Data Acquisition - Links

Data acquisition is the process by which events in the real world are sampled and translated into machine-readable signals. Sometimes abbreviated DAQ, data acquisition typically involves sensors, transmitters and other instruments to collect signals, waveforms etc. to be processed and analyzed with a computer.

The components of data acquisition systems include appropriate sensors that convert any measurement parameter to an electrical signal, which is acquired by data acquisition hardware. Acquired data typically is displayed, analyzed, and stored on a PC. This is achieved by using vendor supplied interactive control software, or custom displays and control can be accomplished using a programming language such as LabVIEW.