Add-On Modules - Fluke 1560 Black Stack User Manual

2 Introduction
Components
2.2.2

Add-On Modules

Add-on modules provide specific functionality required by the user. Up to eight
modules can be attached to the base. A single module may contain multiple in-
dependent devices, each having a different function. For instance, the extended
communication module contains a GPIB device for parallel communications, a
Centronics interface device for printing to a printer, and an analog output de-
vice for output of measurement data as an analog voltage. There are four basic
classes or types of devices based on primary function:
Input device
An input device is used by the base controller for measuring sensors and sig-
nals. An input device may have multiple input channels. The input class in-
cludes such devices as the SPRT and thermocouple modules.
Output device
An output device is able to receive measurement data from the base controller
and transmit the data to other instruments. A data output device may have mul-
tiple output channels. The output class includes such devices as the analog
output.
Printer interface device
A printer interface device is able to receive text data from the base controller
and send it to an external printer, terminal, or data storage device. The printer
interface class includes the Centronics printer interface and the printer output
function of the built-in RS-232 interface.
Communication device
A communication device provides bi-directional communications between an
external instrument or computer and the 1560 system. This can be used to set
parameters, read measurement data, and control the operation of the 1560. The
communications class includes the IEEE-488 GPIB interface device and the
bi-directional communication function of the built-in RS-232 serial interface
device.
Each add-on module contains its own microprocessor that allows it to operate
independently with little supervision from the base controller. It also contains
its own circuitry required for its specific application. This may include circuitry
for resistance or voltage sensing, digital conversion, temperature sensing, chan-
nel switching, and digital communications. All circuits are directly controlled
by the module's microprocessor. The module microprocessor handles any criti-
cal timing, over sampling, and error compensation calculations required to
make accurate measurements. Modules that require calibration to maintain ac-
curacy store their own calibration coefficients in non-volatile random-access
memory (NVRAM). Thus, the module remains calibrated even if it is moved
from one 1560 system to another. The module calibration parameters can be ac-
cessed through the front panel of the base.
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