These multi-function printers are a micro-controlled device to acquire counting or timing data from up to 6 or 48 independent channels.
The data can be printed on thermal paper in real time. Data may also be exported to a PC via an RS232 connector. The export of data requires the Win-DAS software. Data is transferred via serial communication. The data can be directly routed to the PC in real time or downloaded later on. The computer must be an IBM (or compatible) PC, provided with Windows® 95 or 3.1 operating system. The data collected by the Win-DAS program from each instrument are automatically stored into individual files, ready to be managed by most statistical analysis packages available (Lotus, Excel, etc.).
These Printers have internal memory, where the data can be stored to be unloaded at a later time. This makes it truly flexible multipurpose data acquisition system.
Instrument Function
These printers have a graphic display which presents all available commands. The operator chooses by simply acting on the 4-button keyboard located below the display.
The data string for any activated channel, in order from left to right, shows: the input channel number among the six available, the datum proper in 5 digits (3 integers and 2 decimals for timing mode and 5 integers for counting mode) and the elapsed time expressed in minutes (2 digits) from the start of the trial in progress. The data string may also contain some experiment information (animal number, gender, etc.).
Each channel can acquire data from instruments which supply counting or timing TTL signals such as Plantar Test, Rota-Rod Treadmills, etc. A 48-channel is also available. Each printer is supplied complete with a roll of Heat Sensitive Paper and a 9-Pin Cable to connect the printer to a PC computer.