The ADC can sample at a maximum rate of 100 kHz.
The sampling process is handled independently of the processor corethrough a control engine using direct memory access. The CPU
assembles groups of samples into blocks and then transmits them to thecomputer, where the software receives, records, and displays the data.

e-corder19The external trigger input (marked ‘Trigger’ on the front panel) allows
either a voltage level or a contact closure to trigger recording.
A single 16-bit DAC (digital-to-analog converter) is used to provide ananalog output or stimulation capability through the analog outputs ofthe e-corder (marked ‘Output’ on the front panel). Output pulse
frequency is independent of the analog input sampling rate. The outputof the DAC is fed through a programmable attenuation network to
produce different output ranges. The signal is then split into a positive

Figure A–1
Block diagram of thee-corder 201.

I 2C Port

Back
panel

USB Port

IEC Mains
Input

Serial Port

±5 V
MultiPort

FLASH ROM

PPC403 CPU

1M x 16 DRAM

SystemGlue
Chip

SwitchingPower
Supply1M x 16 DRAM

USB Controller

30 MHzXTAL

16-bit DAC

POD I 2C

MULTIPLEXER

2 Differential Input
Amplifiers

RANGE
CONTROL

Comparator

16-bit ADC

+1

–1

+

–

Front
panel
Input 1

Input 2

Analog Inputs

20

External Trigger Input

Analog Output

e-corderand negative output through buffer amplifiers. The outputs are capableof driving up to 12 mA into a load.

e-corder Accuracy
Each e-corder is factory calibrated to an accuracy of better than 0.1%.
Some ‘zero drift’ or ‘gain drift’ can occur with time. The unit can be
Figure A–2
Block diagram of thee-corder 401.
I 2C Port

Back
panel

USB Port

Serial Port

IEC Mains
Input

MultiPort

FLASH ROM

±5 V

PPC403 CPU

1M x 16 DRAM

SystemGlue
Chip

SwitchingPower
Supply1M x 16 DRAM

USB Controller

30 MHzXTAL

16-bit ADC

16-bit DAC

MULTIPLEXER

2 Differential Input
AmplifiersComparator

POD I2 C

RANGECONTROL

2 Single-ended Input
Amplifiers+1–1

Input 3

+

–

Front
panel
Input 1

Input 2

Analog Inputs

Appendix A — Technical Aspects

Input 4External Trigger Input

Analog Output

21

factory recalibrated if required, but for most applications this is
unnecessary because of:• DC drift compensation. Each time that recording is started
manually, or by triggering, or when the gain is changed, the input
to the amplifier is grounded and any DC due to the amplifier’s driftwith temperature and age is measured. The measured voltage isremoved from the readings for that input through software
correction, in a process transparent to the user.
• Units Conversion. If you are calibrating the transducer by using
known physical quantities with the Units Conversion feature (forexample you can calibrate a force transducer by using two known
masses) then the raw voltage signal will be converted so that thetransducer readings are displayed in the appropriate units. Any
offset on the raw signal will be effectively removed by this process.
More extensive calibration can be performed in the Chart softwareby use of the Multipoint Calibration feature which can also correct
for a non–linear signal.

22

e-corder

A

P

P

E

N

D

I

X

B Troubleshooting

B

This appendix describes most of the common problems that can occur
with your e-corder unit. If the solutions here do not work then please
your eDAQ representative, or email us on support@edaq.com
Checking for missing, loose or inappropriate connections solves many
problems. For example a transducer may be incorrectly connected tothe e-corder Output + connector rather than an input connector. Please
make sure that all cables are correctly and firmly connected to theirrelevant connectors.
The e-corder Status indicator light flashes red, or red and yellow, whenthe e-corder is turned on (see Self-Test, page 16)• Turn the e-corder off, and then after at least five seconds turn thee-corder back on again. This should clear a temporary problem. If
not, then please contact your eDAQ representative.
The computer refuses to boot with the e-corder connected, or thecomputer can’t find the e-corder• The e-corder may be off, or the power is switched off at the wall,
the power cable is not connected firmly, or a fuse has blown —check all switches, power connections, and fuses.
• Ensure that the USB cable is firmly attached at both ends and try
again. If there is still a problem, try a new cable if possible.
• Turn the e-corder and computer off, and then after at least fiveseconds turn the them back on again and try using the software
again.

e-corder23• Your might not properly support USB make sure that it meets therequirements listed in Chapter 1, page 3.
The computer hangs up while recording, or there is data loss
• There may be a poor connection between e-corder and computer,or bad cable. Ensure that the cable is firmly attached at both ends
and try again. If there is still a problem, try a new cable.
The e-corder doesn’t work or the program crashes after a short time
• A poor connection between e-corder and computer, or bad cable.
Proceed as above.
Signals seem weak or interacting on Input 1 or 2
• You may be using both the BNC connector and the Pod connector
for an input at the same time, with resultant signal competition.
Make certain that you use only one of the alternative connectors(BNC or Pod) for an input when recording.
When Windows starts up, it doesn’t recognize the e-corder• This should happen only the first time e-corder hardware isconnected to the computer. Windows may bring up the New
Hardware wizard, and ask if you want to install a driver. Insert the
Software Installer CD, leave the wizard on its default settings, andcontinue.
There is an alert when the e-corder is disconnected or turned off• USB is a ‘hot-pluggable’ standard, meaning that you should be
able to turn on or off, or disconnect or reconnect, a USB-connected
e-corder safely while the computer remains on, as long as the Chartor Scope is off when you do it. However Windows 2000 may stillbring up an alert which asks you install a control in your taskbar.
Install the control, and use it before you disconnect or turn off thee-corder, to avoid the alert in the future.

24

e-corderAppendix B — Troubleshooting

25

26

e-corderAppendix B — Troubleshooting

27

28

e-corder

A

P

P

E

N

D

I

C Specifications

XC

e-corder Specifications
Input
Number of inputs:

2 (eDAQ 201), 4 (eDAQ 401)

Input configuration:

Single–ended (via BNC connector) or
differential (via DIN connector)

Amplification ranges:±20 mV to ±10 V full scale in 9 steps:± 10 V±5V±2V±1V± 500 mV
± 200 mV
± 100 mV
± 50 mV± 20 mVe-corderMaximum input voltage:±15 V

Input impedance:≈ 1 MΩ || 47 pF @ DC

Low-pass filtering:Anti–aliasing 20 kHz fixed 2nd–order
Other digital filtering options in software

AC coupling:

DC or 0.1 Hz (software-selectable)

Frequency response (–3 dB):

20 kHz @ ±10 V full scale, all ranges

29

DC drift:

Software-corrected

CMRR (differential):

96 dB @ 50 Hz (typical)

Input crosstalk:–110 dB typicalInput noise:<2.4 µVrms referred to input,
DC to 20 kHz

Pod connectors:

Combine power, I2C and single-ended
or differential analog input signals on
one connector, support pods, particulartransducers, etc.

Supply voltage:±5 V regulated

Maximum current:

50 mA per pod port

Communications:

2–wire I2C

Signal input:

Positive and negative analog inputs

Connector type:8–pin DIN.

Sampling
Input resolution:

16 bits, Chart software
12 bits, Scope software
16 bits, EChem software
16–24 bits PowerChrom software

Linearity error:±2 LSB (from 0 °C to 70 °C)

Maximum sampling rates:

100 kHz on one channel;
40 kHz on two channels.

Available sampling rates:<1 Hz – 100 kHz with Chart
2 Hz – 100 kHz with Scope
100 Hz – 10 kHz with EChem

Output Amplifier30

Output configuration:

Single–ended or bipolar

Maximum output current:

100 mA continuous

e-corderOutput impedance:

0.1 Ω typicalSlew rate:

6 V/µsSettling time:

2 µs (to 0.01% of FSR for LSB change)

Linearity error:±1 LSB (from 0 °C to 70 °C)

Output ranges:±200 mV to ±10 V full scale in six steps± 10 V±5V±2V±1V± 500 mV
± 200 mV

External Trigger
Trigger threshold:+2.9 V ±0.25 V or contact closure(software-selectable)

Hysteresis:

1.1 V (turns off at +1.8 V ±0.25 V)

Input load:

2.2 mA at 5 V, 5.5 mA at 10 V

Maximum input voltage:±12 V

Minimum trigger time:

5 µs

Microprocessor and Data Communication
Processor:

PPC403 GCX (60 MHz internal)

Memory:4 MB DRAM

Data communication:

USB

Expansion Ports
I2C expansion port:

Appendix C — Specifications

Power and control bus for eDAQ Amps.

31

Physical Configuration
Dimensions (w × h × d):

200 mm × 65 mm × 250 mm(7.9" × 2.6" × 9.8"); excludes
connectors

Weight:2.0 kg (4 lb 6 oz)

Operating voltage:

90–260 V AC 50/60 Hz

Nominal power needs:

6 VA (25 mA @ 240 V or 52 mA @115 V); no eDAQ Amps or pods
attached

Maximum power needs:<18 VA (with eDAQ Amps and Pods)

Operating temperature range: 0 to 35 °C, 0 to 90% humidity (noncondensing)eDAQ reserves the right to alter these specifications at any time.

32

e-corderGlossary
This glossary covers terms used in this manual.
AC coupling. When AC coupling is chosen, a
0.1 Hz high-pass filter before the first
amplification stage which can be used toremove signal drift.
ADC (analog–to–digital convertor). A device
that converts analog information into somecorresponding digital voltage or current.
amplitude. The maximum vertical distance of aperiodic wave from the zero or mean position
about which the wave oscillates.
analog. An analog signal varies continuously
over time, rather than changing in discrete
steps.
analog input. This refers to the connectors on
the front of the e-corder marked ‘Input’. These
inputs are designed to accept up to ±10 V.
Inputs can be either single–ended ordifferential.
analog output. This refers to the connectors on
the front of the e-corder marked ‘Output’. The
analog output provides a software-controlled
variable output (±10 V) that can be used withe-corderapplications either directly as a stimulator, orto control peripheral devices.
analysis mode. When the e-corder is notconnected to the computer, then Chart or
Scope software can be used to analyze andmanipulate existing files if the analysis option
is chosen.
BNC (bayonet nut connector). A sort of cableor connector; a BNC–to–BNC cable connects
two BNC connectors.
bridge transducer. A type of transducer using a
Wheatstone bridge circuit. In its basic form,
the bridge consists of four two–terminal
elements (usually strain gauges) connected toform a quadrilateral. An excitation source isconnected across one diagonal, and thetransducer output is taken across the other.
bus. A data–carrying electrical pathway.
Chart. The Chart software is supplied with thee-corder and emulates a multi–channel chart
recorder.

33connector. A plug, socket, jack, or port used toconnect one electronic device to another (via acable).
CPU (central processing unit). A hardware
device that performs logical and arithmeticaloperations on data as specified in the
instructions: the heart of most computers.
DAC (digital–to–analog convertor). A device
that converts digital information into somecorresponding analog voltage or current.
DC offset. The amount of DC (direct current)
voltage present at the output of an amplifier
when zero voltage is applied to the input; orthe amount of DC voltage present in atransducer in its equilibrium state.
differential input. Input using both positive andnegative inputs on An e-corder. The recorded
signal is the difference between the positive
and negative input voltages: if both were fed
exactly the same signal, zero would result. Can
reduce the noise from long leads.
digital. Varying in discrete steps. A digital
signal increments in discrete steps rather thanvarying continuously. The size of the steps isdetermined by the resolution (16 bit, 12 bitetc.) and the full scale range of the input
channel.
DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm). An electronic
standard.
eDAQ Amp. Software controlled preamplifiers
that can be used with your e-corder. eDAQ
Amps are recognized automatically by thee-corder system and seamlessly integrated into
its applications, operating under full software
control.

34

envelope. The overall shape of a signal,
outlined by the minimum and maximum
recorded values. Often used to display quickly
changing signals.
excitation. The voltage supplied to a transducer
or other device in order to power it.
external trigger. The input connector on thefront of the e-corder marked ‘Trigger’. This lets
one start recording from an external source.
The trigger level (the voltage needed to havean effect) depends on the hardware andcannot be changed. The /20 series e-corders
can also be triggered by contact closure if thisis set up in the software.
filter. A mechanism whereby the frequency
components of the signal are altered. Low passfilters remove high frequency (noise)components. High pass filters remove low
frequency (drift) components.
frequency. The number of cycles per to occur
in a waveform per unit. Frequency is usually
expressed in the SI unit of Hertz, Hz (cycles per
second, s–1), but is also sometimes expressedin beats per minute (bpm, min–1), revolutions
per minute (rpm, min–1), cycles per hour (cph,h–1), etc.
frequency response. The bandwidth in which a
circuit passes a signal without significant
attenuation. A low pass filter’s frequency
response is the frequency where the signal isattenuated by 3 decibels, that is the frequency
in filtered signal has an amplitude of 0.707(1/√2) of the frequency in the input signal.
gain. The amount of amplification of a signal.

e-corderhalf–bridge transducer. A bridge transducer
only using half of the full-bridge circuit. It
consists of two elements of equal value with an
excitation voltage applied across them. The
output of the transducer is taken at the junctionof the two elements.

Scope. Scope software is supplied with thee-corder. It emulates a two–channel storage
oscilloscope or XYT plotter.
serial. A connection protocol for sending
information sequentially, one bit at a time, overa single wire.

Hertz (Hz). See ‘frequency’.
high pass filter (HPF). See ‘filter’.
I2C. The I2C connection is used by the e-corder
to control eDAQ Amps.
IEC. International Electrotechnical Commission.

transducer. A physical device that converts one
energy form into another (usually an electricalsignal). For example transducers can provide
an electrical signal related to the amount of
measured force, displacement, temperature,pressure, pH, etc. Ideally the signal varies in a
proportional manner to the measured
parameter, but this is not always so.

low pass filter (LPF). See ‘filter’.
PCI (peripheral component interconnect). An
architecture for connecting peripheral devices(such as USB cards) to computers.
Pod connector. A special 8-pin DIN connector
on some e-corder inputs providing differential
or single-sided connection, and they can also
provide ±5 V power.
Pods. Miniature preamplifiers that connect tothe e-corder Pod connectors.
port. A socket where you plug in a cable forconnection to a network or a peripheraldevice.

trigger. A signal such as a voltage pulse, used
to determine when sampling will begin.
Sampling can be made to begin when thetrigger level is reached, after it, or even prior
to it. See also external trigger.
TTL (transistor transistor logic). A family of
integrated circuits with bipolar circuit logic,
used in computers and related devices. TTL is
also a standard for interconnecting such ICs,
defining the voltages used to represent logicalzeroes and ones (binary 0 and 1).
USB. Universal serial bus.
waveform. The shape of a wave; a graph of awave’s amplitude versus time.

range. The full scale input range is region overwhich signals can be recorded. The e-corderhas ranges of ±2 mV to ±10 V, in 12 steps.
(Range is inversely proportional to gain, theextent of amplification.)

Glossary35

36

e-corderIndexA

D

AC coupling 33

DAC 34accuracy 21

DAC (digital-to-analog converter) 20

ADC 19, 33

DC drift 10

analog input 10, 19

differential input 34

analog output 12, 20

digital-to-analog converter 20

anti–aliasing filter 10

DIN 34auxiliary ground 15

DIN connector 10

BE

back panel 14

e-corderspecifications 29
system 2

bandwidth 10
BNC 33bridge 33
Bridge Amp 4
bus 33CeDAQ Amps
Bridge Amp 4
GP Amp 4
pH Amp 4
Picostat 4
Potentiostat 4

computer requirements
Macintosh 3
Windows 3

eDAQ Pods
Conductivity Pod 4
pH Pod 4
RTD Pod 4
Thermocouple Pod 4

Conductivity Pod 4eDAQ web site 5

connection to the computer 17

envelope 34

connector 34

excitation 34

Chart 3

CPU 34e-corderexternal trigger 13, 14, 20

1

F

R

filter 34

RS485 serial port 15

front panel 8

RTD Pod 4

GSgain 34

Scope 3

GP Amp 4

self-test 16

ground connection 15

serial port 15

H

specifications 29

half–bridge 35

Status indicator 9, 17

I

T

I2C port 14

Thermocouple Pod 4

signal accuracy 21

input amplifier 9N
New Hardware wizard 24

O
offset 34

P
PCI 35
pH Amp 4transducer 35
trigger 13, 34, 35
Trigger indicator 9
TTL 35

U
USB 35
cables 18
connection 17
hubs 18
port 15
user modification 19

pH Pod 4
Picostat 4
Pod connector 10, 35
Pods 4
Potentiostat 4
Power indicator 9, 16
power requirements 15
problems and solutions 23

2e-corderInput 1

Input 2

Input 3401

PowerStatus

OutputInput 4

Trigger

License & Warranty

Trademarks
e-corder and PowerChrom are registeredtrademarks of eDAQ Pty Ltd. All eDAQ software,
hardware, and documentation is protected bycopyright. eDAQ retains the exclusive ownership of
the trademarks and registered trademarks
represented by its company name, logo, andproduct names.

Responsibilities
You and any others using any eDAQ product agree
to use it in a sensible manner for purposes for which
it is suited, and agree to take responsibility for theiractions and the results of their actions.
If problems arise with an eDAQ product, eDAQ will
make all reasonable efforts to fix them. This service
may incur a charge, depending on the nature of the
problems, and is subject to the other conditions inthis Agreement.

Hardware Warranty
eDAQ Pty Ltd warrants the e-corder to be free of
defects in material and workmanship for one year
from the date of purchase. eDAQ Pty Ltd will repair
or replace defective equipment as appropriate.
To obtain a warranty repair/replacement you mustfirst notify us before return of the instrument and wewill issue you with a RAN (return authorization
number). You must ship the defective product at youre-corderexpense. We will pay return shipping. The productshould be packed safely (preferably in its original
packaging) and have the RAN on the shippinglabel. Returns sent without a RAN may be refuseddelivery.
This warranty does not cover hardware that has:• been modified by the user in any way;
• been subjected to unusual physical, electrical,
or environmental stress. This includes damage
due to faulty power sockets, inadequate
earthing, or power spikes or surges;• been damaged because of incorrect wiring toancillary equipment, or because of substandard,connectors or cables; or• had the original identification marks removed
or altered.

Software License
You have the non-exclusive right to use the suppliedeDAQ software (Chart, Scope etc). Your employees
or students, for example, are entitled to use it,provided they adhere to this agreement. Eachseparate purchase of the eDAQ software licenses it
to be used on two computers at any given time (onone computer for data acquisition with a e-corder
hardware unit, and on a second computer for the3

analysis of existing data files). Although multiple
copies of a program may exist on several
computers, more than two copies must not be usedsimultaneously. Departmental/company licences areavailable if you wish to run more than two copies
simultaneously.

Technical Support
Please register your unit to receive technical support.
Technical assistance is available via email. Please
describe the problem with as much detail as
possible. Include a small example data file, if
appropriate. Please also state:• the model and serial number of your e-corderunit.
• the type of computer and operating systembeing used (for example Windows XP, or
Macintosh OS 10.2)• the software version you are using (forexample Chart v5.1.2)
We endeavor to answer all your questions, but insome cases, for example where the problem relates
to the other equipment that you are using, a nominal
fee may be charged.

Jurisdiction
eDAQ Pty Ltd is bound by the laws of New South
Wales in Australia, and any proceedings shall beheard by the Supreme Court of New South Wales inAustralia.

Disclaimer
eDAQ reserves the right to alter specifications ofhardware and software without notice.
No liability can be accepted for consequential
damages resulting from use of eDAQ products.

4

e-corder